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Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon introduces night diving experience
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, located in the North Ari Atoll, is an iconic resort belonging to the Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts chain, and a prime diving destination in the world.
Getting up close and personal with Marlon Robert, hotel manager at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon by day, and an avid diver by night, shares his experience with the underwater world and his passion as a true explorer.
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is renowned as one of the best spots for divers in the world, making diving there all the more alluring.
As Marlon explains, it is because the resort is built on a coral bed with a diameter of almost a thousand meters and thirty meters in depth. This, unlike hotels built on sandbanks, gives the divers an unparalleled experience that leaves them mesmerised.
“Our guests are speechless after witnessing the beautiful colours and active sea life,” Marlon comments.
“They are amazed by the diversity that they have only witnessed here at our island.”
Marlon’s story is gripping.
“It’s all about the adventure that you will come across; you will be in an entirely different world with colours and creatures from known to the unimaginable,” he says.
During night dives, it is common to be acquainted with unfamiliar creatures that are bigger, smaller and even microscopic. Encounters with Eagle Rays, Sting Rays, Nurse Sharks, Gray Reef Sharks and Moray Eel are truly magical experiences.
“It is the peacefulness, night diving that takes me into a different reality for just an hour as it is a crucial getaway, it’s an amazing feeling and there’s little that can compare,” he says.
There is a vast difference between night diving and day diving.
“During the night, the light of the torch enhances the colours of corals that sunlight just doesn’t allow. The colours are vivid, vibrant and give a new perspective to underwater life,” Marlon explains.
“With the ideal location of the hotel and the larger fish choosing to hunt in the night, we can see more sea-creatures at night as they have a lot more movement.”
In the darkness, creatures such as the octopus are seen in their natural colours and they are breathtaking. Lobsters in caves come out searching for their daily prey in the night and they too have amazing colours under the light of a torch. While famous aquatic stars, such as turtles and sharks are guaranteed to be seen, you may also see the odd stingray or a moray eel on a lazy swim across the calm underwater.
“Our hotel guests get to curate their personalised diving experience. They can start by exploring the reef and afterwards go for a night dive. We offer the first trial dive, at no charge. If the guest requires it, we train them to dive on the reef and let them get comfortable. You do not have to be an expert diver or swimmer to be able to enjoy the experience,” Marlon he says.
“Diving was never a part of my plan. One day, I dived with one of the dive-masters and fell in love with it.”
He now holds an advanced certificate in diving and has been a part of the Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon team for the past 20 years.
Preserving the ‘Life on Land’ and ‘Life below Water’ are key areas that are of vital importance in all operations at Elladhoo Maldives by Cinnamon.
The resort has reduced its plastic consumption and wastage by using refillable water bottles, reusable bags and straws along with frequent beach clean-ups to conserve the underwater environment surrounding the resort.
The resort has also generated 191,563 KWh of solar energy and reduced carbon dioxide emission by 153, 250 kg in 2020/21.
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is a true diver’s paradise that not only offers exhilarating underwater experiences but also thrives to safeguard life amidst it.
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Diving Dreams Take the Plunge: New PADI Five Star Academy Opens in Maldives
Maldives’ first and only PADI Five Star Career Development Center, the Maldivian Academy of Diving, has officially opened its doors in K. Himmafushi. This new academy signifies a major step forward for professional dive training in the Maldives.
The Academy is dedicated to providing top-tier, professional-level dive training programs that meet the most rigorous standards set by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). They recently concluded their inaugural PADI Instructor Development Course on March 3rd, and their next PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor Course is scheduled for July 29th to August 13th, 2024.
Leading the Academy is Adam Ashraf, a PADI Platinum Course Director for both 2022 and 2023. For the past decade, Ashraf has been running Dive Desk, a highly successful dive center in Malé. In fact, Dive Desk was the most successful PADI professional development center in the Maldives in 2023, earning the prestigious PADI EMEA Platinum Professional Development Excellence Award. This award recognizes the center’s exceptional performance in training new dive professionals, with Dive Desk being the only Maldivian center and one of only ten in the entire Europe, Middle-East & Africa (EMEA) region to receive this recognition.
Platinum status for both the Course Director and the Dive Center is not given lightly. It’s awarded based on a strict criteria of the number of professional-level certifications issued by PADI. Adding to Dive Desk’s accolades, they were also awarded the PADI Outstanding Contribution to People and Humanity Award last month for their dedication to fostering opportunities for Maldivians in the diving industry.
Despite a decade of success and consistently running the top PADI professional development programs in the Maldives for the past seven years, Dive Desk faced challenges. Limited space at their facility and the high cost of accommodation for students staying in Malé for extended periods were significant hurdles.
The Maldivian Academy of Diving was established specifically to address these issues. Located in Himmafushi, the Academy offers a more spacious learning environment and affordable accommodation options for students, all within close proximity to the capital city. The Academy will soon be offering on-site dorm rooms as well.
The Academy caters to all levels of diving experience, from those just beginning their underwater journey to seasoned divers seeking to become instructors. They offer a comprehensive range of courses and certifications to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to achieve their diving goals.
The opening of the Maldivian Academy of Diving represents a significant milestone in Adam Ashraf’s ongoing mission to empower Maldivian youth to pursue careers in the diving industry.
For more information dive into www.divedesk.mv
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Jawakara Islands Maldives Partners with LUX Tennis for Unforgettable Tennis and Padel Getaways
Jawakara Maldives announces a new partnership with LUX Tennis, a premier tennis management company. This collaboration elevates the resort’s offerings, providing guests with an exclusive tennis and padel program in a stunning beachfront setting.
Unparalleled Island Retreat
Jawakara Maldives is a haven of luxury, seamlessly blending traditional Maldivian warmth with modern amenities. Pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery create the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure. Guests can choose from exquisite overwater villas and beachfront accommodations, all designed for ultimate comfort and privacy.
A Paradise for All Preferences
Spanning two interconnected islands, Jawakara offers a diverse range of accommodations catering to every taste. Culinary delights await at the resort’s eclectic restaurants, featuring Teppanyaki, Asian, Mediterranean, and international buffets. From indulgent spa treatments to thrilling water sports and exploration of the vibrant underwater world, the resort caters to all interests.
Elevated Tennis and Padel Experience
The collaboration with LUX Tennis introduces a unique program designed to improve guests’ tennis and padel skills. Boasting a tennis court and three padel courts (two covered), Jawakara ensures uninterrupted play. Personalized coaching, structured practice sessions, and exciting events cater to individuals of all ages and skill levels. Whether guests prefer one-on-one coaching, group sessions with experienced professionals, or tournaments, LUX Tennis offers a range of options.
Expert Guidance for All Levels
Leading the program is Afonso Matias, a distinguished LUX Tennis professional with over a decade of experience. Afonso’s dedication and expertise have earned him recognition as a certified coach by the Portuguese Tennis Federation. He currently holds the esteemed position of Tennis Director at Jawakara Islands Maldives.
Excursions
Uncover the Gems and Untold Tales of the Maldives’ Baa Atoll Through Personalised and Free-Spirited Adventures with The Nautilus Maldives
When envisioning the Maldives, one often conjures images of pristine white sands and luxurious resorts. However, beyond the typical tourist attractions lies a realm of adventure, cultural immersion, and natural wonders waiting to be explored. The Nautilus Maldives, an ultra-luxury private island hideaway, is crafting extraordinary journeys in the captivating Baa Atoll, inviting its guests to embrace escapism through immersive cultural experiences.
Inspired by The Nautilus’s brand hallmarks of the Art of Bohemia and Free Spirited Adventures, guests are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and indulge in transformative experiences. Through encounters with local personalities, guests gain an insight into island life, delving into cultural roots, traditions, nature, language, cuisine, and more.
The Nautilus prides itself on tailoring bespoke experiences to suit the unique preferences of its guests—whether adventurers, culture enthusiasts, or families seeking more than a beachside retreat. Guests embark on one of The Nautilus’s luxurious yachts, exploring treasured spots of the Atoll and creating unforgettable memories that will linger in their hearts long after their journey ends.
Discover the roots at the Kendhoo
Nestled in the northwest of the Baa Atoll, Kendhoo carries a rich tapestry of experiences weaving together history and culture. Once a vital hub along ancient maritime routes, Kendhoo’s vibrant cultural landscape is shaped by centuries of influences from Indian, Arab, and Southeast Asian merchants, as well colonial conquests. Guests can wander its streets,
indulging in local culinary treats with distinct flavours, and exploring landmarks like the 800- year old house marking the place of prayers of Abdul Barakaath Yoosuf al Barbary, a renowned Islamic scholar.
Weave your memories of the Maldives into art at Kihaadhoo
On the beautiful island of Kihaadhoo, guests can immerse themselves in the therapeutic art of coconut leaf weaving, a cherished tradition passed down through generations. Through hands-on experiences with the island’s residents, guests can learn to create baskets, hats, and decorative pieces, fostering a sense of cultural identity and belonging.
www.thenautilusmaldives.com
Traditional lacquer masters at Thulhaadhoo
Venturing to the southern tip of Baa Atoll, guests discover Thulhaadhoo island, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship in traditional lacquerware. Here, artisans share their secrets of this ancient art of decorating items with vibrant colours and intricate designs inspired by the Maldives’ marine life and lush tropics, which has been passed down through generations.
Guests can even try their hand at creating these unique art pieces, serving as precious souvenir of their tropical getaway.
Exploration of the Deep Blue Waters of Dhonfanu
At Dhonfanu, one of Baa Atoll’s premier diving spots, vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life awaits beneath azure waters. In season, there’s also a high chance for guests to encounter graceful manta rays and majestic whale sharks, igniting the senses with excitement and awe.
Delve into Poetic Ambiance of Dharavandhoo
Guests can make a stop at Dharavandhoo island, which boasts a rich tradition of Maldivian poetry, where locals celebrate history and folklore through the art of storytelling, expressing emotions, beliefs, and aspirations in the most poetic ways. These enchanting verses, inspired by the islands’ natural beauty, love, nature, and daily island life, transport listeners to a world where ocean rhythms intertwine poetic imagery.
To craft your own cultural journey across Maldivian islands, contact The Nautilus at hello@thenautilusmaldives.com and begin creating your ultimate bohemian dream escape. For more information visit www.thenautilusmaldives.com.
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