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Zaff Ali: From surfer to diver extraordinaire, unveiling the depths of Fuvahmulah

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Zafar Ali, better known as Zaff, is a man of the sea. When asked how best to describe him, his answer is simple yet captivating: diver, surfer, and water sports enthusiast. Zaff’s love for the ocean and all its wonders began at a young age, when he was introduced to the traditional Maldivian style of surfing in his home island of Fuvahmulah. Little did he know then that this initial encounter would shape his entire life’s journey.

In 2003, Zaff and his friends started experimenting with boards, bringing the sport of surfing to Fuvahmulah. Their efforts laid the foundation for the island to become a popular destination among surfers today. This early exposure to the thrill of riding the waves ignited a passion within Zaff that he would carry with him throughout his life.

After completing his education, Zaff joined Athuruga Island Resort as a Receptionist, marking the beginning of his career in the hospitality industry. Over the course of six years, he gained valuable experience working at various resorts, honing his skills in guest relations and providing exceptional service. However, it was during his tenure as a Guest Relations Officer at Bandos Maldives in 2007 that Zaff’s path intersected with the world of water sports and scuba diving.

Working closely with the resort’s water sports and dive center, Zaff was introduced to a whole new realm of adventure and excitement. The vast playground of the ocean beckoned him, and he eagerly embraced activities such as diving, snorkeling, and jet skiing. The underwater world, in particular, captivated Zaff’s imagination, and he knew he had found his true calling.

Driven by his newfound passion, Zaff pursued scuba diving with unwavering dedication. In 2016, he earned the prestigious certification of Master Scuba Diver, a testament to his expertise and experience in the field. Seeking to deepen his knowledge and share his passion with others, Zaff went on to complete the Scuba Dive Instructor Course, solidifying his position as a respected professional in the diving community.

In 2017, Zaff’s journey led him to Cocoon Maldives, where he assumed the role of Manager for the Extreme Maldives Water Sports Center. This position allowed him to combine his love for water sports with his managerial skills, creating unforgettable experiences for guests and overseeing a team of dedicated professionals. Zaff’s enthusiasm and commitment to providing exceptional service made a lasting impression on visitors from around the world.

Then, the unexpected arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the travel industry, forcing Zaff to reevaluate his career path. Instead of succumbing to the challenges, he saw an opportunity to return to his roots. Zaff moved back to his native island of Fuvahmulah during the lockdown and partnered with Extreme Maldives to establish Olige, a dive center that would showcase the island’s natural beauty and its famous inhabitants: tiger sharks.

Zaff, was among the first explorers to have extraordinary encounters with the majestic tiger sharks in Fuvahmulah, even before it gained recognition as a sought-after dive location. Reflecting on his own initial scuba diving venture in Fuvahmulah in 2011, memories resurface of a time when the island lacked adequate dive equipment and dedicated dive centers. During those days, divers relied upon the generosity of local fishing boats, graciously borrowing their scuba diving gear in order to immerse ourselves in the captivating underwater realm. Thanks to the unwavering determination and resourcefulness displayed by individuals like Zaff, Fuvahmulah’s diving industry has flourished over time, transforming it into the vibrant and coveted destination it is today.

Today, Zaff finds fulfillment in running the dive center in Fuvahmulah, which has become one of the most sought-after diving destinations globally. With its pristine waters and rich marine biodiversity, Fuvahmulah offers divers a chance to explore the depths and witness the awe-inspiring presence of tiger sharks. Zaff’s expertise, combined with his deep connection to the island and its waters, ensures that visitors have a safe and unforgettable diving experience. Zaff Ali, the diver, surfer, and water sports enthusiast, has carved out a remarkable path for himself. From his humble beginnings in Fuvahmulah to managing water sports centers at luxurious resorts, he has followed his passion and shared it with others along the way. Today, Zaff’s dedication to exploring the ocean’s depths and introducing others to its wonders continues to inspire.

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From first visit to thousand dives: Love story anchored at Bandos Maldives

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Bandos Maldives recently marked a significant milestone with two of its most loyal guests, Kate and Andy, who have shared a long-standing connection with the island.

Andy achieved an impressive feat by completing his 900th dive, all undertaken with Dive Bandos. His wife, Kate, surpassed this accomplishment by reaching her 1000th dive, with over 900 of those dives also completed alongside the Bandos team.

The Dive Bandos team joined the couple in celebrating this memorable occasion, recognising not only their dedication to diving but also the enduring bond they have formed with the resort over the years.

Kate and Andy’s relationship with Bandos extends far beyond statistics. Having first visited the island in 2006, they have returned every year since, making Bandos an integral part of their lives. In 2014, the couple even chose to exchange their wedding vows underwater at the resort — a unique moment that forever linked their love story with Bandos.

“Celebrating guests like Kate and Andy reminds us of what Bandos truly represents,” said Ismail Rasheed, General Manager of Bandos Maldives.

For Bandos Maldives, moments such as these exemplify why guests continue to choose the island for both adventure and a sense of belonging. With stories like Kate and Andy’s, Bandos stands not merely as a dive destination, but as a home — both beneath and above the waves.

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Dive into inspiration: Alessia Zecchini at Sun Siyam Olhuveli

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Sun Diving will host a special ocean experience with world champion freediver Alessia Zecchini on 13 October 2025. The event is scheduled to take place at Sunrise Beach, Sun Siyam Olhuveli, from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM, offering guests the opportunity to meet the athlete widely recognised as ‘The Deepest Woman in the World.’

Born in Rome in 1992, Zecchini began freediving at the age of 13 and went on to set multiple world and European records. She was the first woman to reach a depth of 100 metres in free immersion and has since achieved 123 metres in constant weight with monofin. Her career has been celebrated internationally, including in the film Vertical Breath and the Netflix documentary The Deepest Breath. She continues to advance the sport while promoting awareness of ocean conservation.

The event at Olhuveli will feature an informative talk where Zecchini will reflect on her freediving journey, achievements, and the importance of protecting the marine environment. Guests will also have the chance to take part in a Q&A session with her and the Sun Diving team. In addition, Sun Diving will organise an interactive beach activity where participants can try scuba and snorkel gear in shallow waters under the guidance of instructors. Guests will also be able to capture photographs, collect autographs, and learn more about diving at the dedicated booth, which will highlight special offers from Sun Diving.

“Welcoming Alessia Zecchini is an honour for us and an inspiration for our guests,” said Ahmed Nihaan, Dive Centre Manager at Sun Siyam Olhuveli. “Her achievements beneath the waves embody both human potential and the importance of protecting our oceans.”

Sun Diving, the official diving division of Sun Siyam Group, provides SSI-certified courses, snorkelling, freediving, and specialty programmes across its Maldives properties. As a subsidiary, it enhances guest experiences with curated dive packages, illustrated dive maps, lifeguard training, and eco-focused initiatives, positioning Sun Siyam as a leader in sustainable marine-based activities.

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Finolhu showcases Maldives’ only PADI Mermaid Instructor Trainer

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Dive Butler International, in collaboration with Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, is highlighting the achievements of Mara Restelli, recognised as the Maldives’ only certified PADI Mermaid Instructor Trainer.

With this rare qualification, Restelli offers a series of exclusive experiences designed to introduce guests of all ages to the art of mermaiding. The programmes range from playful introductory sessions to advanced courses and professional-level Instructor Development Courses (IDC).

“Mermaiding is more than a trend — it is a joyful way to connect with the water, express creativity, and feel empowered,” Restelli explained. “I enjoy watching guests discover confidence, freedom, and a sense of fun in the ocean. It is as much about transformation as it is about adventure.”

As part of Finolhu’s extensive marine offerings, the PADI Mermaid programmes provide an engaging complement to the resort’s diving and snorkelling activities. Participants may learn to glide gracefully underwater in a mermaid tail, capture striking images during professional photo sessions, or pursue advanced training that strengthens skills and deepens their connection with the ocean.

By hosting the Maldives’ only PADI Mermaid Instructor Development Course, Finolhu reinforces its reputation as a pioneering destination for distinctive and life-enriching marine experiences.

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