News

Manta rays, eagle rays, whale sharks… Oh my! – Tips from Centara Maldives experts and enthusiasts

Published

10 years ago

May 15, 2016

Maldives.net.mv – There is no denying it, the pristine turquoise waters of the Maldives captures everyone’s attention. But for many, it is all about what is found in the waters in the Maldives that have them swimming. With healthy coral and a serious abundance of marine life such as manta rays, eagle rays and a variety of sharks that includes whale sharks, scuba divers are flocking to feast their eyes on the underwater playground that some are very lucky to call home. Centara Hotels & Resorts is very familiar with what is happening underwater in the Maldives with two properties from shipwrecks to underwater weddings. The enthusiastic team from Centara Maldives – CENTARA GRAND ISLAND RESORT & SPA and CENTARA RAS FUSHI RESORT & SPA – have shared some wonderful tips and experiences to further entice you to come and dive.

“The sun plays a huge role in how vibrant the colours of the coral and the fish are. The sun rays illuminate the waters highlighting all the action, creating a perfect environment for photographers and divers” shares Nicha Duanglaithong, Centara Maldives Sales Coordinator, who has spent a great deal of time in the water.

The Dive Centre (Best Dive) Operation Manager, Mark Stevens, from Centara Grand Island has some great tips to share. We asked Mark a few questions.

Q: What is the best advice you have for beginners to get them started? A: “If you are a beginner, just try it! It is normal to be a little scared at first but once you have mastered a few basic skills you will love it.”

Q: What is the best part about diving in the Maldives? A: “The coral and fish. There is a lot of diversity with a lot of different and equally amazing dive sites. There is a dive for everyone – from easy dives to current dives for all skill levels.”

Mark Stevens also encourages divers to “become very familiar with your dive equipment. This familiarity is vital to assist in your confidence and safety while underwater.”

“We understand how important and precious this underwater ecosystem is and we want to ensure that it continues to thrive,” comments Mark Stevens. In order to best facilitate the diving experience for you while protecting marine life and the ecosystem, our instructors, through Best Dives Maldives, provide a clear briefing on responsible diving practices that reminds snorkelers and divers to respect their underwater surroundings.

Mohamed Saajid nickname – Saitte’, Reservations Agent at Centara Grand Island and expert diver, share with us one of the best diving experiences he has had recently…”one of the perks of working in the Maldives – diving!” comments Saitte’. “A few days back I went on a night dive to MV Kudhima wreck, located near the house reef of Centara Grand Island. I saw a huge Moray Eel getting ready for his dinner. He located a huge parrot fish, stayed patiently waiting for his chance to grab his meal. Once the right moment came, he grabbed his meal and ate the whole fish within minutes. It was truly incredible and stunning to see these amazing predators actively seeking for their pray.”

Many will never experience the quiet moments underwater, interacting with some of the world’s most majestic creatures and Mr. Damantha Sanjeewa, Front Desk Agent at Centara Grand Island always reminds guests that “Diving is fun. It is exhilarating. Remember to relax while you dive. And maybe most important enjoy the moment…and take pictures!”

While mantas, whale sharks, turtles, reef and hammerhead sharks can be found in the Maldives all year round, there are no guarantees about what will be seen on any given dive. Diver encounters are dependent on a variety of environmental factors, however, our team of experts have creating experiences to heighten your chances of the dive of a lifetime.

Enjoying the invigorating diving that the Maldives has to offer has never been more accessible with the new additions to our ALL-INCLUSIVE packages at both properties. Diving is now an everyday option with these amazing packages and allows you to explore all the depths of the waters.

There are a variety of courses available for you and your family while staying with us. “We always advise beginner divers to start off with our Discover Scuba Diving programme which provides the basic knowledge and training that they need,” added our dive expert from Best Dives at Centara Ras Fushi, Ibrahim Shaan. “This is followed by gently introducing beginners into shallow water. After this programme, divers are confident and comfortable to start exploring.” Before you leave, you may have developed a new skill and a new love for the ocean. Sounds pretty great to us! See you soon in the Maldives.

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Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru shares manta sightings forecast for 2026 and 2027

Published

2 hours ago

January 28, 2026

m@ldives

The ocean’s gentle giants are calling once again. Drawing on two decades of meticulous research, the resident Manta Trust experts at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru have revealed the prime manta encounter dates for 2026 and 2027. Located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to the largest-known manta population, the Resort offers an unparalleled opportunity to swim alongside these majestic marine creatures.

