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Surfing Legend Occy Joins Surfing Champions Trophy

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Maldives Promotion House – Surfing legend Mark Occhilupo, famously known as Occy, will return to the Maldives next week for the first time in over a decade to contest the inaugural Four Seasons Surfing Champions Trophy which has been labelled worldwide as the world’s most luxurious surfing event.

The former ASP World Champion could prove tough to beat in the perfect reef break waves of the Maldives as he has been locking in plenty of tube time at Teahupoo while waiting for the Billabong Pro Tahiti event to recommence. Occhilupo will have a front row seat to the massive swell expected in Tahiti as one of the event commentators when competitions resumes.

The 45 year-old is in top competitive form, following his recent appearance at the World Masters in Brazil. He is not underestimating his opponents Mark Richards, Layne Beachley, Damien Hardman, Nat Young and the 2006 world Longboard Champion Josh Constable in the elite six person field.

“I’m really looking forward to it because I haven’t been back to the Maldives since the late eighties. I was one of the first few guys to go there so I’m excited, really excited,” Occhilupo said. “I just competed in the Masters in Brazil and it was a bit small over there. The Maldives is a much better spot because the waves are so good,” he added.

Occy was just 17 when he shot to the top of the ASP ratings, setting performance standards that remain unbeaten to this day. After just four years, he sensationally dropped out, only to stage one of the sport’s most inspirational comebacks with a sparkling return to competitive form some seven years later. In 1999, he seized the long-awaited world title, continuing on tour for a further seven years to amass a record-breaking 25-year pro surfing career.

Occy joins an illustrious field for the inaugural Four Seasons Maldives and Tropicsurf event that will see six iconic world champions compete across three divisions of single fin, twin fin and thrusters for USD 25,000 prize money.

“To tell you the truth I miss competing a lot and to see these familiar faces and even the legends, the guys I really looked up to when I was a kid as in MR is going to be fantastic.  It’s going to be great to compete against them and feed off them because they have got so much experience,” Occhilupo said.

“The resort looks amazing, we looked online and my wife Mae is really excited to go.  It sounds like it’s going to be a real luxurious kind of contest and I can’t wait. It’s going to be half-holiday and half a contest,” continued Occhilupo.

Boasting a total of 20 world titles between them, the legendary contestants are as excited about competing against one another as they are for the overall prize and title.

Guests booking Kuda Huraa’s all-inclusive four- or seven-night Champions Trophy package, available from August 29th to September 5th only, can get right on top of the action with competition day passes aboard the luxurious Four Seasons Explorer catamaran and three half-day surfing passes with Tropicsurf. They’ll also get to rub shoulders with their surfing heroes in Kuda Huraa’s village surround, home to competitors, judges and spectators alike for the duration of the contest.

The 2011 Surfing Champions Trophy by Four Seasons Resorts Maldives and Tropicsurf is the single most important surfing event of this year. The event is co-sponsored by HSBC, Billabong, Wataniya Telecom Maldives, Surfing World and Singapore Airlines.

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Kuramathi Maldives launches Muraka project: Coral propagation for reef regeneration

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On World Ocean Day, the 8th of June 2023, Kuramathi Maldives launched the Muraka Project, a pioneering coral propagation initiative. With a steadfast dedication to environmental sustainability and preservation, Kuramathi Maldives will be fostering the sustainable growth and regeneration of coral reefs in the surrounding region.

The Muraka Project, is led by the dedicated Eco Centre team in collaboration with experienced resident marine biologist Sara Scroglieri. The programme will utilise advanced techniques and methods to propagate and grow new coral colonies, while also rehabilitating damaged and degraded reefs in the surrounding waters of the resort.

Kuramathi Eco Centre has been at the forefront of coral restoration efforts since 2009 when the first coral nursery was established in the island’s lagoon. Over the years, significant progress has been achieved, and the resort remains committed to continually enhancing the project by exploring different strategies and studying the most effective methods for different coral species. The ongoing research allows the resort to stay updated with the latest advancements in coral propagation, ensuring the best possible outcomes for reef regeneration.

Similar to growing a new plant from a cutting, corals can also be pruned and regrown from existing fragments. Nature itself demonstrates this phenomenon as fragments of coral colonies break off and regenerate elsewhere. Through coral gardening and other innovative techniques, Kuramathi aims to assist the reefs in recovering their ecological services, including coastal protection, marine biodiversity, and aesthetic values.

The entire Kuramathi team is thrilled about the programme’s potential to contribute to the regeneration of coral reefs in the region. The team eagerly anticipates providing guests with firsthand opportunities to witness these remarkable efforts. Kuramathi Maldives remains steadfast in its mission to promote sustainable tourism and ensure the preservation of the region’s natural beauty for generations to come.

The Muraka Project serves as a testament to Kuramathi Maldives’ unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. On World Ocean Day, the resort celebrated the collective efforts of its Eco Centre team, local schools, and the wider community. By fostering collaboration and raising awareness about the significance of coral reef conservation, the resort paves the way for a brighter future for our oceans.

