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Overview

Spanning just over a hectare in size, Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat is an untouched island that promises white sandy beaches and plush vegetation. Surrounded by a turquoise lagoon, this private island is a throwback to a much simpler time.
Here, nature never fails to captivate as you discover a wonderland of thriving marine life and stunning coral in the islandÕs house reef. Take to the waves and enjoy big game fishing or water sports. Or take it easy and savour the authentic luxury and simple pleasures that Drift has to offer. Life on our island is as invigorating or as relaxing as you desire. It is, after all, yours to enjoy.
Known for its outstanding, unspoiled natural beauty and marine life, Drift Retreat is 90 kilometres west of the Maldivian capital of MalŽ. The island is located in South Ari Atoll, home to some of the most incredible snorkelling and diving spots in the world.
Promising an arrival youÕll never forget, you can reach the island with a 35-minute seaplane ride from MalŽ International Airport.
Location: South Ari Atoll, Maldives
Airport Distance: 90kmkm
Transfer: 35 mins seaplane

Dining

DriftÕs team of highly-skilled chefs create delicious dishes incorporating a signature island flair. With an emphasis on exceptional ingredients and fresh seafood, sourced locally wherever possible, you will experience unique and memorable flavours bursting with authenticity.

The retreatÕs restaurant offers a sumptuous buffet as well as a la carte options in a stunning open-air environment that ensures you will never forget your beautiful surroundings.

For the epicureans at heart, a carefully curated selection of culinary focused experiences are available for you to enjoy, as well as themed dining evenings, and both in-villa and private beach dining options.

THE BAR

Our beachfront bar offers the perfect opportunity to witness the stunning Maldivian sunset as you sit and sip on one of our cocktails. With light meals and snacks available throughout the day, it is the perfect spot to relax and mingle with other guests.

Activities

Set yourself up for the day with a sunrise breakfast cruise, or learn to scuba dive in the crystal clear waters to discover the vibrant colours and marine life of our coral reefs. Plan to do as little or much as you like, from the thrilling to the relaxing, Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat is yours to explore.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Curated moments for two, with a signature Drift flavour.

  • A Local Fisherman's Journey
  • A Maldivian Family Experience
  • The Castaway Sandbank Picnic

SHARED EXPERIENCES

Discover the sights and sounds of South Ari Atoll.

  • The Coral Garden Adventure
  • The Ultimate Desert Island Experience
  • An Afternoon Spent Fishing
  • BirdÕs Eye View from a Seaplane
  • An Island Hopping Adventure
  • Going Dolphin Watching

WATER SPORTS

A rush of adrenaline on the clearest of waters.

  • Snorkelling
  • Wind Surfing
  • Kayaking Paddle Boarding
  • Catamaran Sailing
  • Water Skiing
  • Kite Surfing
  • Wake Boarding

Snorkelling gear of a variety of sizes are available at Drift. For those looking for adventure close to home, our House Reef is a just short swim away.

WHALE SHARK POINT

Just a 30 minute speedboat ride away from Drift Retreat, close to Maamigili Island, is the famed Whale Shark Point of South Ari Atoll. Known as the foremost location in the world for spotting and snorkelling with the gentle giants of the sea, over 80 unique whale sharks call this protected region home.

Join our highly experienced team to go on an unforgettable adventure to swim alongside these remarkable creatures. Our team will always take the utmost care to be ecologically considerate during the excursion, and will be on hand to advise on how to enjoy this experience in a responsible way.

Drift Retreat is proud contributor of whale shark sighting reports to The Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme, a charity which studies and advocates on behalf of whale sharks.

DIVING

Famous for its ivory beaches and turquoise shores, the Maldives is one of the worldÕs top diving destinations, and South Ari Atoll in particular is renowned for its biodiversity.

The resort partners with a highly accomplished diving team to help guests discover the incredible beauty of the Maldivian underwater ecosystem.

Excursions

DIVING

Famous for its ivory beaches and turquoise shores, the Maldives is one of the worldÕs top diving destinations, and South Ari Atoll in particular is renowned for its biodiversity.The resort partners with a highly accomplished diving team to help guests discover the incredible beauty of the Maldivian underwater ecosystem.

POPULAR DIVE SITES NEARBY

  • Kuda Rah Thila                  20 Minutes
  • Kudhimaa Wreck               25 Minutes
  • Maamigili Beyru                40 Minutes
  • Broken Rock                       20 Minutes
  • Five Rocks                           20 Minutes
  • Vilamendhoo Thila            15 Minutes
  • Camel Rock                         15 Minutes
  • Mahi Rock                           20 Minutes
  • Omadhoo Thila                  30 Minutes
  • Seventh Heaven                  15 Minutes
  • Ranveli Thila                       10 Minutes
  • Ranveli Corner                    10 Minutes
  • Kahambu Thila                   10 Minutes
  • Dhangethi Beyru                10 Minutes
  • Dhigurah Corner                20 Minutes

Wellness

AN OASIS OF CALM

Inspired by nature with a breaktaking view of the lagoon, our overwater spa is a peaceful and refreshing haven.A carefully selected menu combines massage treatments from Indonesia, Thailand and India, and enriching facials and stimulating body treatments, all carried out by expert therapists trained to restore inner harmony.