Mantas on Speed Dial

To help guests maximise their chance of a manta meet-up, the Manta Trust analyse decades of data on manta ray movements and environmental factors. The resulting “hot dates” are peak periods when mass aggregations are most likely to occur close to the Resort.

The Manta On Call experience alerts guests the moment mantas are spotted, whisking them by speedboat for a thrilling snorkelling adventure. Along the way, they can learn from the globally renowned Manta Trust team, featured on CNN’s Call to Earth series, about manta ray biology and conservation.

A Manta Haven

The 2025 manta season, which ended in November, brought sightings of an estimated 4,265 reef manta rays, as well as 28 whale sharks, 16 devil rays and 10 oceanic mantas. The Manta Trust conducted 1282 manta surveys over 143 research days, adding to the ongoing database.

This season also brought exciting conservation news. Through the Manta Trust’s dedicated work, all 10 manta and devil ray species have been uplisted to CITES Appendix I – meaning they have the highest level of protection. International commercial trade of these species is now prohibited, helping to safeguard their future.

Education is key to the Trust’s vision. Over the 2025 season, six interns and apprentices immersed in marine biology by collecting data on the research boat, identifying mantas, and running guest trips. The team also work closely with local schools to inspire the next generation of conservationists. 2025 saw them engage with 969 community members, while 19 students graduated from their Moodhu Madharusa (Ocean School).

“Watching people interact with mantas reminds us why we do this work,” says Armando Kraenzlin, Regional Vice President and General Manager of Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru. “These encounters go beyond awe; they create a real connection to the ocean and its inhabitants. Since 2005, the Maldives Manta Conservation Programme at Landaa Giraavaru has been dedicated to protecting these remarkable creatures, and every snorkel, survey or moment spent alongside them helps build a community committed to their survival.”

Hot dates for manta sightings in 2026 and 2027:

2026

May 14–18
May 29 – June 2
June 13–17
June 27 – July 1
July 12–16
July 27–31
August 10–14
August 26–30
September 9–13
September 24–28
October 8–12
October 24–28
November 7–11
November 24

2027

May 4–8
May 18–22
June 2–6
June 16–20
July 2–6
July 16–20
July 31 – August 4
August 15–19
September 28 – October 2
October 13–17
October 27–31
November 12–16
November 26–30

Please note: Manta ray sightings are subject to weather conditions and the temperament of these gentle oceanic giants.

To book a Maldives manta experience, click here, email: reservations.mal@fourseasons.com or call the central reservations department of Four Seasons Resorts Maldives at tel: (960) 66 00 888.

Cooking

Chef Heiko Nieder brings two-Michelin-starred culinary artistry to Sirru Fen Fushi

Published

15 hours ago

January 27, 2026

m@ldives

This February, Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, a proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World, welcomes acclaimed chef Heiko Nieder for an exclusive gastronomic showcase celebrating culinary innovation, precision, and artistry kicking off The Michelin Series for 2026.

Recognised as one of Switzerland’s most celebrated chefs and the visionary culinary force behind The Dolder Grand in Zurich, Chef Heiko will headline two exceptional dining events designed for discerning travellers and food connoisseurs seeking a truly elevated island experience.

Events at a Glance:

14 February 2026: Four Hand Dinner with Chef Heiko x Chef Girish

In celebration of Valentine’s Day and Lunar New Year, Chef Heiko Nieder joins Sirru Fen Fushi’s Executive Chef Girish Sharma for an intimate Four-Hand Dinner, where two distinct culinary worlds meet in one extraordinary evening. Expect imaginative compositions, elevated island elegance, and a dining experience crafted to ignite the senses.

18 February 2026: Haute Cuisine Cooking Class with Chef Heiko Nieder

The celebration continues with a rare and intimate cooking class, where Chef Heiko will guide guests through two dishes, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into his culinary philosophy and artistry.

18 February 2026: Chef Heiko’s Exclusive Signature Dinner & Cooking Class

Guests are invited to indulge in an exclusive four-course dinner featuring Chef Heiko’s signature dishes, showcasing his hallmark style: daring creativity balanced with refined technique.

Born in Germany in 1972, Chef Heiko is one of Switzerland’s most celebrated chefs and currently serves as Culinary Director at The Dolder Grand in Zurich. He completed his classical culinary training at the Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Hamburg, before refining his craft in some of Germany’s most respected kitchens, including Restaurant Le Canard in Hamburg, Hotel Zur Traube in Grevenbroich, and Restaurant Vau in Berlin. He further refined his culinary philosophy during five formative years at Restaurant L’Olivo in Bonn.

