Water Sports
Yoni Klein Win Maldives Open Surfing Championship

Maldives.net.mv – After two days of perfect weather and surfs, Yoni Klein has won the Asian Surfing Championship Maldives Open 2015 by defeating Raditya Rondi at the finals in Lohis. Rina Kitazawa succesfully defended her title in Women’s division. Ali Khusruwan claimed Bodyboarding division by beating Ali Javid.
The championship was concluded with the awarding ceremony which took place on 16th September at Lhohis, Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi. The Honorable Minister of Youth and Sports, Ahmed Zuhoor attended the event as the chief guest alongside the Managing Director of Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation (MMPRC), Abdulla Ziyath. At the ceremony which took place yesterday evening, Minister Ahmed Zuhoor presented the awards for the main category which was the “Men’s Open” category. Managing Director of MMPRC, Abdulla Ziyath handed the awards for the “Body Boarding” category, followed by the awards for the “Women’s Open” category for which the awards were presented by the Secretary General of the Football Association of Maldives (FAM), Bassan Adil Jaleel.
Maldives Open 2015 was a collaborative effort from Maldives Body Boarding Association (MBBA), Ministry of Tourism and the Asian Surfing Championship (ASC) under a signed MOU for 5 years, starting 2014. This was the 2nd annual event for this championship which ended successfully. This event is hosted by the Adaaran HudhuranFushi Resort every year as the primary host.
Several local and international participants were given special awards from ASC, for the recognition for their efforts throughout the competition. The President of MBBA, Abdulla Areef and the vice president of MBBA, Mohamed Khushruwan Ahmed later on expressed their support towards helping the disabled, by giving a generous donation to the Maldives Association of the Physical Disables (MAPD). Afterwards, Certificates of Appreciation were also handed out to all the sponsors by Abdulla Areef for their support and help in making the event a success.
The event concluded with a cultural performance by a boduberu group and a cocktail reception hosted by the Adaaran Resort. This event is the third International surfing event to take place in Maldives after O’Neill and Sri Lankan Airlines Pro Surfing Event, which went off tremendously well with a lot of support from the participants and sponsors. Such events would further put Maldives as a sought after surf destination in the global arena.
Men’s Open
1) Yoni Klein (Israel) – 13.13 pts
2) Raditya Rondi (Indonesia) – 11.83 pts
3rd) Garut Widiarta (Indonesia)/Made Adi Putra (Indonesia)
Bodyboard
1) Ali Khushruwan (Maldives) – 14.00 pts
2) Ali Javed (Maldives) – 13.23 pts
3rd) Gavin Botha (South Africa)/Ahmed Rasheed
Women Open
1) Rina Kitazawa (Japan) – 13.17 pts
2) Kailani Johnson (USA/Indonesia) – 10.13 pts
3) Caity Griffin (USA) – 9.86 pts
4) Amy Kotch (USA) – 8.13 pts
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Jet Car: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi unveils ultimate family adventure

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is once again making waves with the launch of its latest water sports adventure—the Jet Car Experience. Set against the backdrop of the island’s turquoise lagoon, the Jet Car offers an exciting way to explore the ocean in comfort and style. With its sleek automotive-inspired design and smooth performance, this water ride is perfect for families, couples, and friends looking to add a little adventure to their stay. Whether cruising under the sun or capturing perfect picture moments, the Jet Car adds an extraordinary and refreshing twist to island leisure.
Launched in anticipation of the resort’s whimsical Easter festivities, the Jet Car sets the stage for an action-packed holiday in paradise. From Easter egg hunts and creative kids’ programs to beachside feasts, live entertainment, and themed dining events — Easter at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is a celebration for every generation.

