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Maldives coral reefs show ‘signs of hope’

Corals in the Maldives are showing some resilience, adaptability and even recovery from climate-change effects, according to marine biologist Dr Jean-Luc Solandt, following a reef-monitoring diving expedition, the latest in a series undertaken over each of the past nine years.
Biosphere Expeditions sets up the “citizen-science” dive trips to survey reefs in the central Maldives in association with local environmental groups Reef Check Maldives and Save the Beach Maldives.
Expedition scientist Dr Solandt of the Marine Conservation Society, who set up Reef Check Maldives, said he had been surprised to find “signs of hope and recovery” on the latest trip.
“We were devastated in 2016 when a global-warming event killed off large swathes of the reefs,” he said.
“The reefs showed little recovery in 2017 and 2018, and we expected more bad news in 2019.”
Instead, he reported seeing many baby and young (one- to three-year-old) corals, as well as different species growing vigorously at sites expected to be dead or dying.
“It was surprising and encouraging to see a greater diversity of corals ‘pushing through’ from the dead layer below,” said Dr Solandt.
“It seems Nature is fighting back with a coral-diversity explosion.”
He said that the divers had witnessed the resilience of corals resistant to bleaching, the adaptability of reefs where other species were coming through, and recovery in terms of baby corals “almost everywhere”.
However, many reefs were still very badly affected, with some dying altogether, said Dr Solandt, warning that another temperature spike could kill many of the new corals.
“Also, some small corals that had settled on the reef in the last year, which we thought were resistant to bleaching, were now bleached, but the larger ones seem OK.” He added that the background temperature remained “hot”, at the bleaching threshold of 30 degrees C in very shallow water.
Other sources of encouragement included the new Maldivian government’s indication that it understood “the close link between oceans, climate change and the wellbeing of communities”, the establishment of a National Research Institute and news that income from a Green Tax on tourism would be spent exclusively on the environment.
Rasdhoo Madivaru, a site regularly visited and highlighted on earlier expeditions, had also recently been designated a Marine Protected Area.
Further surveys are being carried out locally by Save the Beach Maldives and Reef Check Maldives, which are training more divers from local communities to participate.
The next seven-day Biosphere Expeditions liveaboard expedition begins on August 22, 2020, and is open to qualified divers who are invited to train as “Reef Check EcoDivers”.
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Game on! Upcoming Meyyafushi unveils Maldives’ first overwater padel court

Get ready for a unique sporting experience in paradise! Meyyafushi Maldives, the highly anticipated new resort from the owners and operators of Fushifaru Maldives, has teased an extraordinary amenity on its social media channels: an overwater padel tennis court. Set to open in October 2025, Meyyafushi Maldives is already generating buzz, and this innovative addition is sure to elevate its appeal.
Building on the established success of Fushifaru Maldives, known for its intimate atmosphere and stunning natural beauty in Lhaviyani Atoll, Meyyafushi Maldives promises a similar commitment to exceptional hospitality and unforgettable experiences. While details about the new resort have been gradually unfolding, the recent reveal of the overwater padel tennis court marks a significant and exciting development.
Padel tennis, a popular racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, squash, and badminton, is gaining traction globally. However, Meyyafushi Maldives is taking the game to a whole new level – literally. Imagine the thrill of a friendly (or perhaps a fiercely competitive!) match with the breathtaking backdrop of the turquoise Maldivian waters stretching out beneath the court. The social media post showcasing the court hints at a truly exceptional spot to engage in some active fun with loved ones while soaking in the unparalleled scenery.

This pioneering amenity underscores Meyyafushi Maldives’ dedication to offering distinctive and memorable experiences for its guests. It signals a resort that is not only focused on relaxation and natural beauty but also on providing unique and engaging activities. The overwater padel tennis court is poised to become a signature feature, attracting sports enthusiasts and those seeking novel ways to enjoy their Maldivian getaway.
As Meyyafushi Maldives gears up for its October 2025 opening, the introduction of the first overwater padel tennis court in the Maldives adds another compelling reason to anticipate its arrival. This innovative amenity promises a memorable and picturesque sporting experience, further solidifying the resort’s position as a noteworthy addition to the Maldivian hospitality landscape.
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Ifuru Island Maldives takes part in Burunu Boma sport fishing tournament

Ifuru Island Maldives has announced its participation in the inaugural Burunu Boma Sport Fishing Tournament, taking place from 2 to 4 May 2025. Organized by the Visit Maldives Club (VMC), this premier event aims to position the Maldives as a leading destination for sustainable sport fishing.
As one of the select resorts competing in this prestigious tournament, Team Ifuru Maldives will showcase its commitment to marine conservation and responsible tourism. The competition emphasizes “catch and release” practices, aligning with global efforts to preserve marine biodiversity.
Participants will target species such as marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, swordfish, and bigeye tuna, with a grand prize of USD 25,000 awarded to the top-performing team. The event also features live entertainment and a festive atmosphere, celebrating the Maldives’ rich fishing heritage.
“We are thrilled to be part of Burunu Boma and to represent Ifuru Island Maldives in this landmark event,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Our participation underscores our dedication to sustainable practices and our passion for the ocean that surrounds us.”
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Sirru Fen Fushi to host ‘One Ocean, One Breath’ with Freedive Maldives to mark World Oceans Day

Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, invites ocean lovers and adventure seekers to a purposeful World Oceans Day celebration in partnership with Freedive Maldives, Guinness World Record Holder for the Most People Performing Static Apnea held last October 2022.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of the largest natural lagoons and house reefs in the Maldives, the event promises a deep connection to the ocean through expert-led PADI Freediving courses, ranging from basic to advanced levels. Participants will have the opportunity to earn their freediving certification, explore Sirru’s 9-kilometer-long house reef, and admire vibrant marine biodiversity, including manta ray cleaning stations, nurse shark points, flourishing coral gardens, and turtle habitats, home to 93 resident turtles and 11 successful hatchings this year alone.
“Our house reef, one of the longest and most vibrant in the Maldives, is a sanctuary for marine life and a symbol of our deep commitment to ocean conservation,” said Lukasz Prendke, General Manager of Sirru Fen Fushi. “We are honoured to collaborate with Freedive Maldives in celebrating World Oceans Day, not only to offer our guests an unforgettable underwater journey, but also to empower local talents and inspire our community to protect what lies beneath the surface.”
The initiative aligns with the resort’s ongoing sustainability commitments, including regular lagoon cleaning programs and support for local marine conservation efforts. This collaboration further emphasizes a shared mission to preserve the Maldives’ rich underwater heritage and engage the local community in meaningful environmental action.
In a broader commitment to sustainable tourism, Freedive Maldives has also signed a partnership agreement with the Baa Atoll Council to host another record-breaking freediving event in October 2025, coinciding with World Tourism Day, reinforcing Baa Atoll’s position as a leader in eco-conscious marine tourism.
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