Chef Sean Derrick Walles Joins Amilla Maldives in Baa Atoll, Bringing Global Culinary Expertise from Bali, Oman, and Portugal – Details On His Leadership

Published on November 5, 2025

Amilla Maldives, nestled in the tranquil beauty of Baa Atoll, has announced the appointment of Sean Derrick Walles as its new Executive Chef. Known for his impressive culinary achievements across various luxury resorts, Chef Walles joins Amilla with nearly two decades of experience in the fine dining world. His career spans top-tier resorts in destinations like the Maldives, Bali, Oman, and Portugal, and he brings a wealth of creativity, sustainability, and excellence to the resort’s kitchens. Under his leadership, guests will be treated to innovative menus that focus on high-quality ingredients, dietary inclusivity, and the sustainable sourcing of food. The award-winning chef will oversee Amilla’s seven distinctive dining venues, ensuring that each offers an exceptional and memorable gastronomic experience, from vegan and gluten-free dishes to specialty items like smoked cod and Peruvian ceviche.

Chef Sean Derrick Walles Takes Charge at Amilla Maldives

With his remarkable culinary journey, Chef Walles has garnered recognition through prestigious awards, including Gold and Silver medals at renowned culinary competitions such as the Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge and the FHA Culinary Challenge. His extensive career includes leadership positions at several high-end resorts around the globe, where he honed his skills in delivering exceptional dining experiences. Chef Walles is not only passionate about perfecting culinary techniques but also about promoting sustainable sourcing and creating healthy, eco-conscious menus that cater to diverse dietary needs.

At Amilla Maldives, his culinary expertise will play a significant role in crafting menus that reflect the resort’s commitment to luxury and sustainability. Guests can expect a wide range of dining options, including dishes that cater to specific dietary needs, such as vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and even low-carb/keto and paleo preferences. Chef Walles will also oversee Amilla’s organic gardens and the resort’s unique Homegrown@Amilla and Homemade@Amilla initiatives, ensuring that fresh, local produce is always incorporated into the culinary offerings.

Culinary Leadership with a Global Touch

Chef Walles has a diverse culinary background that spans several countries and continents. He began his career at the Hilton Colombo, after which he moved on to increasingly prestigious positions at various luxury resorts. Notable among these are Alila Villas Uluwatu in Bali, Patina Maldives, Soneva Fushi, and Velaa Private Island in the Maldives. He also worked at the renowned Six Senses Douro Valley in Portugal and Zighy Bay in Oman.

These international experiences have equipped Chef Walles with the ability to blend global culinary traditions with innovative techniques, making him an ideal fit for Amilla Maldives. His signature dishes reflect this fusion of styles, such as Peruvian-style ceviche with a twist, textures of tomato with burrata foam, and an inventive version of watermelon sashimi.

A Sustainable Approach to Dining

Sustainability is a core value for Chef Walles, and at Amilla Maldives, this philosophy will be implemented across all dining experiences. The resort’s organic gardens will play a central role in supplying fresh produce for the kitchens. With an emphasis on sustainable sourcing, Chef Walles will champion the use of local ingredients, ensuring that every dish served to guests supports environmental sustainability while showcasing the freshest flavors the Maldives has to offer.

In addition to his menu creations, Chef Walles will continue to promote sustainable culinary practices, ensuring that the resort’s culinary efforts contribute positively to the local community and environment. His work aligns with Amilla’s overarching focus on wellness, sustainability, and luxury.

Luxury Dining at Amilla Maldives

Amilla Maldives is a natural luxury resort set in the picturesque Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve known for its rich marine life. The resort offers a wide range of luxurious villas with outdoor living spaces and private pools, making it an ideal destination for both families and couples. Each villa, ranging from 2-bedroom to 8-bedroom options, is designed to provide the perfect blend of privacy and comfort for guests of all ages.

Aside from the stunning accommodations, Amilla Maldives also offers a plethora of exciting activities for guests to enjoy, such as water sports, football camps, pickleball, tennis, and private cinema nights. For younger guests, the Sultan’s Village Kids Club provides a safe and fun environment with a range of activities, including eco-workshops, sports, and crafts.

The resort’s multiple dining venues offer a range of unique culinary experiences, including international cuisine, with options that cater to various dietary preferences, making it a top choice for food enthusiasts.

Travel Tips for Visiting Amilla Maldives

For travelers looking to experience the best of Amilla Maldives, here are some essential tips:

• Book early to secure your ideal villa, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Explore the resort’s culinary offerings, from fresh seafood to international flavors, ensuring you experience Chef Walles’ innovative creations.
• Make time for eco-workshops at the Sultan’s Village Kids Club to understand the resort’s sustainability initiatives.
• Try out the water sports and immersive marine adventures available, particularly snorkeling and diving in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Explore the Maldives Like Never Before

With Chef Sean Derrick Walles at the helm, Amilla Maldives continues to set new standards in luxury travel and culinary experiences. His leadership is sure to further enhance the resort’s reputation as a top destination for those seeking fine dining, eco-conscious practices, and unforgettable vacations. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring the underwater world, or enjoying a carefully crafted meal, Amilla offers an unparalleled experience for every traveler.