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Become a ‘manta scientist for a day’ in UNESCO accredited waters

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Four Seasons

 

Manta

Maldives.net.mv – Guests visiting Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru between May and November now have the opportunity to become a “Manta Scientist for a Day,” thanks to a unique experience devised in conjunction with The Manta Trust.

Since 2006 the Resort has been home to the Maldivian Manta Ray Project (MMRP) – the founding project of The Manta Trust, the world’s leading manta ray charity. Nearly every day during manta season, the project’s scientists embark on study cruises to known aggregation sites in the surrounding Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere. To date, the project has identified more than 3,300 individual manta rays from more than 25,000 sightings in the Maldives, helping to unravel some of the global mysteries surrounding the population size, migratory routes and life history strategies of these elusive oceanic residents.

Guests are warmly invited to join the scientists on board. Viewed very much as part of the team, participants will discover how to spot manta rays and whale sharks in the water; help record critical environmental information; learn how to take ID photos; join in the identification process; and improve their free-diving technique. They may even get the chance to name a previously unseen manta, forever adding their mark to the world’s largest manta ray database.

Baa Atoll is one of the world’s best locations for manta rays and whale sharks sightings. Between May and November, these gentle giants flock to the area in large numbers to feed on plankton swept in by seasonal tides. Guests of Four Seasons Resort Landaa Giraavaru can also sign up for Manta on Call – an exciting snorkelling experience that sees them whisked out to sea to swim with mantas – as well as private manta ray cruises.

MMRP’s Project Manager Niv Froman comments: “Snorkelling with manta rays is one thing, but nothing beats the thrill of seeking and spotting them in the vastness of Baa Atoll aiming to unravel some of their life’s mysteries. While learning more about mantas, a day as a scientist truly creates a profound and intimate connection with these animals. Guests often say how exciting, enriching and unforgettable they find the whole experience.”

In addition to collecting data on the manta rays it encounters, the MMRP also studies environmental and climatic factors, as well as tourism and human interactions. Since 2006, its pioneering research has contributed vital knowledge to global conservation efforts – including the 2013 breakthrough listing of mantas on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

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COMO Maalifushi highlights uncrowded surf access across southern atolls

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COMO Maalifushi presents a considered approach to surfing in the Maldives—one shaped by access, expertise, and the quiet privilege of space.

Located in the remote Thaa Atoll, the resort offers entry to a network of lesser-travelled breaks across the southern atolls, where consistent Indian Ocean swells meet uncrowded line-ups. Here, surfing unfolds without urgency—guided by natural rhythm rather than routine.

At the core of the experience is COMO Maalifushi’s long-standing partnership with Tropicsurf, daily sessions are shaped by real-time ocean conditions, with coaching that adapts intuitively to each guest—whether taking to the water for the first time or refining technique across more complex reef formations.

Guests are given access to a curated selection of breaks across Thaa Atoll, Laamu Atoll and Dhaalu Atoll—each offering a distinct character. From the long, forgiving rides of Farms to the more technical, fast-moving rights of ‘Machine’, the programme is designed to evolve with both conditions and capability.

“Surfing at COMO Maalifushi is defined by its sense of space and possibility,” says Peter Nilsson, Managing Director, COMO Maldives. “Our location allows access to some of the Maldives’ most consistent yet uncrowded waves, and through our partnership with Tropicsurf, we’re able to offer an experience that is both highly personalised and quietly exceptional—true to COMO’s way of doing things.”

The season, which runs from April through October, brings steady swells from the southern Indian Ocean. Yet beyond seasonality, it is the absence of crowds that defines the experience—allowing guests to engage with the ocean on their own terms.

Surfing at COMO Maalifushi sits naturally within the wider rhythm of the island. Time in the water is balanced with restorative treatments at the COMO Shambhala Retreat, unhurried dining, and the simplicity of island life—creating a sense of flow between activity and stillness.

Here, surfing is guided with care, framed by nature, and experienced without excess.