Easter Holiday Offer – book by April 20, 2025, for stays until December 23, 2025. Enjoy free seaplane transfers for one guest with a 4-night stay, plus up to 30% off villas and beach dining. Book a 90-minute spa treatment and receive a 120-minute upgrade for free. Two children can enjoy complimentary wakeboarding or water skiing with two paying adults.
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or serenity, the Jet Car experience and Easter escape at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi deliver the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and family-friendly fun.
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Rise of solo travel: Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives meets the need

As travel becomes more about personal fulfilment and self-discovery, solo journeys are on the rise. In 2024, 16% of holidaymakers are travelling alone which is up from 11% in 2023, whilst searches and bookings for solo travel have also surged by 223% over the past decade. Often seen as a romantic escape, the Maldives is also an ideal destination for independent travellers seeking tranquillity, adventure, and a deeper connection with nature. At Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives, solo travellers can find a collection of bespoke experiences designed to enrich their journey.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives offers the perfect quick escape, just a short speedboat ride from Malé, allowing you to drop your bags and step straight into adventure. With a seamless blend of excitement and relaxation, the resort has earned a devoted following, drawing guests back year after year. Days here are filled with new experiences, whether gliding across crystal-clear waters on a kayak, feeling the rush of windsurfing, or mastering the art of stand-up paddleboarding, while an extensive range of watersports ensures there’s always something to discover. For those seeking the ultimate thrill, big game fishing presents the chance to reel in barracuda or tuna, transforming a day on the water into an unforgettable story to take home.
For those drawn to the underwater world, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon offers an unparalleled diving experience, with its legendary house reef regarded as one of the best in the Maldives. Just steps from the shore, divers can glide through vibrant coral formations where reef sharks, eagle rays, and schools of tropical fish create a mesmerising scene. Whether you’re an experienced diver or taking your first plunge, every dive presents the chance to encounter an extraordinary array of marine life, from graceful sea turtles to majestic manta rays. For an added thrill, night dives transform the ocean into an entirely different realm, revealing the nocturnal wonders of the reef, where elusive creatures emerge under the glow of a dive torch.
As part of Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon’s commitment to sustainability, guests can learn from the resort’s in-house Marine Biologist, who is dedicated to preserving the island’s ecosystem. Solo travellers can engage in educational talks and even participate in hands-on coral planting activities, actively contributing to the restoration of coral reefs while gaining valuable insight into the resort’s marine conservation efforts.
For travellers seeking both elegance and luxury, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives offers a serene escape surrounded by the endless blue of the Indian Ocean. A standout feature is Marlin Restaurant, where seafood takes centre stage, from succulent lobster and fresh tuna to refined Maldivian specialities. For those eager to explore the Maldives beyond its shores, a visit to the historic Keyodhoo shipwreck or nearby islands like Thinadhoo and Felidhoo provides a glimpse into authentic island life. And finally to unwind, Mandara Spa offers a serene sanctuary, with treatments designed to soothe both body and mind.
Solo travel at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives is an invitation to embark on a transformative journey. You could be seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, however, each resort offers a unique blend of personalised experiences designed to help you discover new facets of yourself. With the Maldives’ endless blue and sunny skies, every moment becomes an opportunity for self-reflection, growth, and unforgettable memories.
Excursions
Discover Maldives’ underwater wonders: Sun Diving website now live

Sun Siyam Resorts has unveiled Sun Diving, an innovative new diving website, during a vibrant two-day event held at Sun Siyam Olhuveli on November 28th and 29th. The launch brought together an enthusiastic gathering of diving aficionados, marine conservation advocates, and industry professionals to celebrate the Maldives’ extraordinary underwater heritage and emphasise the critical role of sustainable diving practices.
The new website introduces a groundbreaking feature: the first-ever illustrated dive maps created by DiverMonArt. These artistic maps provide a fresh and visually captivating perspective on dive sites at Sun Siyam resorts, blending creativity with functionality to enhance the diving experience.
Designed to inspire and guide underwater explorers, Sun Diving offers an array of resources for divers of all levels. From detailed dive site descriptions and eco-diving tips to breathtaking underwater photography, the platform reflects Sun Siyam’s commitment to showcasing the wonders of the ocean while advocating for its protection.
The launch event featured interactive workshops, guest speakers, and guided dives, immersing attendees in the essence of Maldives’ vibrant marine life. As a hub for diving enthusiasts, Sun Diving is set to become an essential resource for those seeking adventure and conservation-focused experiences in the Maldives.
Visitors are invited to explore the wonders of the underwater world and begin planning their next dive at Sun Diving.
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