Action
Four Seasons Maldives Landaa Giraavaru bids goodbye to Elsa, historic fifth ‘Flying Turtle’
On September 12, Elsa, a female juvenile olive ridley turtle estimated under 20 years of age, will become the fifth”‘flying turtle” to travel from the Maldives by plane to begin a new life overseas.
Donated to St. Petersburg’s Planeta-Neptun, Russia’s first Oceanarium, Elsa follows in the pioneering flipper-steps of her olive ridley cousins – Kerry, Zahiya, La Petite and Peggy, the original “flying turtles” who made Maldivian and European history in August 2016 when they became the first live turtles to be flown overseas from the Maldives for rehabilitation purposes, and the first olive ridleys to be represented in a European facility (Belgium’s Pairi Daiza Zoo).
Like her flying cousins before her, Elsa was a long-term resident of Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Sea Turtle Conservation Programme. She initially spent a year being cared for at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, having been found in North Male Atoll floating at the surface entangled in a ghost fishing net; her two front flippers so badly damaged they had to be removed. A year later in August 2014, with her buoyancy syndrome healed, she was transferred to the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, where she remained for a further three years.
Deemed “non-releasable” (based on international standards), Elsa will make her epic journey to St. Petersburg in September, accompanied by Sebastien Stradal – Landaa’s former Marine Discovery Manager and pioneer of the Flying Turtles Project – to ensure her welfare. She will be housed in an 800 square metre (8,600 square feet) tank, where she will play a vital educational role in keeping with the Oceanarium’s ethos.
Commenting on the donation of Elsa to Planeta-Neptun, Annemarie Kramer, Landaa Giraavaru’s Marine Discovery Centre Manager, said: “In an ideal world, we would return all of the turtles we care for back to the ocean to continue their life in a natural environment. But for turtles like Elsa, whose chance of survival in the wild is so low, the Flying Turtle Project offers improved long-term well-being and extended medical care in a more diverse and natural-feeling environment than we are able to offer at our Rehabilitation Centre. We are very grateful to Sebastien, the Maldivian authorities and everyone else who has worked so hard to make this project possible. We know that Elsa will make a great ambassador for her species, helping to educate the public about the threats faced by sea turtles like her.”
How Are They Now? An Update on the Original Flying Turtles
Of the original four flying turtles, three continue to make good progress in their new homes in Belgium’s Pairi Daiza Zoo:
- Peggy has perfected her ability to dive in her deep tank home among the rays, fish and black tip sharks and is able to stay at the bottom for up to five minutes. Her progress is so positive that it is hoped she will soon be able to return to the Maldives for release back to the ocean.
- Kerry is very happy in her new tank with many small fish (safe for them as she is still unable to dive). She is eating well and spends all day watching her new tank companions.
- Zahiya is still undergoing medical treatment for liver problems but is continuing to consume at least 10 fish a day (a lot given she wasn’t a good eater while at Landaa’s MDC). She is currently in the medical facility but will return to join Kerry as soon as she has recovered.
Unfortunately, despite initially doing well, La Petite recently succumbed to an infection and, given her chronic injuries and weakness, passed away earlier this year.
Established in 2011, the Maldivian Sea Turtle Conservation Programme (MSTCP) is one of Four Seasons Resorts Maldives extensive conservation efforts run by a team of more than 12 marine biologists from environmental consultancy Seamarc Pvt.
In addition to turtle rehabilitation (mainly as a result of entanglement in ghost fishing nets, strikes by boat propellers or harmed by eating plastic), the programme is also involved in the photo-identification, satellite tracking, nest protection, and hand rearing of sea turtles.
MSTCP has rehabilitated more than 170 turtles across its centres at Landaa Giraavaru and Kuda Huraa since 2011 – with many more released from net entanglement without being admitted for care.
Daily rehabilitation activities include wound care, feeding and rehydration; medicine administration; treatment for buoyancy syndrome; swimming/diving support; and target training to increase activity levels. Rehabilitation is individual for each turtle and can involve months of care.
Both resorts are also nesting beaching for sea turtles. The most recent nest found at Landaa Giraaavru was on August 20, while two nests hatched at Kuda Huraa on January 25 and March 18 respectively, both believed to be laid by the same hawksbill turtle as they were at the same place with two months difference between them, a common pattern shown by this species.
Combining innovation, wellness and conservation, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru is a 44-acre, 103-villa wonderland in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve — a 30-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport.
Its sister property, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa lies to the south: an enchanting garden island complete with Island Spa sea sanctuary and Tropicsurf coaches and guides. It features 96 thatched beach and water accommodations constructed by local craftsmen using indigenous materials and techniques to reflect a true sense of the Maldives.
The luxury catamaran Four Seasons Explorer connects the two properties via three, four and seven-night cruises, plus private leisure, surf and manta ray charters.
The latest addition to the Maldives collection, Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa Atoll opened in December as the group’s first exclusive-use private island: off limits to everyone else, limitless to the guests.
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa continues its ongoing marine conservation journey with the identification of Six Individual Indo-Pacific Leopard Sharks along the resort’s house reef. The sharks were documented through photographic observation and submitted to the MIYARU, the Maldives’ national non-profit organisation and research network focused on collaborative shark research and conservation.
The six identified sharks namely Atlas (LS081), Aurelian (LS083), Kikongo (LS090), Ambala (LS091), Ingwe (LS096), and Fowler (LS097) – can each be recognized by their distinctive patterns of dots and spots. Similar to a human fingerprint, these natural markings are unique to every shark, enabling marine researchers to identify individuals when they are encountered again.
By documenting these individual sharks, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa is contributing to a growing body of knowledge about the species and how it uses local reef habitats. Each sighting adds another piece to the wider picture of leopard shark presence and movements in the Maldives, supporting continued awareness, research and conservation.
For Pullman Maldives Maamutaa, conservation is about creating meaningful connections with the natural world. From a passing encounter with a leopard shark to learning how individual animals can be recognized beneath the surface, every discovery can offer a new perspective on the living reef.
The identification of these six leopard sharks reflects the resort’s continued approach to marine conservation through attentive observation, responsible marine experiences and collaboration with conservation partners.
As monitoring continues, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa invites guests to discover its house reef not simply as a destination beneath the surface, but as a living environment shared with an extraordinary diversity of marine life.
With every sighting, every photograph and every new record, the resort continues to build a deeper understanding of the waters surrounding Maamutaa – inspiring greater appreciation for the wildlife that calls the Maldives home.
Kayla Shortt is Pullman Maldives Maamutaa’s in-house Marine Biologist and PADI IDC Staff Instructor, who coordinated the in-water observations, photographic documentation and identification submissions that resulted in the six individual records.
Originally from South Africa, she has worked across five-star resorts in the Maldives since 2021, bringing together her experience in marine tourism and practical conservation.
Her expertise spans reef-health monitoring, turtle rehabilitation and shark behavior, with a particular focus on creating greater awareness and understanding of the marine environment.
At Pullman Maldives Maamutaa, Kayla makes marine science engaging and accessible, connecting guests with the underwater world while supporting the resort’s ongoing conservation efforts. Through her work, she contributes to a deeper understanding of the Maldives’ marine environment and the remarkable wildlife that calls it home.
This festive season, Siyam World Maldives, part of the Lifestyle Collection at Sun Siyam, is entering The Age of Legends, as ancient kingdoms, dragons, warriors, enchanted forests and Viking seas find their way to the Maldives. Inspired by the worlds of Game of Thrones, The Lord of the Rings, The Witcher andVikings, The Age of Legends creates a story entirely of its own, with experiences unfolding across the island and guests becoming part of the action.
Because at Siyam World, simply watching was never really going to be enough. Beginning December 15th, the festive programme brings together fantasy-inspired entertainment, family adventures, sport and storytelling, with former Manchester United and Serbia captain Nemanja Vidić, an original production inspired by one of the Maldives’ best-known legends, and a New Year’s Eve celebration where four worlds collide. And there are still a few things Siyam World is not revealing just yet. Consider that your first quest.
Legends on the field
From 18 December, the football pitch gets its own chapter. Former Manchester United and Serbia captain Nemanja Vidić joins the festive line-up with a football camp focused on skill, confidence, discipline and teamwork. For young players, it is a rare opportunity to train with someone who spent years competing at the very highest level of the game.
Every great battle has its decisive moment. From 25–27 December, former AC Milan and Italy striker Alessandro Matri takes to the pitch with young players for three days of skill, confidence and teamwork, bringing a goalscorer’s instinct to the festive realm.
For parents, it is also a remarkably effective way to ensure football dominates the conversation for the rest of the holiday. Possibly the flight home, too.
When a Maldivian legend takes the stage
On 21 December, the story turns closer to home. Dhonhiyala and Alifulhu, one of the Maldives’ best-known legends, will be brought to life through an original musical inspired by its timeless tale of love, courage and destiny.Passed down through generations, the story finds a new stage and a new audience at Siyam World, bringing a distinctly Maldivian legend into a festive season inspired by legendary worlds from near and far. Because long before dragons and Vikings reached these shores, the Maldives had legends of its own.
Christmas Even
On 24 December, word arrives from the North. A certain Legend is making his way across the sea, carrying gifts after what we can only assume has been a very long journey. Exactly when and how he will arrive remains a closely guarded secret. The North has many Legends. This one wears red.
Four worlds. One midnight.
New Year’s Eve brings The Age of Legends to its biggest night. Four fantasy worlds come together as ancient magic, fearless warriors, unexpected alliances and just the right amount of Siyam World chaos take over the island on the final night of 2026. Exactly what happens when those worlds collide is staying firmly under wraps. Mostly because spoilers are punishable by exile from the realm. Let’s just say Siyam World will not be entering 2027 quietly.
Little legends
For younger adventurers, The Dragon Rider Academy transforms Kidz World into a training ground for future dragon riders, with games, challenges and plenty of opportunities to prove themselves worthy of the realm. Judging by previous Siyam World adventures, they are likely to take their training extremely seriously. The dragons, thankfully, remain under control. For now.
One more legend
And there is still one name missing from the story. One final Legend is yet to be revealed to those following @siyamworld, joining an already packed festive line-up when the time is right.
