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The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort presents exclusive Marriott Bonvoy moment: Manta rays with US Paralympic gold medalist Gregory Burns

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, situated in Baa Atoll, the first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve site in the Maldives, has announced an extraordinary opportunity for Marriott Bonvoy members to embark on an unparalleled adventure through the specially curated Marriott Bonvoy Moment. From September 14-18, 2023, lucky bidders will have the rare privilege of snorkelling with majestic manta rays in Hanifaru Bay, the world’s most concentrated area of manta rays, accompanied by the illustrious Paralympic swimmer and artist Gregory Burns.
Gregory Burns, is a highly accomplished athlete and internationally renowned fine artist. Known for winning gold medals and setting world record in swimming at three Paralympic games, Gregory inspires many with his discipline and perseverance. For over three decades, he has painted professionally across 60 countries, and received the prestigious 2016 Sports Artist of the Year Award and a commission from the International Olympic Foundation to create paintings for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games. Polio, which Gregory contracted as a child, stimulated him to prioritise mobility and to express himself through sports and arts.
The unparalleled Marriott Bonvoy Moments package includes a four-night stay in one of the wellness resort’s overwater villas with a private pool—promising an unforgettable and rejuvenating retreat for the guests from September 14 to 18, 2023 to experience and embrace Westin’s wellbeing pillars. Refreshing welcome drinks prepared at the Westin Fresh from the Juicery corner await upon arrival, and at Island Kitchen guests may savour well-balanced daily breakfast to boost their energy for the day.
Prior to the snorkelling trip with Gregory Burns on September 15, guests are invited to join the Move Well stretching session, an important element to increase flexibility which will help them to accomplish the range of motion required before swimming along with the champion as well as the gentle manta rays. As part of Westin Hotels & Resorts WestinWORKOUT Gear Lending program, guests may make use of the Recharge and Recovery kit by Hyperice, a wellness gear to soothe and recover tense muscles post snorkel, before refuelling their body and mind with restorative sleep in the award-winning Heavenly Bed.
Upon day three, bid winners of the Marriott Bonvoy Moments will get in touch with their artistic flair while joining an underwater sketching session with Gregory and Maldivian artist Shameen Moosa. Art can be a different and fun way to calm and restore one’s mind and mood, to boost confidence and make people feel more engaged and resilient. For those who prefer to indulge their creative instincts on land, the Masterclass will be held at the Art Gallery. As the experience comes to an end, guests are treated to a remarkable sunset fishing trip to be part of the rich Maldivian tradition followed by a romantic barbecue by the beach.
The General Manager of The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, Vijay Kumar, expressed his delight at this exclusive opportunity, remarking, “We are thrilled to present this unique experience to our valued Marriott Bonvoy members. The Maldives is renowned for its natural beauty, and we are honoured to partner with Gregory Burns, a true Paralympic athlete and artist, to bring The Westin brand pillars alive, presenting the Move Well, Play Well, Feel Well, Eat Well, and Sleep Well elements, and make this exciting event more extraordinary. We invite our guests to embark on this unique journey, and create cherished memories that will be treasured for years to come.”
In anticipation of this exceptional collaboration, Gregory Burns shared his enthusiasm, stating, “I am thrilled to be part of this extraordinary moment with The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort. Swimming with manta rays in Hanifaru Bay is a truly awe-inspiring experience, and I cannot wait to share this ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity as we encounter these magnificent creatures, followed by a unique art experience in the beauty of the Indian Ocean.”
Marriott Bonvoy members are invited to bid for a chance to be part of this extraordinary experience at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort by visiting the Marriott Bonvoy Moments site at https://moments.marriottbonvoy.com/en-us/moments/15049.
Excursions
Marine encounters: spinner dolphins at Canareef Resort Maldives

At Canareef Resort Maldives, one of the most popular experiences for guests is the dolphin tour. The abundant presence of dolphins in the surrounding waters ensures that each cruise offers a remarkable encounter with these marine creatures, creating lasting memories for visitors.
Every dolphin tour at Canareef provides an opportunity to observe pods of dolphins gliding and leaping across the waves. Guests often describe the sight of spinner dolphins darting through the clear ocean as a defining image of the Maldives’ natural marine beauty.
Morning cruises and sunset tours alike are guided by experienced staff, who share insights as dolphins appear in their natural environment. Many guests recount moments when dolphins swim alongside the boat, a spectacle that creates a unique sense of connection.
The activity is regarded as more than just an excursion; it is considered a celebration of nature and a highlight of a stay at Canareef. It allows guests to experience the Maldives in a way that underlines why dolphins are seen as ambassadors of the islands.
For travellers seeking encounters with dolphins amid turquoise waters, Canareef presents an ideal opportunity. The resort also offers seasonal promotions, including early booking discounts for the remainder of this summer, next winter, and summer 2026.
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Dusit Thani Maldives offers direct access to Baa Atoll’s living reef

