Review of Atmosphere Kanifushi Resort Maldives: Your Ultimate Resort Guide

Why Atmosphere Kanifushi Resort Maldives?

Nestled in the pristine Lhaviyani Atoll, Atmosphere Kanifushi Resort Maldives offers an unparalleled five star luxury all-inclusive experience. This luxurious resort, spanning a 2-kilometre stretch of powdery white sand, is just a 35-minute seaplane ride from Male International Airport.

The resort boasts 162 standalone villas and suites across 9 categories, from spacious beach villas to overwater havens, all designed in contemporary Maldivian style. The Atmosphere Kanifushi Plan™ ensures a truly hassle-free stay, covering premium dining at 6 restaurants, unlimited cocktails, and a host of activities.

Culinary delights await at venues like The Spice, Just Veg (the Maldives’ first pure vegetarian restaurant), and the over-water Pier Six. The all-inclusive plan also covers ONE complimentary sunset fishing trip, ONE sunset cruise, and a choice of cultural excursions per stay.

For recreation, guests can enjoy complimentary motorised water sports, daily snorkelling excursions, and access to THE CLUB HOUSE with its tennis court and gym. Families will appreciate the daily activities at THE KIDS CLUB.

Wellness enthusiasts can indulge in complimentary treatments at the AKIRI SPA BY MANDARA, with the number of treatments increasing based on length of stay.

With its comprehensive offerings, stunning location, and commitment to luxury, Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives promises an unforgettable luxury beach holiday for discerning travellers seeking the ultimate all-inclusive Maldivian experience.

Key Features and Highlights of Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives

Where Is Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives Located ?

The island of Atmosphere Kanifushi is located in the Lhaviyani Atoll in the Maldives. The Lhaviyani Atoll is a group of islands in the Indian Ocean that are known for their natural beauty and rich marine life.

To reach Atmosphere Kanifushi, you can take a scenic seaplane journey from Velana International Airport in Malé, the capital city of the Maldives. The 35-minute seaplane flight provides stunning views of the islands and surrounding blue waters.

Tropical flora and an abundance of lush, green palm trees define the island. The tropical mood of the location is enhanced by the resort’s abundant flora, which provides shade and a calm ambiance.

Atmosphere Kanifushi Resort Maldives is surrounded by a large natural coral reef and a stunning turquoise lagoon. The coral reef is a haven for marine life aficionados who enjoy snorkelling and diving since it is teaming with colourful marine life. The turquoise lagoon’s waters are ideal for swimming and other water sports.

The architecture of Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives combines traditional and modern elements with a distinct Maldivian touch. The resort’s structures and villas are a harmonic blend of contemporary architecture and indigenous workmanship, reflecting the natural beauty of the Maldives.

When Did Atmosphere Kanifushi Open ?

Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives opened its doors on December 15, 2013, marking the debut property for what would later become Atmosphere Core. The resort initially entered a soft opening phase from October 15 until November 14, 2013, before its full commercial opening on November 15, 2013.

The Vision Behind the Resort

Atmosphere Kanifushi was conceived as an elegant five-star resort that would blend contemporary design with authentic Maldivian architecture while preserving the true Maldivian spirit. The resort introduced the innovative “Platinum Plus” concept – a premium all-inclusive holiday plan uniquely exclusive to the property, encompassing all activities related to a complete and hassle-free Indian Ocean holiday experience.

The vision was to create a luxury resort that offered exceptional value through its comprehensive all-inclusive package, setting it apart in the Maldivian hospitality landscape. This approach has become a core philosophy for the brand, centered around the “Joy of Giving” – ensuring guests enjoy a relaxed, worry-free holiday experience with premiumdining, activities, and amenities included in one price.

Ownership and Management Insights

Atmosphere Kanifushi is managed by Atmosphere Core (formerly known as Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts), a hospitality company with its registered office in Singapore and corporate office in the Maldives. The company was founded by Salil Panigrahi along with Maldivian partners Ismail Hilmy and Abdul Latheef.

