Originally Posted by jfks35

I've been to the Maldives 3 times including last September. I've stayed at the Sheraton Full Moon twice - including 5 nights last September before going to the new Le Meridien for 5 more nights. I thought the Sheraton was OK.

Positives - got upgraded to an over water suite for free based on my status; no expensive sea plane fees; the boat ride is 20 minutes from Male - after a super long journey from the US, it was nice to hit the speedboat and get there quickly; close to surf spots like Jailbreaks & Sultans; great snorkeling with turtles excursion & sunset dolphin trips!; Free use of stand up paddleboards and kayaks in the lagoon

Negatives - close to Male; Not taking a sea plane to the middle of the Indian Ocean isn't the "authentic Maldives" experience; Le Meridien was much nicer with a better house reef for snorkeling; There are better, more luxurious resorts in the Maldives (and much more expensive/much more Marriott points)

I personally would stay at the Sheraton over Male. Food was good, people were very friendly, good for a night or 2.