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Exceptional new experiences, unforgettable on-board luxury on Soneva in Aqua Yacht

The Soneva in Aqua Maldives yacht has elevated the definition of an ocean charter, offering Soneva’s signature luxury and impeccable service at sea.
Rare guest experiences are an intrinsic part of Soneva’s Slow Life philosophy, and Soneva in Aqua is no exception, with a captivating selection of new, one-of-a-kind activities, both above and below the waves.

Guests can come face-to-face with curious dolphins on the new Dolphin Sled experience, which glides through the ocean depths, or encounter nocturnal sea creatures on a moonlit snorkelling expedition. They can swim with gentle manta rays, paddle to deserted sandbanks in a kayak, or stargaze on deck with an expert astronomer.
Those looking for an adrenaline rush can swing from the boom mast or try out a range of new and exciting water sports from the yacht’s tender, including wake skating, skurfing or fun tubing. Or, for something more relaxing, there’s picnics on deserted islands, sustainable fishing or dolphin-spotting from the bowsprit nets.

Sailing from both Soneva Fushi in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and Soneva Jani in the tranquil and remote Noonu Atoll, Soneva in Aqua offers an unparalleled level of privacy and indulgence.
The 23-metre vessel was custom-built for the award-winning hospitality company, making its maiden voyage in 2017.
With two exceptionally spacious en-suite berths that accommodate four adults and two children, every detail of the yacht is designed to maximise a sense of luxury and space – from the expansive sun decks with plush daybeds and open-air Jacuzzi, to the glass-bottomed spa tub in the master suite.
Alongside the highly experienced captain and mechanic, the permanent crew also includes a dedicated Barefoot Butler, personal chef and wellness therapist to attend to guests’ every need.
From beach-side barbecues with the catch of the day, to deck-top dinners under the stars, the skilled chef prepares a personalised menu for every guest, for breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between.
The wellness therapist is also a yoga and meditation expert, offering guests a choice of indulgent massages and wellbeing rituals, from sunrise yoga to meditation under the stars – whenever they choose.
Upon request, they can also be joined by an expert dive master, surf instructor, astronomer or a digital storyteller.
Every Soneva in Aqua itinerary is completely bespoke.
Voyages range from a half-day or full-day Soneva in Aqua cruise to five-day stay-aboard adventures, as well as multi-destination packages with combined stays at both Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani, enabling guests to fully immerse themselves in Soneva’s luxurious Maldives experience.
Each voyage is fully tailored to guests’ desires, whether they prefer to explore remote islands and atolls, discover hidden surf breaks and secret dive sites, or simply relax with an on-deck massage under the stars.
The yacht’s itineraries take in some of the Maldives’ most spectacular locations, from the unique Rose Garden reef and Corbin wreck-site in the Goidhoo Atoll, to the unspoiled ecosystems of the Baa Atoll, rich in marine biodiversity.

Soneva is an award-winning sustainable luxury resorts operator that pioneered the concept of ‘barefoot luxury’ when it opened Soneva Fushi in the Maldives in 1995.
Today there are many imitators but no equals. Every Soneva resort is found in outstanding natural locations that are remote yet accessible.
Offering guests the luxury of space, privacy and seclusion, each resort is renowned for its exquisite private villa accommodation, one-of-a-kind experiences, memorable dining destinations and intuitive, personalised service.
For more information on Soneva in Aqua, please visit www.soneva.com/soneva-in-aqua.
Featured
Finolhu replants 1,200 coral colonies to strengthen house reef

Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, has completed a four-day coral transplantation programme, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to marine conservation. Led by the resort’s marine biologist, Ivanna Tobar, the initiative involved the replanting of approximately 1,200 coral colonies from Finolhu’s nurseries to its house reef, strengthening one of the Maldives’ most critical marine ecosystems.
The programme was notable for its collaborative approach, bringing together four marine biologists from neighbouring resorts—JOALI BEING, Westin, Coco Palm, and Dusit Thani. Visiting experts Philippa Darby-shire Jenkins (JOALI BEING), Rosalie Bailie (Coco Palm), Harry Longin (Westin), and Louna Marchand (Dusit Thani) took part in hands-on transplantation dives, equipment preparation, and reef health management activities, including the removal of invasive pincushion sea stars.
Steven Phillips, General Manager of Finolhu, said the initiative extended beyond coral restoration: “This represents a unique opportunity to unite resorts, share expertise, and promote marine conservation at the highest level. Healthy reefs are essential not only for the Maldives’ biodiversity but also for the wellbeing of local communities and the sustainable future of tourism. Through this collaborative effort, we have created a lasting impact in safeguarding these underwater landscapes for our guests and for generations to come.”
Coral conservation remains crucial in the Maldives, where reefs provide natural protection against coastal erosion, support fisheries relied upon by local communities, and sustain the nation’s tourism industry. Pressures such as rising sea temperatures, pollution, and human activity have intensified threats to these ecosystems, making restoration work increasingly vital to preserve the country’s natural heritage and marine resilience.
The four-day initiative combined restoration activities with knowledge exchange. Morning briefings prepared participants for the day’s dives, while afternoon sessions focused on reef assessments and equipment readiness for subsequent activities. This integrated approach not only accelerated restoration but also enhanced regional expertise in reef management.
The event forms part of Finolhu’s wider environmental stewardship strategy. Alongside coral restoration, the resort manages a coral nursery, monitors reef health, and develops sustainable marine practices to ensure the vitality of its house reef. Guests are also encouraged to engage with conservation initiatives through experiences such as the Coral Conservation Package, which combines education with hands-on involvement in reef restoration projects.
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Freediving with tiger sharks: Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah collaborates with marine biologist Andriana Fragola

Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah, renowned for its world-class scuba diving encounters, has announced an exciting expansion: the chance to freedive with tiger sharks in the Maldives’ southernmost atoll.
Fuvahmulah, often hailed as the “Tiger Shark Capital of the World,” is the only place on the planet where year-round encounters with tiger sharks are virtually guaranteed. With more than 280 identified resident tiger sharks, the island has become a bucket-list destination for divers and marine enthusiasts alike.

The newly introduced freediving experience offers a unique way to interact with these apex predators. Unlike scuba diving, freediving takes place without bubbles or heavy gear, allowing participants to connect with tiger sharks in a quieter, more natural way. This approach often makes the encounter more comfortable for the sharks and more intimate for the diver.
Guiding these expeditions is Andriana “Andy” Fragola, a marine biologist, shark diver, and conservationist currently based in Hawaii. Andy holds a Master’s Degree in Marine Conservation Biology with a focus on shark microbiology and has dedicated her career to shark research, conservation, and public education. Through her work in media and content creation, she strives to raise awareness about the importance of shark conservation and inspire people to take action to protect marine ecosystems.
“Freediving with tiger sharks is a raw and transformative experience,” says Andy. “Being eye-to-eye with these incredible animals without the barrier of scuba gear allows you to see them for what they truly are—powerful, intelligent, and essential to the health of our oceans.”
Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah ensures that all freediving activities are conducted under strict safety protocols. With experienced professionals like Andy leading the dives, participants can expect both an exhilarating and responsible adventure.

Why this experience stands out:
- Eye-to-eye encounters with tiger sharks in their natural habitat.
- A deeper, more personal connection with marine life.
- Expert-led guidance ensuring safety and conservation awareness.
In addition to freediving, Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah offers a range of packages, including accommodation options, making it easier for adventurers to fully immerse themselves in the island’s extraordinary marine environment.
For bookings and more information:
📧 Email: sales@scuba-expeditions.com
📱 WhatsApp: +960 9894653
🌐 www.scuba-expeditions.com
Excursions
Experience ocean encounters: Manta Month at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has announced the return of Manta Month this September, following the success of last year’s initiative. Now established as an annual programme, the celebration offers guests of all ages the opportunity to engage with the ocean while supporting marine conservation, with a particular focus on the manta ray.
Throughout the month, guests are invited to take part in guided excursions to known manta hotspots, led by the resort’s experienced team, who share insights into manta behaviour and conservation. Awareness talks highlight the story of a manta rescued near the island, serving as a reminder of the resort’s continuing efforts to protect marine life. Children can enjoy manta-themed arts and crafts as well as beach games, while the wider community will join reef and island clean-up activities, with collected waste repurposed into manta sculptures. In addition, proceeds from manta pendant sales at the resort’s retail boutique will be donated to The Manta Trust, extending support for research and protection initiatives.
Located close to several of the Maldives’ top ten dive sites, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives places importance on the wellbeing of the ocean and its ecosystems, a priority shared by both guests and staff. The resort’s sustainability initiatives are aligned with IHG’s purpose, True Hospitality for Good, through its Journey to Tomorrow programme, which supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrates a commitment to long-term environmental protection.
Commenting on the event, Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, said: “What started as a special event last year has now grown into an annual month-long celebration. Kandooma Manta Month is not just about seeing these magnificent creatures up close, but about creating meaningful experiences that inspire awareness, responsibility, and care for our ocean environment.”
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