News
Jumeirah Vittaveli launches semi-submarine service

Maldives.net.mv – Guests at Jumeirah Vittaveli in the Maldives, can now explore the resort’s stunning house reef from the comfort of a semi-submarine thanks to a partnership with Best Dives Maldives, the dive school at the resort.
This is the first service of its kind in the Maldives which takes guests on a journey to explore the resort’s marine eco-system. The upper body of the vessel remains above the sea surface at all times while the bottom section is 1.3 metres below the water. The large windows of the underwater hull enable guests to enjoy spectacular views of the underwater ecosystem, creating the illusion of a real submarine dive.
“We are happy to partner with Best Dives Maldives on this exclusive new facility for our guests. One of the biggest attractions of the Maldives is its colourful underwater life, and with our new semi-submersible, this world is now open to everyone – even experienced snorkelers and divers will find this new way to explore the marine environment exhilarating,” said Jumeirah Vittaveli’s General Manager, Amit Majumder.
The semi-submersible vessel will take guests on excursions along the resort’s house reef several times a day and a night-excursion is available to explore the unique night-time wonders around Jumeirah Vittaveli. During the day, guests can admire the colourful reef and its inhabitants in a safe environment under the guidance of the professional Best Dives team. As opposed to a snorkelling excursion, the guide will be able to point out marine creatures to all attending guests and explain their characteristics. After dark, guests can admire the entirely different underwater world that unfolds when the sun sets. They might see minuscule polyps on the coral reefs come to life and feed on surrounding plankton, or be able to observe eels, stingrays and sharks. These experiences are otherwise reserved only for the more adventurous divers.
The semi-submersible at Jumeirah Vittaveli can accommodate twelve guests and excursions will be available at USD 95 per person for a voyage duration of 30 minutes. Children under 11 years will be entitled to a 50% discount, and children 5 years and younger will be able to join the semi-submersible ride at no charge. Night-time excursions will be priced at USD 110 per person. Children will have to be accompanied by an adult at all times. All rates are subject to applicable government taxes plus 10% service charge.
Featured
ELE|NA and VOYA unite for ocean-inspired wellness at THE OZEN COLLECTION

In celebration of World Ocean Day, ELE|NA Elements of Nature has announced an exclusive partnership with VOYA, the globally renowned organic seaweed skincare brand. Launching in July, this collaboration introduces a new era of ocean-inspired wellness at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI and OZEN LIFE MAADHOO. Guests will experience a deeply immersive and personalised spa journey, rooted in the healing power of the sea.
The new spa menu is crafted around three core wellness pillars—REST, ZEST, and BALANCE—each designed to meet individual needs, from deep relaxation and stress relief to energy rejuvenation and emotional renewal.
Each guest begins their spa experience with a personalised consultation to align treatments with their wellness goals. The journey starts with a calming aromatic foot ritual and a mindful breathing ceremony, establishing a foundation for a meaningful and restorative session.
The spa menu features marine-inspired massages, facials, and body therapies that incorporate VOYA’s certified organic, seaweed-based ingredients, sustainably harvested from the Atlantic coast. Key offerings include:
- Massage Therapies: Deep Muscle Melter, Tranquil Touch, and the signature VOYAGER Massage Journey
- Marine Facials: Pro-Age, Skin Renewal, and Bespoke Touch Facials
- Marine Exfoliations & Wraps: Detoxifying body buffs, nourishing sugar polishes, and sun-soothing wraps
- Sleeping Rituals: Mindful Dreams Massage and Herbal Cocoon Wrap with singing bowls
ELE|NA extends the wellness experience beyond the treatment room through group sessions such as guided meditations, sea and sound therapies, and aroma-intent practices. Guests can also enjoy bespoke VOYA bathing rituals in-spa or in-villa, including Detoxifying Seaweed Baths and Warm Spiced Mud Baths.
Guests are encouraged to continue their wellness journeys at home with a curated retail collection of VOYA products, including body oils, essential oils, pulse point oils, and aromatic room scents—each inspired by the tranquility and vitality of the ocean.
With a shared commitment to sustainability, ELE|NA and VOYA honour the ocean through ethical sourcing and eco-conscious practices. This partnership goes beyond providing luxurious spa experiences—it pays tribute to the sea’s natural rhythms and healing energy.
As part of the World Ocean Day celebration, ELE|NA invites guests to reconnect with nature and their inner selves. The transformative power of the ocean is available starting this July at THE OZEN COLLECTION.
Business
2025 sees Maldives reach 1 million tourist mark in record time

Maldives has welcomed its 1 millionth tourist of 2025 on 7th June 2025, the fastest that the country has achieved a million tourists in our nation’s history.
Kajal Singh, an Indian national, arrived in the Maldives today on IndiGo flight 6E 1131 at 12:55. She is visiting for her honeymoon at Bandos Maldives. This is her first trip to the Maldives.

