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The Ritz-Carlton Maldives launches new activities with Jean-Michel Cousteau as part of Ambassadors of the Environment programme
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is developing its environmental programming in its continued work with world-renowned oceanographic explorer and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau. The resort, celebrated for sustainable infrastructure, will introduce new activities to its Ambassadors of the Environment program, starting with its youngest guests.
The exclusive initiative is led by Jean-Michel Cousteau, a team of marine naturalists and leading global scientists, to provide unique experiences with the preservation of our planet at its core. Guests are able to explore the ocean depths in the legacy of the great Cousteaus and join newly formed research teams in their work to monitor the ocean habitat with drone technology. The program invites guests to discover and engage in the natural world, and to understand how their actions can help preserve it for future generations.
New additions for the resort’s junior guests in 2023 include the below activities.
An Expedition of Microplastic
An in depth look into everything involved in plastics and how this affects us. Junior guests will take to the beach and capture sand samples for further exploration. The budding scientists will take their field work back to base where with the use of microscopes will learn about microplastics, how they impact life in the ocean and the cycle of that journey to humans.
Little Conservationists
A hands-on activity including a wide variety of science experiments and games to investigate the incredible properties of water. Learning why water is fun, strange and essential. Kids will get hands on and a little wet while they explore the amazing molecule of water, the water cycle, how humans are harming our water systems and what we can do to protect this precious resource.
Aquatic Micro World
Back out in the field, junior guests will join Jean-Michel Cousteau’s marine scientists to discover the micro world of organisms living in the ocean. Using special nets to collect plankton at the water’s edge, it’s back to the microscopes to learn more about these stunning little creatures up close and personal.
During Cousteau’s latest visit the explorer was able to share with guests and the resort community findings from three newly discovered dive sites. Activities included locating a discarded fishing net and assisting with its removal, to the discovery of a gestation site for a congregation of nurse sharks. In addition to a series of inspired talks, Q&As and hosted dives for the guests of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, Cousteau and the resort team spent time with children and students at the Dhiffushi School on a neighbouring island. Through sharing his story, latest work and research, Cousteau’s aim is to excite the regions’ future generations to champion the preservation of our natural world.
Cousteau comments. “Introducing the Ambassadors of the Environment program to The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands was a dream come true. I’m honoured and proud that guests of all ages are able to participate in cutting edge programming curated by our naturalists. We aim to inspire and motivate people to appreciate the importance of protecting the nature that keeps our planet habitable, for us and all other species. Our message is always the same – protect our natural resources.”
He continues. “The health and richness of the coral reefs and the sustainable infrastructure of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands makes this one of the most exciting and impactful programs we have ever created.”
Committed to environmental education, the resort’s Ambassadors of the Environment program is designed for both adults and children, and since launching in 2021 has grown a progressive research community. Its collaborations are spearheading ground-breaking environmental studies, from the monitoring of ocean plastics with innovative conservation technology to the protection of threatened species including sea turtles. The program’s knowledge-share aims to influence guests and communities to live more sustainably with the belief that the world’s biggest investment to sustainability is in the planet’s youngest inhabitants.
For more information, click here or visit ritzcarlton.com/Maldives
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will mark the festive season with a programme that combines charitable initiatives with its sustainability commitments. Guests will be invited to donate, run, paddle and plant in support of local community and environmental projects, alongside dining experiences that highlight Maldivian produce.
Under its World of Care commitments, the resort has adopted initiatives to improve the school experience for children at R. Maduvvari School on the neighbouring island and to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. Participation in the season’s activities will contribute directly to these programmes.
From 25 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, guests may purchase wrapped gifts from a Christmas Charity Surprise Tree, with all proceeds directed to the resort’s charitable causes.
On 27 December 2025, Euro Divers will lead a coral-planting session within the house reef. The activity forms part of an ongoing conservation effort to strengthen reef resilience by increasing coral diversity through the careful planting of hardy coral fragments.
Seasalt restaurant will host a “Boat to Table” beachfront barbecue on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. The buffet will feature seafood such as giant tuna sashimi, ceviche and grilled fish prepared from the day’s catch supplied by local fishermen, reflecting the resort’s focus on local sourcing and support for the Raa Atoll community.
A Charity Kayak Race will take place on 30 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. Entry will be by voluntary donation, with funds supporting enhancements at the R. Maduvvari pre-school.
On 2 January 2026, the programme will conclude with a Charity Island Fun Run around the island. Branded t-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the resort’s community initiatives.
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort has received three titles at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, named Luxury Adults Only Resort, Luxury Island Resort, and Luxury Cultural Resort in the Indian Ocean.
The awards highlight the brand’s focus on locally rooted hospitality, with stays shaped by place, service and community. The resort presents Maldivian culture through curated experiences, pairing contemporary comforts with island traditions.
Positioned as an adults-only retreat, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo integrates culinary influences and cultural programming to offer guests a stay informed by the rhythm of local life and delivered with consistent service standards.
“These awards are a true reflection of our team’s passion for creating experiences that feel both local and memorable. Every detail, from the design to the service, is guided by the authenticity that defines Mercure. We are grateful to our guests for being part of this journey,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, honouring properties that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and celebrate diversity across the travel sector.
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has received three honours at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, securing titles for Best Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Best Luxury Wellness Hotel, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Indian Ocean.
The awards underscore the resort’s approach to experience-led hospitality, combining design, wellbeing and guest engagement. The recognition also reflects Pullman’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and sustainability, which sit at the centre of the brand’s strategy.
Since opening, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has developed an all-inclusive offering that brings together adventure, wellness and a close connection to the natural environment. Its portfolio includes an underwater villa, wellness concepts and family-oriented experiences.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. These awards celebrate the heart of what we do—creating inspiring moments for every guest, whether they come to reconnect, recharge, or simply play. This achievement belongs to our incredible team, whose passion and dedication make Pullman Maldives Maamutaa what it is today,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and demonstrate innovation in service and design.
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