News
Anantara takes holistic approach to reef protection in the Maldives
Maldives.net.mv – For over 15 years the team at Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas has been committed to protecting the local environment, communities and culture around each of its hotels and resorts whilst creating authentic, luxury travel experiences and indigenous adventures for modern travellers. With four luxury resorts in the Maldives – Anantara Kihavah Villas, Anantara Dhigu Resort, Anantara Veli Resort and Naladhu Maldives – guests can take their pick from some of the best locations and experiences in the Indian Ocean, including getting up close and personal with the local marine life and vibrant coral reefs, snorkelling with manta rays in a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, free diving with whale sharks or cruising the house reef 18 metres below the surface, just a few strokes out from the shoreline.
In line with the luxury hospitality brand’s philosophy that environmental responsibility begins at home, the Anantara team in the Maldives joined forces with marine biologists from Coral Reef CPR – conservationists, biologists and ecologists whose mission is to reduce threats and promote sustainable management and rehabilitation of reef ecosystems – in October 2015 to develop ways to protect the coral ahead of the anticipated environmental stresses of El Niño, a climate cycle that has a global impact on weather patterns.
Led by Chief Scientist, Dr. Andrew Bruckner, the pioneering five-year programme, Holistic Approach to Reef Protection or ‘HARP’, encompasses practical environmental protection and marine education with the goal of limiting potential damage to the reefs in the Maldives and ensuring the coral reefs continue to not only survive, but to thrive. As well as Anantara taking its responsibility to the local environment very seriously, the programme will also ensure that guests at each resort – as well as the local community – can continue to enjoy the spectacular world beneath the waterline for many years to come.
Corals in the Maldives
Extending across the expansive Laccadive Sea in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a country of atolls; small coral islands encircled by azure lagoons. Unique to the Maldives, luxury resorts are the sole occupants of each island, providing a truly private and unique experience. Coral reefs beneath the shimmering waters of the Maldives protect the pristine beaches and guard the crystal-clear lagoons. They also support an astounding array of tropical fish, crustaceans and bizarre-looking molluscs. But for all of its beauty and apparent resilience, coral is a sensitive organism, vulnerable to extreme weather, sudden environmental changes, the effects of global climate change, as well as outbreaks of coral predators.
Principal investigator and lead scientist with Coral Reef CPR, Dr. Andrew Bruckner, explains: “Some reefs in the Maldives are experiencing unusually high water temperatures which is causing coral bleaching. These coral animals contain symbiotic single-celled algae within their tissues, which provide the coral with up to 90% of its energy. Once stressed, the coral expels these algae, causing them to turn completely white. If algae loss is prolonged and the stress continues, corals can die. But it’s not all doom and gloom, when a coral turns white, it is not dead and if the stress-caused bleaching is not severe, coral can recover.”
Director of Conservation for Minor Hotels, John Roberts, elaborates further: “On their first visit in October 2015 the visiting marine biologists performed a major Crown of Thorns Starfish removal from the reefs surrounding Anantara resorts in South Male Atoll. In the process, the scientists helped save a great reef on Anantara Veli Resort, which is now also proving most resilient to current bleaching. As part of those efforts last year, Coral Reef CPR and Anantara have produced a manual to distribute throughout the country outlining best practice should there be another Crown of Thorns Starfish outbreak.”
Taking A Holistic Approach To Reef Protection (HARP)
In collaborating with leading experts in their fields for ground-breaking marine biology research, Anantara is pioneering the HARP programme. Currently all project work undertaken in the Maldives by Coral Reef CPR for HARP is funded by the Anantara initiative ‘Dollars For Deeds’, whereby Anantara guests are invited to donate one dollar for each night of their stay, which is then matched dollar for dollar by Minor Hotels. Dollars for Deeds funds raised in the Maldives are committed over the coming five years to three key focus areas: protection of marine and coastal environments; environmental education; and community welfare.
In January this year, Coral Reef CPR returned to the Maldives for the first of four monitoring phases throughout 2016. Ten monitoring stations were set up on coral reefs surrounding Anantara resorts in South Male Atoll and Baa Atoll, with the purpose of evaluating the water conditions and marine populations before, during and post 2016 El Niño phenomena. Already widely reported by international media across the globe as being the longest El Niño on record, during Coral Reef CPR’s second visit to the Maldives in April this year, promising results have been extracted from the monitoring stations, despite some alarming findings.
