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Into the blue week at Soneva Fushi

Maldives.net.mv – Want to learn the art of freediving? Fancy discovering the mysteries of the deep on a night dive or learning how to take photos underwater? With some of the most beautiful beaches in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi may be the perfect place for a lazy luxury sunshine break, but for those seeking a more active holiday, the wonders of the Indian Ocean are waiting to be explored.
During the resort’s Into The Blue Week a wide choice of water-based activities are on offer each day to help guests make the most of the ocean – and it’s all included in the price.
Situated in the Baa Atoll, in the middle of a protected UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, few places boast a more pristine marine environment. Known for its biodiversity, the extensive unspoilt coral reefs teem with life, from whale sharks and manta rays to turtles.
Guests can join day-time snorkelling trips of various lengths to discover the reef and sea creatures – and can head to Hanifaru Bay, a famous feeding and cleaning station for manta rays, to try and swim with the gentle giants (an amazing experience, though hard to 100% guarantee!)
For those after something more unusual the chance to learn to freedive with our resident expert is not to be missed. Holding your breath while exploring beneath the waves is simply magical, pushing personal boundaries and encouraging bonding with the ocean. Night snorkelling or diving is also on the cards for the adventurous – seeing glowing plankton and shining comb jellies are some of the rewards.
Education is at the heart of everything Soneva does – and guests can learn how to take good shots while diving on an underwater photography session (those fish are trickier to snap than you think!), or perhaps work with the resident marine biologist on a reef survey, collecting data on marine life. Learning to kite surf or cat sail are other options, while keep fit fans can join aqua fitness sessions and feast on healthy picnics on trips to nearby desert islands.
All activities are designed for minimal environmental impact too, as seen on the catch and release fishing trips available (in fact, local fishermen working for the resort are actually paid to put back undersized baby fish).
Children are also well-catered for, with a special programme to introduce little ones to the marvels of the sea. From swimming lessons in the sheltered lagoon to snorkelling sessions with the marine biologist, there’s something for all ages. The marine theme continues with a screening of Finding Nemo at the outdoor Cinema Paradiso – a great end to a watery fun-filled day.
Prices start at $2,380 per night per villa and include breakfast and marine activities.
Into The Blue Week runs from: 12th May – 10th October 2014.
Excursions
From first visit to thousand dives: Love story anchored at Bandos Maldives

Bandos Maldives recently marked a significant milestone with two of its most loyal guests, Kate and Andy, who have shared a long-standing connection with the island.
Andy achieved an impressive feat by completing his 900th dive, all undertaken with Dive Bandos. His wife, Kate, surpassed this accomplishment by reaching her 1000th dive, with over 900 of those dives also completed alongside the Bandos team.
The Dive Bandos team joined the couple in celebrating this memorable occasion, recognising not only their dedication to diving but also the enduring bond they have formed with the resort over the years.
Kate and Andy’s relationship with Bandos extends far beyond statistics. Having first visited the island in 2006, they have returned every year since, making Bandos an integral part of their lives. In 2014, the couple even chose to exchange their wedding vows underwater at the resort — a unique moment that forever linked their love story with Bandos.
“Celebrating guests like Kate and Andy reminds us of what Bandos truly represents,” said Ismail Rasheed, General Manager of Bandos Maldives.
For Bandos Maldives, moments such as these exemplify why guests continue to choose the island for both adventure and a sense of belonging. With stories like Kate and Andy’s, Bandos stands not merely as a dive destination, but as a home — both beneath and above the waves.
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Dive into inspiration: Alessia Zecchini at Sun Siyam Olhuveli

Sun Diving will host a special ocean experience with world champion freediver Alessia Zecchini on 13 October 2025. The event is scheduled to take place at Sunrise Beach, Sun Siyam Olhuveli, from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM, offering guests the opportunity to meet the athlete widely recognised as ‘The Deepest Woman in the World.’
Born in Rome in 1992, Zecchini began freediving at the age of 13 and went on to set multiple world and European records. She was the first woman to reach a depth of 100 metres in free immersion and has since achieved 123 metres in constant weight with monofin. Her career has been celebrated internationally, including in the film Vertical Breath and the Netflix documentary The Deepest Breath. She continues to advance the sport while promoting awareness of ocean conservation.
The event at Olhuveli will feature an informative talk where Zecchini will reflect on her freediving journey, achievements, and the importance of protecting the marine environment. Guests will also have the chance to take part in a Q&A session with her and the Sun Diving team. In addition, Sun Diving will organise an interactive beach activity where participants can try scuba and snorkel gear in shallow waters under the guidance of instructors. Guests will also be able to capture photographs, collect autographs, and learn more about diving at the dedicated booth, which will highlight special offers from Sun Diving.
“Welcoming Alessia Zecchini is an honour for us and an inspiration for our guests,” said Ahmed Nihaan, Dive Centre Manager at Sun Siyam Olhuveli. “Her achievements beneath the waves embody both human potential and the importance of protecting our oceans.”
Sun Diving, the official diving division of Sun Siyam Group, provides SSI-certified courses, snorkelling, freediving, and specialty programmes across its Maldives properties. As a subsidiary, it enhances guest experiences with curated dive packages, illustrated dive maps, lifeguard training, and eco-focused initiatives, positioning Sun Siyam as a leader in sustainable marine-based activities.
Featured
Finolhu showcases Maldives’ only PADI Mermaid Instructor Trainer

Dive Butler International, in collaboration with Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, is highlighting the achievements of Mara Restelli, recognised as the Maldives’ only certified PADI Mermaid Instructor Trainer.
With this rare qualification, Restelli offers a series of exclusive experiences designed to introduce guests of all ages to the art of mermaiding. The programmes range from playful introductory sessions to advanced courses and professional-level Instructor Development Courses (IDC).
“Mermaiding is more than a trend — it is a joyful way to connect with the water, express creativity, and feel empowered,” Restelli explained. “I enjoy watching guests discover confidence, freedom, and a sense of fun in the ocean. It is as much about transformation as it is about adventure.”
As part of Finolhu’s extensive marine offerings, the PADI Mermaid programmes provide an engaging complement to the resort’s diving and snorkelling activities. Participants may learn to glide gracefully underwater in a mermaid tail, capture striking images during professional photo sessions, or pursue advanced training that strengthens skills and deepens their connection with the ocean.
By hosting the Maldives’ only PADI Mermaid Instructor Development Course, Finolhu reinforces its reputation as a pioneering destination for distinctive and life-enriching marine experiences.
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