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Six Senses Laamu introduces shrimp-free menus to support sustainable seafood initiative
Sustainable shrimp is a very elusive catch. That was a significant element of a message from Callum Roberts, professor of Marine Conservation at the University of York, on his recent visit to Six Senses Laamu where he discussed sustainable fisheries management in Laamu atoll.
“They look innocuous and taste great, but shrimp and prawns are sadly some of the most environmentally-damaging seafoods you can eat,” says Professor Roberts.
“Bottom trawling with fine mesh nets for wild prawns causes habitat destruction and enormous losses of non-target species, many of which are threatened. In a worst case, prawn farms can destroy valuable wetlands and the animals are usually fed on wild fish caught using some of the most destructive fishing methods on the planet. Until there are truly sustainable alternatives available, there is no question that we should consider avoiding eating shrimp and prawns. Whether wild or farmed, they are produced at immense cost to the environment and other wildlife.”
As of September 2018, Six Senses Laamu will no longer serve shrimp or prawns in either its guest restaurants or staff canteen. This will amount to an annual reduction of around 13,227 pounds (6,000 kilograms) in shrimp and prawn purchases. This represents a small dent in the global demand, but a powerful statement in sustainability.
Stefan Goechke, Executive Chef at Six Senses Laamu, says he welcomes the challenge of adapting the resort’s menus so that guests won’t even notice the absence of prawns.
“My team is working on some exciting new dishes to delight our guests. We also have a variety of sustainable seafood options featured on the menu, such as fish caught by local fishermen right here in Laamu Atoll, that don’t carry the same environmental price tag,” says Stefan.
Stefan Goechke, Executive Chef at Six Senses Laamu. PHOTO/ SIX SENSES
Professor Roberts has commended on the move, calling it, “Courageous and principled. It puts Six Senses Laamu firmly at the forefront of global efforts to achieve sustainability in seafood.”
Since 2016, Six Senses Laamu has partnered with Blue Marine Foundation, of which Professor Roberts is a trustee, to increase the sustainability of grouper fisheries in the Maldives. Blue Marine Foundation is now seeking to establish a locally managed marine protected area in Laamu atoll in consultation with government and community leaders. The goal is to protect areas important for the aggregation of spawning groupers and other vulnerable marine life.
Marteyne van Well, General Manager of Six Senses Laamu, says the resort very much welcomes advice such as this on marine conservation, while appreciating that these seafood items might be missed by some guests.
“We are constantly learning from visiting guests, practitioners and experts from the culinary world to wellness and marine science. The resort grows and evolves by absorbing the invaluable knowledge from our guests, which inspires us to keep improving. Our partnerships with international NGOs and their expertise are crucial to achieving our goals in sustainability and we hope to, in turn, be able to contribute and share knowledge to inspire others. Along the lines of James Keller’s quote, ‘a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle,’ we hope that sharing learnings for a sustainable future will outweigh the removal of shrimp and prawns on our menus,” says Marteyne.
Six Senses Laamu is the only resort located in the Laamu atoll, which lies in the southern part of the Maldives. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the resort prides itself on its commitment to sustainable operations and development as outlined by Agenda 21 and Green Globe Benchmarking.
At Six Senses Laamu, most of the villas and facilities are built overwater. However, beach villas and on-land dining is an option. All villas offer a sense of privacy and seclusion, with an amazing view to the Ocean and Maldivian nature.
Six Senses Laamu offers a wide range of dining options, with cuisines from around the world, a swimming pool with a sunken bar, an ice cream parlour, an overwater wine cellar and a signature Chill bar. Many activities, excursions and options are available for everyone to enjoy, both overwater and underwater, in addition to the Six Senses Spa.
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will mark the festive season with a programme that combines charitable initiatives with its sustainability commitments. Guests will be invited to donate, run, paddle and plant in support of local community and environmental projects, alongside dining experiences that highlight Maldivian produce.
Under its World of Care commitments, the resort has adopted initiatives to improve the school experience for children at R. Maduvvari School on the neighbouring island and to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. Participation in the season’s activities will contribute directly to these programmes.
From 25 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, guests may purchase wrapped gifts from a Christmas Charity Surprise Tree, with all proceeds directed to the resort’s charitable causes.
On 27 December 2025, Euro Divers will lead a coral-planting session within the house reef. The activity forms part of an ongoing conservation effort to strengthen reef resilience by increasing coral diversity through the careful planting of hardy coral fragments.
Seasalt restaurant will host a “Boat to Table” beachfront barbecue on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. The buffet will feature seafood such as giant tuna sashimi, ceviche and grilled fish prepared from the day’s catch supplied by local fishermen, reflecting the resort’s focus on local sourcing and support for the Raa Atoll community.
A Charity Kayak Race will take place on 30 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. Entry will be by voluntary donation, with funds supporting enhancements at the R. Maduvvari pre-school.
On 2 January 2026, the programme will conclude with a Charity Island Fun Run around the island. Branded t-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the resort’s community initiatives.
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort has received three titles at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, named Luxury Adults Only Resort, Luxury Island Resort, and Luxury Cultural Resort in the Indian Ocean.
The awards highlight the brand’s focus on locally rooted hospitality, with stays shaped by place, service and community. The resort presents Maldivian culture through curated experiences, pairing contemporary comforts with island traditions.
Positioned as an adults-only retreat, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo integrates culinary influences and cultural programming to offer guests a stay informed by the rhythm of local life and delivered with consistent service standards.
“These awards are a true reflection of our team’s passion for creating experiences that feel both local and memorable. Every detail, from the design to the service, is guided by the authenticity that defines Mercure. We are grateful to our guests for being part of this journey,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, honouring properties that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and celebrate diversity across the travel sector.
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has received three honours at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, securing titles for Best Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Best Luxury Wellness Hotel, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Indian Ocean.
The awards underscore the resort’s approach to experience-led hospitality, combining design, wellbeing and guest engagement. The recognition also reflects Pullman’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and sustainability, which sit at the centre of the brand’s strategy.
Since opening, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has developed an all-inclusive offering that brings together adventure, wellness and a close connection to the natural environment. Its portfolio includes an underwater villa, wellness concepts and family-oriented experiences.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. These awards celebrate the heart of what we do—creating inspiring moments for every guest, whether they come to reconnect, recharge, or simply play. This achievement belongs to our incredible team, whose passion and dedication make Pullman Maldives Maamutaa what it is today,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and demonstrate innovation in service and design.
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