Club Faru is an all-inclusive resort that caters both for those seeking some tranquility and those that are seeking some activity during their visit. Just 10 minutes from the airport by boat, this resort is perfect for those visitors who like to avoid a lengthy transfer and who would like to spend a little time in Male, guests at this resort get a free touras part of their stay.
The focal point of the resort is at the cluster of buildings alongside the arrival platform, where the reception, restaurant, bar and games pavilion all meet. Daily excursions leave this same platform for Male, other islands and diving, making it the center of activity during the day. Despite its name however, Club Faru is largely a quiet island and those seeking solitude and relaxation will not be disappointed. For those who do like some activity during their trip, the large beach head at the southern tip of the island provides many daytime activities including volleyball, badminton and watersports such as kayaking, sail and powered sports which are either free or reasonably priced. There is an animator on hand to organise daytime activities and for those who desire some night life, there are two live bands a week, interspersed with karaoke, discos and cabaret sessions.
The Accomodation
This is one of the more densely used islands with over 150 rooms organised in two-storey blocks. This is reflected in the price however, as this is also one of the more affordable island resorts in the Maldives. The rooms are quite ornate with rounded walls and circular windows, making a refreshing change from the usual rectangular forms we are used to. We really liked the rooms we stayed in, being clean and cosy, the bathrooms are functional but on the smaller side.
The best rooms in our opinion are those in the first 5 blocks from the main area, which face a good area of beach, have adequate shade and face west into the sunset. The other blocks on the west side of the island have less of a beach area. The other half of the rooms are situated on the east side which has a narrow beach. Some of these rooms, towards the south-east end, face the view of Hulhumale, the man-made extension of Male.
Activities
The lagoon is not so good for snorkelling here as the reef is inaccessible and there isn’t a great deal of coral, however, it does provide an excellant playground for other watersports. The resort does organise two snorkelling trips each day however, on a nearby reef. These trips are free to guests, as is a free tour of Male. Diving here is well established but may not offer as much to see as some of the other resorts.
Being so close to Male has both advantages and disadvantages, the short transfer being one obvious benefit. If you are looking for an all-inclusive resort that offers tranquility as well as the offer of activites then this resort may suit you, especially if you get allocated one of the better located rooms on the west side of the island.