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.
Featured
Finolhu replants 1,200 coral colonies to strengthen house reef

Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, has completed a four-day coral transplantation programme, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to marine conservation. Led by the resort’s marine biologist, Ivanna Tobar, the initiative involved the replanting of approximately 1,200 coral colonies from Finolhu’s nurseries to its house reef, strengthening one of the Maldives’ most critical marine ecosystems.
The programme was notable for its collaborative approach, bringing together four marine biologists from neighbouring resorts—JOALI BEING, Westin, Coco Palm, and Dusit Thani. Visiting experts Philippa Darby-shire Jenkins (JOALI BEING), Rosalie Bailie (Coco Palm), Harry Longin (Westin), and Louna Marchand (Dusit Thani) took part in hands-on transplantation dives, equipment preparation, and reef health management activities, including the removal of invasive pincushion sea stars.
Steven Phillips, General Manager of Finolhu, said the initiative extended beyond coral restoration: “This represents a unique opportunity to unite resorts, share expertise, and promote marine conservation at the highest level. Healthy reefs are essential not only for the Maldives’ biodiversity but also for the wellbeing of local communities and the sustainable future of tourism. Through this collaborative effort, we have created a lasting impact in safeguarding these underwater landscapes for our guests and for generations to come.”
Coral conservation remains crucial in the Maldives, where reefs provide natural protection against coastal erosion, support fisheries relied upon by local communities, and sustain the nation’s tourism industry. Pressures such as rising sea temperatures, pollution, and human activity have intensified threats to these ecosystems, making restoration work increasingly vital to preserve the country’s natural heritage and marine resilience.
The four-day initiative combined restoration activities with knowledge exchange. Morning briefings prepared participants for the day’s dives, while afternoon sessions focused on reef assessments and equipment readiness for subsequent activities. This integrated approach not only accelerated restoration but also enhanced regional expertise in reef management.
The event forms part of Finolhu’s wider environmental stewardship strategy. Alongside coral restoration, the resort manages a coral nursery, monitors reef health, and develops sustainable marine practices to ensure the vitality of its house reef. Guests are also encouraged to engage with conservation initiatives through experiences such as the Coral Conservation Package, which combines education with hands-on involvement in reef restoration projects.
Action
Freediving with tiger sharks: Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah collaborates with marine biologist Andriana Fragola

Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah, renowned for its world-class scuba diving encounters, has announced an exciting expansion: the chance to freedive with tiger sharks in the Maldives’ southernmost atoll.
Fuvahmulah, often hailed as the “Tiger Shark Capital of the World,” is the only place on the planet where year-round encounters with tiger sharks are virtually guaranteed. With more than 280 identified resident tiger sharks, the island has become a bucket-list destination for divers and marine enthusiasts alike.

The newly introduced freediving experience offers a unique way to interact with these apex predators. Unlike scuba diving, freediving takes place without bubbles or heavy gear, allowing participants to connect with tiger sharks in a quieter, more natural way. This approach often makes the encounter more comfortable for the sharks and more intimate for the diver.
Guiding these expeditions is Andriana “Andy” Fragola, a marine biologist, shark diver, and conservationist currently based in Hawaii. Andy holds a Master’s Degree in Marine Conservation Biology with a focus on shark microbiology and has dedicated her career to shark research, conservation, and public education. Through her work in media and content creation, she strives to raise awareness about the importance of shark conservation and inspire people to take action to protect marine ecosystems.
“Freediving with tiger sharks is a raw and transformative experience,” says Andy. “Being eye-to-eye with these incredible animals without the barrier of scuba gear allows you to see them for what they truly are—powerful, intelligent, and essential to the health of our oceans.”
Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah ensures that all freediving activities are conducted under strict safety protocols. With experienced professionals like Andy leading the dives, participants can expect both an exhilarating and responsible adventure.

Why this experience stands out:
- Eye-to-eye encounters with tiger sharks in their natural habitat.
- A deeper, more personal connection with marine life.
- Expert-led guidance ensuring safety and conservation awareness.
In addition to freediving, Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah offers a range of packages, including accommodation options, making it easier for adventurers to fully immerse themselves in the island’s extraordinary marine environment.
For bookings and more information:
📧 Email: sales@scuba-expeditions.com
📱 WhatsApp: +960 9894653
🌐 www.scuba-expeditions.com
Excursions
Experience ocean encounters: Manta Month at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has announced the return of Manta Month this September, following the success of last year’s initiative. Now established as an annual programme, the celebration offers guests of all ages the opportunity to engage with the ocean while supporting marine conservation, with a particular focus on the manta ray.
Throughout the month, guests are invited to take part in guided excursions to known manta hotspots, led by the resort’s experienced team, who share insights into manta behaviour and conservation. Awareness talks highlight the story of a manta rescued near the island, serving as a reminder of the resort’s continuing efforts to protect marine life. Children can enjoy manta-themed arts and crafts as well as beach games, while the wider community will join reef and island clean-up activities, with collected waste repurposed into manta sculptures. In addition, proceeds from manta pendant sales at the resort’s retail boutique will be donated to The Manta Trust, extending support for research and protection initiatives.
Located close to several of the Maldives’ top ten dive sites, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives places importance on the wellbeing of the ocean and its ecosystems, a priority shared by both guests and staff. The resort’s sustainability initiatives are aligned with IHG’s purpose, True Hospitality for Good, through its Journey to Tomorrow programme, which supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrates a commitment to long-term environmental protection.
Commenting on the event, Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, said: “What started as a special event last year has now grown into an annual month-long celebration. Kandooma Manta Month is not just about seeing these magnificent creatures up close, but about creating meaningful experiences that inspire awareness, responsibility, and care for our ocean environment.”
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