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Maldives ranks 7th in the world for coral reefs

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In a recent study conducted by Slingo, Maldives has emerged as the seventh country with the most extensive coral reef areas in the world. The research, which aimed to determine the best countries for adventure holidays based on natural attractions such as volcanoes, coral reefs, and waterfalls, analyzed data to create an ‘adventure score’ for each country.

The study revealed that the top 10 countries with the largest coral reef areas are dominated by Indonesia and Australia, taking the first and second spots, respectively. However, Maldives claimed an impressive seventh position, highlighting the nation’s significant contribution to global coral reef conservation.

With a coral reef area spanning 8,920 square kilometers, Maldives possesses a diverse and vibrant marine ecosystem. Coral reefs are known to cover less than 1% of the ocean floor but support more than 25% of all marine life. For wildlife enthusiasts, exploring these coral reefs offers a thrilling adventure filled with encounters with magnificent creatures such as whales, sea turtles, and thousands of species of fish.

The Maldives’ achievement in this study underscores its commitment to preserving its natural heritage and marine biodiversity. The country has implemented various measures to protect its coral reefs, including the establishment of marine protected areas and the promotion of sustainable tourism practices. These efforts have not only ensured the well-being of marine ecosystems but have also enhanced the tourism industry, which heavily relies on the allure of the Maldivian underwater world.

Indonesia, with 51,020 square kilometers of coral reef area, emerged as the country with the highest percentage of Earth’s coral reefs at 17.95%. Australia closely trailed behind with 48,960 square kilometers of coral reefs, representing 17.22% of the global total. Notably, Australia also boasts the most extensive collection of national parks in the world, with a staggering total of 685.

As the world recognizes the importance of preserving natural wonders, this study serves as a reminder of the environmental significance and global recognition of Maldives’ coral reefs. The Maldivian government, along with local communities and stakeholders, will undoubtedly continue to work tirelessly to safeguard these vital ecosystems and promote sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that future generations can experience the unparalleled beauty of the Maldivian underwater world.

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International PADI Women’s Dive Day celebrations with Manta Rays at The Nautilus Maldives

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Celebrate International PADI Women’s Dive Day on July 20th at The Nautilus Maldives, an ultra-luxury island resort in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll. This special day invites female divers to embark on a free-spirited underwater journey, creating unforgettable memories beneath the waves.

Explore the island’s stunning house reef at the lagoon’s edge, or dive into the world-renowned Hanifaru Bay, where you can swim among whale sharks and the captivating manta rays. Hanifaru Bay, one of the largest manta-feeding hotspots in the world, offers a unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures perform their mesmerising, timeless dance during manta season.

On this special day, The Nautilus Maldives is offering a 50% discount on Double Tank Dives for certified female divers, with prices starting at AED 1726++ and 50% of scuba diving throughout the day starting at AED 1286++. Additionally, female guests can enjoy complimentary Try Dive sessions in the resort’s Naiboli Pool throughout the day.

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Kandooma Maldives extends Dive Free promo until 31 October 2025

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In August last year, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, launched a ‘Dive Free’ promotion offering free scuba diving for guests. A year on, and due to the overwhelming success of the promotion, Kandooma’s Dive Free has been extended until 31 October 2025.

“When we launched ‘Dive Free’ we knew this inclusion would set us apart from our competitors and it did. It has been extremely well received by scuba divers from around the world visiting the Maldives,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives.

“I think in part the promotion’s success is also due to our location on the doorstep to some of the Top 10 sites in the Maldives just a 15-minute boat ride away from the resort, making it possible for multiple dives in one day.”

Talking about the promotion, Mark explained that the scuba diving inclusion is for guests staying three or more nights.

“The ‘dive free’ element is treated similarly to how we treat breakfast, snorkelling lessons and access to the Kids’ Club. It’s just part of a Kandooma stay,” added Mark.

The resort has its own five-star PADI resort dive centre, Kandooma Dive, complete with experienced and professional dive instructors, purpose-built facilities, and a dedicated fleet of dive boats. In 2023, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives was named the Best Dive Resort in the Maldives, an award it has been nominated for again in 2024.