Visit Maldives, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), hosted a special celebratory event at Velana International Airport to commemorate this remarkable achievement.
“This milestone fills us with immense pride, reflecting the successful culmination of our destination marketing initiatives that showcase the true essence of the Maldivian experience,” stated Minister for Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim. “Welcoming one million tourists with such unprecedented speed is a powerful indicator of our global appeal, and I extend my sincere appreciation to all the hardworking individuals across the tourism sector whose dedication made this achievement possible.”

In a gesture highlighting the nation’s commitment to environmental sustainability, the one millionth visitor, Kajal, was invited to participate in the “Five Million Trees Planting Program” initiated by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Kajal planted a tree at Hulhulé as part of this nationwide effort to combat climate change, enhance biodiversity, and promote a greener Maldives for future generations.
“This achievement is a clear indicator that we are well on our way to attaining H.E President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s national tourist arrival target of 2.3 million for this year,” said CEO & MD of MMPRC Ibrahim Shiuree. “We are thrilled to celebrate this milestone with all our stakeholders, whose dedication and hard work are invaluable. Our commitment doesn’t end here; we are continually working to enhance the Maldives’ tourism industry and ensure the Sunny Side of Life remains a dream destination for everyone.”

The arrival of the 1 millionth tourist in 2025 marks a proud moment for Maldivian tourism, symbolizing the robust momentum generated by MMPRC’s strategic promotional efforts. Building on the resounding success of the recent Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, where the Maldives captivated the global travel trade community with its powerful and immersive showcase, this milestone highlights the effectiveness of our enhanced global visibility and affirmed key industry partnerships.
Complementing these efforts, the ongoing comprehensive Summer Campaign, with its multi-market strategy spanning Europe and key international markets, is actively driving increased visibility and stimulating early bookings for both the summer and upcoming winter seasons. MMPRC’s marketing initiatives such as high-impact campaigns, strategic partnerships, and targeted outreach are significantly enhancing the Maldives’ global brand, boosting booking confidence, and solidifying its position as a leading, year-round holiday destination.
News
Ferrari in paradise: Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi partners with Hedley Studios for one-of-a-kind experience

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with Hedley Studios, the makers of hand-built classic sports cars that seamlessly fuse performance with collectible art. This exclusive partnership brings a rare Ferrari Testa Rossa J, one of only 299 models in existence, to the resort’s Ithaafushi Private Island as a living, breathing work of art, ready to be experienced by those who seek the exceptional.
Imagine waking up in your beachfront villa, stepping into a Silver Ferrari Testa Rossa J, and driving along the palm-fringed paths of the island to breakfast. Here, on the lush, sun-drenched shores of Ithaafushi Private Island, guests are invited not just to admire it, but to drive it.
This is more than an installation. It’s a journey into craftsmanship and design; a bespoke automotive art experience reserved for guests staying on the private island and will be invited to test drive the Ferrari Testa Rossa J during their stay, and may even custom-order their own, beginning at USD 150,000.
Throughout the year, the Ferrari Testa Rossa J will be showcased during key island celebrations and exclusive events. From “The Ultimate Island Experience” to “Festive Gifting”, the Ferrari Testa Rossa J will take center stage in stories that celebrate craftsmanship, timeless beauty, and the spirit of escape.
“At Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, we believe in crafting experiences that awaken the senses and stir the soul,” says TJ Joulak, General Manager of the resort. “Welcoming a piece of living history like the Ferrari Testa Rossa J is not only a celebration of beauty and legacy, it’s a gift to those who appreciate the extraordinary.”
Guests will see the Ferrari displayed during key seasonal moments and private events, further enhancing the resort’s status as a sanctuary for collectors, connoisseurs, and the creatively curious.
A masterpiece in motion. A statement in stillness. The ultimate island adventure awaits.
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