“Since the beginning of March, temperatures on the reef have exceeded 30°C and they remained above 31°C during April, reaching 32 – 33 °C in lagoonal environments,” explains Dr. Andrew Bruckner. “Under normal conditions, sea water temperatures should be 3-4 degrees cooler at depth but these high temperatures are extending beyond 35 metres depth. These high water temperatures are due to an unprecedented El Niño event which is now in its second year. Simultaneously the sea has been unusually calm which has allowed excessive levels of UV light radiation to penetrate the reefs.”
“Due to stressful conditions corals in some areas in the Maldives began to pale in colour at the beginning of April and several sensitive species bleached white. By mid-April between 60-80% of corals on the reef we were monitoring were fully bleached or a very light yellow in colour.
In certain shallow lagoonal environments bleaching was much more severe, and sensitive corals were affected. On a positive note, by the end of April temperatures on Baa Atoll had begun to decline and there was very little coral mortality on the outer reefs.”
SUPER CORALS
Through this research some surprising and exciting revelations have been discovered. Georgia Coward, Project Manager and Fishery Biologist with Coral Reef CPR said: “Although the level of bleaching is similar to that reported during previous El Niño events and is comparable to reports from other countries, we have observed a number of colonies of each species that have proven resistant to changing conditions, possibly by producing protective fluorescent pigments. Similarly certain colonies have not bleached at all despite being located adjacent to corals of the same species that bleached severely. We refer to these as “super corals” and feel that these may have adapted to elevated sea temperatures. Over the coming months we will be analysing extracts taken from the super corals and other coral species in laboratory conditions, as well as looking closely at the fish population reports surrounding them.”
SUSTAINABILITY
In line with Anantara’s commitment to sustainability and a result of the luxury hospitality brand’s ongoing conservation efforts including the HARP project, Anantara Kihavah Villas, Anantara Dhigu Resort, Anantara Veli Resort and Naladhu have all been awarded with Green Growth Certification, an assessment framework for the travel and tourism industy which consists of 37 criteria and 406 indicators. It is based on global standards and international conventions including the UN Global Compact and the UNEP Green Economy Principles.
FUTURE VISITS
Since 2011, guests staying at Anantara resorts in South Male Atoll and Baa Atoll have been able to leave a lasting legacy by participating in coral reef propagation programmes and contribute to the ongoing conservation effort by adopting a coral frame and planting it with the guidance of Anantara’s resident marine biologists. The HARP programme now builds on those initial efforts, with a high level scientific-based practical approach to reef assessment, regeneration and community science.
The third and fourth phases of the HARP Programme with Anantara involve creating a coral nursery to assist in the rehabilitation of degraded and damaged reefs. Through coral mariculture, when the scientists return in July and October 2016, small branches from the identified super corals will be extracted and propagated. Once matured, these corals will be transplanted back on to the reef.
During the visits from Coral Reef CPR scientists, guests at the Anantara resorts in both South Male Atoll and Baa Atoll can enhance their diving and snorkelling experiences by joining the marine biologists on their excursions, and participate in Anantara’s endeavours to keep the reefs healthy and vibrant for generations to enjoy.
Future visits from Dr. Andrew Bruckner, Georgia Coward and other Coral Reef CPR scientists are set for the end of July until mid-August 2016 and October 2016. To select your Anantara Dhigu, Anantara Veli, Anantara Kihavah Villas or Naladhu Maldives experience and to help play a part in the protection and regeneration of coral reefs in the Maldives, visit anantara.com
Sun Siyam has reached a major milestone in its sustainability journey, with all five of its resorts in the Maldives achieving Green Globe Certification.
The certification spans Siyam World, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Sun Siyam Olhuveli, Sun Siyam Iru Veli and Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, recognising the group-wide efforts being made to embed more responsible practices into everyday resort operations, from renewable energy and waste reduction to marine conservation, community engagement and the preservation of Maldivian culture.
More than a sustainability label, Green Globe is one of the travel and tourism industry’s established international certification programmes. Its standard for hotels and resorts assesses businesses against 44 core criteria supported by more than 400 compliance indicators across four key areas: sustainable management, social and economic responsibility, cultural heritage and environmental protection. Certification is independently audited and renewed annually, requiring properties to demonstrate continued progress.
