Both The Ritz-Carlton Maldives and Rosewood Mayakoba offer luxurious experiences with overwater bungalows, butler service, and kids' clubs. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives stands out for its marine-focused sustainability initiatives and diverse transfer options, while Rosewood Mayakoba excels in proximity to Mayan ruins and a tranquil spa environment. The choice depends on whether you prioritize Maldivian marine life or Mayan cultural experiences.
| Attribute | The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands | Rosewood Mayakoba |
|---|---|---|
| Overwater bungalow availability | The resort offers overwater villas. | Yes, Deluxe Overwater Lagoon Suites available (adults only) with lounge terrace, plunge pool, outdoor garden shower, king bed, and lagoon/mangrove views. |
| Proximity to house reef | The resort island is encircled by a lively coral reef. However, one review mentions the island lacks a house reef due to its man-made nature. | Limited information. Snorkeling and diving refer generally to the Riviera Maya coast. |
| On-site dining Michelin star rating | Summer Pavilion takes inspiration from The Ritz-Carlton Millenia, Singapore s Michelin-starred restaurant. | No mention of a Michelin star rating for on-site dining. |
| Spa treatment prices | While specific prices aren't listed, the spa offers a variety of treatments, including facials, massages, and body therapies. A 150-minute Bamford Signature Journey is available. | Spa treatments at Sense, A Rosewood Spa. Some 30-minute treatments start at $90 USD (plus 15% service charge and 16% tax). |
| Kids club activities | The Ritz Kids club is designed for ages 4-12 and has a daily schedule of activities based on land, water, environmental responsibility, and culture. Activities include sports, arts and crafts, cooking classes. The club features indoor and outdoor spaces with playgrounds, napping pods, video games, movies, and a pool with slides and jets. | Rosewood Explorers kids' club offers arts and crafts, treasure hunts, pizza making, eco-tours, and movie nights. |
| Transfer options from the airport | Options include speedboat and seaplane. Speedboat: Approximately 45-50 minutes. Round trip costs are around $798 per adult and $399 per child (0-11.99 years), but can be up to $1,024 per person. Seaplane: Approximately 10-15 minutes. Round trip costs are around $1602 per adult and $801 per child (0-11.99 years), or $1,600 per person. | 40-45 minutes from Cancun International Airport. Options: pre-arranged hotel SUV transfers (with amenities), taxi services, and car rentals. |
| Private plunge pool size | Villas have private infinity pools. One review mentions a large 5m long infinity pool. | Deluxe Overwater Lagoon Suites have a private terrace with a plunge pool. Size not specified. |
| Butler service availability | Each villa has a dedicated "Aris Meeha" or island butler available 24/7. | Yes, available to all suites. Assistance with packing/unpacking, reservations, and other needs. |
| All-inclusive package options | The resort may offer packages that include meals and activities, but details vary. | Full American Plan (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) available at USD190 (subject to 21% tax; beverages and gratuities not included). |
| Proximity to local cultural sites | The resort is part of the Fari Islands Archipelago, providing access to the Fari Marina Village with cultural experiences and local crafts. The resort also organizes excursions to local islands. | Near Tulum Temples (Mayan ruins). Day trips to Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Coba can be arranged. |
| Sustainability practices | The resort has various sustainability initiatives including: Utilizing solar power, with plans to expand; Recycling and purifying water; Coral planting project; Partnerships with organizations focused on sustainability, such as Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment program; Using drones to track and remove ocean plastics. | Preferred by Nature Certification, Seafood Watch Partner. Energy/water conservation, waste reduction, mangrove protection. Electric boat transport, electric golf carts, and bicycles used. |
| Room technology (smart controls) | Guest villas are equipped with smart energy-saving systems with occupancy sensors. Villas also have iPads to control lighting and entertainment. | Suites feature high-tech amenities. Resort has an app for butler services and reservations. |