Nova Maldives in South Ari Atoll, the newest addition to the portfolio of Pulse Hotels & Resorts, has officially opened and started welcoming guests.
A 25-minute scenic seaplane transfer from the Velana International Airport, the resort is located near the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) in the heart of the central atoll, renowned as the scuba diver’s ultimate playground with regular sightings of whale sharks and manta rays as well as access to shark points and more than 40 dive spots, including famous shipwrecks.
Divers and snorkelers in the resort’s house reef are bound to encounter manta rays and whale sharks throughout the year as South Ari Atoll is one of the few locations in the world where in-season whale shark sightings are guaranteed. The island’s reef is also home to a rich diversity of colourful fish, eagle rays and other types of sharks.
Nova features 76 spacious over-water and beach villas in 10 categories designed in a contemporary minimalist style with pared-back interiors and custom-made furniture. The villas come with king-size beds, rainfall showers, well-stocked fridges, fast WiFi, surround sound TV, and private terraces with ocean views. Natural materials were used in the construction to “blend in perfect harmony with the lush tropical surroundings,” according to the resort.
In addition to an all-day dining buffet venue, two à la carte restaurants offer grilled local fish, seafood and fine meat dishes. An overwater Teppanyaki experience with live cooking stations has a signature menu with fresh tropical flavours and ocean delights.
Entertainment activities include pool parties at the Solis Pool Bar, evening gatherings for communal snacks, DJs, and party nights at the main bar, Wink. Nova guests can also play beach volleyball, tennis, and football, or work out at a state-of-the-art fitness centre.
“Nova guests will experience regular cultural interactions and performances of authentic Maldivian artists, savour Maldivian food, including food tasting and cookery classes, learn from local artisans and manufacturers or simply enrich their souls by a visit to the nearby cultural heritage village to immerse themselves in traditional island life,” Nova said.
Nova’s overwater Eskape Spa has four treatment rooms with a choice of organic oils, a Thai Sala and a yoga pavilion. Its wellness experts also offer a host of holistic spa rituals using organic products and tailor-made wellness programmes.
The water sports and dive centre ‘Aquaholics’ offers jet skiing, parasailing, waterski, wakeboarding, fun rides, kayak, SUP, kite and windsurfing and Topcat sailing, and its world-class PADI aqua team and resident Marine Biologist accompany guests to a choice of over 40 dive sites within a 30-minute boat ride from the island.
“Environment protection and sustainability are at the heart of the Nova soul. The resident marine team is dedicated to leading coral adoption initiatives, and Nova also promotes a guest programme to support and protect nature initiatives,” Nova explained.
“Using organic and biodegradable materials has further enhanced Nova’s commitment to save the sensitive reef structures and the nature within the island. Nova’s key values being responsible includes minimising its carbon footprint by reducing the islands waste and energy consumption. All water waste and glass are recycled, food composted, items responsibly packaged, energy saved through smart room controls and printed collateral radically reduced by the mobile app and interactive systems.”
