Underwater
Anantara Kihavah Villas goes to Sea with marine biologist Joseph Lassus
Maldives.net.mv – With its prime location in the Maldives’ Baa Atoll island archipelago, Anantara Kihavah Villas is the perfect place from which to enjoy the underwater world of the Indian Ocean itself. Snorkel some of the world’s most treasured reefs, explore uninhabited deserted islands or cruise in solitude into a tapestry of unimaginable colours.
Offering an array of bespoke and exhilarating journey of adventures, ‘Elements Kihavah’ is the resort’s water sports provider, taking guests under, on and alongside the turquoise Indian Ocean. Recovering from the 1998 El Nino event that destroyed most of the country’s shallow reef coral, in June 2011 UNESCO declared the Baa Atoll a Biosphere Reserve and Anantara Kihavah Villas has been dedicated to supporting its recovery since opening in 2012. Here dolphins, turtles and mantas can be seen today thriving in their natural habitats.
With the recent arrival of marine biologist Joseph Lassus to Anantara Kihavah, guests can draw on his expert knowledge as they descend into the ocean’s dazzling depths and discover the magical underwater world that lies below. On dry land, the exploration into the ocean’s treasures continues at the resort’s signature underwater restaurant, Sea. Hosting presentations for guests in the mezmerizing surrounds of Sea, Joseph describes the natural aquarium through the glass walls as it envelopes the restaurant to provide a breath-taking 180 degree view of fish, turtles, sea eels with all their friends at play. Deepening the understanding, Joseph’s first hand knowledge is accompanied with presentations given to each participant on iPad as the marine world unfolds before your eyes.
“Before arriving in the Maldives I was undertaking research at the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve, Mexico, with a WWF project. In assisting to document the recovery from the 2007 hurricane we could see that signs of renewal were evident, but the full effect will only be understood upon completion of the WWF project next year.
“This opportunity to be the marine biologist at Anantara Kihavah Villas provides me with a perfect combination of teaching people to dive and snorkel, which I love to share with guests, as well as continuing my research in exciting new fields of exploration and behaviour associations of aquatic life. Here I encounter completely different species to those I am familiar with from my native home in the French Caribbean, for example the Napolean Wrasse, Clown Fish and different coral. This is really stimulating for me and they all exist in a fragile association; one cannot survive without the other,” explains Joseph.
Guests can also join Joseph on diving, snorkelling, dolphin discovery, turtle quest and manta excursions, or partake in coral transplanting and essential research snorkelling adventures to take identification photos of large animals. At Elements Kihavah, qualified PADI diving instructors are on hand to present beginner courses in the comfort and privacy of a guest’s villa, or advanced courses in the open water ranging from Dive Master and Adventure Diver to Digital Underwater Photography and PADI Enriched Air Diver.
Whether scuba diving or snorkelling, experienced instructors, first class rental equipment, comfortable dhonis (traditional Maldivian boat) and reef dive sites cater for both beginner and experienced explorers. Other exhilarating options include cutting edge windsurfing rigs, catamarans, parasailing, kite surfing and ‘Seabob’, the world’s fastest water sled.
The waters around Kihavah Huravalhi Island are abound with magnificent game fish such as sailfish,dorado and wahoo and the big game boat ‘Catcher’ offers hours of excellent sport fishing outside of the Baa Atoll area. The 25 metre ‘Ocean Whisperer’ sail yacht affords a private journey beyond the horizon filled with luxury and adventure. Guests can opt to explore deserted islands, hidden reefs and secret lagoons while diving or snorkelling, or simply relaxing on the sun-kissed deck to relish the tropical breeze as they sail into the sunset.
Anantara Kihavah Villas is passionate about bringing story collecting travellers closer to the natural, cultural and historic allures of this fascinating island nation, and nowhere is it more perfectly articulated than in the greatest paradise on earth, the Maldives.
Action
Dive into conservation: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi introduces snorkelling with a purpose
Sun Siyam Iru Fushi has introduced an exciting new activity for ocean enthusiasts: Conservation Snorkelling. Led by the resort’s resident marine biologist, Mohamed Shah, this immersive experience allows participants to contribute to marine conservation efforts while exploring the vibrant underwater ecosystem of the Maldives. Combining education, exploration, and action, the initiative offers an enriching opportunity for visitors of all ages.
