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Maldives bucket list experiences with Crown & Champa Resorts

The Maldives’ leading resort collection brings out-of-the-ordinary experiences, unique encounters, and new ways to explore that aim to reignite the passion for travel and inspire bucket list dreams.
Crown & Champa Resorts, the leading resort collection in the Maldives, has revealed bucket list adventures travellers can look forward to, whether seeking new authentic experiences or booking their first post-lockdown getaway.
From swimming with whale sharks and scuba diving to luxury yachting and lifestyle retreats, it is time to make these holiday dreams come alive.
Luxury yachting with Kudadoo
Discerning travellers can enjoy bespoke excursions and romantic celebrations aboard Kudadoo Maldives Private Island‘s luxury yacht, Bella.
Embark on a search for pelagic species out in the blue water, seek out an uninhabited island for a picnic lunch, or admire the star-studded Maldivian sky while sipping champagne – these moments of magnificence are waiting to be unfolded.
Dream island escape with Hurawalhi
Alongside 5.8, the world’s largest all-glass undersea restaurant, the naturally chic Hurawalhi Island Resort also has its private sandbank called Dream Island, located just a short boat ride away and amidst the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean.
Offering that ‘luxury castaway’ island experience, guests can enjoy their own island paradise and spend the day exactly as they wish, whether that leads them to the relaxation under the sun, exploration of the spectacular life beneath the surface, or simply the enjoyment of endless ocean views.
Wellness retreat with Kagi
Holidaymakers seeking to rejuvenate their mind, body, and spirit may find themselves in the well being-focused paradise of Kagi Maldives Spa Island, a true sanctuary for the senses that offers the perfect setting to slow down and immerse into self-discovery and self-care.
Guest can dive into a world of wellness with the resort’s ‘Lifestyle Retreats’, which feature yoga and meditation, relaxing massages, and holistic healing, alongside nutritious meals and locally-inspired excursions.
Touch of romance with Veligandu
Honeymooners and romantic couples will enjoy a myriad of intimate experiences in the secluded haven of Veligandu Island Resort & Spa, voted a top romantic hotel in Asia and the Maldives: from adoring magical sunsets, indulging in a private dinner on a tranquil beach, opting for a private cruise, or enjoying a renewing spa treatment together.
Manta ray encounters with Komandoo
Nestled amid Lhaviyani Atoll’s manta hotspots, the adults-only (18+) Komandoo Island Resort & Spa is the perfect island retreat from which to experience magical adventures with manta rays, the queen of the ocean.
Although year-round sightings are common, these majestic creatures can be seen frequently from November through April, feeding on plankton and swimming around the rich waters of the Maldives.
Guests can turn their regular diving and snorkelling excursions into an adventure of a lifetime.
Shipwreck diving with Meeru
With an incredible diversity of marine life, there is no denying that the Maldives is a sought-after destination for a world-class scuba diving experience.
The palm-fringed paradise of Meeru Island Resort & Spa in North Malé offers a range of dive excursions, including diving amongst the wrecks.
Divers and adventure seekers alike will be mesmerised by an out of this world undersea environment with sunken ships teeming with aquatic life.
Touch of romance with Veligandu
Swimming alongside these gentle giants of the ocean is high on the bucket list experiences of many travellers to the Maldives.
Being the largest fish in the sea, snorkelling or diving with whale sharks is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The adventurer’s paradise of Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa, located just about an hour Dhoni boat ride away from Maamigili Island, a premier Whale Shark Point in South Ari Atoll, affords guests the chance to swim with and even take photographs of these marvellous creatures.
Swim with sea turtles with Kuredu
The vibrant Kuredu Island Resort & Spa enjoys a desirable location in Lhaviyani Atoll, within easy reach of the largest community of green sea turtles in all of the Maldives.
Just a short boat trip away, guests of all ages can find themselves in the crystal-clear waters around Kuredu Caves, home to an abundance of marine turtles and other oceanic life.
Dolphin spotting with Innahura
Boasting the largest lagoon in the pristine Lhaviyani Atoll, the laid-back paradise of Innahura Maldives Resort is a natural playground for water sports enthusiasts and enchanting marine creatures such as dolphins.
Innahura is an excellent destination from which to experience hopeful dolphin encounters.
When lucky enough, guests joining one of the resort’s ocean excursions will have the opportunity to set their sights on these playful cetaceans jumping in the distance or swimming right next to the boat.
Find your perfect paradise in the Maldives with Crown & Champa Resorts.
Crown & Champa Resorts caters to every purpose of travel and connects travellers with a passion for a life fully lived to the best of this idyllic destination, offering world-class hospitality, thoughtful and attentive service, and authentic Maldivian experiences.
The diverse collection of properties includes Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, Hurawalhi Island Resort, Kagi Maldives Spa Island, Veligandu Island Resort & Spa, Komandoo Island Resort & Spa, Meeru Island Resort & Spa, Kuredu Island Resort & Spa, Innahura Maldives Resort, and one city hotel, Champa Central Hotel.
Visit www.crownandchamparesorts.com or email info@crownandchamparesorts.com.
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Jet Car: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi unveils ultimate family adventure

