Action

Four Seasons Explorer announces 2018 Manta Trust Expeditions

Published

8 years ago

April 9, 2018

Four Seasons Explorer, a luxury catamaran gracing the Maldivian waters, has announced a Manta Trust Expedition, placing participants at the forefront of cutting-edge research into the highly curious manta rays.

The Manta Trust Expeditions, to be hosted from August 23-30 and September 6-13, are a rare and thrilling opportunity to contribute to this incredible field of science and experience a wonder most can only dream of – regardless of whether an adventure-seeking family, a couple seeking an alternative vacation, or an individual who is passionate about conservation.

To understand the power and presence of these marine marvels – and the work being done to protect them in the Maldives – one has to go back to 2003, when a then-Four Seasons marine biologist, Dr Guy Stevens, encountered his first manta ray and, in doing so, discovered his life’s passion and work: to conserve these captivating creatures through active research and education.

Fast forward over a decade and Guy is now one of the world’s leading manta ray experts; the Maldivian Manta Ray Project (MMPR) that he first established at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru is now the founding project of the world’s largest manta ray charity, The Manta Trust; and his team operates projects in more than 20 different counties around the world.

Four Seasons Explorer’s Manta Trust Expeditions offer a rare insight into the pioneering research that Guy’s team has developed over the years. Participants of all ages are encouraged to free-dive and snorkel with mantas alongside a team of specialist marine biologists, recording critical environmental information, taking manta ID photos, and joining in the ID process – including naming any newly sighted mantas.

“From population size, migratory routes and life history strategies, to social interactions, growth rates, life span, reproduction and more, every time we enter the water with manta rays, we improve our knowledge of them – and the global steps required to protect them,” Guy Stevens, Chief Executive and Founder of The Manta Trust, was quoted in a statement, as saying.

“Escorting these trips has the added benefit of transporting me back to that incredible moment when I first swam with a manta ray as guests have their own first manta encounter. It was life-changing for me and I never tire of seeing the impact it has on others too.”

Four Seasons Explorer is a floating PADI five-star dive centre, a Manta Trust research Lab, a championship surfing venue, an exclusive-use party pad and more. It offers Four Seasons-style accommodation and activities for up to 22 guests across three luxurious decks, a team of 25 adventure-seeking crew, effortless access to up to six different atolls, and many less-expected resort-style benefits too. Spa treatments (on deck or a secluded sandbank), remote island village visits, desert island BBQs, kayaking, wakeboarding, waterskiing and windsurfing, handline or bottom-line fishing from a dhoni, sunbathing decks, evening stargazing by telescope, gourmet dining, and chill-out days on snuggly sofas in the large air-conditioned lounge.

Newly refurbished in 2017, the boat is a vision of sleek finishes and stylish soft furnishings across its entire 39 metre / 128 foot expanse. The 10 State Rooms and signature Explorer Suite (complete with a wall of windows and private sun-bathing terrace) all feature upgraded bathrooms, new artworks, plush carpets and curtains, and re-upholstered sofas and headboards. Tropical-coloured chairs in the huge open-plan Dining Room complement the new layout and flexible furniture in the adjacent Living Room and Library. And across the boat, a cool blue, grey and white palette, accentuated by rich dark wood furnishings, showcases contemporary nautical living at its luxurious best.

Up Next

Maldives to compete for first time at Asian Pastry Cup

Don't Miss

Hurawalhi Maldives introduces online gift registry for pre-planning holiday experiences

Action

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort launches ‘Swim with Nurse Sharks’ experience

Published

1 day ago

February 9, 2026

m@ldives

Nestled in the pristine waters of the Raa Atoll, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort introduces Swim with Nurse Sharks, a new guided marine experience offering guests a rare opportunity to encounter these gentle creatures in their natural lagoon habitat.

Located just minutes from the island, the calm, shallow waters provide ideal conditions for observing nurse sharks at rest and in motion. The one-hour experience operates three times a week by speedboat and is designed for small groups, making it suitable for families and confident swimmers seeking a meaningful connection with the ocean.

Guided with care and respect for the environment, the experience reflects the resort’s ongoing commitment to marine awareness and responsible interaction with wildlife. Guests gain insight into the behaviour of nurse sharks while exploring one of the region’s few accessible snorkelling sites dedicated to this species.

