News
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru launches Manta Ray app in partnership with The Manta Trust
As part of its ongoing commitment to green NGOs and spreading the message of ocean conservation, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru has partnered with world-leading environmental charity The Manta Trust to create a unique interactive app that explores the underwater secrets of one of the world’s most incredible marine marvels – manta rays.
The Manta Story app – developed by Loopcraft and available to download for free on digital devices – is the latest development in a conservation partnership between Four Seasons and The Manta Trust that spans 17 years, since Chief Executive and Founder of The Manta Trust Guy Stevens had his first life-changing encounter with mantas while working as a marine biologist at Four Seasons Resort Landaa Giraavaru.
The App Experience
The fully interactive VR app takes the viewer on a mesmerising adventure into the world of manta rays, covering their dazzling courtship, feeding and cleaning rituals, as well as a manta pregnancy and birth. Based on the actual manta ray population studied by Stevens and his team in the Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, users can click through to further facts at each stage of the learning journey, and test their knowledge with a quiz.
The app also includes ways to support the work of The Manta Trust, established by Stevens in 2011 as a UK-registered charity dedicated to the worldwide conservation of mantas and their close relatives. Users can choose to donate, adopt a manta, or join the “Cyclone” – a community of supporters who are investing in the conservation of the ocean’s rays, their relatives and their habitats.
“I’m super pleased and proud that we were able to create this app together with The Manta Trust and our passionate in-house techies, allowing us to spread our message of ocean conservation around the globe,” comments Four Seasons Regional Vice President and General Manager Armando Kraenzlin. “Getting up close with these gentle giants is both humbling and awe-inspiring and our mission has always been to inspire as many people as possible to help conserve them and their ocean home.”
An Immersive Experience
Narrating the app with soothing gravitas is British actor, environmentalist and host of Trees a Crowd podcast David Oakes, who relishes taking app users to swim alongside the Maldivian mantas he himself has met in the flesh. Passionate about championing conservation causes, the star of shows such as Netflix’s Vikings: Valhalla and ITV’s Victoria uses his influence to support charities including The Woodland Trust, Wildlife Trusts and the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation.
“I’ve always had an affinity for manta rays so I was honoured when Guy and Armando asked me to narrate the Manta Story app,” Oakes explains. “To see so many of these magnificent and gentle giants, almost every time I’ve dived or snorkelled near Landaa Giraavaru – cycloning, surface feeding, rolling and loop-the-looping – is something impossible to take for granted, but conservation of our planet’s key megafauna shouldn’t just be a concern for those lucky enough to have had first hand encounters. The app is a beautiful and enjoyable way to get across the story of our planet’s mantas.”
Manta Rays at Landaa Giraavaru
The Manta Story app follows the recent launch of Landaa Giraavaru’s Hologram Room – an opportunity for the whole family to virtually “swim” with the Baa Atoll mantas. Other manta ray education experiences at the Resort include Manta-on-Call snorkelling adventures and a Trainee Manta Biologist module that gives conservation-minded teens a serious insight into the world of Manta Trust scientists.
Landaa Giraavaru is also home to one of the Maldives’ leading centres of marine research, working in partnership with local and national environmental agencies and employing 10 full-time marine biologists across pioneering conservation projects including sea turtle rehabilitation, coral propagation, anemone mapping and more. In 2020, the Resort partnered with the NOW Force for Good Alliance and EarthCheck, undertaking ongoing monitoring and annual Benchmarking Assessments to ensure that its presence in Baa Atoll is as beneficial as it can be.
“It’s clear to me that without the continued generosity of Four Seasons in the Maldives, The Manta Trust would not exist in its current form,” adds Oakes. “This app is but the dorsal-fin poking above the surface of how deep their collective conservation goals run.”
To find out more manta ray experiences at Four Seasons Resort Landaa Giraavaru, email: reservations.mal@fourseasons.com or call the central reservations department of Four Seasons Resorts Maldives at tel: (960) 66 00 888.
Family
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives introduces ‘Easter by the Tides’ programme
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives invites guests to embrace the spirit of renewal with “Easter by the Tides,” a thoughtfully curated island celebration inspired by the rhythms of the ocean and the joy of togetherness. Set against the tranquil beauty of the Indian Ocean, the festivities blend culinary artistry, nature-led exploration, wellness rituals, and family-friendly experiences designed to create meaningful moments throughout the Easter season.
Rooted in Alila’s philosophy of purposeful living and connection to nature, the celebration unfolds through a series of immersive activities that encourage guests to slow down, reconnect, and experience the island in new and inspiring ways.