A multi-awarded culinary leader, Chef Heiko has received global recognition including:

GaultMillau “Discovery of the Year” in 2003
First Michelin Star (2004)
Two Michelin Stars awarded by The Michelin Guide.
GaultMillau “Chef of the Year” (2018)
Currently holding 19 GaultMillau points

In 2014, he launched THE EPICURE, The Dolder Grand’s prestigious international gourmet festival, now recognised globally as a culinary platform of excellence. In 2023, Chef Heiko published his first cookbook, “Heiko Nieder – The Restaurant,” which was met with wide critical acclaim. And most recently in November 2025 – Chef Heiko has released his newest cook book, “Heiko Nieder – Private Dining.” The publication offers an intimate insight into his personal approach to haute cuisine, private dining culture, and the philosophy behind creating bespoke, highly exclusive culinary experiences.

The Michelin Series is Sirru Fen Fushi’s signature calendar of culinary icons and global tastemakers, designed to deliver immersive reconnection through flavours and unforgettable dining journeys in the Maldives.

Love

Grand Park Kodhipparu curates new ‘Romance in Paradise’ experience for couples

Published

17 hours ago

January 27, 2026

m@ldives

Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, the contemporary island retreat set in the heart of the North Malé Atoll, has announced the launch of its Romance in Paradise offer — a thoughtfully curated couples’ experience debuting for the Valentine’s period and available for stays throughout the year.

Designed for couples seeking meaningful connection rather than occasion-led indulgence, Romance in Paradise invites guests to slow down, reconnect and celebrate love in one of the world’s most captivating natural settings — framed by luminous lagoons, soft white sands and endless Indian Ocean horizons.

At Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, romance is expressed through personalised moments and shared island experiences. Contemporary design blends effortlessly with the surrounding environment, creating a relaxed yet refined atmosphere where couples can enjoy time together in a way that feels natural, unhurried and deeply personal.

Set on a pristine island encircled by soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, the resort offers a sense of openness and ease, allowing romance to unfold organically. Days can be as tranquil or as adventurous as couples choose — from gliding across the lagoon by paddleboard and exploring vibrant marine life together, to quiet moments of reflection, wellness rituals for two and golden-hour sunsets by the ocean.

A signature highlight of Romance in Paradise is the resort’s Floating Deck experience — an intimate and unforgettable way to dine together on the open ocean. Couples sail gently into seclusion on a private floating deck, complete with plush daybeds, uninterrupted ocean views and a curated menu prepared and served by the resort’s chef. As the sun dips below the horizon and the Indian Ocean shifts through shades of gold and indigo, the experience offers a rare sense of privacy, presence and shared discovery.

Dining becomes a shared celebration with Romance in Paradise. Couples are invited to enjoy an intimate sunset dining experience in an inspired island setting, where carefully curated menus and attentive service are elevated by the rhythm of the ocean and the fading light of day.

Wellness is gently woven into the journey, with daily morning and evening yoga sessions offering couples the opportunity to reconnect in body and mind, guided by the natural pace of island life.

Offer Highlights Include:

Daily Breakfast at The Edge – Start each day with a sumptuous spread of international and local delicacies in a relaxed island setting.
Romantic Celebration Amenities on Arrival – Celebrate togetherness with a specially prepared cake, a bottle of wine, and a tropical fruit basket awaiting you in-villa.
Sunset Rendezvous Private Dining – Share an intimate beachfront dinner as the sun dips below the horizon (advance reservation required).
Non-Motorised Watersports Experience – Enjoy one hour of lagoon activities together — from paddleboarding to canoeing (advance reservation required).
Yoga Sessions for Two – Rejuvenate with daily morning and evening shared yoga sessions — a perfect wellness ritual for balance and connection.
Dedicated Lifestyle Host Service & Complimentary Wi-Fi – Ensuring personalised support and seamless connectivity throughout your stay.

Available exclusively for direct bookings via the resort’s official website, Romance in Paradise offers exceptional value for couples celebrating honeymoons, anniversaries or simply time together. Park Rewards members can enjoy additional savings of up to 15% on villa rates when signing up for free. “Romance in Paradise reflects our belief that the most meaningful luxury is time well spent together,” said Liz Smailes the Resort’s Director of Marketing. “This experience is designed to feel effortless and authentic — where connection, place and shared moments come together naturally, any time of year.”

The Romance in Paradise offer is available for stays up to 23 December 2026, with rates starting from USD 500 per night. For full details and reservations, guests are encouraged to book directly via the Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives website.