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.
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Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon opens Marine Biology Unit
Regarded by ‘Lonely Planet’ as one of the premier destinations for diving, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is a tropical haven where lush greenery meets the expansive ocean. Surrounded by vibrant coral reefs brimming with marine life, the resort offers a rare combination of tranquility and adventure, providing guests with an extraordinary connection to nature. However, with global challenges such as climate change, overfishing, and pollution threatening marine ecosystems, the Maldives faces an urgent need to protect its delicate underwater environments.
In response to this growing responsibility, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon has taken a significant step in environmental conservation by establishing a dedicated Marine Biology Unit. This initiative aims to promote marine conservation and inspire a collective sense of responsibility among guests, staff, and the local community.
The Marine Biology Unit, formerly the resort’s library, has been transformed into an educational hub promoting sustainable tourism and ecological awareness. Led by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts’ first and only female marine biologist, the unit brings a unique and empowering perspective to marine conservation efforts. It provides an interactive space for guests to explore the intricate world of marine life, covering topics such as coral health and the behaviour of local fish species.
Daily educational sessions offer insights into the complex ecosystems of the ocean, with topics ranging from the marvels of coral reefs to the fascinating behaviours of the region’s marine life. To spark interest, the unit displays the day’s featured topic at its entrance, encouraging guests to participate. Fish identification checklists are also made available, helping visitors enhance their knowledge as they explore Ellaidhoo’s vibrant reefs.
General Manager of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Sanjeeva Perera, emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating, “The launch of our Marine Biology Unit is the realisation of a long-awaited dream and a meaningful contribution to our ESG initiatives. Our mission is to empower guests and staff to become true stewards of the ocean, fostering a deep respect for marine life that will resonate long after their stay at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon. We hope this initiative not only enriches their experience but also builds a foundation of environmental responsibility that extends to the wider community.”
A longstanding advocate for eco-friendly practices, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon recognises the critical importance of preserving the island’s extraordinary natural beauty. By involving guests as active participants in environmental protection, the resort aims to create a lasting positive impact, cultivating a shared commitment to safeguarding the pristine marine environment for future generations.
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Uncover the ocean’s secrets at Cinnamon Dhonveli
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives invites you to plunge into an underwater wonderland where adventure meets unparalleled beauty. As one of the Maldives’ most sought-after diving destinations, the resort offers access to breathtaking dive sites that showcase the incredible diversity of marine life, creating a unique dive experience that beckons adventurers from around the globe.
With the expertise of Dive & Sale Maldives, a trusted name in the diving industry for over 03 decades, guests are ensured a top-tier diving experience. Their seasoned instructors bring a wealth of knowledge and passion for the ocean, guiding you through renowned sites like Aquarium, HP Reef, Maldives Victory, Madi Miyaru Kan, Lankan Manta Point, Banana Reef, and Colosseum and much more. Each excursion reveals a vibrant underwater world filled with stunning corals and a kaleidoscope of fish, where graceful manta rays, majestic eagle rays, and playful turtles await your discovery.
The dedicated team from Dive & Sale Maldives enriches your diving adventures with insights into the intricate relationships within this underwater paradise, ensuring that your experience is not only thrilling but also educational. Their commitment to safety and marine conservation further enhances your dive, allowing you to explore with peace of mind while contributing to the preservation of this magnificent ecosystem.
At Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, we believe in celebrating the beauty of our oceans while promoting sustainability and conservation. Our commitment to protecting the marine environment means that guests can dive with a sense of purpose, knowing they are contributing to vital conservation efforts.
Whether you are a seasoned diver or just starting your journey, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives offers a captivating blend of adventure, beauty, and serenity. Discover the depths of the Indian Ocean, create lasting memories, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Maldives. For those seeking more than just an escape, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives invites you to uncover the wonders that lie beneath the waves, forging unforgettable moments in a world where nature’s beauty remains untamed and eternal.
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Velassaru Maldives’ Coral Project invites guests to help rebuild Maldives’ reefs
Velassaru Maldives has announced the launch of the Velassaru Coral Project, a new initiative designed to engage guests in marine conservation while supporting coral restoration and promoting marine biodiversity. This immersive project allows guests to actively participate in building an artificial reef, fostering a deeper connection with the environment during their stay.
As part of this initiative, guests can purchase a coral frame, which is adorned with coral fragments collected and secured by Velassaru’s marine team. Each frame includes a personalised plaque, offering participants the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in the Maldives. Over the following two years, guests receive biannual updates on the progress of their coral, with photos and videos documenting its growth and development.
Velassaru’s dedication to education ensures that participants understand the essential role coral reefs play in sustaining marine life and supporting local communities. Though they cover only a small fraction of the ocean floor, coral reefs are home to 25% of all marine species, providing shelter and sustenance to fish, invertebrates, and other sea creatures.
Certified and novice divers alike are invited to explore the artificial reef near the Immersion Dive Centre, where professional guides lead dives and offer insights into the coral regeneration process and the thriving marine ecosystem around the reef.
A highlight of this manmade reef is “The Dome,” an impressive 4-meter by 6-meter structure situated 10 meters below the water’s surface. Sunk on September 12, 2024, The Dome offers an accessible dive site for Velassaru guests to explore and nurture. During underwater excursions, divers are encouraged to monitor the health of the corals, maintaining fragments secured with zip ties and fishing line.
In addition to enhancing guest experiences, the Velassaru Coral Project aims to gather essential data for coral research. Each dive at the artificial reef includes an assessment of coral health, with detailed records on coral colour, size, and species. Regular checks also monitor environmental factors such as water temperature and quality, as even a two-degree rise can cause coral bleaching. The team will remain vigilant in observing common coral diseases like white syndrome and pests that threaten coral health.
Sharks have occasionally been sighted near smaller reefs close to the artificial site, and the Velassaru team hopes to see more shark sightings as coral and fish populations grow. These predators play a vital role in balancing the ecosystem and ensuring the health and diversity of the surrounding reefs.
All data collected from the Velassaru Coral Project will be shared with Coral Watch, a global database that compiles information on coral health and conservation efforts. Through this contribution, Velassaru guests are not only helping restore the Maldives’ reefs but are also supporting coral research and preservation worldwide.
By involving guests in this unique, hands-on experience, Velassaru Maldives aims to encourage coral growth, enhance marine biodiversity, and provide a meaningful, educational experience for all visitors. Together, these efforts contribute to a sustainable future for the oceans.
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