Insiders
World Surfaris USA Introduces Their Winter Special Packages For Maldives
Maldives Promotion House to With winter in full swing and cold water at most beaches, now is the time to plan your next trip to the tropical warm water perfection of Maldives. It is the perfect time because World Surfaris USA has announced their Maldives Winter Specials on all their Maldives resort and charter packages.
Whether you are looking for un-crowded charters in the Outer Atolls and Central Atolls, or one of the charters or resorts in the Malé area, they have the right options to fit your group. As an added bonus, they are also offering two trips in the Outer Atolls on the Handhu Fahli with a professional photographer onboard. Photo trips include pre-paid photo package with professional photographer Brett Wortman from Sunshine coast, Oz. You can take a maximum of 8 surfers and includes discount with photos and some video.
Maldives Charter Specials
Depending on what you are looking for, one of their vessels is sure to fit your needs. Below is a run-down on the different charters they offer and the regions of the Maldives they go to, along with their discounted prices. All charter packages include airport pick-up & drop off, accommodation on board, all meals, and use of onboard equipment, along with domestic flights if needed.
Early in the year (February through April) the best waves and wind conditions in the Maldives are found in the southernmost region of the atoll chain, or Outer Atolls, with the Handhu & Handhu Fahli vessels running 12 night charters in the Seenu & Gaafu Dhaalu Atolls.
Handhu charter, 12 nights: USD 3150 per surfer
Group Discounts: USD 3030 pp with 11 surfers, or USD 2935 pp with 12
March 24th to April 5th: 4 spots
April 7th to 19th: 1 spot
Handhu Fahli charter with a pro photographer, 12 nights: USD 3140 per surfer
March 5th to 17th: 4 spots
March 19th to 31st: 8 spots
Handhu Fahli charter, 12 nights: USD 2935 per surfer
Group Discount: USD 2825 per person with 10 surfers
April 2nd to 14th: 3 spots
April 16th to 28th: 4 spots
From May through October the Handhu runs trips from the Malé area down to the Central Atolls of Meemu & Laamu and back. The first starts in Malé and ends in Laamu and the next trip starts Laamu and heads back to Malé, guests flying one-way either to or back from Laamu. The Winter Special for this applies if booked by February 15th and is for the May & June trips only.
Handhu charter, 11 nights: USD 2775 per surfer
Group Discounts: USD 2650 pp with 11 surfers, or USD 2550 pp with 12
May 7th to 18th: 12 spots
May 21st to June 1st: 9 spots
June 4th to 15th: 11 spots
June 18th to 29th: 12 spots
Handhu charter, 11 nights: USD 2915 per surfer
Group Discounts: USD 2790 pp with 11 surfers, or USD 2690 pp with 12
July 2nd to 13th: 12 spots
July 16th to 27th: 6 spots
July 30th to August 10th: 12 spots
August 13th to 24th: 12 spots
September 10th to 21st: 12 spots
September 24th to October 5th: 12 spots
October 8th to 19th: 12 spots
From May through October in the North & South Malé Atolls, they offer three different boats running 7 night charters varying in levels of luxury. The Ocean Divine charter is their nicest & most luxurious vessel, and perfect for couples. The Manta vessel is a large vessel with plenty of room, and perfect for groups. They also have the Handhu Fahli for those looking for the lowest prices for a great trip. Winter Special applies if booked by February 15th for trips from April through June.
Ocean Divine charter, 7 nights: USD 2860 pp double cabin, USD 4225 pp single cabin
Group Discount: USD 2470 pp with 14 surfers
April 29th to May 6th: 14 spots
May 6th to 13th: 14 spots
May 27th to June 3rd: 12 spots
June 3rd to 10th: 14 spots
June 10th to 17th: 14 spots
June 17th to 24th: 14 spots
June 24th to July 1st: 4 spots
Manta charter, 7 nights: USD 1830 per surfer
Group Discount: USD 1700 pp with 14 surfers
May 5th to 12th: 12 spots
June 23rd to 30th: 8 spots
June 30th to July 7th: 12 spots
Handhu Fahli charter, 7 nights: USD 1220 per surfer
(Group Discount: USD 1150 pp with 14 surfers)
May 12th to 19th: 5 spots
May 19th to 26th: 4 spots
June 2nd to 9th: 4 spots
June 23rd to 30th: 5 spots
June 30th to July 7th: 1 spot
For the rest of the 2012 season the following rates apply.