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is once again making waves with the launch of its latest water sports adventure—the Jet Car Experience. Set against the backdrop of the island’s turquoise lagoon, the Jet Car offers an exciting way to explore the ocean in comfort and style. With its sleek automotive-inspired design and smooth performance, this water ride is perfect for families, couples, and friends looking to add a little adventure to their stay. Whether cruising under the sun or capturing perfect picture moments, the Jet Car adds an extraordinary and refreshing twist to island leisure.
Launched in anticipation of the resort’s whimsical Easter festivities, the Jet Car sets the stage for an action-packed holiday in paradise. From Easter egg hunts and creative kids’ programs to beachside feasts, live entertainment, and themed dining events — Easter at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is a celebration for every generation.

Easter Holiday Offer – book by April 20, 2025, for stays until December 23, 2025. Enjoy free seaplane transfers for one guest with a 4-night stay, plus up to 30% off villas and beach dining. Book a 90-minute spa treatment and receive a 120-minute upgrade for free. Two children can enjoy complimentary wakeboarding or water skiing with two paying adults.
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or serenity, the Jet Car experience and Easter escape at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi deliver the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and family-friendly fun.
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Rise of solo travel: Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives meets the need

As travel becomes more about personal fulfilment and self-discovery, solo journeys are on the rise. In 2024, 16% of holidaymakers are travelling alone which is up from 11% in 2023, whilst searches and bookings for solo travel have also surged by 223% over the past decade. Often seen as a romantic escape, the Maldives is also an ideal destination for independent travellers seeking tranquillity, adventure, and a deeper connection with nature. At Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives, solo travellers can find a collection of bespoke experiences designed to enrich their journey.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives offers the perfect quick escape, just a short speedboat ride from Malé, allowing you to drop your bags and step straight into adventure. With a seamless blend of excitement and relaxation, the resort has earned a devoted following, drawing guests back year after year. Days here are filled with new experiences, whether gliding across crystal-clear waters on a kayak, feeling the rush of windsurfing, or mastering the art of stand-up paddleboarding, while an extensive range of watersports ensures there’s always something to discover. For those seeking the ultimate thrill, big game fishing presents the chance to reel in barracuda or tuna, transforming a day on the water into an unforgettable story to take home.
For those drawn to the underwater world, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon offers an unparalleled diving experience, with its legendary house reef regarded as one of the best in the Maldives. Just steps from the shore, divers can glide through vibrant coral formations where reef sharks, eagle rays, and schools of tropical fish create a mesmerising scene. Whether you’re an experienced diver or taking your first plunge, every dive presents the chance to encounter an extraordinary array of marine life, from graceful sea turtles to majestic manta rays. For an added thrill, night dives transform the ocean into an entirely different realm, revealing the nocturnal wonders of the reef, where elusive creatures emerge under the glow of a dive torch.
As part of Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon’s commitment to sustainability, guests can learn from the resort’s in-house Marine Biologist, who is dedicated to preserving the island’s ecosystem. Solo travellers can engage in educational talks and even participate in hands-on coral planting activities, actively contributing to the restoration of coral reefs while gaining valuable insight into the resort’s marine conservation efforts.
For travellers seeking both elegance and luxury, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives offers a serene escape surrounded by the endless blue of the Indian Ocean. A standout feature is Marlin Restaurant, where seafood takes centre stage, from succulent lobster and fresh tuna to refined Maldivian specialities. For those eager to explore the Maldives beyond its shores, a visit to the historic Keyodhoo shipwreck or nearby islands like Thinadhoo and Felidhoo provides a glimpse into authentic island life. And finally to unwind, Mandara Spa offers a serene sanctuary, with treatments designed to soothe both body and mind.
Solo travel at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives is an invitation to embark on a transformative journey. You could be seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, however, each resort offers a unique blend of personalised experiences designed to help you discover new facets of yourself. With the Maldives’ endless blue and sunny skies, every moment becomes an opportunity for self-reflection, growth, and unforgettable memories.
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Nova Maldives, PADI partner for transformative Ocean Adventure Week with India Black this July