Salil Panigrahi, an Odisha-born hotelier, serves as the Managing Director of Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts. Before founding Atmosphere, he worked at Oberoi and Six Senses Group, and in 2003 partnered with Maldivian investors to form EoN Resorts, which developed several luxury resorts in the Maldives.

In 2012, Panigrahi launched Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts with his Maldivian partners to partially own but primarily manage resorts in the Indian Ocean region. His contributions to tourism have earned him prestigious recognitions, including the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award from the President of India and the Maldives President’s Tourism Gold Award.

Since the opening of Atmosphere Kanifushi, the company has expanded to operate eight resorts in the Maldives under three distinct brands: The Ozen Collection, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, and Colours of Oblu. The company is now pursuing expansion beyond the Maldives into India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan.

What Types of Villas & Water Villas Are Available At Atmosphere Kanifushi ?

Atmosphere Kanifushi Resort Maldives offers a variety of well-appointed luxury beach and water villas with private pools and mesmerising views of the ocean. Here is an overview of the different villa categories available:

Sunset Beach Villas— 64 villas (100 m²) 

These villas are situated along the beach, offering direct access to the beach from the spacious open-air veranda. They are elegantly designed, with high ceilings, open-air bathrooms, and Maldivian accents. 

Occupancy: 2 adults and 2 children or 3 adults and 1 child.

2 Bedroom Sunset Family Beach Villa—18 villas (200 m²) 

These interconnecting beach villas are perfect for families, with separate outdoor access for each villa. They provide a larger combination of indoor and outdoor space compared to the Sunset Beach Villas. They are located closer to the main restaurant, sports complex, and kids’ club for convenience. 

Occupancy: 2 adults and 4 children or 4 adults and 2 children or 3 adults and 3 children.

Sunset Beach Villa with Pool—10 villas (192 m²)

At the northern end of the island, these houses offer privacy and a luxurious beachfront experience. Each villa has a private pool and a large veranda with direct beach access. Guests staying in these villas enjoy special services and inclusions. 

Occupancy: 2 adults and 2 children or 3 adults and 1 child.

Sunset Water Villas— 28 villas (125 m²) 

Perched over the turquoise lagoon, these water villas provide stunning ocean views and a tranquil atmosphere. They feature lush amenities, private wooden sundecks, and direct access to the lagoon for exploring the underwater world. Some of these villas also come with a private pool. 

Occupancy: 2 adults and 2 children or 3 adults and 1 child.

Kanifushi Grand Pool Villa— 20 villas (242 m²)

These grand one-bedroom villas offer inspiring ocean views and a spacious private pool. They are designed to provide a luxurious experience with high wooden ceilings, classic decor, and open-air bathrooms. The outdoor area includes a large deck with seating and a Maldivian swing. 

Occupancy: 2 adults and 2 children or 3 adults and 1 child.

Kanifushi Residence — 10 villas (595 m²)

These villas are perfect for families as they have multiple bedrooms, a living room, a dining room, and an entertainment room. They feature a large free-form swimming pool with elevated sofa seating and a shallow kids area. The villas also provide personalised services and amenities. 

Occupancy: 4 adults and 3 children or 5 adults and 2 children.

Each type of accommodation comes with various exclusive services, such as personalised welcome amenities, in-villa check-in, complimentary dining experiences, enhanced minibar offerings, and more, depending on the category.

How Is the Dining Experience at Atmosphere Kanifushi ?

The Spice – Main Restaurant

This all-day dining restaurant serves a wide variety of cuisine, including buffet-style meals, live cooking stations, theme nights, and grills. It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Opening Hours:

• Breakfast: 07:00 am – 10:30 am
• Lunch: 12:00 pm – 14:3o pm
• Dinner: 19:00 pm – 22:00 pm

The Sunset Pool Bar 

Located at the other end of the island, this pool bar offers stunning lagoon views. 

