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Reefscapers at Sheraton Maldives witnesses coral spawning events
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.
Excursions
Discover Raa Atoll: Ifuru Island Maldives adds new dive packages for 2026
Ifuru Island Maldives has introduced a new collection of curated dive packages, inviting guests to explore the exceptional underwater world of the Maldives through programmes designed for beginners, aspiring divers and certified enthusiasts alike.
Located in the pristine waters of Raa Atoll, Ifuru Island Maldives provides access to vibrant house reefs, calm lagoon conditions and several of the region’s most celebrated dive sites, including the renowned Ifuru Thila. The newly launched dive packages are crafted to combine professional training, guided exploration and the convenience of a premium island stay.
The collection begins with an introductory diving experience tailored for first-time divers seeking to discover the underwater world in a safe and relaxed setting. Guests undergo lagoon-based training before progressing to the house reef, offering an ideal entry point into scuba diving with no prior experience required.
For guests ready to advance further, the resort offers a globally recognised scuba certification course. Designed for confident swimmers and snorkellers, the programme includes professional instruction, open water dives and an internationally valid certification, opening access to dive destinations worldwide.
Certified divers can choose a three-day dive escape that highlights the best sites in Raa Atoll. Featuring guided morning dives across renowned locations, the experience showcases the atoll’s rich marine biodiversity, striking reef structures and clear waters.
“Diving is an essential part of the Maldivian experience, and we wanted to create a collection that feels both accessible and exceptional,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager of Ifuru Island Maldives. “Whether it marks a guest’s first dive or their next significant underwater journey, these packages are crafted to offer confidence, comfort and memorable experiences beneath the surface.”
All dive packages may be booked alongside the resort’s premium accommodation offerings, including the Exclusively Yours Premium All-Inclusive meal plan, daily resort touches, complimentary non-motorised water sports, snorkelling equipment and return domestic flight transfers for qualifying stays.
The dive packages are available for booking and travel throughout 2026 and must be confirmed ahead of arrival. Package rates apply in addition to accommodation and are subject to availability.
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Niyama Private Islands enhances surf lifestyle with stylish new surf venue
Niyama Private Islands Maldives now offers what is considered the most luxurious surf experience in the Maldives, enhanced by the introduction of its new Surf Shack — a stylish beachfront hangout serving gourmet bites, drinks, sunset views and lively parties.
Known as Nature’s Playground, the resort has long attracted surf professionals from around the globe. Located in the southern Maldives, where swells are at their strongest, it is a preferred base during peak surf season. Waves break directly on shore, with additional surf spots accessible within minutes by speedboat.
Niyama’s signature waves roll in at Vodi Point, situated on the westernmost tip of its twin islands. It is here that the resort has unveiled the new Surf Shack, designed to make time off the waves equally appealing. The thatched-roof venue encourages a barefoot, relaxed atmosphere, offering an upper deck for sunset viewing and picnic-style seating below. Reflecting Niyama’s sustainability ethos, Area Chief of Engineering Michael Patrick Slevin notes that 75 per cent of construction materials were repurposed, blending beach casual with environmentally conscious design.
Guests can enjoy gourmet dishes served from service windows, with a menu inspired by iconic surf destinations worldwide: Australian fish and chips, Indonesian satay, Mexican nachos and Japanese takoyaki. The drinks list pays tribute to rum, featuring an extensive collection and signature cocktails inspired by renowned surf breaks.
While the Surf Shack maintains a laidback feel during the day, the beachfront transforms at dusk as the tides shift and the DJ elevates the atmosphere. The resort’s rum and reggae Sundays have already become a celebrated weekly event.
Surfers at Niyama can design their days as they wish — chasing waves or relaxing ashore. The Surf Centre offers equipment and guidance, while Drift by Niyama provides recovery treatments to soothe muscles, repair sun-exposed skin and restore energy. Resident professional surfers remain available to advise on technique and wave conditions.
“The new Surf Shack forms part of the renewed Niyama experience, which includes significant refurbishments across the resort, inventive culinary additions and a greater emphasis on active living and wellness,” said Hafidh Al Busaidy, General Manager of Niyama Private Islands Maldives. “With more developments on the way, we look forward to sharing what comes next.”
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Reethi Faru Resort hosts Magda Linette ahead of new tennis season
Reethi Faru Resort recently welcomed Magda Linette, a Top 20 professional tennis player, who selected the island resort as her training retreat while preparing for the Australian Open and the forthcoming tennis season. Away from the competitive spotlight, Linette utilised the resort’s private and tranquil setting, where expansive beaches, clear lagoon waters, and discreet luxury provided an environment conducive to both focused preparation and recovery.
Throughout her stay, Linette combined intensive training sessions with periods of rest, making use of the resort’s calm surroundings and seclusion. The natural setting of the Maldives offered an effective backdrop for physical conditioning and mental focus, supporting her preparations ahead of the season’s first Grand Slam tournament.
Known for its emphasis on privacy, understated luxury, and an authentic island atmosphere, Reethi Faru Resort continues to attract elite athletes seeking a destination that supports peak performance while delivering a refined island experience. The resort extended its best wishes to Linette as she progresses through the upcoming tennis season.
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