Underwater
Become a marine conservationist for a day at Angsana Ihuru
Maldives.net.mv – Encircled by a beautiful coral reef and crystal clear water, Angsana Ihuru is famous for its dive sites teeming with vibrant sea life. With global climate change, the Maldives face rising sea levels in addition to issues such as over fishing. Angsana Ihuru is proud to be at the forefront of protecting the Indian Ocean’s sensitive eco-system; and, under the guidance of renowned Marine Biologist, Dr. Steven Newman, guests can now play their part to save the planet, enriching their stay with a hands-on experience of marine conservation.
Led by a team of expert marine biologists, the resort has developed a special conservation programme allowing guests to learn about the ocean environment through a diverse range of activities. These include protecting sea turtles and rebuilding delicate coral reef systems to collecting vital research data as part of the resort’s new ‘Citizen Scientist Programme’.
Wannabe-marine conservationists who take part in the programme will play an important role in helping the resort’s conservation team to monitor changes in the reefs and marine environment. The experience begins with an educational briefing at the resort’s Marine Centre, where guests are introduced to the fascinating underwater world of the Maldives as well as the research and restoration work conducted by the conservation team. After this, snorkellers and divers are provided with easy-to-use, waterproof guides to which they can record sightings of various marine life including sharks, rays and turtles, groupers and butterfly fish. The data collected is then taken back to the Marine Centre and used to monitor the health of the ocean as part of the wider study by the team.
The programme is free of charge to guests and is headed up by Dr. Steven Newman: “Citizen Science has been around for over a hundred years, but it is only recently becoming commonplace. Anyone from any walk of life with any level of interest in the environment can take part. It’s not only fun, but participants learn more about what they see in the water, and the information they help gather is critical to our understanding and conservation of the ocean.”
Guests can also get involved with the conservation of green sea turtles, endangered due to poaching of their eggs; which nest on nearby Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. This resort has implemented a number of measures to ensure the turtles continue to nest and breed in the area. Its Turtle Head-Start Programme means approximately 10% of hatchlings are reared at the resort for the first year of their life before being released (at a larger size) into the wild, giving the island’s most famous residents a higher chance of survival. Guests have the opportunity to work alongside the Marine Laboratory team by monitoring the turtles’ growth, attending daily feeding sessions and releasing them into the wild.
In addition, guests can plant and grow their own coral. The azure waters surrounding Angsana Ihuru are home to delicate coral reefs, providing an important habitat for a huge variety of marine life. By assisting in cleaning the coral as well rebuilding the reef by growing and transplanting coral fragments, resilient and life-giving coral gardens are created.
The resort is also home to revolutionary electric reefs, introduced to encourage coral growth. Two steel structures have been submerged onto the seabed, each fed with a low voltage that triggers a chemical reaction, leading to a deposit of calcium carbonate. This increases the speed at which corals grow, as well as protects them from higher water temperatures threatening coral reefs globally.
Perfect for the whole family, kids can become a marine conservationist for the day too, with a host of educational and engaging activities to keep them occupied, from helping the marine biologists transplant coral to visiting the Marine Laboratory and learning to snorkel on the house reef.
The ‘Live For Adventure’ package at Angsana Ihuru is available from USD 790 per night in a Beachfront Villa and includes:
- Night Fishing
- Unlimited non-motorised water sports once during the stay
- Sunset cruise
- Discover Scuba diving for two The package is available until December 2015 and a minimum five night stay is required.
Action
Diving into a milestone: Monika’s 3333th dive at Ellaidhoo Maldives
In the crystal-clear waters surrounding Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, each dive holds the promise of discovery. Known for its thriving reef ecosystem, this haven is where explorers return drawn by the lure of discovery and for Monika Anna Herbstrith Lappe— physicist, neuroscientist, motivational psychologist, and author—it was only natural to celebrate her 3333rd dive at this remarkable destination, where she could immerse herself in the beauty and mystery of the ocean she holds dear.
The journey to 3333 dives
Monika’s journey to over 3000 dives began in 1989 and has spanned oceans around the world, from Indonesia and the Philippines to her beloved Maldives. Since 2020, she has made Ellaidhoo her diving home, captivated by the island’s traditional charm and the freedom to explore. Her dives are more than just adventures; they’re a blend of exploration and insight. She uses her experiences beneath the waves as metaphors in her work, drawing on the mysteries of the ocean to offer practical advice for lightness and resilience in everyday life.
Diving into the depths of Ellaidhoo’s reef
Known for its house reef, a stunning underwater habitat that supports a thriving community of marine species, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon offers divers a front-row seat to nature’s underwater symphony. The clear waters reveal a kaleidoscope of colors: bright corals, shimmering schools of fish, and the thrilling presence of grey sharks. For Monica, these waters are a special kind of home—”Coming home” is how she sums up the experience. “Ellaidhoo truly feels like coming home for us. While we’re very familiar with its beautiful reefs, it’s the warmth of the dive center team that makes this place so special. Many staff members have been here for years, and their genuine kindness turns each visit into a reunion with friends rather than a business encounter. Their service is exceptional, offered with genuine enjoyment in helping us, which makes each dive experience truly wonderful.”
A destination for ocean lovers
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is a haven for divers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned adventurers. Known for its exceptional dive sites and sustainable practices, the resort allows guests to experience marine life up close, while ensuring that these vibrant reefs will remain pristine for future generations. Whether you’re diving the Ellaidhoo House Reef like Monika or taking in the night dive with its thrilling shark encounters, this destination promises an unforgettable journey beneath the waves. Click here to watch her journey and immerse yourself in the experience.
Excursions
Snorkelling adventures at Kandolhu Maldives
Snorkeling at Kandolhu Maldives provides an exceptional underwater experience, renowned for its vibrant, well-preserved coral formations and diverse marine life. The house reef serves as a sanctuary for various marine species, including colourful fish, sea turtles, reef sharks, and the occasional eagle ray, ensuring each snorkelling session is uniquely engaging. The sight of hawksbill turtles gliding gracefully through the water is particularly enchanting, creating an unforgettable highlight. Schools of snappers, fusiliers, and moorish idols move in harmonious formations, completing the vivid underwater scenery.
Kandolhu’s distinction lies not only in the richness of its marine ecosystem but also in the expertise and dedication of its local guides and instructors. These professionals offer personalised guidance, ensuring that participants of all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned snorkelers, feel at ease and confident. The resort strongly emphasises eco-friendly practices, encouraging guests to use reef-safe sunscreens and avoid touching or disturbing marine life to protect the reef’s delicate balance. This mindful approach enables a respectful and enjoyable exploration of the underwater world while preserving it for future generations.
The house reef at Kandolhu is easily accessible from both the beach and jetty, making it ideal for spontaneous snorkelling at any time of day. Strategically placed life rings around the island add an extra layer of safety, providing peace of mind for those exploring the waters. The resort’s dedication to conservation is evident through regular reef cleanups, which contribute to maintaining the ecosystem’s health and vibrancy. Kandolhu invites visitors to immerse themselves in this captivating underwater paradise, where every dive celebrates the ocean’s splendour and fosters a deeper connection with nature.
Featured
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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