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World Surfaris to manage surf operations at Hudhuranfushi Resort, Maldives
Maldives.net.mv – Management at Hudhuranfushi Resort, Maldives have taken a welcome step to managing on island surfer numbers by appointing World Surfaris as their official surf operations manager & offering a new surfer management plan that will limit surfers permitted to a maximum of 35 during March to October season.
The new surfer package is only available through international surf adventure company World Surfaris and their affiliate agents and promises to free up the house break ‘Lohi’s’ from the annual abundance of visiting surfers.
Fostering a ‘less is more for everyone’ attitude World Surfaris owner Shaun Levings has indicated that this is a positive step in managing surfer numbers in the North Male’ atoll of the Maldives.
“Surfer numbers visiting North Male’ atoll & Hudhuranfushi Resort have considerably increased in recent years. The resulting influx has often left guests frustrated to say the least with a bad atmosphere in and out of the water. After all who’d want to travel to this dream destination and have to share the line up with an excessive crowd? The new surf management plan means less people in the water with more waves for your money and a great vibe throughout your holiday.” Levings stated.
ADS Resorts Pvt Ltd, the leaseholders of Lohifushi Island now known as Adaaran ‘Select’ Hudhuranfushi Resort are granted private use of the house reef which includes ‘Lohis left’. This is indeed quite controversial in the world of surfing however in the Maldives; the tourism laws grant most resorts a boundary for privacy reason that often includes the surf break. Surfers have flocked to the resort to surf ‘Lohis for many years however on island surfer numbers have spiralled out of control and the break was fast losing its reputation as a desirable location.
Mr Mohamed Lantra, General Manager of marketing at Adaaran Resorts was quoted the following when questioned about limiting surfing numbers. “With regard to the surf operation, the company has taken a decision to manage it well and uplift the standard of the Lohis surf break as well as the property as such, we have appointed World Surfaris to manage the surf operation. The above decision was taken after reviewing for almost 2 years and to maintain discipline among surfers. No surfers will be allowed to surf ‘Free’ at Lohis without a paid surf pass”.
The new surfer package will limit surfers on Island to a maximum of 35. The lucky 35 surfers at the resort can also sample the other North Male’ atoll jewels with guided boat trips to the 6 other breaks within 30 minutes. Right pits at Cokes or warm water J’bay at Jails, all within 20 minutes from the resort. Resident surf guides Richard & Amy Kotch are thrilled by the development.
“Quite simply, Hudhuranfushi is the best place to be based for a surf trip in the Maldives. ‘Lohis’, the island left that is exclusive to Hudhuranfushi guests is one of the most consistent in the world, for 8 months of the year there is a rideable wave pretty much every day of the season. Managing surfer numbers on the island means that you can surf perfect, uncrowded waves in paradise without the hassles that we’ve seen developing in previous years. It’s an awesome initiative by Adaaran Resorts!” Richard said.
The new surfer package will also include the addition of two new local expert guides. With four guides on the island, surfers and visitors can expect to receive the best possible service and care throughout their stay.
With the new package only recently released spaces are wide open for the 2014 season March – October. With only 35 surfer spaces available for sale to surfers all over the world, a space in the line-up at Lohi’s break will become highly sought after.
The surf package is only available through World Surfaris and affiliate agents. So, if you’re chasing uncrowded waves in the beautiful Maldives in 2014, you must act now.
Kandooma Maldives has introduced a new pickleball court, expanding its recreational facilities as the paddle sport continues to gain popularity worldwide.
Combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball is a sport that is relatively easy to learn and suitable for players of different ages and abilities. The new facility allows guests to participate in singles or doubles matches, offering an additional recreational activity for families, couples and groups staying at the resort.
The pickleball court is open daily from 6am to 6pm, with paddles and balls available for guests to borrow from Reception.
Court reservations can be made through the resort’s Recreation or Front Office team. Each villa is entitled to one complimentary hour of court use per day.
The introduction of pickleball forms part of Kandooma Maldives’ efforts to expand its recreational offerings and provide guests with more opportunities to participate in sports and group activities during their stay.
Best Dives Maldives has won two awards at the World Luxury Travel Awards 2026, recognising its diving operations across the Maldives.
The company was named Best Diving Experience in Indian Ocean Islands and Best Diving Centre in Indian Ocean.
The awards reflect the team’s focus on professional service, safety and quality in creating memorable experiences for guests.
With more than two decades in the Maldivian tourism industry, Best Dives Maldives has become an established name in diving, watersports and ocean experiences. It works with resorts across the country, giving guests the opportunity to explore the Maldives’ underwater world.
“We are truly honoured to receive these two awards,” said Ahmed Razee, Managing Director of Best Dives Maldives. “This recognition reflects the passion and dedication of our team, whose hard work makes these achievements possible. We are grateful to our resort partners for their continued trust and support, and to the World Luxury Travel Awards for this recognition.”
The awards reinforce the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality diving and ocean experiences while showcasing the beauty of the Maldives’ marine environment.
Best Dives Maldives has more than two decades of experience in the Maldivian tourism industry. It offers a wide range of ocean experiences and marine services, including diving, watersports, excursions and luxury yacht charters. The company also provides guest transfers and professional training and certification programmes.
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has announced a special edition of The Astor Club Soirée in partnership with LUX Tennis, welcoming three of the sport’s most accomplished players, Daniil Medvedev, Paula Badosa, and Donna Vekić, for a series of tennis residencies from October 26 through November 30, 2026. Taking place at the Maldives’ finest address, the program will feature private coaching sessions, group clinics, junior development activities, and guest appearances, offering participants direct engagement with some of tennis’s most recognized names.
The Astor Club Soirée Tennis Series will commence with Donna Vekić from October 29 to November 1, 2026. One of Croatia’s most accomplished tennis players, Vekić has captured five WTA singles titles throughout her career and achieved a career-high ranking of World No. 17. Her recent achievements include a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, a semifinal appearance at Wimbledon, and victory at the prestigious Queen’s Club Championships in 2026. Renowned for her powerful playing style and competitive spirit, Vekić will share her expertise through a series of guest sessions designed for players of all levels.
From November 13 to 14, 2026, the resort will welcome Paula Badosa, one of the most inspiring players on the WTA Tour. After capturing the French Open Girls’ title and turning professional in 2015, Badosa rose steadily through the ranks to reach a career-high World No. 2 ranking in 2022. Following a determined comeback from injury setbacks, she re-established herself among the world’s elite with a title run at the Washington Open, a quarterfinal appearance at the US Open in 2024, and an Australian Open semifinal appearance in 2025. Guests will have the chance to spend time with one of modern tennis’ most resilient and admired competitors through a series of coaching and on-court sessions.
The pinnacle of the series arrives November 26 to 27, 2026 with the highly anticipated residency of Daniil Medvedev, former ATP World No. 1 and one of the defining champions of his generation. Widely regarded as one of the most accomplished players in contemporary tennis, Medvedev’s distinguished career includes a historic US Open title, multiple ATP Masters 1000 victories, ATP Finals success, and numerous Grand Slam final appearances.
Celebrated for his tactical brilliance, relentless competitiveness, and commanding presence on court, Medvedev has consistently performed at the highest level of the sport while establishing himself as one of tennis’ most influential global stars. As the headline appearance of The Astor Club Soirée Tennis Series, he will lead a schedule of private lessons, clinics, and guest events throughout this stay.
“The Astor Club Soirée was created to bring influential figures in sport and culture to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort through bespoke guest programming,” says Ozgur Cengiz, General Manager of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. “We are pleased to welcome Daniil Medvedev, Paula Badosa, and Donna Vekić, whose achievements have made a lasting impact on professional tennis. Their presence reflects our continued focus on presenting distinctive experiences that inspire, engage, and leave a lasting impression on our guests.”
Designed for aspiring young athletes, tennis enthusiasts, and seasoned players, each residency offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from some of the sport’s most accomplished professionals.
The Astor Club Soirée forms part of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s signature platform for distinctive guest programming. Inspired by the Astor family’s appreciation for sports, culture, and refined leisure, The Astor Club Soirée unites influential figures from around the world through engaging experiences that inform, inspire, and connect, embodying the quintessential St. Regis tradition of bringing people together through personalized service.
For more information, please visit stregismaldives.com.
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