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Saddle Up! Siyam World launches Maldives’ first resort horse ranch
Forging its own maverick path away from the Maldives mainstream, Siyam World has raised the bar once again with another new, never-done-before experience for guests: the Siyam World Horse Ranch.
One of the Maldives’ largest natural island resorts at 54 hectares – more than 25 per cent larger than Aintree racecourse – Siyam World had ample space in which to purpose-build the new 15,000sqm ranch.
With dedicated stabling and large fenced paddocks and fields, the fully equipped ranch is now the proud home of four beautiful, rare breed Indian horses – meaning Siyam World guests can saddle up and start living the dream of galloping along the island’s breath-taking beaches with the wind in their hair.
On a mission to bring its guests the broadest offering of exceptional escapades ever seen in the Maldives – from the Indian Ocean’s biggest floating water park to its peerless WOW! premium all-inclusive concept – Siyam World has the inside track yet again with its pioneering new riding experiences.
Following a comprehensive approval process by the Maldives Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, the four newest members of the Siyam World family were welcomed into the fold on 27 December 2021 – becoming the first horses ever introduced to a resort in the Maldives. Noor, a six-year-old full white mare; Jasmine, a six-year old white and grey mare, Habibi, a five-year-old black stallion with white spots and five-year-old full brown mare Kanbulo – meaning “sweetheart” in Dhivehi are all rare Marwari breed horses from the Jodhpur region of Rajasthan, India.
The horses are happily settled at the Siyam World Horse Ranch, built specifically to ensure their safety and comfort. No expense has been spared in integrating them into island life, including stabling with stalls; feed and tack rooms; water troughs; dedicated storage areas for hay and bedding; abundant fenced paddocks and fields where the horses can gambol freely; and a full array of maintenance equipment.
Experienced hostlers have been employed for each horse, overseen by a specially trained equestrian vet – permanently based on-island, and on-call at all times. Regular checks by the Ministry of Fishery & Agriculture provide ongoing additional independent oversight of the animals’ welfare.
Guests at Siyam World can now experience a sunrise or sunset horse-riding, photoshoot packages to capture those cherished moments, or even ride happily ever after into the Maldivian sunset as part of Siyam World’s wedding ceremonies. For more information on the horse-riding packages available at Siyam World Maldives, visit Siyam World Horse Ranch.
A standalone brand under Sun Siyam Resorts, Siyam World, Maldives is an all-embracing five-star all-inclusive island resort that offers fun-loving, open-minded couples, romance seekers, families or larger groups of friends the freedom to roam, socialise and engage in an island community.
Uncompromisingly quirky with a fun-loving attitude, a deep-rooted soul, and a unique approach to everything, this is one of the largest natural islands in the Maldives to boast a resort and show-stopping residences: a 54-hectare haven blessed with more than four kilometres of white sand beaches and six kilometres of house reef.
Siyam World shows off an enticing variety of 19 accommodation categories ranging from 89 to 3,000 square metres, from lush Pool Beach Villas, expansive Beach Suites and breathtaking Beach Residences to the playful Over-Water Villas – complete with irresistible water slides.
An exclusive enclave, The Beach House Collection, also features stunning Grand Water Pavilions and the magnificent Palace.
All accommodation types overlook the pristine Maldivian waters, come with direct access to the ocean and feature generously proportioned indoor and outdoor living spaces with private pools. The contemporary yet tropical architecture will blend seamlessly into the island’s paradisiacal surroundings. Interiors boast a neutral colour palette, mixed with bold splashes of Maldivian hues, soft textures and wooden accents; a calming environment that allows the vibrant shades of the Maldivian surroundings to speak for themselves.
Siyam World, Maldives is located in Noonu Atoll, 40 minutes direct seaplane ride from Velana International Airport, and also accessible via a 30-minute domestic flight to Maafaru Airport followed by a 10-minute speedboat trip.
For booking enquires email: stay@siyamworld.com
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Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon opens Marine Biology Unit
Regarded by ‘Lonely Planet’ as one of the premier destinations for diving, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is a tropical haven where lush greenery meets the expansive ocean. Surrounded by vibrant coral reefs brimming with marine life, the resort offers a rare combination of tranquility and adventure, providing guests with an extraordinary connection to nature. However, with global challenges such as climate change, overfishing, and pollution threatening marine ecosystems, the Maldives faces an urgent need to protect its delicate underwater environments.
In response to this growing responsibility, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon has taken a significant step in environmental conservation by establishing a dedicated Marine Biology Unit. This initiative aims to promote marine conservation and inspire a collective sense of responsibility among guests, staff, and the local community.
The Marine Biology Unit, formerly the resort’s library, has been transformed into an educational hub promoting sustainable tourism and ecological awareness. Led by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts’ first and only female marine biologist, the unit brings a unique and empowering perspective to marine conservation efforts. It provides an interactive space for guests to explore the intricate world of marine life, covering topics such as coral health and the behaviour of local fish species.
Daily educational sessions offer insights into the complex ecosystems of the ocean, with topics ranging from the marvels of coral reefs to the fascinating behaviours of the region’s marine life. To spark interest, the unit displays the day’s featured topic at its entrance, encouraging guests to participate. Fish identification checklists are also made available, helping visitors enhance their knowledge as they explore Ellaidhoo’s vibrant reefs.
