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Reefscapers at Sheraton Maldives witnesses coral spawning events

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The team of marine biologists of Reefscapers based at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa witnessed, for the second time since the beginning of the coral restoration project, four coral spawning events with 10 species of coral that spawned over four consecutive days from the 20th to the 23rd of March 2022.

After over 14 nights of dive monitoring and months of coral spawning research, the team successfully witnessed this event: one of nature’s most magical spectacles and the most rewarding event that shows the success of the coral restoration project.

The 10 species spawning were A. tenuis, A. humilis, A. gemmifera A. austera, A. cytherea, A. hyacinthus, A. millepora, A. nasuta and two species yet to be identified. Each night, except on the 20th, two species including A. tenuis spawned right after the sunset at either 18:32 or 18:38 after over 30 minutes bundling. The other species spawned around the lowest tide between 20:20 and 21:30.

This phenomenon happens once a year per coral colonies and resembles an underwater snowstorm. Some species such as A. cytherea have been highly impacted by previous bleaching events in the Maldives so this is incredible to have record of these species spawning.

Coral eggs were first spotted inside multiple coral colonies on the 1st of December 2021 and slowly were pigmented over the past months. Prior to spawning, coral go through a process called bundling. A bundle of egg and sperm forms and becomes visible inside the polyps. On cues from the lunar cycle and water temperature, corals are ready to spawn. They release their gametes all at the same time: the Milky Way on the reef. As the gametes are only viable for a few hours, they spawn in synchrony to ensure fertilisation as they rise to the surface and flow with the current. After some time, planulae larvae will attach on the reef and create a new polyp that will grow into a coral colony.

Bundling time varies between species with some species spawning within 30 minutes and some other spawning after over an hour and a half. Spawning time also differs between species with species spawning at different time depending on their genetic similarity and evolutionary origin. During these night dives, crucial scientific data were collected to increase our knowledge on coral spawning.

Even though spawning has been well documented in the world, little information and past records exist for coral spawning in the Maldives. These spawning events will help us develop our understanding of coral spawning in the North Male Atoll.

The aim of coral restoration is to ensure coral cover increases on the reef. When corals spawn, it shows they are healthy and mature enough to reproduce. Even though climate change is alarming with ever-increasing stress on the reef, this is a sign that corals can recover from previous massive bleaching event.

In May and June 2020, 7,500 coral colonies were rescued from Gulhi Falhu and relocated on coral pyramids at the Sheraton Full Moon Resort & Spa, which allowed them a second chance to thrive. For the second time since the beginning of the project in February 2020, the team witnessed coral spawning on theses pyramids, showing the success of the project.

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Train with tennis legend Iva Majoli at Sirru Fen Fushi

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Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort has welcomed former World No. 4 and Grand Slam champion Iva Majoli for an exclusive tennis experience set amidst the stunning natural island.

From Saturday, 26 April to Monday, 5 May, guests are invited to sharpen their skills, enjoy unforgettable moments, and train with a true icon of the sport. Known for her powerful game and fierce determination, Iva Majoli carved her name into tennis history by winning the 1997 Roland-Garros title, famously defeating World No. 1 Martina Hingis in a breathtaking final. With career highlights including titles at the Zurich Open and Tokyo Open, her presence on the island promises an inspiring and elegant sporting experience.

Schedule of Events

Saturday, 26 April:

  • 5pm- 6pm: Adult Group Clinic (2-6 players max)
  • 6pm-7pm: Meet & Greet: A Sunset Cheers with Iva Majoli

Sunday, 27 April:

  • 5pm – 6pm: Kids Group Clinic (2-6 players max)
  • 6pm -7pm: Private session

Tuesday, 29 April:

  • 5pm- 6pm: Adult Group Clinic (2-6 players max)
  • 6pm -7pm: Private session

Thursday, 1 May:

  • 5pm – 6pm: Kids Group Clinic (2-6 players max)
  • 6pm – 7pm: Private Coaching

Saturday, 3 May:

  • 5pm- 6pm: Adult Group Clinic (2-6 players max)
  • 6pm – 7pm: Private Session

Monday, 5 May:

  • 5pm – 6pm: Kids Group Clinic (2-6 players max)
  • 6pm – 7pm: Private Coaching

Whether you’re seeking to refine your backhand or introduce your child to the game under expert guidance, this is a rare chance to learn from a tennis champion in one of the world’s most exclusive island settings.

Spaces are limited. For bookings and further information, please visit www.sirrufenfushi.com or email reservations@sirrufenfushi.com.

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Patina Maldives partners with FC Bayern Munich to host exclusive football camps

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Following a successful collaboration with Real Madrid last year, Patina Maldives continues its tradition of extraordinary partnerships: The luxury resort welcomes FC Bayern Munich for an exclusive series of football camps on the Fari Islands. A total of six camps will be offered throughout 2025, timed to coincide with school holidays. Football- loving children and teenagers will have the rare opportunity to train under the guidance of licensed coaches from the German champions – all against the spectacular backdrop of the Indian Ocean.