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Unveiling the depths of paradise: Kandolhu Maldives

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Kandolhu Maldives, the epitome of intimate luxury, also has a lesser known adventurous side to it. Located in the centre of Ari Atoll, it is one of the best dive locations in the Maldives, offering unforgettable underwater experiences that will leave you gasping for breath – in the most magnificent way possible.

Reached within 25 minutes by seaplane, Kandolhu is an enchanting little island oasis that beckons you to dive headfirst into a world of vibrant coral reefs, mesmerising marine life, and unparalleled natural beauty. Prepare to be captivated by the kaleidoscope of colours that dance beneath the azure waters, as you embark on an underwater odyssey that will redefine the meaning of adventure.

At Kandolhu, you’ll have the privilege of accessing exceptional dive sites both in the captivating North Ari Atoll and the mesmerizing South Ari Atoll. The Ari Atoll is a paradise for pelagic enthusiasts, offering thrilling encounters with feeding manta rays, graceful whale sharks. Unlike traditional protected walls or coral reefs, the dive sites in this region are predominantly characterized by remarkable thilas (pinnacles) and kandus (channels), creating the perfect setting for exhilarating drift diving experiences.

Dive enthusiasts of all levels are welcome to explore the extraordinary wonders that lie beneath the waves. Whether you are a seasoned diver or a beginner looking to take your first underwater breath, our team of experienced dive instructors is ready to tailor an unforgettable diving experience that matches your skills and desires. Their expertise and passion for marine conservation will ensure your safety while preserving the delicate ecosystem that makes Kandolhu Maldives a true haven for divers.

Beyond the enchanting underwater realm, Kandolhu offers a wealth of luxury amenities and services that will leave you feeling pampered and revitalised. Immerse yourself in the lap of luxury with chic accommodations, where every inch is designed to create a haven of tranquility. Indulge in delectable culinary delights at the resort’s 5 world-class restaurants, sip on tropical concoctions at the beachside, and unwind with rejuvenating spa treatments.

Prepare to be captivated by the wonders that await you beneath the surface of the Kandolhu Maldives, where every dive is a thrilling exploration of nature’s extraordinary beauty. Let the waves guide you towards an aquatic paradise that will leave you breathless – and yearning for more.

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Pelagic Divers Fuvahmulah introduces rare opportunity to dive with endangered oceanic whitetip sharks in the Maldives

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Pelagic Divers Fuvahmulah, a leading dive center in the southern hemisphere of the Maldives, is breaking new ground in the world of shark diving by offering offshore expeditions to swim with the endangered Oceanic Whitetip Sharks. These elusive creatures, listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, present a rare and thrilling opportunity for diving enthusiasts.

Pelagic Divers Fuvahmulah has pioneered a method to safely interact with the Oceanic Whitetip Sharks, making them the first dive center in the Maldives to provide such an experience. Known for their expertise in exploring the rich diversity of pelagic life, the dive center’s initiative opens up a world of possibilities for adventure seekers and shark enthusiasts.

Fuvahmulah Island, a one-island atoll situated in the Maldives’ southern region, is gaining recognition as a premier destination for shark diving. The area boasts an abundant population of resident tiger sharks, adding to its allure as one of the best places globally to encounter these majestic creatures. Led by PADI Instructor Ahmed Inah, a native of Fuvahmulah, Pelagic Divers Fuvahmulah has assembled a team of local guides who possess an intimate understanding of the area and its marine life.

Safety remains a top priority at Pelagic Divers Fuvahmulah. The dive center maintains a small guest-to-guide ratio of 1:4, ensuring a personalized and secure shark diving experience for all participants. By focusing on maintaining this ratio, Pelagic Divers Fuvahmulah guarantees that each diver receives ample attention and guidance throughout their journey.

In addition to the Oceanic Whitetip Sharks, Pelagic Divers Fuvahmulah also offers the opportunity to dive with tiger sharks, a thrilling encounter for those seeking an adrenaline-filled underwater experience. To make the most of this unique opportunity, interested individuals can enroll in the Tiger Shark Specialty Course, organized by Pelagic Divers Fuvahmulah in collaboration with PADI. This course, led by the experienced and knowledgeable team under the guidance of Ahmed Inah, provides comprehensive training and insights for a responsible and unforgettable tiger shark diving experience.

Diving enthusiasts and nature lovers are urged not to miss the chance to embark on this remarkable adventure. Pelagic Divers Fuvahmulah invites you to join them in the stunning waters of Fuvahmulah, Maldives, for an unforgettable journey into the world of Oceanic Whitetip Sharks and tiger sharks. Immerse yourself in the beauty of these magnificent creatures while ensuring their protection and preservation in a safe and responsible manner.

For more information about Pelagic Divers Fuvahmulah and their unique shark diving experiences, visit their website or contact them directly to secure your spot on an offshore expedition that promises an extraordinary encounter with these rare and endangered marine species.

Disclaimer: Diving with sharks involves inherent risks. Participants are advised to adhere to all safety guidelines and regulations provided by Pelagic Divers Fuvahmulah and exercise caution during their dive.

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