Soneva has always gone one step beyond to create authentic experiences for guests, from poolside cinema screenings and resort observatories to Soneva Academy educational courses, glass-blowing studios and the 100 per cent sustainable Soneva Surf programme, which helps guests get the most out of the Maldives’ burgeoning surf scene.
Such is the company’s commitment to this latter area that it has marked the arrival of the 2021 surf season by creating a documentary entitled SALT: The Story of Maldivian Wave Riders, which explores the rich history of surfing in the Indian Ocean archipelago.
Directed by filmmaker Alicia Warner, the documentary chronicles the development of the sport, from early experiments with planks and boards and the arrival of Australian surfing legend Tony Hinde Hussein – who helped the Maldivian surf scene take root – in the 1980s, to the hugely popular surf scene of today.
Soneva Surf supports the growth of grassroots surfing and ocean stewardship by providing sustainable surf equipment to local communities, and provides guests at its two Malvides resorts, Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani, with surfboards made from recycled materials, rash vests made from discarded plastics and ocean-friendly sunscreens.
As well the abundance of breaks within a short speedboat ride from the two resorts, the company can also take well-heeled surfers on a more immersive multi-day surf excursion aboard Soneva in Aqua, a beautiful 23-metre yacht with two luxurious cabins. The Soneva Surfari experience can be tailored to individual needs, taking in hidden breaks and secret beaches and some of the best surf spots in the Indian Ocean. Check out the documentary on Soneva’s YouTube channel, then book a trip to this burgeoning surfer’s paradise.