Ocean Divine charter, 7 nights: USD 3000 pp double cabin, USD 4450 pp single cabin
Group Discount: USD 2595 pp with 14 surfers
July 1st to 8th: 14 spots
July 8th to 5th: 14 spots
July 15th to 22nd: 14 spots
July 29th to August 5th: 14 spots
August 12th to 19th: 14 spots
August 19th to 26th: 14 spots
August 26th to September 2nd: 12 spots
September 16th to 23rd: 12 spots
October 7th to 14th: 12 spots
Manta charter, 7 nights: USD 1925 per surfer
Group Discount: USD 1790 pp with 14 surfers
July 7th to 14th: 10 spots
July 14th to 21st: 10 spots
July 28th to August 4th: 5 spots
August 4th to 11th: 5 spots
August 25th to September 1st: 12 spots
September 1st to 8th: 10 spots
September 8th to 15th: 10 spots
September 15th to 22nd: 10 spots
September 29th to October 6th: 10 spots
October 6th to 13th: 10 spots
October 13th to 20th: 10 spots
Handhu Fahli charter, 7 nights: USD 1220 per surfer
Group Discount: USD 1150 pp with 14 surfers
July 7th to 14th: 10 spots
July 14th to 21st: 10 spots
July 21st to 28th: 10 spots
July 28th to August 4th: 6 spots
August 4th to 11th: 6 spots
August 25th to September 1st: 10 spots
September 1st to 8th: 10 spots
September 8th to 15th: 10 spots
September 15th to 22nd: 10 spots
October 6th to 13th: 10 spots
October 13th to 20th: 10 spots
Hudhuranfushi Resort, North Malé Atoll is a perfect location for couples & families, as well as small groups looking to get as much surf time as possible. With a perfect left on the southern tip of the island and boat trips to great waves nearby, and all the water activities you can think of for non-surfers, this could be the place you are looking for. All of the packages include roundtrip airport transfers by speedboat, accommodation in a Deluxe Beachfront Bungalow or Overwater Villa, all meals at main restaurant including beer & wine, and two boat trips per day with the Surfer package. The rates for the resort are per person for 7 nights, based on double occupancy. The 2012 “Get In Early” package prices apply if booked by April 25th.
April 14th to June 30th
Deluxe Beach Bungalow: USD 1920 Surfer & USD 1220 Non-surfer
Overwater Villa: USD 2885 Surfer & USD 2185 Non-surfer
July 1st to October 13th
Deluxe Beach Bungalow: USD 2030 Surfer & USD 1330 Non-surfer
Overwater Villa: USD 2990 Surfer & USD 2290 Non-surfer
Kandooma Resort is their newest resort option in the Maldives that is very family friendly with a great right-hander out front and a few other waves just a short boat ride away. The packages include roundtrip airport transfers by speedboat, accommodation in your choice of bungalows, and daily breakfast. Lunch & dinner, as well as surfing boat trips are available there on a pay as you go basis. All rooms are large & modern with great amenities like iPod docking stations. Rates are per person for 7 nights, based on double occupancy. The 2012 “Early Booking” package prices apply if booked 2 1/2 months prior to arrival.
February 1st to April 15th & October 1st to 31st
Beach Villa – USD 1515 pp
Sea-view Beach House – USD 1815 pp
Sea-view Overwater Villa – USD 2630 pp
April 16th to July 31st
Beach Villa – USD 970 pp
Sea-view Beach House – USD 1235 pp
Sea-view Overwater Villa – USD 1875 pp
August 1st to September 30th
Beach Villa – USD 1155 pp
Sea-view Beach House – USD 1460 pp
Sea-view Overwater Villa – USD 2110 pp
News
MIC appoints Ali Shakir as Group General Manager
Maldives Inflight Catering Pvt Ltd (MIC) has announced the appointment of Ali Shakir as the Group General Manager. With over 27 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Ali Shakir will now oversee operations for the Maldives Inflight Kitchen, Hulhule Island Hotel, and Madifushi Private Island Maldives.
Ali Shakir, who most recently served as General Manager at OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO, played a pivotal role in the resort’s redevelopment and reopening. Prior to that, he joined Atmosphere Core in 2019 as Resort Manager at VARU By Atmosphere, where he was instrumental in the pre-opening of several properties, including OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, OBLU SELECT Lobigili, OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, and VARU By Atmosphere. His wealth of experience also includes key positions at prestigious resorts such as Angsana Velavaru, Hulhule Island Hotel, and Paradise Island Resort and Spa.
Ali is no stranger to MIC, having spent more than 15 years at Hulhule Island Hotel, where he rose through the ranks to become Executive Assistant Manager before departing in 2019.
Commenting on his new role, Ali Shakir expressed his enthusiasm:
“I am honored to rejoin MIC and lead the operations of these iconic properties. This company has always held a special place in my career, and I am excited to work with the talented team to drive further success and innovation.”
Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, Managing Director of MIC, welcomed Ali to the leadership team, praising his extensive experience and strategic vision:
“We are delighted to have Ali back at MIC. His proven track record in the hospitality sector, combined with his in-depth knowledge of Hulhule Island Hotel and his previous achievements, makes him the ideal leader to take us forward. I have no doubt that under his leadership, MIC will continue to set benchmarks for excellence.”