Divers can expect to see a wealth of marine life, including manta rays, whale sharks, reef sharks, colourful reef fish, turtles, eagle rays, and various coral species. Some of the dive spots near to Kandooma include:

  • Kandooma Thila: This renowned pinnacle showcases schools of vibrant fish, colourful coral formations, and abundant marine life including white-tip reef sharks and eagle rays; the site is a captivating spectacle of biodiversity.
  • Guraidhoo Corner: Drift along the currents and witness the congregation of grey reef sharks, white-tip sharks, and eagle rays. The site’s dramatic underwater structure adds to the allure of this exciting dive.
  • Cocoa Corner: Known for its thrilling currents, this site is a magnet for aquatic species. Divers often spot hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and other large marine inhabitants as they glide through the deep waters.
  • Kuda Giri: The Kuda Giri wreck is an interesting dive site in South Malé in the Maldives. It includes both a small wreck and a pinnacle. The site has created a welcoming habitat for a variety of marine life. There is hardly any current around this area, making it suitable for less experienced divers.
  • Manta Point: Witness the mesmerising dance of manta rays as they gather to feed and be cleaned by smaller fish. This site promises awe-inspiring interactions with these majestic creatures.
  • Kandooma Caves: Explore a labyrinth of swim-throughs and underwater caverns adorned with sponges and gorgonians. The site is known for its macro life and the occasional appearance of larger predators.

“We are passionate about life beneath the surface, it truly is an aquatic wonderland,” said Mark.

“I’m a keen diver myself and exploring and sharing the deep blue with our guests is one of the highlights of my time here in the Maldives.” he added.

Dive Free inclusions are available to full-paying guests staying a minimum of three nights and include two single tank group dives for two certified divers per villa, per day of stay. All dives are fully guided, including free dive equipment, boat transfers, and air/Nitrox. Guests must be fit to dive and be fully certified. The offer is governed by PADI best practice, meaning there is no diving on the day of departure and surface intervals are observed. Any unused dives can only be rolled over to other days at the discretion of the Dive Centre Manager, and unused dives are not encashable or exchangeable for other services.

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is a beautiful natural island paradise located in the South Male Atoll, just 40 minutes from the airport by boat. White sand beaches, swaying coconut palms, and turquoise waters form the exquisite backdrop for various leisure pursuits and some of the best diving in the Maldives.

Guests can choose from Garden and Beach Villas, two-storey Beach Houses, the three-bedroom Beach Pool Villa and the popular Overwater Villas with direct ladder access to the water below.

Families are well catered for with the Kandoo Kids’ Club, which has a dedicated water zone with slides and a full activities programme.

After a day of diving, you will have a healthy appetite. Delight in a choice of six food and beverage outlets, offering an array of delicious cuisine and a showcase of Maldivian flavours influenced by India and Arabia.

Between dives and for those guests who desire the ultimate in relaxation, sun loungers and hammocks are located around the island. At the same time, the tranquil Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala is the ideal place to unwind.

With the warm Indian Ocean teeming with marine life, good visibility, and a five-star PADI resort Dive Centre, it’s easy to see why Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives was named Best Dive Resort 2023. At Kandooma, scuba diving is elevated into an immersive experience that forever lingers in the heart and memory, and it’s FREE.

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Dive deep in Addu Atoll: Become a TDI Decompression Diver with Aquaventure Tec Center

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Calling all adventurous divers in the Maldives! Are you ready to push your diving limits and explore the incredible underwater world of Addu Atoll on a technical level? Aquaventure Tec Dive Center, the only TDI center in the Maldives, is offering a unique opportunity to take your first steps into technical diving with their TDI Advanced Nitrox & Deco Pro course package.

This exclusive July, August, and September offer includes a 7-night stay, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the TDI certification process. The 6-day course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to safely dive up to 45 meters, unlocking a whole new realm of underwater exploration in Addu Atoll.

Package Highlights:

  • TDI Advanced Nitrox & Deco Pro Course: Gain the expertise to confidently navigate deeper dives.
  • Bonus Twinset Training Dives: Experience diving with a twinset configuration for increased gas supply.
  • Free Tec Equipment Rental: Utilize top-of-the-line technical diving equipment during the course.
  • Free Accommodation: Relax and recharge after a day of diving exploration (accommodation details not specified).
  • Unbeatable Price: USD 1400 (excluding TDI certification fees of USD 60 per course)

Why Choose Aquaventure Tec Dive Center?

  • Learn from the Best: Train with TDI Instructor Trainer Marc Kouwenberg, a leading technical diving expert in the Maldives.
  • Convenience & Flexibility: Monthly TDI courses ensure you can find a program that fits your schedule.
  • Trusted Expertise: TDI is the world’s leading technical diving certification agency.

Ready to Dive Deeper?

Don’t miss this chance to elevate your diving experience in the magnificent Addu Atoll. Contact Aquaventure Tec Dive Center today via WhatsApp at +960 7974310 to secure your spot and embark on your technical diving journey!

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