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Conrad Maldives unveils luxury experiences exclusive to ‘THE MURAKA’ undersea residence guests

Conrad Hotels & Resorts has revealed four exclusive and customisable experiences at THE MURAKA at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island.
The first-of-its-kind undersea residence set to debut this November, THE MURAKA offers a transformative journey in one of the world’s most breathtaking natural environments as guests are fully immersed in the wonders of the abundant marine eco-system above and below the Indian Ocean. While pushing the boundaries of engineering, THE MURAKA is not only defined by its physical structure, but even more so by the wholly unique offerings globally connected guests can enjoy while staying in the innovative residence.
“As the first-of-its-kind residence with dynamic accommodations both above and below the surface of the water, THE MURAKA is an extraordinary vehicle for a truly immersive journey into nature which cannot be found anywhere else in the world,” Stefano Ruzza, General Manager of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“Through a variety of curated and captivating offerings, we will maximise the potential of this incredible residence to bring unique travel experiences to our valued guests.|
Supporting the resort’s philosophy of innovation and its dedication to creating extraordinary moments in the heart of the Maldives, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island will offer a collection of four experience menus available exclusively to those staying at THE MURAKA. Tailored to the unique desires of different travellers with experiences ranging from adventure, food and entertainment to wellness, culture and sustainability, the menus are titled The Wanderers, The Flavours, The Soul and The Thrill.
Guests who book THE MURAKA will work with a dedicated reservations team to curate their own journey, borrowing inspiration from the four menus to ultimately create a meaningful and personalised journey in the Maldives and immerse themselves in a variety of transcendent experiences above and below the surface of the ocean.
The Wanderers
“The Wanderers” experiences are those that provide an authentic and fresh perspective for intrepid individuals wishing to explore unchartered Maldivian territory and engage with local culture without sacrificing comfort or luxury. Culture-seekers thrive in the parts unknown and relish the opportunity to expand their horizons through authentic exploration.
“The Wanderers” captures the desires of the traveller who wants to immerse themselves in a destination to gain a fresh perspective. One possible outlet for this ambitious discoverer is to act out their best Discovery Channel narration as they achieve their dream of exploring the depths on an ocean dive or snorkel complete with a film crew to capture the experience. Documenting the vibrant reef ecosystem beyond the glass walls of their MURAKA bedroom, guests will have the opportunity to direct and star in their own undersea film.
The Flavours
“The Flavours” experiences reveal an exciting world of culinary possibilities with a personal chef available 24 hours a day who can satisfy any craving with tailor-made menus. For those who truly want to savour their journey, “The Flavours”experiences include a variety of opportunities to forage, learn, and most importantly taste.
Celebrity Chef Jereme Leung is counted amongst the best Chinese chefs and while his world-renowned Xiao long bao dumplings, handmade pulled noodles and perfectly balanced shumai are available daily at the resort’s Ufaa restaurant, the chance to learn the techniques behind these delicacies are not. In this one of a kind cooking class, guests can enter Ufaa’s open sided kitchen and receive instruction from one of Leung’s expertly trained chefs. These culinary masters will guide guests in the timeless art of folding dim sum wrappers, blending ingredients and of course, slurping noodles.
The Soul
“The Soul” consists of transformative wellness experiences that encourage spiritual discovery and focus on enriching guests; connections to their natural surroundings. Visitors flock to the Maldives not only for its spectacular natural beauty, but also for its restorative energy and peaceful solitude.
“The Soul” allows travellers to connect with this spirit through a variety of experiences, including meditation, yoga and more. There may be no better place to get in touch with oneself than THE MURAKA, lending itself to a deeper practice with two decks – one facing sunrise and the other facing sunset – to soak up the healing powers of sunlight or bask in the peace of dusk.
The Thrill
“The Thrill” experiences are a collection of adventures with opportunities for fascinating exploration on land and at sea. Adrenaline-seeking explorers will be spoilt for choice when including items from “The Thrill” into their MURAKA adventure.
While the Maldivian environment around the MURAKA is magnificent at any angle, it may be most magical from below. For an experience under the sea, guests can spark their senses and discover the reefs by night alongside highly-trained professionals that guide explorers through the enigmatic dark blue waters. On this journey, guests will discover the peculiar glows of planktons lurking the ocean, corals blooming out into stunning colours and witness the rare phenomenon of shy underwater residents of the South Ari Atoll coming out to play.
Young travellers who stay at THE MURAKA will find that most experiences from across all four core menus are easily customisable to suit their interests as well as the opportunity to create entirely new experiences through the MURAKA kids Edu-tainment menu designed to captivate their imaginations.
Envisioned by Crown Company Director Ahmed Saleem, and realised by Mike Murphy, leading engineer at M J Murphy Ltd., a New Zealand-based company that specialises in aquarium technology, THE MURAKA is a two-level structure comprised of space above the sea level and an undersea suite designed for sleeping under the ocean’s surface.
The undersea suite features a king size bedroom, living area, bathroom and spiral staircase that leads to the upper level living room. The undersea bedroom floor level sits five metres (16.4 feet) below sea level, providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding marine environment.
With the adoption of state-of-the-art technology, THE MURAKA’s distinct design is akin to that of Rangali Island’s Ithaa Undersea Restaurant with the curved acrylic dome, which boasts 180-degree panoramic views of the wonders of the Indian Ocean’s intricate marine life.
THE MURAKA’s upper level features a twin-size bedroom, bathroom, powder room, gym, butler’s quarters, private security quarters, integrated living room, kitchen, bar and dining, which features a deck that purposely faces the direction of the sunset for optimal viewing pleasure. On the opposite side of the villa sits the relaxation deck that faces the direction of sunrise and is complete with an infinity swimming pool. The upper level also contains an additional king size bedroom and bathroom, which boasts a masterfully appointed ocean-facing bathtub, ideal for soaking in views of the endless horizon.
In total, THE MURAKA can accommodate up to nine guests.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is located in South Ari Atoll and is accessible by a 30-minute seaplane flight from the Maldives main airport.
As one of the Maldives’ leading resorts and one of Hilton Worldwide’s flagship properties, the award-winning Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers 150 villas and suites, 12 restaurants and bars, two spas — all stretched over two remote islands. It features the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, world’s first undersea restaurant made from only glass.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is home to two unique spa experiences; The Spa Retreat on Rangalifinolhu Island and the Over Water Spa on Rangali Island. Combining expertise from around the world with carefully selected products and therapies influenced by the environment, the two spas offer unique and effective experiences to suit the needs of every individual.
The luxury resort also offers the popular Conrad Concierge mobile app, which gives global luxury travellers the ability to customise details of their hotel stay before, during, and after each visit via a smartphone or tablet. Whether it is pre-selecting bath amenities or checking in while in-transit from the airport, guests can access a variety of features by using the app.
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From reef to horizon: Immersive island experiences at Angsana Velavaru

Angsana Velavaru invites travelers to immerse themselves in a rhythm shaped by tides, coral gardens, and island breezes. This oceanfront retreat is located in one of the Maldives’ most vibrant marine environments. It is known as “Turtle Island” and is a 40-minute seaplane ride from Male’. The resort curates experiences for those who are drawn to discovery, depth, and the beauty of nature’s untouched corners. Angsana Velavaru offers a getaway to extraordinary diving, barefoot island adventures, and sea-bound journey.
Into the Blue: Dive Sites and Snorkelling Discoveries
Angsana Velavaru is at the center of a marine wonderland with more than 30 dive sites just minutes away. The resort’s PADI 5-Star Gold Dive Centre leads guests to explore dramatic drop-offs, gentle coral slopes, and manta ray cleaning stations. The resort offers tailored expeditions and daily two-tank dives for both experienced and beginner divers.
For those who prefer to snorkel, the house reef offers an introduction to coral life. Guided safaris, led by marine experts, provide a deeper appreciation for reef ecosystems10. The calm waters surrounding the island make it easy for even first-time snorkelers to experience the ocean.
Ocean Adventures: Cruising, Fishing and Sunset Moments
Guests can step aboard traditional dhonis to experience the ocean from a new perspective. Unforgettable views are available whether you are on a dolphin cruise or a sunset sail. Traditional handline fishing trips, guided by a local crew, are also available for a hands-on experience. Other highlights include sandbank escapes and private boat charters, which are designed to slow down time and deepen one’s connection to the sea.
Land Experiences and Island Explorations
Angsana Velavaru offers morning nature walks and visits to local islands for a glimpse into Maldivian island life. At the resort’s Marine Lab, guests can take part in coral planting or learn about marine conservation from resident marine biologists. For families, the Ranger’s Club provides meaningful moments for young explorers with treasure hunts, marine workshops, and outdoor games. Solo travelers or couples can enjoy quiet moments under the stars, yoga by the beach, or walking around the island.
Angsana Velavaru offers immersion and the chance to become part of a living seascape. Every moment resonates with nature’s quiet power.
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Sierra Kerr joins surfing lineup for 2025 Four Seasons Maldives Champions Trophy

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa has announced Australian surfing prodigy Sierra Kerr as the third confirmed competitor for the 2025 Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy. Running from September 4 to 11, 2025, the 13th edition of this one-of-a-kind event will see the 18-year-old natural footer become the youngest ever competitor in the tournament’s history, with her sights set on becoming the first female champion.
For Kerr, the invitation marks a full-circle moment. At just 12 years old, she watched her father, Josh Kerr, take home the trophy in both 2018 and 2019 from the channel at Sultans. “I’ve got so many great memories of the Maldives,” says Kerr, who grew up between Australia’s Gold Coast and California. “I had so much fun enjoying the waves and all the activities with my family. Seeing Dad win the Surfing Champions Trophy was amazing, and I remember saying that I hoped one day I’d surf well enough to be invited myself!”
Now a 2023 World Junior Champion and celebrated multi-sport athlete, Kerr is more than ready to tackle the event’s unique format, which challenges surfers across three board disciplines: single fin, twin fin and thruster. “I’m super excited by the format,” she shares. “I’ve competed on a twin-fin before, but never on a single fin. JS Industries make my thrusters but my Dad’s new brand, Draft, will be making my twin fin and single fins, and I can’t wait to ride the best of both worlds!”
Adaptability is one of Kerr’s strengths. In addition to her achievements in surfing and skateboarding, she maintains an impressive golf handicap of 8. Her sights, however, are firmly set on carving her name into the Surfing Champions Trophy record books. “Dad taking the event out was so inspiring,” she continues. “No female has ever won the Surfing Champions Trophy before, so it would be so awesome to be the first!”
While the surf is centre stage, the return to Kuda Huraa is just as meaningful for Kerr. “Four Seasons is the best of the best,” she adds. “It’s beautiful, has so many fun activities, and the staff are so kind and helpful. I’m pretty sure they know what you want long before you do!”
Kerr joins fellow Australians Craig Anderson and Jesse Mendes on the 2025 roster, with the final three surfers — including a Maldivian wildcard — to be revealed in the coming weeks.
The Surfing Champions Trophy will run from September 4 to 11, 2025, at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa. Guests staying during the week-long event will enjoy front-row access to the action, with the chance to spectate the daily heats from the resort’s luxury boats. Each day’s heat winners are announced back on the island during informal beachfront gatherings, where guests are warmly welcomed to mingle with the competitors both in and out of the water.
For those inspired to experience the waves firsthand, the resort’s Surf’s Up package offers an unforgettable way to surf like the pros. The experience includes round-trip speedboat transfers between Velana International Airport and the resort, welcome refreshments and gifts on arrival, and daily breakfast at Café Huraa. Guests enjoy four days of ability-based surf coaching, complete with guided boat transfers to nearby breaks, complimentary use of surfboards and stand-up paddleboards, and daily group yoga sessions to support body and balance. To help ease wave-weary muscles, the package also includes a 60-minute Islander or Surfer massage for two. Surf experiences are tailored to both beginners and seasoned surfers, from lagoon-based introductory sessions to advanced coaching clinics that chase the perfect ride.
To reserve a Surf’s Up stay, click here or contact the Central Reservations department at +960 66 00 888 or email reservations.mal@fourseasons.com.
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OBLU NATURE Helengeli guests witness rare Ornate Eagle Ray

The Maldives is renowned for its surprises and in what can only be called a one-in-a-lifetime experience, on the 30th July a couple of lucky guests out snorkelling at OBLU NATURE Helengeli were treated to a cameo appearance of one of the most elusive sea creatures known. Whilst out taking in the wonders of Helengeli islands vibrant house reef, an Ornate Eagle Ray appeared, one of only a handful reported annually around the world.
The Ornate Eagle Ray, often dubbed the “unicorn of the sea”, is one of the rarest ray species known to humans, with fewer than 60 confirmed sightings globally to date. Despite a wide range of habitat from Indian Ocean to West Pacific, confirmed encounters remain extremely scarce according to sources including BBC Wildlife, Marine Megafauna Foundation and Oceanographic Magazine. The population is under surveillance by the ‘International Union for Conservation of Nature’ (IUCN), and this particular species of ray has an existence status of ‘Critically Endangered’, with population declines observed in conservation reports claims IUCN.
Explaining the uniqueness of this special sighting and of OBLU NATURE Helengeli’s location, TGI Maldives dive centre Operations Manager Greta Marcelli commented, “The guest sighting, made while snorkelling just metres from shore, adds to the limited tally of known observations in Maldivian waters, marking an extraordinary occurrence for both the guest and marine conservation alike.
“Sighting such a rare creature like the Ornate Eagle Ray is truly a remarkable experience to witness and one highly unlikely to ever repeat. That said, interestingly in 2025 at our sister islands of OBLU SELECT Sangeli and OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi also both in North Male’ Atoll, sightings had been made earlier this year in January. A staff member had spotted this ray species in the main boat lagoon at Sangeli island, and a guest posted a picture of one whilst on Ailafushi island – possibly completely unaware of just how rare these creatures are.”
This sighting underscores the importance of reef systems like Helengeli’s in offering refuge for rare species, even critically endangered ones such as the Ornate Eagle Ray. While rays are protected under Maldivian law since 2014, specific species-level monitoring remains limited.
Marine Boiologist Georgia Maggioni adds, “As resident marine biologists here in the Maldives, we are thrilled by these reports of rare sightings, it speaks volumes about the health and productivity of our island resorts reefs ecosystems. Although sightings of this species are exceptionally rare, its presence here signals encouraging progress in our conservation efforts, as we continue to support coral reef restoration around our resorts in both shallow lagoons and deeper waters”.
According to the IUCN that monitors the natural world and publishes ‘Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species’, latest research reports have been highlighting concerns for the Ornate Eagle Ray. In 2023, the last IUCN report published stated that ‘despite extensive baited remote underwater video surveying sharks and rays across 391 coral reefs in 67 nations and territories between 2009 and 2019, the Ornate Eagle Ray was only recorded three times, two off the Western Australia and one in Palau’.
Remaining as one of the ocean’s most mysterious species, very little is known about the ray’s migration patterns due to its rarity. However, scattered sightings across the Indo-Pacific, from the Maldives and Seychelles to Australia and the Philippines, suggest that this elusive ray may undertake wide-ranging movements through tropical reef systems. Its preference for shallow coastal waters, sandy bottoms, and coral-rich environments indicates possible seasonal migrations linked to breeding or feeding.
Greta concludes, “Due to its critically endangered status and the scarcity of confirmed data, each new sighting of a creature like the Ornate Eagle Ray plays a vital role in helping better understand the species’ range and behaviour. We are very lucky to have our guests document this encounter and capture the colours and importantly back print of the ray as this pattern is a unique identifier we share with our marine biology colleagues to better analyse migration and population.”
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