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Four Seasons Maldives Landaa Giraavaru bids goodbye to Elsa, historic fifth ‘Flying Turtle’

Published

9 years ago

October 2, 2017

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.

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Best Dives Maldives earns two honours at the World Luxury Travel Awards 2026

Published

20 hours ago

October 28, 2026

Maldives Insider

Best Dives Maldives has won two awards at the World Luxury Travel Awards 2026, recognising its diving operations across the Maldives.

The company was named Best Diving Experience in Indian Ocean Islands and Best Diving Centre in Indian Ocean.

The awards reflect the team’s focus on professional service, safety and quality in creating memorable experiences for guests.

With more than two decades in the Maldivian tourism industry, Best Dives Maldives has become an established name in diving, watersports and ocean experiences. It works with resorts across the country, giving guests the opportunity to explore the Maldives’ underwater world.

“We are truly honoured to receive these two awards,” said Ahmed Razee, Managing Director of Best Dives Maldives. “This recognition reflects the passion and dedication of our team, whose hard work makes these achievements possible. We are grateful to our resort partners for their continued trust and support, and to the World Luxury Travel Awards for this recognition.”

The awards reinforce the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality diving and ocean experiences while showcasing the beauty of the Maldives’ marine environment.

Best Dives Maldives has more than two decades of experience in the Maldivian tourism industry. It offers a wide range of ocean experiences and marine services, including diving, watersports, excursions and luxury yacht charters. The company also provides guest transfers and professional training and certification programmes.

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Daniil Medvedev, Paula Badosa and Donna Vekić head to St. Regis Maldives for tennis series

Published

3 days ago

October 26, 2026

m@ldives

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has announced a special edition of The Astor Club Soirée in partnership with LUX Tennis, welcoming three of the sport’s most accomplished players, Daniil Medvedev, Paula Badosa, and Donna Vekić, for a series of tennis residencies from October 26 through November 30, 2026. Taking place at the Maldives’ finest address, the program will feature private coaching sessions, group clinics, junior development activities, and guest appearances, offering participants direct engagement with some of tennis’s most recognized names.

The Astor Club Soirée Tennis Series will commence with Donna Vekić from October 29 to November 1, 2026. One of Croatia’s most accomplished tennis players, Vekić has captured five WTA singles titles throughout her career and achieved a career-high ranking of World No. 17. Her recent achievements include a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, a semifinal appearance at Wimbledon, and victory at the prestigious Queen’s Club Championships in 2026. Renowned for her powerful playing style and competitive spirit, Vekić will share her expertise through a series of guest sessions designed for players of all levels.

From November 13 to 14, 2026, the resort will welcome Paula Badosa, one of the most inspiring players on the WTA Tour. After capturing the French Open Girls’ title and turning professional in 2015, Badosa rose steadily through the ranks to reach a career-high World No. 2 ranking in 2022. Following a determined comeback from injury setbacks, she re-established herself among the world’s elite with a title run at the Washington Open, a quarterfinal appearance at the US Open in 2024, and an Australian Open semifinal appearance in 2025. Guests will have the chance to spend time with one of modern tennis’ most resilient and admired competitors through a series of coaching and on-court sessions.

The pinnacle of the series arrives November 26 to 27, 2026 with the highly anticipated residency of Daniil Medvedev, former ATP World No. 1 and one of the defining champions of his generation. Widely regarded as one of the most accomplished players in contemporary tennis, Medvedev’s distinguished career includes a historic US Open title, multiple ATP Masters 1000 victories, ATP Finals success, and numerous Grand Slam final appearances.

Celebrated for his tactical brilliance, relentless competitiveness, and commanding presence on court, Medvedev has consistently performed at the highest level of the sport while establishing himself as one of tennis’ most influential global stars. As the headline appearance of The Astor Club Soirée Tennis Series, he will lead a schedule of private lessons, clinics, and guest events throughout this stay.

“The Astor Club Soirée was created to bring influential figures in sport and culture to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort through bespoke guest programming,” says Ozgur Cengiz, General Manager of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. “We are pleased to welcome Daniil Medvedev, Paula Badosa, and Donna Vekić, whose achievements have made a lasting impact on professional tennis. Their presence reflects our continued focus on presenting distinctive experiences that inspire, engage, and leave a lasting impression on our guests.”

Designed for aspiring young athletes, tennis enthusiasts, and seasoned players, each residency offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from some of the sport’s most accomplished professionals.

The Astor Club Soirée forms part of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s signature platform for distinctive guest programming. Inspired by the Astor family’s appreciation for sports, culture, and refined leisure, The Astor Club Soirée unites influential figures from around the world through engaging experiences that inform, inspire, and connect, embodying the quintessential St. Regis tradition of bringing people together through personalized service.