General Manager of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Sanjeeva Perera, emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating, “The launch of our Marine Biology Unit is the realisation of a long-awaited dream and a meaningful contribution to our ESG initiatives. Our mission is to empower guests and staff to become true stewards of the ocean, fostering a deep respect for marine life that will resonate long after their stay at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon. We hope this initiative not only enriches their experience but also builds a foundation of environmental responsibility that extends to the wider community.”
A longstanding advocate for eco-friendly practices, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon recognises the critical importance of preserving the island’s extraordinary natural beauty. By involving guests as active participants in environmental protection, the resort aims to create a lasting positive impact, cultivating a shared commitment to safeguarding the pristine marine environment for future generations.
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Uncover the ocean’s secrets at Cinnamon Dhonveli
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives invites you to plunge into an underwater wonderland where adventure meets unparalleled beauty. As one of the Maldives’ most sought-after diving destinations, the resort offers access to breathtaking dive sites that showcase the incredible diversity of marine life, creating a unique dive experience that beckons adventurers from around the globe.
With the expertise of Dive & Sale Maldives, a trusted name in the diving industry for over 03 decades, guests are ensured a top-tier diving experience. Their seasoned instructors bring a wealth of knowledge and passion for the ocean, guiding you through renowned sites like Aquarium, HP Reef, Maldives Victory, Madi Miyaru Kan, Lankan Manta Point, Banana Reef, and Colosseum and much more. Each excursion reveals a vibrant underwater world filled with stunning corals and a kaleidoscope of fish, where graceful manta rays, majestic eagle rays, and playful turtles await your discovery.
The dedicated team from Dive & Sale Maldives enriches your diving adventures with insights into the intricate relationships within this underwater paradise, ensuring that your experience is not only thrilling but also educational. Their commitment to safety and marine conservation further enhances your dive, allowing you to explore with peace of mind while contributing to the preservation of this magnificent ecosystem.
At Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, we believe in celebrating the beauty of our oceans while promoting sustainability and conservation. Our commitment to protecting the marine environment means that guests can dive with a sense of purpose, knowing they are contributing to vital conservation efforts.
Whether you are a seasoned diver or just starting your journey, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives offers a captivating blend of adventure, beauty, and serenity. Discover the depths of the Indian Ocean, create lasting memories, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Maldives. For those seeking more than just an escape, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives invites you to uncover the wonders that lie beneath the waves, forging unforgettable moments in a world where nature’s beauty remains untamed and eternal.
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Velassaru Maldives’ Coral Project invites guests to help rebuild Maldives’ reefs
Velassaru Maldives has announced the launch of the Velassaru Coral Project, a new initiative designed to engage guests in marine conservation while supporting coral restoration and promoting marine biodiversity. This immersive project allows guests to actively participate in building an artificial reef, fostering a deeper connection with the environment during their stay.
As part of this initiative, guests can purchase a coral frame, which is adorned with coral fragments collected and secured by Velassaru’s marine team. Each frame includes a personalised plaque, offering participants the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in the Maldives. Over the following two years, guests receive biannual updates on the progress of their coral, with photos and videos documenting its growth and development.
Velassaru’s dedication to education ensures that participants understand the essential role coral reefs play in sustaining marine life and supporting local communities. Though they cover only a small fraction of the ocean floor, coral reefs are home to 25% of all marine species, providing shelter and sustenance to fish, invertebrates, and other sea creatures.
Certified and novice divers alike are invited to explore the artificial reef near the Immersion Dive Centre, where professional guides lead dives and offer insights into the coral regeneration process and the thriving marine ecosystem around the reef.
A highlight of this manmade reef is “The Dome,” an impressive 4-meter by 6-meter structure situated 10 meters below the water’s surface. Sunk on September 12, 2024, The Dome offers an accessible dive site for Velassaru guests to explore and nurture. During underwater excursions, divers are encouraged to monitor the health of the corals, maintaining fragments secured with zip ties and fishing line.
In addition to enhancing guest experiences, the Velassaru Coral Project aims to gather essential data for coral research. Each dive at the artificial reef includes an assessment of coral health, with detailed records on coral colour, size, and species. Regular checks also monitor environmental factors such as water temperature and quality, as even a two-degree rise can cause coral bleaching. The team will remain vigilant in observing common coral diseases like white syndrome and pests that threaten coral health.
Sharks have occasionally been sighted near smaller reefs close to the artificial site, and the Velassaru team hopes to see more shark sightings as coral and fish populations grow. These predators play a vital role in balancing the ecosystem and ensuring the health and diversity of the surrounding reefs.
All data collected from the Velassaru Coral Project will be shared with Coral Watch, a global database that compiles information on coral health and conservation efforts. Through this contribution, Velassaru guests are not only helping restore the Maldives’ reefs but are also supporting coral research and preservation worldwide.
By involving guests in this unique, hands-on experience, Velassaru Maldives aims to encourage coral growth, enhance marine biodiversity, and provide a meaningful, educational experience for all visitors. Together, these efforts contribute to a sustainable future for the oceans.
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