This summer, Nova Maldives, the soulful island resort, is proudly partnering with the world’s leading scuba diving organisation, PADI, to host a unique ocean adventure week from 13 to 20 July, in celebration of PADI’s 11th Women’s Dive Day on 19 July 2025.
Nova & PADI’s Transformative Ocean Adventure Week will be co-hosted by PADI AmbassaDiver, conservation advocate, and broadcaster India Black, and PADI Regional Manager for the Maldives Matt Wenger, inviting ocean lovers from around the world to immerse themselves in diving, conservation, and community, while discovering the transformative power of the ocean and promoting sustainable diving practices.
Taking place at Nova’s stunning South Ari Atoll location, this event will feature guided dives, marine conservation workshops, and sustainability-focused training. Guests will have the rare opportunity to explore the protected pristine waters of the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), witness diverse marine life, including manta rays and whale sharks, and deepen their understanding of ethical diving and ocean stewardship.
Leading the way alongside PADI AmbassaDiver India Black is PADI Regional Manager Matt Wenger, who brings nearly three decades of experience as a PADI Pro. Now in his tenth year overseeing PADI’s presence in the Maldives, Matt has played a key role in expanding PADI’s reach across both luxury resorts and emerging local island destinations. His dedication to sustainability and marine conservation aligns closely with PADI’s Three Pillars of Change, ensuring that responsible diving and environmental awareness remain at the heart of this experience. A passionate storyteller and advocate for ocean conservation, India Black has dedicated her career to inspiring people to adventure further, care for themselves, and protect the planet. Having spent time rehabilitating sea turtles in the Whitsundays, paddling 110km across Hawaii’s Alenuihaha Channel, and championing marine protection initiatives worldwide, her connection to the ocean runs deep. For India, the water has always been a place of healing and personal growth, and she hopes this event will encourage others to experience the same. With Matt’s deep expertise in the Maldives diving scene and India’s mission to connect people with the ocean, this event promises to be an inspiring, educational, and immersive week for all participants.
“The ocean has given me so much — peace, perspective, and connection — and I’m so passionate about helping others find that too,” says India Black. “This week is about more than just diving; it’s about learning how we can all play a part in protecting the marine world while building unforgettable memories in it.”
Hosted at Nova’s soulful island resort located in the breathtaking South Ari Atoll, the event offers guests a curated programme of conservation-focused activities, dives, and educational workshops designed to deepen their understanding of ocean protection. With India and Matt’s expertise, throughout the week, guests will experience:
- Manta Quest Snorkelling – Head off in search of majestic manta rays in their natural habitat.
- Whale Shark Snorkelling – Swim alongside the Maldives’ gentle giants in an unforgettable encounter.
- Turtle Quest – Discover the Maldives’ endangered sea turtles while learning about conservation efforts to protect them.
- Ocean Clean-Up Dive – Take hands-on action by removing marine debris from the reef.
- Blue Planet Movie Nights – Unwind under the stars with screenings of BBC’s Blue Planet series, deepening appreciation for the underwater world.
- Marine Conservation Talks & Workshops – Attend presentations on whale shark research, coral conservation, and PADI AWARE’s initiatives[ma1] , exploring sustainable diving and marine protection.
- Women’s Dive Day Celebration – A special PADI Women’s Dive Day event to encourage and empower more women to embrace diving and ocean conservation.
As partners of the MWSRP (The Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme) and accredited by Manta Trust as Responsible Manta Tourism Operator Nova is proud to support the conservation of the Maldives’ beautiful gentle giants. At the heart of the event is a commitment to sustainable tourism, ocean conservation, and community connection, values that align closely with India’s own mission. Having built a platform dedicated to encouraging others to adventure further, love themselves better, and protect the planet, India hopes to inspire attendees to see themselves as stewards of the ocean.
“My journey with the ocean has shaped who I am today, and I’ve learned that once you truly connect with the sea, you can’t help but want to protect it,” she says. “I’m so excited to dive alongside Nova’s guests, share what I’ve learned, and hopefully spark that same love for the water in them.”
Nova’s General Manager, Abdulla Aboobakuru, adds: “This event embodies everything we stand for at Nova — community, connection, and sustainability. Partnering with PADI and India Black gives us an incredible opportunity to not only showcase the natural beauty of the Maldives but also inspire guests to become lifelong ocean advocates.”
The Nova x PADI Transformative Ocean Adventure Week from 13 to 20 July 2025 is available to book exclusively through Nova , with limited spots available. Full Board Plus rates start at USD 493/night in a Beach Villa and USD 694/night in a Water Villa (inclusive of tax) based on two adults sharing when booked direct.
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