Because some entrances deserve their own moment.
Now it is your turn
Guests will also have the chance to create a legend of their own through the Share Your Siyam Legend Challenge.Throughout the season, guests can capture their own legendary Siyam World moment and share it as a Reel or carousel, tagging @siyamworld and using #ShareYourSiyamLegend and #AgeOfLegends.
The entry combining the most imagination, genuine engagement and a point of view all its own could win a seven-night stay for two at Siyam World, including WOW! Inclusive, applicable taxes and return shared seaplane transfers.Create the moment. Share the story. Become a Legend. The Age of Legends begins at Siyam World Maldives on 15 December 2026.
The realm is ready. The Legends are coming. Ready to enter The Age of Legends? Discover Siyam World’s latest offers and book your festive escape at sunsiyam.com/siyam-world/offers.
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa successfully concluded the second edition of the Maldives Hideaway Resort Run 2026 on Friday September the 18th as part of World Wellness Weekend, bringing together running, wellness and the spectacular natural surroundings of the beautiful all-natural Island of Dhonakulhi.
The event welcomed 68 runners, with esteemed athletes Sunny Schippers leading the 10K race and Clara Abbona leading the 5K race, inspiring participants through three scenic island runs (including a relaxing shake out run) surrounded by the turquoise waters and lush tropical landscape of Hideaway.
Held in line with World Wellness Weekend, the programme extended beyond running to embrace a more holistic approach to wellbeing. Participants enjoyed a series of wellness experiences, including sound healing with Naga Healing, Yoga with in-house instructor Shubham, alongside fitness sessions led by Shaffa – Fitness Expert from TfG, and Ask a PT and Physio sessions with Yoosuf as the Personal Trainer Consultant.
The second edition celebrated movement in all its forms, combining physical activity with recovery, mindfulness, and connection with nature. From the energy of the starting line to restorative wellness experiences, the event brought guests and participants together through a shared appreciation for healthier living.
Following another successful edition, the Maldives Hideaway Resort Run continues to build its identity as a unique resort island running and wellness experience, bringing together sport, community and the beauty of the Maldives at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa.
The initiative is endorsed by Visit Maldives and delivered in partnership with TFG as race partner, with race consultation, registration, timing, and bib services powered by TFG Races. Maldivian joins as transport partner, Coral Glass as content partner, and Sporting Vacanze as agent partner. This partnership reflects continued collaboration between tourism, aviation, media, sports, and lifestyle stakeholders in supporting wellness tourism in the Maldives.
Participants received a race timing bib powered by TfG Races, a partner goodie bag compiled of little treats by the partners, and the official Flora & Fauna Greenery Run T-shirt. Trophies were awarded to the top three male and female finishers in both the 5K and 10K categories. And the esteemed 1st place winners all received a scaled Maldivian Flight model kit by Maldivian Airways.
“Following the success of the historic inaugural edition in 2025, we are delighted to run the Maldives Hideaway Resort Run in 2026,” said Mohamed Muzaffar Ahmed, Business Development Manager of Lily Hotels. “With the continued endorsement of Visit Maldives and the support of our partners, this event reflects the growing opportunity to position the Maldives as a destination for luxury wellness, sports, and active travel. Our ambition is to develop the Maldives Hideaway Resort Run into one of the country’s and inevitably the world’s leading luxury destination running events, offering participants an experience that is truly unique to the Maldives. I am proud of the fact that we are the first luxury running event focused on the sporting tourism niche which has trophies, timing, and medals making Lily Hotels yet another pioneer in experiences in the tourism sector.”
Maldives Hideaway Resort Run – The 2nd Edition might be over, but its revelry carries on with celebrating the runners on social media. In addition to that the resort is looking to clear the remaining stock of the runner’s kit which consists of a goodie bag, t-shirt, and medal via any resort guest running at least a 5k in the official mhrr2026 route at the resort during this year. More details will be available on their social media.
As an intended annual event after celebrating sunrise in the original run in 2025 and flora and fauna in this year, the resort aims to launch its theme for Maldives Hideaway Resort Run 2027 – Visit Maldives Year Edition in February next year so stay tuned for any teasers about what they have got in store for the next edition of this spectacular destination running event with amazing views to be experienced by being there and experiencing running in a destination like no other.
-
Action1 week agoSoneva reveals star-studded calendar of residencies through end of 2026
-
News1 week agoGili Lankanfushi Maldives enhances Gili Lagoon Retreat with private island access
-
News1 week agoOaga Art Resort draws on Maldivian sun and moon stories for festive season
-
Insider Reviews1 week agoDiscovering The Machchafushi Universe through sight, sound, scent, touch and flavour
-
Cooking1 week agoKuredhivaru Resort and Spa sets season of culinary experiences and island celebrations
-
Cooking1 week agoPatina Maldives welcomes global, Maldivian talent for latest ‘Perpetual Journey’
-
News1 week ago‘Rise of the Phoenix’ brings week-long Halloween celebration to The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
-
Featured1 week agoPatina Maldives, Fari Islands to celebrate Diwali with Atul Kochhar residency