For Sun Siyam, achieving certification across its entire Maldives portfolio represents an important step in a much longer journey. Through Sun Siyam Cares, the group’s sustainability programme, environmental and social responsibility is increasingly integrated into both resort operations and the guest experience. The programme focuses on reducing energy, water, plastic and food waste; protecting biodiversity; supporting local communities; creating opportunities for Maldivians; empowering women; and preserving the culture and heritage at the heart of the brand. Across the resorts, those commitments are taking increasingly tangible forms.
At Siyam World, the Maldives’ first resort-based Plastic Upcycling Centre of its scale is turning discarded plastic into useful new products. Developed in collaboration with CLEAN Maldives, the facility transforms materials including used containers and plastic drums into items such as outdoor furniture and planters, creating a circular solution to waste that would otherwise need to leave the island.
Beneath the surface, marine conservation has become another important part of Sun Siyam Cares. Dedicated marine biologists across the resorts lead coral restoration and reef conservation projects, with guests invited to take an active role through coral planting and adoption initiatives. Most recently, Siyam World launched Wreck to Reef, an ambitious long-term conservation project centred around a 66.36-metre former Maldivian tuna freighter, now resting beneath the waters of Noonu Atoll. Through natural coral growth and dedicated restoration, the wreck is being transformed into a living reef, creating new habitats for marine life while giving guests the opportunity to plant coral fragments directly onto the structure and become part of its evolution.
On land, Sun Siyam is equally focused on reducing its footprint through renewable energy. One of the group’s most significant investments to date is the rollout of large-scale hybrid solar systems at Siyam World and Sun Siyam Olhuveli, combining solar generation with battery storage and real-time energy monitoring. Together, the installations have a combined capacity of 4,110 kWh and are expected to generate more than six million kWh of clean energy annually, reducing CO₂ emissions by more than 4,458 tonnes each year while significantly cutting reliance on diesel-generated power.
Waste reduction is being tackled from several directions. In-house water bottling, the elimination of single-use plastics, waste segregation and composting are complemented by the group’s PLEDGE zero food prevention programme, designed to reduce food loss and improve resource efficiency throughout resort operations.
The commitment also extends beyond the resorts themselves. As a 100% Maldivian-owned hospitality company, Sun Siyam continues to invest in local employment, apprenticeships and training opportunities for young Maldivians, while working with island communities and women’s development committees to create sustainable sources of income and strengthen local supply chains.
Preserving the culture behind the destination remains equally important. Through Sun Siyam Cares and the group’s wider Home of Maldivian Spirit philosophy, guests are encouraged to discover the Maldives beyond its beaches through local island visits, storytelling, traditional performances, celebrations and experiences that keep Maldivian heritage part of the modern resort experience.
“Achieving Green Globe Certification across all five of our Maldives resorts is something we are incredibly proud of, but for us this is not the finish line. Sustainability has to be part of how we operate every day, from the energy we use and the waste we produce to how we protect our reefs, support our communities and create opportunities for the next generation of Maldivians. This recognition belongs to our teams across the islands, whose commitment has made this milestone possible,” said Chaminda Upul Kumara, Group Sustainability Manager at Sun Siyam.
Behind the certification is a collective effort involving resort teams, Sustainability Champions, marine biologists, engineering and operations teams, management and colleagues across the group, all working towards shared sustainability objectives.
Guests can also become part of that journey. Through Sun Siyam Cares, a voluntary US$10 contribution per villa, per stay can directly support sustainability projects and activities across the portfolio, alongside opportunities to participate in initiatives including coral restoration, tree planting and conservation experiences during their stay.
Green Globe Certification across all five Maldives resorts marks an important chapter for Sun Siyam, while setting the direction for what comes next: measurable progress, greater transparency and a long-term commitment to protecting the natural environment and communities that have shaped the company since its beginnings in the Maldives.
Barceló Nasandhura has announced the launch of BMarket, Malé City’s premier rooftop market experience, debuting this Friday, 11 September, at the B.Heaven Rooftop from 17:30 to 22:30 .
Designed to elevate the capital’s social scene, this landmark event brings together gastronomy, local craft, and community, perfectly complemented by live musical performances throughout the night.
