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Reviving Our Ocean Gems: Villa Park Sun Island launches innovative coral propagation project

The Maldives, renowned for its stunning coral reefs, is taking a stand against the threats facing these precious ecosystems. diveOceanus Villa Park Sun Island has unveiled a visionary coral propagation program aimed at restoring and revitalizing the fragile coral reefs that are under grave threat due to climate change, particularly rising ocean temperatures leading to coral bleaching.
On June 8th, 2023, coinciding with World Ocean Day, diveOceanus Villa Park Sun Island announced the launch of their coral propagation program, marking a crucial milestone in their conservation efforts. The program is built on sustainable practices to ensure long-term success. Utilizing naturally broken-off pieces of various coral genera found within the lagoon of Villa Park Sun Island, these coral fragments are meticulously transplanted into purpose-built coral frames strategically positioned throughout the lagoon.

This ongoing program is determined to make a significant impact, with diveOceanus Villa Park Sun Island planning to cover an impressive area of 1000 square meters in the lagoon with planted corals within the next two years. To achieve this ambitious goal, the project will establish two dedicated coral nurseries and carefully selected propagation sites. The ultimate objective is to create a thriving ecosystem teeming with diverse fish, coral, and captivating invertebrate fauna.
The coral propagation program initiated by diveOceanus Villa Park Sun Island highlights the urgent need for collective action to protect and restore the world’s invaluable coral reefs. By spearheading this initiative, the resort not only contributes to safeguarding the natural heritage of the Maldives but also inspires others to embrace sustainable practices and join the global movement to preserve our oceans for future generations.

In addition to restoring and revitalizing coral reefs, diveOceanus Villa Park Sun Island is actively involving local schools in their efforts. This collaborative approach not only cultivates an understanding of the crucial role coral reefs play in our ecosystem but also nurtures a generation committed to sustainability. By working hand in hand with the younger generation, the resort is fostering a sustainable future where the beauty and biodiversity of coral reefs thrive for generations to come.
Located in the South Ari Atoll near the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), Villa Park Sun Island is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, immersive Maldivian experiences, and innovative sustainability efforts. With lush botanical gardens producing over 20,000 coconuts monthly and a range of tropical fruits, vegetables, and herbs served at the resort’s restaurants, the island offers a fertile environment. Recognized as the Maldives Leading Green Resort and recipient of the Green Key Award, Villa Park Sun Island invites guests to participate in sustainable initiatives and regularly organizes clean-up activities to preserve the pristine nature. These efforts foster a deeper connection to Maldivian nature and inspire eco-conscious travelers to contribute to a greener future.
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Ifuru Island Maldives takes part in Burunu Boma sport fishing tournament

Ifuru Island Maldives has announced its participation in the inaugural Burunu Boma Sport Fishing Tournament, taking place from 2 to 4 May 2025. Organized by the Visit Maldives Club (VMC), this premier event aims to position the Maldives as a leading destination for sustainable sport fishing.
As one of the select resorts competing in this prestigious tournament, Team Ifuru Maldives will showcase its commitment to marine conservation and responsible tourism. The competition emphasizes “catch and release” practices, aligning with global efforts to preserve marine biodiversity.
Participants will target species such as marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, swordfish, and bigeye tuna, with a grand prize of USD 25,000 awarded to the top-performing team. The event also features live entertainment and a festive atmosphere, celebrating the Maldives’ rich fishing heritage.
“We are thrilled to be part of Burunu Boma and to represent Ifuru Island Maldives in this landmark event,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Our participation underscores our dedication to sustainable practices and our passion for the ocean that surrounds us.”
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Sirru Fen Fushi to host ‘One Ocean, One Breath’ with Freedive Maldives to mark World Oceans Day

Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, invites ocean lovers and adventure seekers to a purposeful World Oceans Day celebration in partnership with Freedive Maldives, Guinness World Record Holder for the Most People Performing Static Apnea held last October 2022.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of the largest natural lagoons and house reefs in the Maldives, the event promises a deep connection to the ocean through expert-led PADI Freediving courses, ranging from basic to advanced levels. Participants will have the opportunity to earn their freediving certification, explore Sirru’s 9-kilometer-long house reef, and admire vibrant marine biodiversity, including manta ray cleaning stations, nurse shark points, flourishing coral gardens, and turtle habitats, home to 93 resident turtles and 11 successful hatchings this year alone.
“Our house reef, one of the longest and most vibrant in the Maldives, is a sanctuary for marine life and a symbol of our deep commitment to ocean conservation,” said Lukasz Prendke, General Manager of Sirru Fen Fushi. “We are honoured to collaborate with Freedive Maldives in celebrating World Oceans Day, not only to offer our guests an unforgettable underwater journey, but also to empower local talents and inspire our community to protect what lies beneath the surface.”
The initiative aligns with the resort’s ongoing sustainability commitments, including regular lagoon cleaning programs and support for local marine conservation efforts. This collaboration further emphasizes a shared mission to preserve the Maldives’ rich underwater heritage and engage the local community in meaningful environmental action.
In a broader commitment to sustainable tourism, Freedive Maldives has also signed a partnership agreement with the Baa Atoll Council to host another record-breaking freediving event in October 2025, coinciding with World Tourism Day, reinforcing Baa Atoll’s position as a leader in eco-conscious marine tourism.
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Napoli back on top of Serie A as De Laurentiis celebrates in Maldives

Aurelio De Laurentiis, owner and chairman of SSC Napoli and one of Italy’s leading film producers, is celebrating his club’s return to the top of Serie A while holidaying in the Maldives.
Napoli secured a crucial 2–0 victory over Torino in the 34th round of the league, taking full advantage of Inter Milan’s 1–0 loss to Roma. With the win, Napoli now lead the table with 74 points, three points clear of Inter, with four matches remaining in the season.
Many had expected De Laurentiis to be present at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona for such a pivotal match. However, according to Italian media reports, he remained in the Maldives. After the match, the Napoli president posted a message from afar, encouraging his team to stay composed during the decisive final stretch of the season: “Cool heads. Calm and steady. Forza Napoli Sempre!”
The radio station Kiss Kiss Napoli suggested that De Laurentiis’ decision to stay in the Maldives, distant from Italy, reflects his strategy of giving space to the team and coaching staff while firmly maintaining control over the club’s direction.
Following Napoli’s historic league triumph in 2023, their first in over three decades, the club endured a turbulent season marked by coaching changes and management instability. Many attributed last season’s struggles to the lack of continuity.
Determined to rebuild, De Laurentiis appointed Antonio Conte, a proven winner, as head coach ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, a move that is already delivering results.
As the race for the Scudetto intensifies, Napoli’s dream of winning a second title in three years remains very much alive, with De Laurentiis steering the course even from thousands of miles away.
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