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Hilton resorts in Maldives invite guests to once-in-a-lifetime diving experiences

In a first-of-its-kind collaboration, Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi and Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, introduce Dive with Hilton, a seasonal collection of distinct dive experiences that showcase the wonders of the archipelago’s world renowned marine biodiversity.
To mark the launch, marine biologist, master reef guide and underwater photographer Jacinta Shackleton will conduct a two-week residency beginning on July 17 through to August 1, 2023. This will provide ample opportunity for guests at all three resorts to join her on underwater excursions. Ms. Shackleton will also host marine conservation talks for adults and junior explorers alike.
Ms. Shackleton will be visiting Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa from July 17 to 22, followed by Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi from July 22 to 27. She will wrap up her residency at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island from July 27 to August 1, 2023.
All Dive with Hilton experiences are available from July 1, 2023 through September 30, 2023.
Vibrant Discoveries at Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa, North Male Atoll
North Male is one of the best-explored diving atolls, characterised by reefs, caves and drop-offs, and large wildlife such as reef sharks. Dive sites close to Hilton Maldives include Sandbank Reef, teeming with curious batfish and snappers; and Anemone Reef, known in the local Dhivehi language as a classic thila or submerged rock and coral formation, flourishing with clownfish, turtles and rays.
A five-night stay starts at $1,055++ per person per night and includes six dives, in addition to accommodation in a beach or overwater pool villa, daily half board, roundtrip premium speedboat transfers, and privileges such as a one-time signature treatment at Amingiri Spa. Intrepid guests who wish to extend are also able to book a seven-night stay inclusive of ten dives, beginning at $1,070++per person per night.
Unforgettable Experiences at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, South Male Atoll
Surrounded by the turquoise waters of South Male Atoll, the celebrated luxury resort offers access to 30 different dive sites, including four well-known shipwrecks, as well as snorkelling trips to view stingrays, nurse sharks and dolphins. Nighttime underwater expeditions highlight dramatic transformations as corals bloom into vivid colours.
Waldorf Astoria Maldives offers special savings on dive package rates beginning at $115++ per dive.
Impactful Encounters at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, South Ari Atoll
Guests of the twin-island resort enjoy enviably close proximity to marine megafauna. Whale sharks make their home in the protected South Ari Atoll Marine Park, the only location in the world where the gentle giants can be seen in their natural habitat every day of the year, while resident reef manta rays, sea turtles and dolphins also make frequent appearances.
Dive with Hilton packages at Conrad Maldives include a five-night stay with five dives at $650++ per person, while A seven-night stay from $920++ per person features nine dives. Luxurious villas are available starting from $950++ per night and must be booked separately.
These packages also include a captivating whale-shark encounter, a 60-minute spa treatment, a mixology masterclass, and complimentary access to non-motorised water sports activities such as kayaking and snorkelling.
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Dive into inspiration: Alessia Zecchini at Sun Siyam Olhuveli

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

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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Maldives welcomes first PADI TecRec Dive Center

The Maldives has reached a new milestone in its diving industry with the launch of the country’s first PADI TecRec diver training center. Established by Aquaventure Dive Center in Addu City, the facility marks the beginning of a new era for technical diving in the Maldives, creating opportunities for divers to explore greater depths beyond recreational limits.
As the first of its kind in the region, the PADI TecRec center is fully equipped to offer a wide range of technical diving courses, from entry-level Discover Tec programs to advanced Tec 50 certifications. The center’s team of PADI-certified technical instructors are prepared to guide both recreational divers who are curious about technical diving and experienced divers looking to challenge their skills.

With access to some of the most spectacular underwater environments in the world—including deep wrecks, current-swept channels, and uncharted reefs—the Maldives is now firmly positioned on the global map as a destination for serious technical divers.
“This is more than just a certification—it’s an opportunity to experience the Maldives like never before,” said Marc Kouwenberg of Aquaventure Dive Center.
In addition to courses, Aquaventure offers technical diving equipment and custom expedition packages designed for those ready to take the plunge into the Maldives’ most adventurous underwater landscapes.
Contact:
Marc Kouwenberg
WhatsApp / Viber: +960 797 4310
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