Opening Hours: 19:00 pm – 22:30 pm

The Liquid

The Liquid is the most popular spot on the island for unwinding and embracing the laid-back Maldivian island feel, with light and airy décor. Outside, poolside hammocks and beach cabanas are arranged over a gorgeous 50-meter pool that overlooks the enormous deep blue ocean. It offers a large assortment of classic and signature cocktails, premium beverages, and wines from across the world. Throughout the year, The Liquid also hosts theme evenings, special disco nights, and live performances.

Opening Hours: 12:00 pm – 17:00 pm

Ceylon Bliss

A hidden gem that serves usual Sri Lankan “Street Food” made with old-fashioned recipes from the kitchen, Ceylon Bliss, a rustic wooden hut beneath the shadow of a large tree, offers natural seating with swings and logwood tables.

Opening time: Opening Hours: 17.00 pm – 21.00 pm (Except Wednesday and Sunday)

Specialty Fine Dining at Atmosphere Kanifushi Resort Maldives:

The Sunset

This Asian and Mediterranean fine dining restaurant at Atmosphere Kanifushi Resort is open for dinner and requires pre-booking. It specialises in fusion cuisine, showcasing the best of Asian and Mediterranean culinary traditions. It also offers a white barbecue night every Wednesday.

Opening time: 19:00 – 22:30 

Just Veg

A contemporary vegetarian fine dining restaurant in Maldives that serves delightful vegetarian cuisine from the Mediterranean, Arabic, and Indian regions. It is open for lunch and dinner and requires pre-booking.

Opening time: 

• Lunch: 12:30 – 14:30
• Dinner: 19:00 – 22:30

The Pier Six

This specialty seafood over-water fine dining restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and requires pre-booking. It offers a range of seafood staples, including the catch of the day and Japanese Teppanyaki grill options.

Opening time: 

• Lunch: 12:30 – 14:30
• Dinner: 19:00 – 22:30

Teppanyaki Grill at The Pier Six

An authentic Japanese fine dining experience where guests share a table around a large hotplate The theatrical chef entertains guests while preparing a delectable dinner. It is open for dinner with two sittings of two hours each and requires pre-booking.

Opening time: 

• Dinner: 19:00 – 21:00
• Dinner: 21:00 – 23:00

Please note that pre-booking is required for some of the specialty restaurants, and availability may vary.

Akiri Spa at Atmosphere Kanifushi Resort Maldives:

The spa at Atmosphere Kanifushi Resort Maldives, called Akiri Spa by Mandara, offers a luxurious and relaxing experience for guests. Here are some details about the spa:

• Location: The spa is set within the gardens of Atmosphere Kanifushi, overlooking the Indian Ocean. Tall palm trees surround it, creating a calm and tropical atmosphere.
• Spa Treatments: Akiri Spa offers a full range of spa treatments inspired by traditions from India, Bali, Hawaii, and Thailand. Guests can try different activities, massages, facials, and body treatments to relax and feel better.
• Spa Villas: The spa features five spacious double spa villas, each equipped with a bath and shower. There is also one double Thai villa with a bath and shower. These villas provide a private and tranquil space for guests to enjoy their spa treatments.
• Hair and Beauty Salon: The spa includes a special hair and beauty salon that offers services like manicures and pedicures. Guests can pamper themselves and enhance their beauty in this dedicated area. Here are some details about the spa at Atmosphere Kanufushi. 
• Changing Rooms: The spa provides changing rooms that feature additional facilities such as a jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, and shower. Guests can unwind and relax at these amenities before or after their spa treatments.
• Relaxation Lounge: Akiri Spa has a serene relaxation lounge where guests can unwind and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. It’s an ideal space to rest and rejuvenate after spa treatments.
• Spa Boutique: The spa also has a boutique where customers may purchase skincare, perfumes, and other wellness-related items.

For visitors to Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives, the spa is intended to be an opulent and peaceful haven. Akiri Spa strives to meet your needs, whether they be therapeutic treatments or a quiet setting to unwind in.

What Are Activities & Facilities at Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives?

At Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives, guests can enjoy a wide range of sports and activities to enhance their vacation experience. Here are some of the main activities available at the resort. 

