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
Atmosphere Core, a leading hospitality company with roots in the Maldives, announces the signing of its 10th resort in the archipelago nation, ONE BANYAN Amaraa Faru An Atmosphere Hotel, Maldives, set to open in March 2027. Housed within the Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts brand, the property will be positioned under the ‘An Atmosphere Hotel’ sub-brand and will be the first resort in the ONE BANYAN series of co-branded island resorts in the Maldives bringing a distinctive and independent character to the portfolio.
Commenting on the announcement, Salil Panigrahi, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Atmosphere Core, said, “As demand for the Maldives continues to grow and diversify, we are seeing travellers seek stays that are luxurious yet tailored to their individual needs, and purchasing decisions increasingly shaped by the quality of experiences rather than amenities and services alone. With Amaraa Faru, we bring our brand ethos of ‘A New Experience Awaits’ to life, while also responding to this evolving demand. At this resort, guests can look forward to a lavish yet grounded sophistication inspired by the natural rhythm, culture and people of the islands.”
ONE BANYAN is conceived as a unique co-branded concept within Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, designed to bring together individual resort identities while allowing each property to retain its own character. The name Amaraa Faru brings together two cultural references with ‘amaraa’ inspired by the Sanskrit word associated with eternity or immortality, while ‘faru’ means reef in Dhivehi, evoking a connection with marine life and the ocean.
The first of the series, ONE BANYAN Amaraa Faru, will offer freedom and flexibility rather than overly formal luxury. As ‘An Atmosphere Hotel’ sub brand, it is shaped by the spirit of its place, with a distinctive story, rhythm and sense of belonging. The concept is designed for today’s free-spirited explorer, responding to a growing desire for experiences that feel inspiring and have a lasting impact.
An Authentically Maldivian Setting
Promising enriching, immersive and authentic moments, ONE BANYAN Amaraa Faru will become the 9th resort worldwide within the Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts brand. It is in Kaafu Atoll, accessible via a 45-minute speedboat transfer from Velana International Airport. Framed by wide, luminous lagoons in layered shades of blue and green, the island lends itself to unhurried days by the water. Guests will have the privilege of an indulgent Holiday Plan, a signature of the Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts brand, encompassing dining, wellness, snorkelling and other tropical activities, all tailored to meet the most discerning expectations.
A Distinctive, Contemporary & Nature-Inspired Aesthetic
Aesthetics at Amaraa Faru will offer a fresh, contemporary design expression, introducing a new design language within the Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts portfolio. Rooted in the island’s surrounding marine world, the design will draw inspiration from traditional palm-leaf craftsmanship, where coconut and palm fibres are woven into functional art. This traditional craft will be reinterpreted through couture elegance, with natural materials, locally influenced textures, Art Deco touches and eco-conscious finishes layered into a soothing palette of crème and soft greens.
Guests will choose from 118 beach and overwater villas, ranging from 100 m² standard beach villas to 164 m² family beach villas and 117 m² overwater villas, each with a private pool. Fluid indoor and outdoor spaces will create effortlessly stylish retreats, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the island’s natural rhythm.
An all-day dining restaurant will anchor the culinary offering, complemented by a relaxed main pool bar and three speciality restaurants offering diverse culinary experiences, ranging from vibrant Argentinian cuisine to a charming overwater Japanese dining experience.
Additional facilities will include a sprawling kids’ club, an ocean-view gym and fitness centre, a dive and water sports centre, and a promenade-style retail space. A spa and wellness centre by the company’s award-winning brand, ELE|NA Ayur, with overwater treatment rooms, a 40 m² saltwater pool, and sauna and steam facilities will round out the resort’s facilities.
Contemporary & Intuitively Innovative Experience
Technology will be seamlessly integrated throughout the guest journey. At its heart, the resort will foster a service culture that is smart, original and elevated. Resulting in a relaxed and elegant environment — modern in spirit yet grounded in the warmth and hospitality for which the brand is known.
Amaraa Faru will also incorporate solar energy solutions, water conservation systems, and a no-plastics approach, including in-house glass water bottling, aligning with Atmosphere Core’s broader commitment to sustainability.
A New Chapter for Atmosphere Core
Founded in 2013, Atmosphere Core has built a strong presence in the Maldives with nine operational resorts across three brands and two developments in the pipeline, including ONE BANYAN Amaraa Faru An Atmosphere Hotel. The company’s international journey continues with a heritage hotel now open in India and Italy, along with plans for over 20 upcoming properties across Europe and South Asia.
News
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru celebrates anniversary with conservation, wellness and island experiences
This September, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru marks its anniversary month with a collection of curated experiences that celebrates the Original Maldives spirit, an invitation to rediscover the island through marine conservation, island-inspired mixology, wellbeing and meaningful connection.
Marine Conservation – Continuing a Pioneering Legacy
The ocean has always been at the heart of Vabbinfaru. During the Anniversary Month, the resort’s Marine Lab invites guests to learn more about its ongoing conservation work, beginning with a major coral micro-fragmentation planting on 22 September, followed by Save The Reef guided snorkel on 23 September, an invitation to snorkel with Vabbinfaru’s marine biologists, removing debris from the house reef while discovering its marine ecosystem and contributing directly to the protection of the waters surrounding the island.