Available at USD 95++ per person, with special rates for children under 12, Swim with Nurse Sharks adds a distinctive new chapter to the resort’s immersive ocean experiences.

For more information on “Swim with Nurse Sharks” at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, please visit the resort’s website.

Action

Avani+ Fares Maldives to host Michael Owen’s football camp for second year

Published

2 days ago

February 9, 2026

m@ldives

Michael Owen’s Football Camp is returning to Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort for a second year, running from 31 March to 3 April 2026 as part of the resort’s Easter holiday programme. Following a strong debut in 2025, the camp will once again see children and teens join the former England striker for hands-on coaching sessions on Fares Island in Baa Atoll.

Designed for kids and teens aged 5 to 13, the four-day camp combines daily training sessions, skills development and team challenges, led by Michael Owen. The programme ends on a high with a celebratory finale, with certificates, medals and jersey signings for every participant. The camp is complimentary for all guests staying at Avani+ Fares Maldives during the event, and each registered participant will receive an official Football Kit, including two sets of customised jerseys, shorts and socks.

Building on the strong response from families last year, the 2026 Football Camp sits within Avani+ Fares Maldives’ broader Easter line-up, pairing structured sports sessions with relaxed island time. Beyond the pitch, younger guests can dip in and out of island adventures at AvaniKids and the Teens Club, with creative arts and crafts and dedicated spaces designed around their age group. Mealtimes are part of the fun too, with Petit Bistro, the resort’s kids-only restaurant, created just for younger guests.

For families keen to get out on the water together, Avani+ Fares Maldives is set within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, with snorkelling along the house reef right off the island and a full menu of water sports and dive experiences at this award-winning dive resort.

Commenting on the upcoming camp, Michael Owen said: “Coming back to Avani+ Fares Maldives feels like a natural next step after the energy and enthusiasm we saw at the first camp. It is a special environment for families and the camp is all about helping kids build confidence, develop their skills and most importantly enjoy the game together. I am really looking forward to being back on the island in 2026.”

Avani+ Fares Maldives is designed with families in mind, with a wide mix of accommodation styles to suit different group sizes and travel plans. Options range from interconnecting Pavilion rooms for easy togetherness, to Beach Pool Villas with outdoor space for daytime downtime, alongside over water villas set above the lagoon. For families travelling as a bigger group, the resort also offers spacious two and three bedroom Over Water Pool Residences, with generous living areas and room to spread out between activities.

Package rates start from USD 3,500 for a family of four, including accommodation, seaplane transfers and football camp registration. Based on two adults and two children sharing on a bed and breakfast basis, includes taxes and fees. To book, visit www.avanihotels.com/en/fares-maldives, email fares@avanihotels.com or call  +960 660 1660.

Action

Simply summer at Milaidhoo: Invitation to slow living in the Baa Atoll

Published

7 days ago

February 4, 2026

m@ldives

In a destination often defined by excess, Milaidhoo Maldives offers a different summer narrative: one of restraint, rhythm and rare stillness. Introducing Simply Summer, a seasonal escape that celebrates the art of slowing down within the UNESCO-protected waters of the Baa Atoll.

An intimate island sanctuary, Milaidhoo is designed for travellers who value time as the ultimate luxury. Days unfold unhurriedly, beginning with relaxed oceanfront breakfasts and shaped entirely by choice, from sunrise yoga and snorkelling in pristine coral gardens to long, private hours spent within the calm of one’s villa. Evenings are defined by elegant à la carte dining, inspired by seasonal flavours and served with effortless grace.

The Simply Summer offer enhances this experience with considered privileges rather than excess. Guests are invited to explore the Maldives’ natural wonders through manta ray encounters in the legendary Hanifaru Bay, indulge in restorative rituals at the overwater Serenity Spa, or discover the atoll through curated island adventures, all with exclusive seasonal savings.

A chilled bottle of Ruinart Champagne awaiting guests in their villa sets the tone on arrival, while flexible early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability) ensures that time is never hurried. Dining remains a central pleasure, with daily breakfast and à la carte dinners at Ocean Restaurant, complemented by generous dining credits across the island’s culinary venues.

Available for stays from 1st May to 31st October 2026, with a minimum stay of four nights, Simply Summer is an understated invitation to experience the Maldives at its most refined, quietly luxurious, deeply personal and guided by the gentle pace of island life.

Simply Summer – Key Inclusions: