Connect with us

Action

Fairmont Maldives offers new marine-inspired experiences for families

Published

on

Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi has curated a new menu of experiences designed to entertain and inspire families.

After embarking on a boat trip to discover local marine life or snorkelling the expansive coral house reef, travellers can take inspiration from their verdant island environment and create their own marine-inspired masterpiece; paint, sculpt or draw in the beachside art studio, under the watchful eye of a resident artist.

The on-site Art Studio offers all of the tools and materials for art-enthused travellers to try their hand at coconut, canvas and wood painting, sculpturing, and an array of crafting activities; from designing a dream catcher and weaving authentic Maldivian rugs, to crafting bespoke jewellery from seashells. Here, guests are encouraged to create unique keepsakes inspired by the tropical island surroundings to treasure for a lifetime in the Art Studio, or even in the privacy of their own villa.

Fairmont Maldives also offers an array of immersive activities to promote eco-education. Having initiated a coral regeneration project, the resort has created unique semi-submerged sculptures constructed from non-toxic, pH neutral material, which encourage the settlement of underwater life and act as an artificial reef patrolled by manta rays and over 250 species of tropical fish. Aiming to educate the next generation of eco-conscious travellers, Fairmont Maldives also offers undersea exploration, coral and coconut tree planting, turtle release programmes and exploration of the manta ray cleaning station, all guided by the resort’s resident marine biologist.

Additionally, adventure loving families can head out on a sunset dolphin tour, sail to an uninhabited island for a castaway picnic, snorkel the thriving coral house reef or head out on a traditional Maldivian dhoni for a sunset fishing experience, before immersing themselves in the local island culture with a family cooking class and cultural tours. Tiny travellers can participate in thrill-seeking activities offered at the Kids Club and Teen Club, ‘Majaa’, from kayaking or jet-skiing the lagoon and cycling sandy walkways, to making a splash in the resort’s 200m infinity pool – the largest in the Maldives.

The New Family Holiday Package starts from USD1,450++ and includes:

  • Round-trip transfers for two adults and two children (below 12 years old) by seaplane from Male airport to Fairmont Maldives
  • Daily breakfast in Raha Market for two adults and two children below 12 years old
  • Dinner for two adults and two children below 12 years old. Choice of buffet dinner in Raha Market or three-course meal at Kata or Azure.
  • A day in the Art Studio with the Arts & Crafts team.
  • Ocean discovery programme with marine biologist, including a marine life educational presentation and turtle protection activity
  • Family cooking class at Raha Market
  • Family activities: 20-minute dolphin and snorkelling trip by speedboat, 20-minute fun tube and 20-minute fishing excursion on board a Dhoni. This is a one-time activity during the entire stay.
  • Complimentary access to the Kids Club
  • Complimentary kids’ amenities
  • Baby-sitting facilities are provided upon request

Embodying an earthy elegance, flowing from the shore to every detail of design, the resort is constructed to stimulate creativity. Fairmont Maldives is home to 112 lavish villas with private pools, authentic Maldivian furnishings and a designated Villa Host on hand to cater to guests’ every need. Families can stay in the Overwater Villas with see-through floors and oversized copper bathtubs, perched overlooking the Indian Ocean, Beach Villas with luxurious outdoor bathrooms and private tropical gardens, or in the new Tented Jungle Villas for a true castaway experience in the heart of the Maldivian jungle.

Having opened its doors in May 2018, Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi is an idyllic island paradise dedicated to reinventing family holidays in the Maldives, and inspiring both the artist and adventurer in every traveller.

Fairmont Maldives is located in the northern Shaviyani atoll. The resort is accessible by domestic flight in 50 minutes from Male International Airport followed by speedboat from Hanimaadhoo Airport to the resort. Alternatively, guests can book a 50-minute scenic seaplane flight directly to the resort.

The New Family Holiday Package by Fairmont Maldives requires four nights minimum length of stay, with blackout dates from December 20, 2019 to January 10, 2020. For reservations, please email reservations.maldives@fairmont.com or contact +960 654 8888. Visit www.fairmont-maldives.com for more information.

Featured

Finolhu replants 1,200 coral colonies to strengthen house reef

Published

on

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.

Continue Reading

Action

Freediving with tiger sharks: Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah collaborates with marine biologist Andriana Fragola

Published

on

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

Continue Reading

Excursions

Experience ocean encounters: Manta Month at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives

Published

on

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.”

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright all rights reserved by Maldives Promotion House 2023.