Soneva in Aqua is the sailing yacht by Signature Resorts Soneva Fushi, Jani and Secret. She transforms a voyage through the Maldives into an experience shaped by nature, freedom and unhurried exploration. She is a floating expression of Soneva's philosophy of Bare Luxury – where true indulgence is found in space, freedom and a profound connection with nature.
The story begins with the name itself. Soneva is a blend of the names of its founders, Sonu Shivdasani and Eva Malmström Shivdasani, whose visionary approach to hospitality gave birth to the concept of Barefoot Luxury when Soneva Fushi opened in the Maldives in 1995. Their philosophy challenged the conventions of traditional luxury, replacing formality with freedom, authenticity and a deep respect for nature. Today, that vision has evolved into Bare Luxury – a refined expression of thoughtful simplicity, where every detail is carefully considered and only what truly matters remains. The name Soneva in Aqua perfectly embodies this philosophy, inviting guests to experience the Indian Ocean as a unique destination.
Custom-built by Tayana Yachts in 2015, Soneva in Aqua is a 23-metre sailing yacht designed exclusively for Soneva. Accommodating up to four adults and two children in two spacious en-suite cabins, she is attended by a dedicated crew of five, including a captain, a private chef, a Barefoot Guardian, a wellness therapist, and a housekeeper. Every detail has been designed for effortless comfort, from expansive sun decks and an open-air Jacuzzi to the yacht's signature glass-bottom spa bathtub in the master suite, where guests can relax while watching colourful reef fish glide silently beneath the hull.
Departing from both Soneva Fushi in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll and Soneva Jani in the tranquil Noonu Atoll, Soneva in Aqua explores some of the Maldives' most spectacular cruising grounds, including the pristine waters of Baa, Raa, Noonu and Goidhoo Atolls. While she provides seamless journeys between Soneva's island resorts, her purpose extends far beyond transfers. Every itinerary is entirely bespoke, allowing guests to discover deserted islands, hidden sandbanks, secluded lagoons and vibrant coral reefs that remain inaccessible to most visitors.
Life on board Soneva in Aqua unfolds according to each guest's passions. Guided snorkelling reveals flourishing coral gardens and abundant marine life, while divers can explore world-class dive sites across the atolls. Surfers can seek out uncrowded breaks, while stand-up paddleboarding, fishing and private beach picnics offer slower ways to experience the ocean.
Wellness is woven naturally into every voyage, with sunrise yoga, meditation and personalised spa rituals enjoyed wherever the Soneva in Aqua drops anchor. Bespoke menus created by the onboard chef showcase the freshest local ingredients and the day's catch, while evenings are spent dining beneath some of the clearest equatorial skies on Earth. You can even invite a professional astronomer to guide you through the night sky with stars.
Cruising at approximately 8 knots, Soneva in Aqua demonstrates the art of slow sailing. Every voyage celebrates the freedom to explore at nature's own pace, offering an intimate and deeply personal way to experience the Maldives – one where the journey is every bit as extraordinary as the destination.
The Maldivian Charter Club is sure that Soneva in Aqua meets every expectation of the most experienced guests, loving nature and caring about the environment.
The yacht’s description is subject to change, so if any features or services are particularly important to you, please confirm them at the time of booking.
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List of all complimentary and
paid services on board
List of all available yacht entertainment
PAYMENT
The agreed deposit must be paid at the time of booking and balance of the booking in the amounts and at the times confirmed at the time of booking.
The cost of booking does not include any extra chargeable services.
CANCELLATION AND AMENDMENTS BY THE COMPANY
If the Company have to make a major change to the booking (which changes the main characteristics of the booking) or cancel the booking, a full refund is offered.
CANCELLATIONS AND AMENDMENTS BY THE GUEST
Unless otherwise stated on the booking confirmation, the following booking deposit and cancellation periods apply:
|
2026 Season |
Deposit |
Free cancellation period |
Balance due |
|
Peak |
50% of booking value |
N/A Non-refundable deposit |
90 days prior to departure |
|
High |
25% of booking value |
Up to 60 days prior to departure |
60 days prior to departure |
|
Rest of year |
25% of booking value |
Up to 30 days prior to departure |
30 days prior to departure |
An expert dive master, surf instructor, astronomer or digital storyteller – upon request.
Soneva in Aqua can accommodate 6 guests – 4 adults + 2 children – in 2 cabins: a primary suite with a double bed and a single bed, a Jacuzzi inside the cabin and a glass bottom floor in the bedroom; a cabin with a double bed and a single bed.
Primary Suite with a double bed and a single bed, a Jacuzzi inside the cabin, a glass-bottom floor in the bedroom and an En-suite toilet.
A cabin with a double bed and a single bed, and an en-suite toilet.