For more information, please visit stregismaldives.com.

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Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi brings together 40 women for surfing, wellness retreat

Published

1 week ago

October 20, 2026

m@ldives

One of the Maldives’ most celebrated surf destinations, Lohis, is making waves beyond the surfing world as Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi hosts a landmark all-female surf retreat, bringing together 40 women for eight days of surfing, adventure, wellness and meaningful connections.

Taking place from 11 to 18 October, the exclusive surfing experience, organised by renowned surf coach and SurferElle founder Elle Sampiere, marks an exciting new chapter for Lohis, showcasing not only the exceptional quality of its waves but also its growing appeal as a destination where world-class surfing meets extraordinary island living. For this special gathering, the iconic Lohis lineup has been dedicated to the female surfing community, creating an environment where participants can challenge themselves, share experiences and build friendships against the breathtaking backdrop of the Indian Ocean.

Lohis: Where the World’s Surfers Come for More Than Just Waves

Situated along the edge of Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi in North Malé Atoll, Lohis has earned an international reputation for its celebrated left-hand reef break, attracting passionate surfers from around the world.

What makes Lohis truly distinctive, however, extends beyond the wave itself.

Few surf destinations offer the opportunity to wake up on a tropical island, walk directly from your accommodation to an internationally recognised surf break and enjoy the comforts of an all-inclusive resort between sessions. At Lohis, surfing is not simply an excursion. It is part of everyday island life. With access managed through a limited number of surf passes, capped at 45 registered surfers per day under the resort’s standard surf management programme, Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi offers a carefully managed surfing experience that distinguishes it from many of the world’s more crowded surf destinations.

The resort also provides access to several celebrated breaks across North Malé Atoll through organised surf excursions, offering visiting surfers the opportunity to explore the diversity of waves that has made the Maldives a sought-after destination on the international surfing map.Just a short speedboat journey from Velana International Airport, this unique combination of exceptional surfing, accessibility, natural beauty and relaxed island hospitality reinforces Lohis’ position among the world’s most distinctive surf resort experiences.

A New Wave of Women Redefining Surf Travel

The SurferElle gathering brings a powerful new dimension to Lohis’ established surfing heritage.Throughout the eight-day retreat, participants are embracing a programme that extends well beyond the surf lineup, with professional coaching, yoga, wellness experiences, snorkeling, diving, fishing and island excursions creating opportunities for adventure, relaxation and personal discovery.

More importantly, the gathering reflects a growing movement within international surf culture: women seeking experiences that combine the thrill of the ocean with genuine connection, confidence and a sense of belonging.

The exclusive female surfing environment encourages participants to support one another, develop their abilities and enjoy the freedom of surfing alongside women who share their passion.

Against the turquoise waters and tropical scenery of the Maldives, the event demonstrates how a surf holiday can evolve into something more meaningful, an experience that inspires long after the final wave.

Connecting International Surf Culture with the Maldives

Beyond the international attention surrounding the gathering, the retreat also places importance on fostering connections with the emerging community of Maldivian female surfers.

By celebrating women’s participation in surfing and encouraging engagement between visiting surfers and the local community, the initiative highlights the potential for surf tourism to create opportunities for cultural exchange, inspiration and greater visibility for women in ocean sports.

It is a reflection of how the Maldives can continue to evolve as a surf destination, not only through the quality of its waves, but through the people, experiences and communities that shape its identity.

More Than a Wave. A Destination That Stays With You.

For Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi, the SurferElle gathering represents more than a special event. It demonstrates the destination’s ability to bring together the very best elements of surf travel: celebrated waves, a carefully managed surf environment, exceptional island surroundings and experiences that create lasting emotional connections.From early-morning sessions at Lohis to relaxed afternoons overlooking the Indian Ocean, the resort offers a distinctive rhythm of life where adventure and relaxation exist naturally side by side.As the gathering continues, Lohis is demonstrating that its greatest appeal lies not only in the waves surfers travel across the world to experience, but also in the memories, friendships and sense of community created around them.

At Lohis, the wave brings people together. The island makes the experience unforgettable.

Located in North Malé Atoll, Maldives, Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi is an all-inclusive island resort renowned for its natural tropical beauty, relaxed hospitality and direct access to the internationally celebrated Lohis Surf Break.

With a dedicated surf management programme, access to nearby surfing destinations, a range of accommodation options, dining experiences, wellness facilities and island activities, the resort offers a distinctive combination of world-class surfing and immersive Maldivian island living.