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Centara launches new ‘BFF Breaks’ initiative, invites besties to hang out in Maldives

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Centara Hotels & Resorts is inviting groups of friends to create magical memories together in the Maldives, with an array of activities that showcase the stunning marine world and bring BFFs closer together.

Hang out with your best pals in a pristine paradise, explore the reef, go shipwreck diving, spot dolphins, discover neighbouring islands or simply relish the joy of the marine world during a sunset cruise.

Centara offers a choice of resorts in the Maldives. Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives is an idyllic adults-only island retreat with pure white sand and a sparkling blue lagoon, which makes it the perfect playground for beach games, snorkelling and water sports. Alternatively, Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives features its own house reef and is surrounded by some of the most famous dive sites in the world.

From diving and snorkelling to water sports, island escapes, fishing trips and conservation projects and more, Centara’s perfect pair of Maldivian resorts present many wonderful ways for groups of friends to relax, reconnect and reinvigorate their relationship.

At Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, the resort’s world-class Water Sports Centre offers a full range of activities, allowing guests to enjoy fun-filled days on the ocean. Kite surfing is one of the most uplifting water sports available, as riders speed across the waves or through the sky, up to 30 meters above the sea!

Alternatively, sailing is a wonderful skill that friends can share together. The resort’s team will teach companions how to handle a catamaran, catch the wind and glide gracefully across the water. These lessons will give guests a great new life skill and could even be the start of a new shared passion. Other options include parasailing, water-skiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing and more.

Over at Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives, a stylish fleet of vessels is ready to take guests on a series of mesmerising marine adventures, including underwater encounters with a breath-taking range of colourful creatures.

One of the most incredible encounters a diver can have is with the world’s biggest fish: the whale shark. The Maldives is the only place in the world with a year-round population of these oceanic giants, and the resort’s PADI-certified dive team will lead a private cruise into the deep blue sea, for one of life’s most awe-inspiring experiences.

Prefer to keep your hair dry? Friends can climb aboard the resort’s semi-submersible for a scenic ride beneath the waves. Suitable for all ages, this is a great way to gather your group together for a truly unforgettable journey, cruising past colourful corals and tropical fish – a genuine highlight of the holiday.

For a more invigorating adventure, groups can head out on the shimmering sea for a day of big game fishing. Chill out on the deck of your boat, crack open a cold beer, cast out a line and soak up the stunning scenery. Guests will get a real thrill when they do battle with some of the ocean’s fastest fish, including marlin and tuna, before posing for onboard photos with their mates.

Friends’ holidays are one of the biggest emerging trends in the travel industry, as former school friends, college pals, teammates and work colleagues get together to create awesome escapes together. Elevate your next buddies’ break to the next level of luxury with Centara in the Maldives and make memories that will be treasured forever.

Centatra, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, operates 71 properties in all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, China, Oman, Qatar and the UAE.

Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands: Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara, Centara Residences & Suites and COSI Hotels – ranging from five-star city hotels and luxurious island retreats to family resorts and affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. It also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree.

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From first visit to thousand dives: Love story anchored at Bandos Maldives

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Bandos Maldives recently marked a significant milestone with two of its most loyal guests, Kate and Andy, who have shared a long-standing connection with the island.

Andy achieved an impressive feat by completing his 900th dive, all undertaken with Dive Bandos. His wife, Kate, surpassed this accomplishment by reaching her 1000th dive, with over 900 of those dives also completed alongside the Bandos team.

The Dive Bandos team joined the couple in celebrating this memorable occasion, recognising not only their dedication to diving but also the enduring bond they have formed with the resort over the years.

Kate and Andy’s relationship with Bandos extends far beyond statistics. Having first visited the island in 2006, they have returned every year since, making Bandos an integral part of their lives. In 2014, the couple even chose to exchange their wedding vows underwater at the resort — a unique moment that forever linked their love story with Bandos.

“Celebrating guests like Kate and Andy reminds us of what Bandos truly represents,” said Ismail Rasheed, General Manager of Bandos Maldives.

For Bandos Maldives, moments such as these exemplify why guests continue to choose the island for both adventure and a sense of belonging. With stories like Kate and Andy’s, Bandos stands not merely as a dive destination, but as a home — both beneath and above the waves.

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Dive into inspiration: Alessia Zecchini at Sun Siyam Olhuveli

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Sun Diving will host a special ocean experience with world champion freediver Alessia Zecchini on 13 October 2025. The event is scheduled to take place at Sunrise Beach, Sun Siyam Olhuveli, from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM, offering guests the opportunity to meet the athlete widely recognised as ‘The Deepest Woman in the World.’

Born in Rome in 1992, Zecchini began freediving at the age of 13 and went on to set multiple world and European records. She was the first woman to reach a depth of 100 metres in free immersion and has since achieved 123 metres in constant weight with monofin. Her career has been celebrated internationally, including in the film Vertical Breath and the Netflix documentary The Deepest Breath. She continues to advance the sport while promoting awareness of ocean conservation.

The event at Olhuveli will feature an informative talk where Zecchini will reflect on her freediving journey, achievements, and the importance of protecting the marine environment. Guests will also have the chance to take part in a Q&A session with her and the Sun Diving team. In addition, Sun Diving will organise an interactive beach activity where participants can try scuba and snorkel gear in shallow waters under the guidance of instructors. Guests will also be able to capture photographs, collect autographs, and learn more about diving at the dedicated booth, which will highlight special offers from Sun Diving.

“Welcoming Alessia Zecchini is an honour for us and an inspiration for our guests,” said Ahmed Nihaan, Dive Centre Manager at Sun Siyam Olhuveli. “Her achievements beneath the waves embody both human potential and the importance of protecting our oceans.”

Sun Diving, the official diving division of Sun Siyam Group, provides SSI-certified courses, snorkelling, freediving, and specialty programmes across its Maldives properties. As a subsidiary, it enhances guest experiences with curated dive packages, illustrated dive maps, lifeguard training, and eco-focused initiatives, positioning Sun Siyam as a leader in sustainable marine-based activities.

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Finolhu showcases Maldives’ only PADI Mermaid Instructor Trainer

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Dive Butler International, in collaboration with Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, is highlighting the achievements of Mara Restelli, recognised as the Maldives’ only certified PADI Mermaid Instructor Trainer.

With this rare qualification, Restelli offers a series of exclusive experiences designed to introduce guests of all ages to the art of mermaiding. The programmes range from playful introductory sessions to advanced courses and professional-level Instructor Development Courses (IDC).

“Mermaiding is more than a trend — it is a joyful way to connect with the water, express creativity, and feel empowered,” Restelli explained. “I enjoy watching guests discover confidence, freedom, and a sense of fun in the ocean. It is as much about transformation as it is about adventure.”

As part of Finolhu’s extensive marine offerings, the PADI Mermaid programmes provide an engaging complement to the resort’s diving and snorkelling activities. Participants may learn to glide gracefully underwater in a mermaid tail, capture striking images during professional photo sessions, or pursue advanced training that strengthens skills and deepens their connection with the ocean.

By hosting the Maldives’ only PADI Mermaid Instructor Development Course, Finolhu reinforces its reputation as a pioneering destination for distinctive and life-enriching marine experiences.

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