Participants engage in collecting critical data on coral health and fish populations using underwater fish guides, coral health charts, and writing slates, while learning to identify various fish species. They assess reef conditions and contribute to the protection of the local marine environment. The findings are then discussed with Mohamed Shah, providing deeper insights into the marine life of the Iru Fushi lagoon and house reef.
This activity is a key component of Sun Siyam Cares, the resort’s initiative focused on environmental protection and community support. Families, young couples, and other guests can participate in global conservation efforts through the Coral Watch citizen science project. The activity is open to strong swimmers aged eight and above who feel comfortable snorkelling.
“At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, we strive to protect the stunning natural environment around us,” said Abdullah Atham, Resort Manager. “Through activities like Conservation Snorkelling, we encourage guests to explore and actively contribute to ocean conservation.”
Featured
Beneath the waves: Ellaidhoo’s unmatched marine encounters
The Maldives is often described as a paradise on earth, but beneath its turquoise waters lies an even greater wonder—one that draws explorers, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts from around the world. The waters surrounding the islands are teeming with vibrant marine life and feature world-class dive sites, offering travellers an unparalleled underwater adventure.
At Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, diving transcends being a mere activity, becoming a portal to an awe-inspiring, living masterpiece. Renowned for its House Reef, celebrated as one of the top 100 dive and snorkelling sites globally, Ellaidhoo provides encounters that are both exhilarating and humbling. Grey reef sharks glide effortlessly through the currents, while manta rays perform mesmerising underwater dances. One guest recently commented, “You can’t count all the sharks, too many here,” highlighting the abundance of life within this pristine ecosystem.
Among the remarkable marine inhabitants is “Tripod,” a rare three-fin turtle whose resilience and charm leave a lasting impression on divers fortunate enough to encounter him. The feather-tailed stingray, with its hypnotic movements, adds an extra layer of wonder to the underwater experience. From delicate reef fish to barracudas and the occasional hammerhead shark, each dive presents an opportunity to witness the extraordinary.
The marvels of the ocean do not cease with the setting sun. Night diving offers a completely different adventure, revealing an enchanting underwater world in a new perspective—or in near darkness. Lobsters venture out from their rocky shelters, turtles nestle into their sleeping spots, and the bioluminescent glow of plankton creates a surreal and otherworldly experience. This unique setting allows divers to observe the ocean’s nocturnal rhythm and its secretive, captivating creatures.
For those who prefer staying near the surface, the Maldives offers equally enchanting snorkelling experiences. The coral reefs surrounding Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives showcase a kaleidoscope of vibrant colours, with swaying anemones, clownfish darting from their homes, and moray eels gliding gracefully along the seabed. Family-friendly snorkelling excursions ensure that visitors of all ages can partake in these magical experiences.
Excursions
Fuvahmulah triumphs at 2024 DRT show as Best Shark Diving spot
Fuvahmulah has been crowned the ‘Best Shark Diving Destination’ at the 2024 Diving Resort & Travel (DRT) Show held in Hong Kong. This prestigious recognition solidifies the Maldivian island’s reputation as a global hotspot for thrilling and sustainable shark diving experiences.
Renowned for its exceptional underwater ecosystem, Fuvahmulah offers divers a unique opportunity to encounter a wide variety of shark species. Among the highlights are its tiger sharks, rare and awe-inspiring predators that attract adventurers from around the world. The island’s pristine waters and vibrant marine life have consistently drawn accolades from the diving community, and this latest achievement underscores its unparalleled appeal.
This award is not only a celebration of Fuvahmulah’s natural beauty but also a testament to the dedication of its local community. Dive centres, guest houses, and tourism professionals have worked tirelessly to showcase the island’s marine wonders while prioritising sustainability and conservation efforts. Their collective passion and hard work have been instrumental in positioning Fuvahmulah as a must-visit destination for divers worldwide.
The recognition at the DRT Show not only celebrates Fuvahmulah’s achievements but also reinforces the importance of preserving its unique underwater ecosystem. As visitors continue to flock to this diving paradise, the island remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainable tourism and marine conservation, ensuring that its breathtaking marine life can be enjoyed for generations to come.
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