Ali Shakir holds a General Managers Program certificate from Cornell University, USA, and a General Hotel Service certification from the Institute of Hotel and Catering Service, Maldives.
MIC is a joint venture between Maldives Airports Company Limited and SATS Ltd, renowned for its inflight catering services to airlines and private jets. Beyond the Maldives Inflight Kitchen, MIC also manages Hulhule Island Hotel, the only airport hotel at Velana International Airport, and the luxurious Madifushi Private Island Maldives in Meemu Atoll.
Tips & Advice
Flying after scuba diving: Essential guidelines for safe travel
Scuba diving in the Maldives offers an unparalleled experience, with its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters. However, one crucial aspect that divers must consider is the timing of their flights after diving. Understanding the recommended waiting periods before flying is essential to ensure safety and prevent decompression sickness. Here’s what you need to know.
Understanding Decompression Sickness
Decompression sickness, also known as “the bends,” occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the bloodstream and tissues due to rapid changes in pressure. This can happen if a diver ascends too quickly or flies too soon after diving. The reduced cabin pressure in an airplane can exacerbate the formation of these bubbles, leading to serious health risks.
Recommended Waiting Times
The waiting time before flying after scuba diving depends on the type and number of dives completed. Here are the general guidelines:
- Single Dive: If you have completed a single, no-decompression dive, it is recommended to wait at least 12 hours before flying. This allows sufficient time for the body to eliminate excess nitrogen.
- Multiple Dives or Multiple Days of Diving: For divers who have completed multiple dives or have been diving over several days, the recommended waiting period extends to 18 to 24 hours. This longer duration helps ensure that nitrogen levels in the body have decreased to safe levels.
- Dives Requiring Decompression Stops: If your dive profile included decompression stops, it is crucial to wait at least 24 to 48 hours before boarding a flight. Decompression dives involve higher nitrogen absorption, necessitating a longer off-gassing period.
Seaplane and Domestic Flights
Many tourists visiting resorts and other islands in the Maldives travel by seaplane or domestic flights. While these flights generally operate at lower altitudes compared to international flights, the same waiting time guidelines apply. The reason is that even at lower altitudes, the risk of decompression sickness remains significant due to the changes in pressure.
Practical Tips for Divers
- Plan Your Dives and Flights: When planning your diving trip, consider your flight schedule. Ensure that you have ample time between your last dive and your flight to adhere to the recommended waiting periods.
- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration can aid in the elimination of nitrogen from the body. Drink plenty of water before and after your dives.
- Monitor Your Health: Pay attention to any symptoms of decompression sickness, such as joint pain, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
- Use Dive Computers: Modern dive computers can help track your nitrogen levels and provide personalized recommendations for safe flying times based on your dive profile.
Flying after scuba diving requires careful consideration and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent decompression sickness. By following the recommended waiting times and taking necessary precautions, divers can enjoy their underwater adventures in the Maldives and travel safely. Always consult with dive professionals or medical experts if you have any concerns about your health and safety.
News
Riaan Drever appointed Cluster General Manager of Pullman Maldives Maamutaa and Mercure Maldives Kooddoo
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa and Mercure Maldives Kooddoo, idyllic island escapes nestled in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll, has announced the appointment of Mr. Riaan Drever as their new Cluster General Manager, effective July 1, 2024.
Mr. Drever brings over two decades of global hospitality expertise to his role, including an impressive 11-year tenure within the Maldives itself. Driven by a deep passion for exceeding guest expectations, he has carved a successful career overseeing luxurious resorts and spearheading innovative hospitality projects.
A true visionary leader, Mr. Drever is renowned for his commitment to excellence and dedication to blending luxurious experiences with authentic Maldivian culture. “I’m excited to continue contributing to the Maldives’ hospitality sector alongside the local team and Accor,” shared Mr. Drever, “ensuring every guest achieves their dream vacation.”
As the Maldives continues to be a top travel destination, Mr. Drever’s leadership promises to further solidify its reputation for exceptional hospitality.
Island Hopping for Every Traveler
Perfectly situated in the southern Maldivian atolls, both Pullman and Mercure cater to diverse traveler preferences. Marine enthusiasts will be captivated by the chance to encounter up to 13 different shark species!
- Pullman Maldives Maamutaa: This five-star, all-inclusive haven boasts 18 hectares of lush greenery surrounding a natural lake. From gourmet dining to romantic cocktails and thrilling water sports, Pullman offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Mercure Maldives Kooddoo: This adults-only retreat offers a more intimate experience. Nestled on Kooddoo Island, it’s just a 50-minute domestic flight from Malé. Unwind and explore the island’s hidden gems at your own pace, indulging in delectable local flavors.
Memories Made to Last
Under Mr. Drever’s visionary leadership, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa and Mercure Maldives Kooddoo promise an unforgettable Maldivian escape. Discover endless possibilities and create memories that will last a lifetime. Book your stay today and experience paradise!
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