• PADI Dive Centre: The resort has a PADI-certified dive centre, offering diving enthusiasts the opportunity to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Maldives. You can participate in diving courses or join guided dive trips to discover the coral reefs and marine life.
• Daily Snorkelling Trips: Joining the daily snorkelling trips allows you to explore the breathtaking underwater scenery surrounding the resort. Snorkelling equipment is provided, giving you the chance to observe the colourful coral reefs and swim alongside tropical fish.
• Windsurfing and Sailing: Guests can take advantage of the windsurfing and sailing facilities provided by the resort. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sailor, you can enjoy gliding across the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
• Pedalo, Canoe, and SUPs: Complimentary pedalos, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) are available for guests to use. These watercraft provide a fun and active way to explore the lagoon and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
• Big Game Fishing: Fans of fishing can go on “big game fishing” trips, where they might catch fish like tuna, marlin, and wahoo, which are very large. This activity is an exciting adventure for those seeking a thrill.
• Jetski, Fun Tube, Searay Ride, Wakeboard, Kneeboard, and Water Skiing: For adrenaline junkies, the resort offers various thrilling water sports activities. You can experience the excitement of jet skiing, enjoy a wild ride on a fun tube or Searay, or try your skills at wakeboarding, kneeboarding, and water skiing.
• Tennis Court: The resort features a tennis court where guests can engage in friendly matches or receive coaching from the on-site instructor. Tennis equipment is provided for your convenience.
• Fully Equipped Gym: Stay active during your stay by utilising the fully equipped gym at Atmosphere Kanifushi. Modern fitness equipment is in the gym, so you can keep up with your workout schedule while looking out at the beautiful scenery.
• Sunset Cruises and Island Excursions: Take a romantic sunset cruise or join an island excursion to nearby locations.  You can enjoy beautiful sunsets and experience the Maldives’ natural beauty.

How Family-Friendly Is Atmosphere Kanifushi?

Atmosphere Kanifushi Resort Maldives also has a Kids Club with a plan of activities for younger guests to make sure they have a fun and interesting time while they are there. Babysitting services are also available for children under four years old.

Exclusive Benefits for Repeat Guests at Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives

First-Time Guests

First-time visitors to Atmosphere Kanifushi are welcomed with a delightful exotic fruit platter and a complimentary bottle of champagne. This warm greeting sets the tone for a relaxing stay, complemented by a bed decoration featuring a “Welcome Back” message. Guests also receive a personal welcome note from the General Manager, ensuring they feel valued from the moment they arrive.

Second-Time Guests

For those returning for a second visit, the experience is even more special. In addition to the first-time perks, second-time guests enjoy canapés upon arrival and the option of an in-villa breakfast or a floating breakfast during their stay. They also benefit from early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability, making their return as seamless as possible.

Third-Time Guests

Guests visiting for the third time continue to enjoy the exclusive benefits from previous visits. They receive all the second-time perks, along with a welcome chocolate platter and an additional specialty dining experience. This ensures that their stay is filled with memorable culinary delights.

Fourth-Time Guests

For fourth-time visitors, the rewards become even more luxurious. They enjoy all the benefits from previous visits, plus a VIP arrival experience and a private BBQ dinner on the beach. This personalized touch enhances their experience, making it truly unforgettable.

Fifth-Time Guests and Beyond

Returning for a fifth time or more brings the ultimate rewards. In addition to all previous perks, these loyal guests receive a villa upgrade to the next category, subject to availability, and an additional spa treatment of their choice. This includes a romantic setup created by the spa team, featuring a 50-minute Balinese massage, ensuring a relaxing and indulgent experience.

Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives truly values its repeat guests, offering a range of exclusive benefits that enhance each visit and create lasting memories.

Conclusion

In summary, Atmosphere Kanifushi Resort Maldives is a top-notch luxury resort that provides an all-inclusive holiday experience with first-rate amenities, fine dining selections, thrilling activities, and a tranquil ambiance. Visitors may savour the Maldives’ magnificence, make enduring memories, and have a really unwinding and amazing vacation.

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