The core focus of the camps is the professional training based on FC Bayern’s proven approach, designed to enhance technical skills, tactical understanding and game intelligence. Under the guidance of highly qualified coaches, young participants will not only learn precise ball control and strategic thinking but also the importance of teamwork and a winning mentality. Divided into three age groups, the training ensures targeted, age-appropriate development for every individual. A special highlight: Each participant receives an official FC Bayern kit, including a shirt, shorts and socks, as a keepsake from unforgettable days on the field.

The Patina Maldives football camps are more than just training sessions, they blend athletic performance with summer ease. After intense practice sessions and valuable coaching tips, the Indian Ocean invites participants to explore its crystal-clear waters.

The camps offer an extraordinary experience not only for the young talents but also for their families, turning the stay into the perfect vacation for the whole family. While the young players refine offensive strategies, penalty kicks and solid defense on the field, parents and grandparents can unwind on the white sandy beaches, indulge in the award-winning spa, or explore a variety of leisure activities together — from sustainable initiatives like the Coral Restoration Project, where coral frames and ceramic structures are created, to watersport adventures and engaging art workshops. Patina Maldives offers a vacation concept that bridges generational needs. And with a bit of luck, a special surprise might be in store for both young and old: perhaps a professional football player will make a personal appearance!

The football camps will be held on the following dates: April 20th to 24th 2025, August 1st to 5th 2025, October 24th to 30th 2025, December 22nd to 26th 2025 and December 29th 2025 to January 2nd 2026.

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OBLU NATURE Helengeli, partners to celebrate inaugural Women’s Dive Month in July

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Taking a bold step in championing women in diving, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO, part of the distinguished Atmosphere Core portfolio, and in partnership with TGI Maldives, ELE|NA Ayur spa and Marine Biologist Luca Melodia, have together launched International PADI Women’s Dive Month. This pioneering initiative extends the excitement of PADI Women’s Dive Day on 19th July into a full month, giving more thrill seekers the opportunity to experience the magic of the Indian Ocean.

Following a 2024 “PADI Outstanding Contribution to Women’s Diving” award, both TGI Maldives and OBLU NATURE Helengeli have been continuing their enthusiastic support for introducing more and more women and families into learning how to dive.

Helengeli island provides an incomparable diving experience. The island’s exotic house reef located just metres from the shoreline, and its surrounding dive sites are among the most sought-after in Malé Atoll, ideal for all skill levels, from beginner snorkellers to professional scuba divers. Throughout July, solo women travellers, adventurous families or even groups of friends escaping to this tropical haven, will find special offerings designed to encourage diving and exploration. All guests at the island resort enjoy the fully comprehensive OBLU Island Plan™, and in honour of PADI Women’s Dive Day, guests can enjoy a curated holiday package including wellness sessions, discounted dives, and engaging marine life talks.

Dive centre TGI Maldives boasts over 40 years’ experience supporting women in the sport of ocean diving. Known for their progressive approach to encouraging locals and travellers alike, the dive centre offers exclusive discounts on all dives booked by women throughout July, including the PADI Discover Scuba Dive for beginners. With a dedicated instructor, the discovery session is a safe and rewarding introduction to diving, even for non-swimmers, whilst for the professionals, excursions out into the big blue will unveil the Indian Ocean’s secrets.

TGI Maldives Operations Manager Greta Marcelli highlights the reasons for introducing this year’s Women’s Dive Month festivities, “There’s nothing like seeing guests’ emotions after their first dive. While we celebrate women in diving year-round, PADI Women’s Dive Month in July provides a platform to offer more reasons to join us in paradise. Partnering with the ELE|NA Ayur spa team and Marine Biologist Luca Melodia, we are creating an unforgettable and educational journey. We aim to bring together women, friends, and families for an immersive escape. Guests will enjoy diving, spa wellness classes, and all-inclusive dining. It’s a soulful island adventure into the aquatic world and beyond.”

To enhance the underwater adventure, the island’s ELE|NA Ayur spa team has curated over 18 different wellness activities, rotating throughout the month. From sunrise yoga by the ocean to aqua aerobics and core stability classes, these sessions help improve flexibility, endurance, and stamina, all essential for moving through the water with ease. And as a special treat, women who book a dive experience with TGI Maldives Helengeli will receive discounts on ELE|NA Ayur’s famous signature Coconut Shell and Sand Bundle massages. Drawing on age-old Maldivian healing practices, these unique rejuvenating therapies feature only locally sourced, sustainable ingredients and are just two treatments from the spa’s extensive award-winning menu.

Matt Wenger, PADI Regional Manager for the Maldives, stated, “As a leading PADI certified dive centre in the Indian Ocean, the team at TGI Maldives brings exceptional expertise in introducing ocean enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds to the wonders of scuba diving. This July, by extending our PADI Women’s Dive Day celebration into a month-long event at the truly stunning OBLU NATURE Helengeli resort, we aim to welcome even more newcomers to the sport while also offering advanced certifications for existing enthusiasts”.

This July, guests are invited to take full advantage of the PADI International Dive Month at OBLU NATURE Helengeli and book their stay with a generous 20% discount on a fully inclusive stay of a minimum of four nights. TGI Maldives is offering 20% discount on all women’s PADI-certified dive courses booked throughout the month of July whilst ELE|NA spa also extends a 20% discount on the Coconut Shell and Sand Bundle signature treatments for every female guest who books a PADI Dive Month course.

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