The event seamlessly blends culinary artistry with authentic Maldivian creativity. Guests can indulge in interactive food stalls featuring an exclusive Unlimited Tacos experience at just MVR 399 nett per person, alongside other gourmet Mexican delicacies starting at MVR 99 nett per person.
While enjoying the rooftop ambiance, visitors will have the unique opportunity to explore pop-up retail showcases. For its grand debut, BMarket features two of the Maldives’ most celebrated creative brands:
- The Clay Studio will present handcrafted with an exclusive complimentary Taster Wheel Throwing Class for two.
- Island Bazaar will showcase its signature line of modern artisan apparel, lifestyle accessories, and heritage-inspired lifestyle products.
“With BMarket, we are introducing a completely fresh destination concept for Malé City, one that brings world-class hospitality and local culture together in an elevated rooftop setting,” said Enric Reina, Hotel Manager at Barceló Nasandhura Malé. “By collaborating with exceptional local suppliers and creative talent, we are providing a sophisticated platform that takes Maldivian craftsmanship and lifestyle to new heights.”
Barceló Nasandhura Malé aims to establish BMarket as a signature recurring fixture on the city’s social calendar.
Picture golden sunsets, barefoot dance floors and flair bartenders spinning cocktails under fairy lights… This Festive Season, Fushifaru Maldives embraces celebration and togetherness, with subtle Coachella-inspired entertainment, styling and island experiences, forming the ultimate festive getaway in paradise.
Fushifaru is the place to be for the Christmas holidays. Guests will enjoy a fun-filled programme featuring lighting ceremonies, cocktail parties, DJ and live music, fire shows, flair bartending, cultural performances and spectacular New Year’s celebrations beneath the stars.
Families will find daily activities designed for younger travellers, from Christmas ornament making and sandcastle competitions to pizza-making classes, treasure hunts, mini Olympics, face painting and Boduberu workshops, creating memorable moments for guests of all ages.
Culinary excellence remains at the heart of every celebration at Fushifaru. Guests can look forward to an enticing calendar of themed restaurant evenings and memorable fine-dining experiences, from Lobster & Champagne dinners on the beach and indulgent steak nights with curated wine pairings to vibrant seafood celebrations accompanied by live entertainment. The season reaches its culinary peak with spectacular Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve gala dinners, bringing together exceptional flavours, festive flair and Fushifaru’s signature island atmosphere.
As 2026 draws to a close, the island comes alive with an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration featuring sunset cocktails, live DJs, entertainment, dancing and a countdown pool party that welcomes 2027 in true tropical style.
“At Fushifaru, the festive season has always been about bringing people together,” says Jumana, Resident Manager of Fushifaru Maldives. “This year we’ve created a celebration that feels vibrant, relaxed and authentically Fushifaru. From golden sunsets and incredible dining to live entertainment and meaningful family experiences, we want every guest to leave with memories that will last long after the holidays are over.”
The Coachella-inspired concept will come to life through vibrant festival-style décor, warm golden tones and playful pops of colour, creating a relaxed yet elevated island atmosphere. Sunset DJ sets, live music and stylish beachside gatherings will bring an energetic festival spirit to the celebrations, blending effortlessly with Fushifaru’s barefoot setting and signature golden festive theme.
Adventure seekers can complement the celebrations with watersports, sunset fishing, marine experiences and snorkelling or scuba diving activities, while those seeking relaxation can indulge in curated wellness experiences and seasonal spa treatments available throughout the festive period.
Whether celebrating Christmas with loved ones or ringing in the New Year barefoot on powder-soft sand, Fushifaru brings together luxury, adventure, entertainment and heartfelt Maldivian hospitality for a festive escape that feels truly unforgettable.
Festive Offer
Guests planning ahead can make the most of Fushifaru’s Early Bird Festive Escape, with savings of up to 25% on villa stays, 25% off extra person charges and 25% off return seaplane transfers for stays of five nights or more. Available for stays from 24 December 2026 to 10 January 2027, the offer makes it even easier to enjoy a Christmas and New Year escape filled with island celebrations, memorable dining and barefoot festive magic.
For Fushifaru sales enquiries and bookings, please contact reservations@fushifaru.com or visit www.fushifaru.com.
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