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Renowned marine biologist Steven Weinberg joins Carpe Diem Maldives for three weeks of marine expeditions

Carpe Diem Maldives has extended its Dive with a Purpose trips to include coral reef and marine biology research with internationally acclaimed marine biologist Steven Weinberg.
As part of the ongoing Dive with a Purpose events and International Year of the Reef 2018 celebration with Carpe Diem, avid divers can take to the clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean while on board the cruises for two weeks in July, followed by a week at Carpe Diem Beach Resort and Spa in August.
Benefitting from over 40 years of marine biology knowledge with Steven Weinberg, divers can learn or improve their skills and understanding in one of the world’s most beautiful tropical countries and award-winning dive destination. Steven is multilingual (Dutch, French, English, German), a much appreciated guest speaker and has inspired countless divers over the years as they discover marine life and underwater photography.
Diving since the age of eight and passionate about photography since the age of 11, Steven became a qualified marine biologist in 1979. Since then, he has taught reef ecology at the University of Puerto Rico, and for almost 30 years he taught biology at the European School of Luxembourg. In addition to over 30 scientific publications, he is the author of more than 550 magazine articles on the underwater world.
With fluent French language skills, since 1992 Steven has become France’s most celebrated marine author with several illustrated books, including a very popular series of underwater field guides (“Mediterranean”, “Atlantic”, “Red Sea & Indian Ocean”, “Caribbean” and “Tropical Pacific”), “Ocean Life”, “Ecologically Yours!” He also co-authored the astonishing “History of Underwater Imaging – from 1856 to the present” and “Ar(t)cachon – Jewels of the Bay”.
In July this year, Steven Weinberg returns to the Maldives for the first time in over 25 years.
“I am thrilled to be returning after such a long time away, and especially with opportunity to explore so many different reefs together with Carpe Diem Maldives. The explorations will serve as research for my updated version of the ‘Red Sea & Indian Ocean’ field guide, to be released next year. In the process, I am looking forward to sharing my marine knowledge and underwater photography advice with their enthusiastic divers as we explore the dives together,” he explains.
On each Dive with A Purpose week with Steven Weinerg from July 15-22 and July 22-29, up to 20 recreational divers can join the Carpe Diem Cruises marine expeditions. Priced from USD 1,863 per person (inclusive of 12 percent GST) for the week, the expeditions include:
- Seven nights aboard the assigned Carpe Diem Maldives vessel
- Three meals daily, plus between-dive snacks
- Three to four dives daily (except for on day of arrival and day before departure)
- Use of tanks, weights and belts
- Drinking water, tea and coffee
- Airport transfers on the days of embarkation/disembarkation
- Evening workshops on marine ecology, coral reef, marine life and photography
- On-board marine biologist
Agnes van Linden, the Assistant Managing Director at Carpe Diem Maldives, says: “Our previous Dive with a Purpose trips have been popular with our guests and we are constantly seeking new and informative ways to bring more variety as well as benefit research. With Steven on our cruises and at the new resort in August, guests can dive in crystal blue water and discover the rich biodiversity of the Maldives while learning, documenting and exploring coral reefs. The majority of our guest divers have underwater camera equipment with them to document their trips, so I am sure there will be lots of questions between dives and around the lunch and dinner tables about camera technique and capturing marine life through the lens.”
In January this year, Carpe Diem Maldives began a year-long celebration of IYO 2018, inviting all divers to share their underwater images on social media using #maldivesreefawareness, #iyor2018 #carpediemmaldives. This provides research scientist easy access to a live feed of images on regularly visited dive sites.
Towards the end of 2018, campaign images posted throughout the year can be submitted to a panel of professional photographers, conservationists and IYOR officials, with a chance of winning a four-night stay in 2019 at the new Carpe Diem Beach Resort and Spa.
Carpe Diem’s Dive with a Purpose trips are aimed at anyone with a passion for the ocean; enthusiasm is valued over experience and you don’t need a scientific background.
Whether divers are looking to further their studies or just looking for a meaningful conservation holiday, Dive with a Purpose trips offer something different, and past guests refer to it as an experience they’ll carry with them for the rest of their lives.
Since 2008, the award-winning hospitality group Carpe Diem Maldives has been operating luxury dive and surf liveaboard cruises, sharing the beauty of the Maldivian waters with adventurous travellers. Carpe Diem is the only liveaboard operator in the Maldives to offer diving adventures with a team of all-Maldivian dive masters.
With the expansion into resorts, Carpe Diem Maldives becomes the only hospitality brand in the country to offer year-round liveaboard cruises that can be combined with a resort stay.
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Finolhu replants 1,200 coral colonies to strengthen house reef

Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, has completed a four-day coral transplantation programme, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to marine conservation. Led by the resort’s marine biologist, Ivanna Tobar, the initiative involved the replanting of approximately 1,200 coral colonies from Finolhu’s nurseries to its house reef, strengthening one of the Maldives’ most critical marine ecosystems.
The programme was notable for its collaborative approach, bringing together four marine biologists from neighbouring resorts—JOALI BEING, Westin, Coco Palm, and Dusit Thani. Visiting experts Philippa Darby-shire Jenkins (JOALI BEING), Rosalie Bailie (Coco Palm), Harry Longin (Westin), and Louna Marchand (Dusit Thani) took part in hands-on transplantation dives, equipment preparation, and reef health management activities, including the removal of invasive pincushion sea stars.
Steven Phillips, General Manager of Finolhu, said the initiative extended beyond coral restoration: “This represents a unique opportunity to unite resorts, share expertise, and promote marine conservation at the highest level. Healthy reefs are essential not only for the Maldives’ biodiversity but also for the wellbeing of local communities and the sustainable future of tourism. Through this collaborative effort, we have created a lasting impact in safeguarding these underwater landscapes for our guests and for generations to come.”
Coral conservation remains crucial in the Maldives, where reefs provide natural protection against coastal erosion, support fisheries relied upon by local communities, and sustain the nation’s tourism industry. Pressures such as rising sea temperatures, pollution, and human activity have intensified threats to these ecosystems, making restoration work increasingly vital to preserve the country’s natural heritage and marine resilience.
The four-day initiative combined restoration activities with knowledge exchange. Morning briefings prepared participants for the day’s dives, while afternoon sessions focused on reef assessments and equipment readiness for subsequent activities. This integrated approach not only accelerated restoration but also enhanced regional expertise in reef management.
The event forms part of Finolhu’s wider environmental stewardship strategy. Alongside coral restoration, the resort manages a coral nursery, monitors reef health, and develops sustainable marine practices to ensure the vitality of its house reef. Guests are also encouraged to engage with conservation initiatives through experiences such as the Coral Conservation Package, which combines education with hands-on involvement in reef restoration projects.
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Freediving with tiger sharks: Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah collaborates with marine biologist Andriana Fragola

Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah, renowned for its world-class scuba diving encounters, has announced an exciting expansion: the chance to freedive with tiger sharks in the Maldives’ southernmost atoll.
Fuvahmulah, often hailed as the “Tiger Shark Capital of the World,” is the only place on the planet where year-round encounters with tiger sharks are virtually guaranteed. With more than 280 identified resident tiger sharks, the island has become a bucket-list destination for divers and marine enthusiasts alike.

The newly introduced freediving experience offers a unique way to interact with these apex predators. Unlike scuba diving, freediving takes place without bubbles or heavy gear, allowing participants to connect with tiger sharks in a quieter, more natural way. This approach often makes the encounter more comfortable for the sharks and more intimate for the diver.
Guiding these expeditions is Andriana “Andy” Fragola, a marine biologist, shark diver, and conservationist currently based in Hawaii. Andy holds a Master’s Degree in Marine Conservation Biology with a focus on shark microbiology and has dedicated her career to shark research, conservation, and public education. Through her work in media and content creation, she strives to raise awareness about the importance of shark conservation and inspire people to take action to protect marine ecosystems.
“Freediving with tiger sharks is a raw and transformative experience,” says Andy. “Being eye-to-eye with these incredible animals without the barrier of scuba gear allows you to see them for what they truly are—powerful, intelligent, and essential to the health of our oceans.”
Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah ensures that all freediving activities are conducted under strict safety protocols. With experienced professionals like Andy leading the dives, participants can expect both an exhilarating and responsible adventure.

Why this experience stands out:
- Eye-to-eye encounters with tiger sharks in their natural habitat.
- A deeper, more personal connection with marine life.
- Expert-led guidance ensuring safety and conservation awareness.
In addition to freediving, Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah offers a range of packages, including accommodation options, making it easier for adventurers to fully immerse themselves in the island’s extraordinary marine environment.
For bookings and more information:
📧 Email: sales@scuba-expeditions.com
📱 WhatsApp: +960 9894653
🌐 www.scuba-expeditions.com
Excursions
Experience ocean encounters: Manta Month at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has announced the return of Manta Month this September, following the success of last year’s initiative. Now established as an annual programme, the celebration offers guests of all ages the opportunity to engage with the ocean while supporting marine conservation, with a particular focus on the manta ray.
Throughout the month, guests are invited to take part in guided excursions to known manta hotspots, led by the resort’s experienced team, who share insights into manta behaviour and conservation. Awareness talks highlight the story of a manta rescued near the island, serving as a reminder of the resort’s continuing efforts to protect marine life. Children can enjoy manta-themed arts and crafts as well as beach games, while the wider community will join reef and island clean-up activities, with collected waste repurposed into manta sculptures. In addition, proceeds from manta pendant sales at the resort’s retail boutique will be donated to The Manta Trust, extending support for research and protection initiatives.
Located close to several of the Maldives’ top ten dive sites, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives places importance on the wellbeing of the ocean and its ecosystems, a priority shared by both guests and staff. The resort’s sustainability initiatives are aligned with IHG’s purpose, True Hospitality for Good, through its Journey to Tomorrow programme, which supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrates a commitment to long-term environmental protection.
Commenting on the event, Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, said: “What started as a special event last year has now grown into an annual month-long celebration. Kandooma Manta Month is not just about seeing these magnificent creatures up close, but about creating meaningful experiences that inspire awareness, responsibility, and care for our ocean environment.”
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