For more information, please visit the resort’s website

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Coco Collection brings conservation and low-waste living into resort experience

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Coco Collection, a Maldivian-owned resort brand, has invited guests to experience a more conscious approach to luxury at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu and Coco Bodu Hithi.

Across its two island resorts, Coco Collection has incorporated environmental responsibility into the guest experience through its Coco Cares philosophy. From nature-led experiences inspired by the islands’ ecosystems to culinary offerings based on fresh, locally grown ingredients, the resorts have been designed to reflect the natural setting of the Maldives while integrating sustainability into daily operations.

At Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, this commitment is reflected in the Maldives’ veterinary-led Marine Turtle Rescue Centre, which is operated in partnership with the Olive Ridley Project. As a founding partner of the facility, the resort provides care for injured sea turtles and supports marine conservation awareness. Since its establishment, the centre has treated and released 152 injured turtles, with a rehabilitation success rate of 60%. The resort also continues seagrass preservation efforts aimed at protecting marine habitats and supporting biodiversity in the surrounding waters.

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu also applies low-waste practices, mindful sourcing, and resource-conscious operations across the resort. This approach extends to Coco Farm, where homegrown produce, handcrafted preserves, and garden-to-table dining experiences are used to bring local flavour and seasonality to the table.

At Coco Bodu Hithi, the same approach is reflected in its food and beverage offerings. To mark Earth Day, the resort has introduced a green-inspired cocktail experience focused on eco-conscious mixology, using fresh ingredients grown on the island.

The resort said its low-waste approach informs all aspects of the guest experience, with attention given to responsible resource use. From the choice of herbs and fruits to preparation and presentation, the offering is intended to reflect respect for the natural environment.

This approach also extends across the resort’s wider culinary programme, which focuses on locally sourced ingredients, house-made preserves, and dishes inspired by the Maldives’ natural produce. Through seasonal menus, conscious sourcing, and resource management, Coco Bodu Hithi aims to offer an experience that combines hospitality with environmental responsibility.

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Atmosphere Foundation opens applications for dive training programme

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Atmosphere Foundation, in collaboration with Moodhu Bulhaa Dive Centre, has opened applications for the first batch of a new programme that will sponsor 10 Maldivians per year to pursue professional dive training.

The initiative is aimed at supporting the career development of young Maldivians and increasing the number of qualified local professionals in the tourism industry. As tourism remains the Maldives’ main economic sector, the programme is designed to help Maldivians enter the field, build their skills from the ground up, and progress in their careers.

Under the programme, selected candidates will receive fully funded training and support to complete a range of internationally recognised dive certifications. The programme will cover full professional training, all certification fees, accommodation, meals and insurance.

Applicants must be aged 18 and above. Successful candidates will be required to work in the Maldives for a specified period after completing their course, helping ensure that the country’s tourism and marine sectors benefit directly from the skills developed through the initiative.

Abdul Azeez Abdul Hakeem, Vice President of Atmosphere Foundation, said the programme reflects the foundation’s commitment to creating practical opportunities for Maldivians to grow and succeed.

“This programme is about opening a pathway for young Maldivians who are passionate about the ocean and want to build a profession in diving. By investing in training and development, we are helping create more opportunities for Maldivians to take up skilled roles in an industry that is central to the country’s economy. We hope this initiative will support participants not only in gaining qualifications, but also in building long-term careers in the Maldives,” he added.

Atmosphere Foundation has continued to support community development through a range of initiatives focused on education, skills development, youth empowerment and social wellbeing. Through its programmes and partnerships, the foundation works to create opportunities that strengthen communities and contribute to long-term national development.

The dive training initiative adds to the foundation’s broader efforts to support Maldivians through programmes that deliver direct benefits, expand access to opportunity and encourage personal and professional growth.

Applications for the first batch are now open, with the submission deadline set for 15 April 2026. For applications and further information, interested individuals may contact info@moodhubulhaa.com or call +960 7788141.

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