Underwater
’Deepest Man on Earth’ Herbert Nitsch freediving record holder gives classes at Soneva Fushi
Maldives.net.mv – Known for offering serendipitous guest experiences with modern-day ’greats’, Soneva Fushi is proud to announce that Herbert Nitsch, the world’s record holder for “the Deepest Man on Earth” and world record holder in ’No Limits’ Freediving will be running freediving courses at the resort for the last 2 weeks of April 2015. This will be the first of several freediving ’events’, positioning Soneva Fushi as ’the’ freediving venue in the Maldives.
Herbert won this prestigious title when he set the world record for freediving at the incredible depth of 214 meters (702 feet) in 2007. He can hold his breath for more than 9 minutes and has set 32 world records in all of the 8 recognised disciplines – unrivalled achievements in the freediving history.
Having once suffered from severe decompression sickness and being told that he would be wheelchair bound, he took his healing into his own hands. Two years later and against all odds, Herbert is training and deep-freediving again.
Joined by Soneva Fushi’s resident freediver Ken Kiriyama, Herbert’s one and a half day course will involve theoretical and practical lessons in both shallow and open water. They will also offer a specially adapted class for children on a complimentary basis. Ken explained the ethos, “We’re keen to make freediving accessible. Anyone that enjoys yoga or meditation could really benefit from freediving. It’s not anything scary, in fact it’s a wonderfully peaceful experience.”
It will cover all aspects such as theory, deep relaxation, breathing techniques to calm the mind and body, how to master holding breath, dive techniques, equalisation, safety and the ‘buddy system’. These techniques will enable the students to enjoy the local house reef more calmly and for a longer time – the perfect way to study its local inhabitants such as the graceful and ubiquitous turtles.
Herbert will also share his impressive and sometimes dramatic tales about his life and free diving records at outdoor Cinema Paradiso. As an active board member of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, he will be keen to focus some of his talks on global marine conservation – a topic particularly poignant with Soneva Fushi situated in a UNESCO Biosphere marine protected atoll. He will be available to join guests for dinner for further oceanic tales.
Herbert commented, ”Its all about the unknown, about crossing physiological boundaries, and achieving goals that seem beyond the limits. Each time I think I’ve reached a limit…there is a door…it opens…and the limit is gone. Freediving in the Maldives will be a particularly enjoyable experience for beginners as the water conditions are just so perfect – calm, clear with plenty to watch.”
The nine hour course is available to book between the 14th – 26th April, with a maximum of four students per instructor and will cost $1,200 plus taxes.
Action
COMO Maalifushi highlights uncrowded surf access across southern atolls
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.
Featured
Coco Collection brings conservation and low-waste living into resort experience
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.
Action
Atmosphere Foundation opens applications for dive training programme
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.
-
Awards1 week agoKuda Villingili listed in Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards 2026
-
Cooking1 week agoBaros Maldives to showcase sustainable dining for Earth Day
-
Drink1 week agoSirru Fen Fushi showcases mixology collaboration during Easter programme
-
News1 week agoSt. Regis Maldives expands and upgrades Two-Bedroom Ocean Villa
-
Awards1 week agoCinnamon Dhonveli Maldives earns TUI Global Hotel Award recognition
-
Action1 week agoAtmosphere Foundation opens applications for dive training programme
-
News1 week agoCentara Hotels & Resorts Maldives marks Thai New Year across island portfolio
-
Featured1 week agoAmilla Maldives rolls out island-wide Easter programme



