Action
Maldives Whale Shark Research Program (MWSRP) with Reethi Beach Resort kickstarts groundbreaking survey and education initiatives in Baa Atoll
For the second consecutive year, Reethi Beach Resort is delighted to partner with Maldives Whale Shark Research Program (MWSRP) with the support extended by the resort’s parent company, SC Capital Partners Pte Ltd. MWSRP will undertake an extensive research project aimed at surveying the Baa Atoll for whale sharks in the first phase of their collaboration, studying their behavior and habitat, and engaging key stakeholders in educational activities.
As part of this exciting venture, MWSRP, and Reethi Beach Resort Maldives will work hand in hand to conduct comprehensive surveys to better understand the population and movement patterns of whale sharks in the Baa Atoll. This vital data will provide valuable insights into the conservation efforts and protection of these magnificent creatures.
Moreover, a key component of the program is community involvement and raising awareness among local communities, including school children. MWSRP, in collaboration with Reethi Beach Resort, will organize interactive workshops, presentations, and educational activities to engage and educate the local population about whale sharks and their importance in the marine ecosystem.
The initiative will provide a unique opportunity for visitors at Reethi Beach Resort to participate in guided excursions led by MWSRP with the support extended by Ocean Fanatics in their efforts to survey and study whale sharks. Guests will have the chance to contribute to ongoing research, observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, and gain a deeper understanding of their behavior and importance to the marine ecosystem.
“Reethi Beach Resort Maldives is dedicated to sustainable tourism practices and the conservation of marine life,” said Denise Schmidt, General Manager of Reethi Beach Resort. “Our collaboration with MWSRP aligns perfectly with our commitment to environmental stewardship and will offer our guests a unique and enriching experience.”
The Maldives Whale Shark Research Program and Reethi Beach Resort Maldives invite visitors, local communities, and stakeholders to join hands in this crucial endeavor to protect whale sharks and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Baa Atoll’s marine ecosystem.
As part of the collaboration with MWSRP, along with Reethi Beach Resort, SC Capital extends its support beyond the Maldivian archipelago in globally supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of 2030.
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.
Action
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.”
Action
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.
-
Action1 week agoNiyama Private Islands enhances surf lifestyle with stylish new surf venue
-
Action1 week agoReethi Faru Resort hosts Magda Linette ahead of new tennis season
-
Entertainment1 week agoAvani+ Fares Maldives Resort sets stage for first music festival in May 2026
-
News1 week agoMachchafushi Island Resort integrates marine conservation, sustainable practices across operations
-
News1 week agoBollywood stars Sonakshi Sinha, Zaheer Iqbal celebrate festive season at SO/ Maldives
-
Featured1 week agoReflect, renew, explore: Angsana Velavaru unveils its 2026 offerings
-
Featured1 week agoIntimate island experiences shape Valentine’s Day at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
-
Featured1 week agoMusic and mindful movement anchor new season at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands


