It was to this boat that Johann directed me for my final taste of the extravagant flourishes Voavah’s long-term residents will come to consider commonplace. Exclusive though the island is, at full occupancy it may not offer the degree of privacy required for an intimate romantic dinner or a perfectly executed proposal, so its occupants will inherit a small additional territory, complete with separate sandbank and picnic beach.  And so it was that I sailed at dusk to another entirely undeveloped island, where two waiters were on hand to serve a dinner illuminated only by the moon and scores of candles. It was an unexpected conclusion to my visit but, for Voavah’s intended guests – the world’s most demanding consumers – it will come as no surprise to learn their private island comes with its own private island.  The Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa Atoll, can be booked through Carrier (0161 492 1358; ). A five-night, full-board stay for 10 people costs from £415,000. The price includes use of the Voavah Summer yacht within Baa Atoll, all water sports, diving, fishing and excursions, return private jet from London Luton and VIP seaplane transfers from Malé to Voavah; the same package but with return Emirates business-class flights from London and VIP seaplane transfers from Malé to Voavah costs £290,000. For a group of 22 people, the package would cost £570,000 if travelling by private jet, or £355,000 when travelling business-class with Emirates. Prices are based on departures on March 1 2017.
Sidestepping the hermit crabs scuttling underfoot and coming to a halt under the welcome shade of a conveniently placed palm tree, my guide Johann concluded, with a gleeful flourish, his tour of the deserted Indian Ocean island.