At Dusit Thani Maldives, the experience of the ocean begins directly at the doorstep. Situated within the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, the resort is surrounded by one of the most vibrant house reefs in the country, offering guests the opportunity to explore a thriving underwater world just steps from their villa.
What distinguishes the resort is its 360-degree house reef. Each villa, whether set above the lagoon or along the beach, opens directly onto the water. Guests can enter the ocean within moments of leaving their deck, where coral gardens, schools of tropical fish, and turtles can often be seen. The seamless access allows families, beginners, and experienced snorkellers to engage with the reef naturally, without the need to plan or schedule an excursion.
The location within the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve makes every swim a part of a wider story of conservation and discovery. Recognised globally for its corals and tropical marine life, the reserve becomes a key gathering site for manta rays and whale sharks during the season. Around the reef, visitors can observe parrotfish, angelfish, eagle rays, and reef sharks, making it a living example of biodiversity and preservation.
Life at the resort is centred on this connection with the sea. Guests may begin their day with a morning swim, take part in a guided snorkelling safari with marine experts, and conclude by observing the coral gardens as they take on new colours in the evening light. The ocean becomes not simply a backdrop but an integral part of daily life.
The PADI-certified Dive and Watersports Centre further enhances this relationship with the ocean, offering night snorkels, freediving, drift dives, and marine education programmes designed for families. Guests are supported to safely explore the biodiversity of the atoll at their own level, whether through a gentle introduction or more advanced diving experiences.
Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager, Dusit Maldives, noted that snorkelling at the resort is not treated as an activity but as part of the rhythm of island life. He explained that the reef begins where the villa deck ends, allowing guests the freedom to explore the ocean at their own pace and making the location distinctive in its accessibility and natural beauty.
At Dusit Thani Maldives, the distinction between villa and ocean fades away. From sighting turtles at sunrise to drifting beside reef sharks at dusk, every moment reinforces the natural character of the Maldives and the unique setting of the resort.
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From reef to horizon: Immersive island experiences at Angsana Velavaru

Angsana Velavaru invites travelers to immerse themselves in a rhythm shaped by tides, coral gardens, and island breezes. This oceanfront retreat is located in one of the Maldives’ most vibrant marine environments. It is known as “Turtle Island” and is a 40-minute seaplane ride from Male’. The resort curates experiences for those who are drawn to discovery, depth, and the beauty of nature’s untouched corners. Angsana Velavaru offers a getaway to extraordinary diving, barefoot island adventures, and sea-bound journey.
Into the Blue: Dive Sites and Snorkelling Discoveries
Angsana Velavaru is at the center of a marine wonderland with more than 30 dive sites just minutes away. The resort’s PADI 5-Star Gold Dive Centre leads guests to explore dramatic drop-offs, gentle coral slopes, and manta ray cleaning stations. The resort offers tailored expeditions and daily two-tank dives for both experienced and beginner divers.
For those who prefer to snorkel, the house reef offers an introduction to coral life. Guided safaris, led by marine experts, provide a deeper appreciation for reef ecosystems10. The calm waters surrounding the island make it easy for even first-time snorkelers to experience the ocean.
Ocean Adventures: Cruising, Fishing and Sunset Moments
Guests can step aboard traditional dhonis to experience the ocean from a new perspective. Unforgettable views are available whether you are on a dolphin cruise or a sunset sail. Traditional handline fishing trips, guided by a local crew, are also available for a hands-on experience. Other highlights include sandbank escapes and private boat charters, which are designed to slow down time and deepen one’s connection to the sea.
Land Experiences and Island Explorations
Angsana Velavaru offers morning nature walks and visits to local islands for a glimpse into Maldivian island life. At the resort’s Marine Lab, guests can take part in coral planting or learn about marine conservation from resident marine biologists. For families, the Ranger’s Club provides meaningful moments for young explorers with treasure hunts, marine workshops, and outdoor games. Solo travelers or couples can enjoy quiet moments under the stars, yoga by the beach, or walking around the island.
Angsana Velavaru offers immersion and the chance to become part of a living seascape. Every moment resonates with nature’s quiet power.
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