The Marine Lab will also introduce a new initiative with the planting of a grand underwater coral tree on 23 September. Positioned approximately seven metres beneath the surface, the new structures allow coral fragments to grow away from heavy sedimentation and potential predators.
The coral trees are part of a pilot project that will be monitored alongside the resort’s existing coral restoration methods (including rope nurseries, micro-fragmentation and the electric reef barnacle), as the Marine Lab team continues to explore different ways to support the reef recovery surrounding Vabbinfaru.
Island Flavours and Barefoot Moments
On 23 September, the celebration moves to Naiboli Bar with a Green Mixology Class. Using sustainable ingredients straight from the kitchen, the session brings a fresh approach to cocktails while finding creative ways to make better use of what is already available from the kitchen.
On the same date, guests and resort staffs come together on the sand for a friendly Beach Football Match. It is a relaxed afternoon by the sea and a chance to share in the sense of community that has long been part of Vabbinfaru.
Harvest of the Heart Full Moon Meditation
On 26 September, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru presents a special Full Moon Ritual themed “Harvest of the Heart”, led by resident wellbeing practitioner Dr Sharma. This September full moon reaches its astronomical peak this day, known as the Harvest Moon, representing a season of taking inventory, releasing outdated habits, and taking bold personal action.
Inspired by the natural rhythm of the moon, the guided experience brings together grounding breathwork, gentle movement and meditative sound.
Harvest of the Heart focuses on renewal and the changes found in nature, creating a moment to pause and welcome the season ahead.
Throughout the anniversary time, guests will also receive a complimentary Wellbeing Consultation and special savings at Banyan Gallery and Banyan Tree Spa & Wellbeing.
More Ways to Explore Underwater World
The anniversary celebration also extends to the ocean, with additional perks on Marine Centre excursions and watersports activities.
From exciting time above the water around Vabbinfaru to spending time in the house reef, guests can discover more of the marine environment that has always been such an important part of the island.
Rediscover the Original Maldives in Barefoot Luxury
More than three decades after Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru first welcomed guests to its shores, much of what has always defined the island: the connection to nature, self and community.
“For us, the anniversary honours the people, purpose and passion that have shaped the legacy of Vabbinfaru over the past three decades. The Original Maldives spirit remains at the heart of who we are. Here, legacy is not preserved, it is lived.” shared Tho Pham (Yara), Director of Marketing & Communications.
Ocean Group Maldives has launched a week of ocean-focused diving activities across nine leading resorts in the Maldives in support of PADI AWARE Week 2026, taking place from 12–20 September.
The initiative brings together Ocean Group’s dive teams, resort partners and guests in a collective effort to celebrate the ocean while encouraging meaningful action to protect the Maldives’ extraordinary marine environment.
PADI AWARE Week is a global initiative that mobilises the diving community to take action for ocean conservation. Throughout the week, Ocean Group Maldives will invite divers to combine their passion for exploring the underwater world with hands-on conservation activities.
The campaign will take place across Ocean Group dive centres at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Dusit Thani Maldives, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, Veligandu Maldives Resort Island, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, SAii Lagoon Maldives, SO/ Maldives, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and Radisson Blu Resort Maldives.
Dive for Fun. Dive for a Purpose.
As part of the campaign, guests who purchase two fun dives will receive a complimentary third dive dedicated to an ocean clean-up, giving divers an opportunity to enjoy the Maldives’ spectacular underwater environment while contributing directly to its protection.
Under the message “3 Dives. 1 Ocean. A Real Difference.”, the initiative encourages guests to see conservation not as something separate from the diving experience, but as part of being a responsible member of the global dive community.
“The ocean is at the heart of everything we do at Ocean Group Maldives, so PADI AWARE Week is an important opportunity for us to turn awareness into action,” said Yasmin Zahid, Director of Marketing & Strategic Partnerships at Ocean Group Maldives. “By activating the campaign simultaneously across nine resorts, we hope to demonstrate how individual actions, when multiplied across our dive community, can create a much greater collective impact.”
Dive teams at participating resorts will also use the week to engage guests in conversations around responsible diving, marine debris and the importance of protecting the fragile ecosystems that make the Maldives one of the world’s most celebrated diving destinations.
Local Action. Global Impact.
The nine-resort activation reflects Ocean Group Maldives’ broader commitment to making marine conservation an integral part of the guest experience across its diving and marine operations.
By connecting international visitors with practical conservation activities during their stay, Ocean Group aims to inspire guests to become more conscious ocean advocates—not only while diving in the Maldives, but wherever their future travels take them.
PADI AWARE Week runs from 12–20 September 2026 at participating Ocean Group Maldives dive centres.
-
News1 week agoMadifushi Private Island celebrates Maldivian heritage on World Coconut Day
-
News1 week agoSiyam World celebrates five years with sports, culture and Halloween programme
-
News1 week agoJOALI BEING celebrates festive season with ‘Tides of Tradition’
-
Meditation7 days agoCOMO Resorts Maldives brings marine experts, artists and wellness specialists to its islands
-
News1 week agoHuvafen Fushi expands wellness offering with Aromatherapy Associates treatments
-
News1 week agoPatina Maldives welcomes Sean Wotherspoon for ‘Respect the Reef’ collaboration
-
Awards1 week agoSun Siyam Vilu Reef secures Best House Reef title at TTM Awards
-
Action1 week agoKandima Maldives lines up sports residencies and family festivities for October