Royal Island

Beautiful Banyan trees and lush green shrubs mark the island surrounded by a crystal clear blue lagoon encompassing spectacular tropical marine life. The sound of birds chirping, and gentle waves washing onto white sandy beaches are a signature of this medium sized, very green island with lovely beaches in Royal Island.

Saturday, February 05, 2011

Beautiful Banyan trees and lush green shrubs mark the island surrounded by a crystal clear blue lagoon encompassing spectacular tropical marine life.

The sound of birds chirping, and gentle waves washing onto white sandy beaches are a signature of this medium sized, very green island with lovely beaches in Royal Island.

Royal Island is located in Baa atoll, 75 kilometres North West of Male, the capital city of the Maldives. On Royal Island, a legacy of hundreds of years of proud history awaits.

The grandmother of the greatest Maldivian hero of all times, Boduthakurufaan, made this island her home and is buried here.

The remnant of this rich historical heritage is preserved for its symbiosis with the local social and natural environment, epitomizing the Maldivian hospitality.

Today, Royal Island is a vibrant reality, a marriage of ancient traditions and modern living, dedicated to ensuring that guests experience the heart and soul of the Maldives at Royal Island. On the other hand untouched interior, nice beach and a great house reef offer exquisite attractions.

The Baa atoll has 50 islands, but only one fifth of them make up the population of this atoll. The remaining islands are deserted with unspoiled wildlife and barely trodden beaches. Some of these neighbouring uninhabited islands are ideal picnic spots for guests.

The area is famous for its handcrafts, which include lacquer work and finely woven cotton felis - traditional sarongs. The small, isolated atoll of Goidhoo has been a place for castaways and exiles. The French explorer François Pyrard, found himself here in 1602 after his ship, the Corbin, was wrecked.

Due to the location of Royal Island, it is influenced by the southwest monsoon, especially from May to July, bringing in large quantities of nutrients from the surrounding ocean which attracts whale sharks and manta rays.

The main occupation of the population is tuna fishing. Some of the islanders are well known for their skilled craftsmanship. Lacquer ware is a particularly unique creation and is sold in many souvenir shops and resort boutiques.

The smooth journey by seaplane from the main airport to Baa Atoll, takes 35 minutes to reach the Royal Island platform. Before departure, Trans Maldivian Airways provides guests with the comfort of waiting in the Royal Lounge commensurate with its royal history.

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