Greetings! First time poster, long time flyertalk creeper. Always figured my post would be regarding flights...but I am turning to the forum for some help deciding between the W Maldives and the St. Regis Maldives. I apologize if I have posted this in the wrong area. Yes, i have reviewed master threads on both hotels, and even a couple posts comparing the two.

I have an upcoming points trip to the Maldives this January. My sig other and I will be staying 5 nights at the PH then another 5 nights at either the W or the St. Regis. Both properties are 100,000 points a night for their overwater villa option (although the st regis is charging $500 for the upgrade). All-in-all between the transfer costs, the St. Regis will probably be about $800 -$1,000 more expensive. I am a Marriott platinum elite, would elect breakfast as my benefit, and am under the impression both properties would honor the 20% discount on dining using a marriott branded cc....please correct me if I am wrong.

From what I have read, the St. Regis will be slightly more luxurious, have better breakfast, and the hard product will be "newer". However, the W will have less kids/families, be slightly cheaper, and have a much better house reef/snorkeling. Only turn off I have seen to W is the rather quirky branding which doesn't scream Maldives luxury to me.

For context, my partner and I are probably making a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Maldives. I am a diver, and while we may do some scuba diving excursions, we will probably stick with mostly snorkeling. Looking for a healthy reef with a nice balance of luxury. Relaxation, intimacy, and nature more important than over-the-top luxury.

Both resorts are pretty much priced similarly so I would love to hear some feedback and input from the community. Thank you for your time everyone!