FLOATING in my overwater villa’s private infinity pool, I watch a pair of stingrays glide serenely through the turquoise sea below. So far, so idyllic. It’s just how you’d imagine a dream holiday to the Maldives to be.

But Siyam World island resort on the Noonu atoll is so much more. Fancy jumping into a go-kart for a scream around their jungle racetrack? Or how about challenging Rio Ferdinand to a kickabout on the full-size football pitch — he’s there this October half term. read more on travel Why not splash about on the largest floating water park in the Indian Ocean or saddle up one of the magnificent horses at the island’s ranch? You can take to the calm, clear waters for a snorkelling safari or a sunset cruise to spot dolphins.

Jump into a canoe or laser boat to cut through the waves or catch the breeze windsurfing or paddleboarding. And that’s before we’ve even talked about the entertainment, vast spa complex or the four swish pools. Most read in Beach holidays It was my first time on a Maldivian island and the 5* Siyam World blew all my pre-conceptions out of the water.

I’d always been slightly worried by the thought of simply lounging about on white sand beaches and swimming in those stunning seas. Would I get bored? The answer is absolutely not. Siyam World says it offers WOW-inclusive holidays and I can’t disagree.

The island — a thrilling 40-minute sea-plane ride from Male’s international airport — is one of the largest in the Maldives ar.