Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon

Ellaidhoo is not a bad island for a first trip to the Maldives if you are on a tight budget, or for avid snorkellers, often as part of a multi-island itinerary.

Rooms are basic but cheerful and the Superior Room will accommodate 4, which can help keep costs down further. There's also the opportunity to get the coveted over-water accommodation experience, without breaking the bank!

There are two restaurants serving buffet-style meals, Madi on the island and Malamathi, which is for Water Bungalow guests, although those on the island can book if available, with a supplement. The main EYZ bar and the Malamathi Poolside bar are open all day. A further outlet, Irohsenee bar is used for special events.

The Standard All Inclusive package covers breakfast, lunch and dinner, snacks at other times, and house drinks by the glass. The Premium AI package adds a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival, mini bar, fresh juices & milk shakes, plus some added extras such as excursions, dinner on the beach and a spa treatment (these can change so check with us for exact entitlement details before booking).

Facilities include the Chavana Spa, Dive & Sail water sports, gym, tennis, badminton & volleyball. The house reef can be accessed if you don't mind venturing beyond the prominent sea walls, but is recommended for stronger, experienced swimmers only as currents can get quite strong. It's most definitely worth the effort though as Ellaidhoo boasts one of the best resort snorkelling reefs in the Ari Atoll, if not anywhere.

Indeed, if, like us, you have the snorkelling bug, then why not consider a few days Ellaidhoo as part of an island-hopping trip.

Tip: you may be tempted by the cheaper boat transfer rather than taking a seaplane, however, bear in mind that this means crossing the inter-Atoll channels, which should be avoided in anything more than a strong breeze unless you possess a pair of Captain Haddock sea legs.