Guests can begin their days with mindful wellness sessions such as Tai Chi Breathing and morning yoga overlooking the sea, while marine-led experiences including coral planting and guided snorkeling invite them to discover the vibrant underwater world surrounding the resort.
Families and younger guests can also take part in playful Easter traditions with a tropical twist, including a snorkeling Easter egg hunt set within the island’s turquoise lagoon — a joyful moment of discovery that blends festive fun with the beauty of the ocean environment.
Culinary experiences form a highlight of the celebration, with special themed dining moments and sweet creations by World Champion Pastry Chef Rolf Mürner from Switzerland. Guests will have the opportunity to witness the artistry behind his celebrated chocolate craftsmanship and indulge in imaginative desserts inspired by the spirit of Easter.

“At Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, Easter is a meaningful time to celebrate renewal, connection, and shared moments in a setting shaped by nature,” said Thomas Weber, General Manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives. “With ‘Easter by the Tides,’ our team has created experiences that reflect the beauty and rhythm of island life while inviting guests to embrace the season with a sense of joy and discovery.”
The celebration is complemented by distinctive dining experiences across the resort’s restaurants, including a special Boat-to-Table BBQ at Seasalt, where fresh flavours and island-inspired cuisine take centre stage.

“Our culinary team wanted to capture the essence of Easter through creativity, craftsmanship, and flavour,” said Frank Wackerhagen, Executive Chef of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives. “From Chef Rolf Mürner’s exquisite chocolate creations to our Easter-themed dining experiences by the sea, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to create moments of delight for our guests.”
Blending nature, gastronomy, wellness, and family traditions, Easter by the Tides invites guests to celebrate the season in a way that feels both vibrant and serene — where every moment unfolds in harmony with the gentle rhythm of island life.
News
Canareef Resort Maldives celebrates Women’s Day with sunset beach yoga session
Canareef Resort Maldives marked International Women’s Day on 8th March with a meaningful celebration focused on wellness, mindfulness, and appreciation for women, aligning with this year’s global theme, “Give To Gain.” The resort organised a special complimentary Sunset Beach Yoga Session along with exclusive wellness offers to create a relaxing and empowering experience for guests.
The Sunset Yoga session, held at the beautiful Dhoni Bar Beach, invited guests and team members to unwind and reconnect with nature while enjoying the breathtaking Maldivian sunset. Set against the soothing sounds of the ocean and the warm glow of the evening sky, the session offered a perfect opportunity to practice mindfulness, improve well-being, and celebrate the spirit of togetherness.
The theme “Give To Gain” highlights the power of kindness, generosity, and support, emphasising that by giving to others and nurturing positive actions, individuals and communities can gain strength, happiness, and personal growth. Through this thoughtful initiative, Canareef celebrated the resilience, achievements, and contributions of women around the world.
Adding to the celebration, the resort’s spa also introduced a special International Women’s Day offer, providing a discount on all 60-minute massage treatments, allowing guests to indulge in a rejuvenating wellness experience and embrace the importance of self-care.
Participants enjoyed the tranquil yoga session and the calming atmosphere of the island, making the celebration both relaxing and inspiring. The event reflected Canareef Resort Maldives’ commitment to promoting wellness, inclusivity, and meaningful experiences for guests and team members alike.
By organising wellness-focused activities such as the Sunset Beach Yoga Session at Dhoni Bar Beach and offering special spa benefits, Canareef continues to highlight the importance of balance, appreciation, and well-being, while celebrating global occasions that bring people together in harmony.
News
Angsana Velavaru marks International Women’s Day with appreciation event
Angsana Velavaru marked International Women’s Day with a heartfelt celebration honouring the remarkable women who contribute to the resort’s vibrant workplace and guest experiences.
The evening brought together team members for a warm and meaningful gathering focused on appreciation, connection, and recognition. Colleagues took the opportunity to acknowledge the dedication, strength, and contributions of the women who play an important role in shaping the spirit and success of the resort.

The celebration featured an intimate programme that included shared conversations, a ceremonial cake-cutting, and dinner together as a team. The occasion provided a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the inspiring individuals whose passion and commitment help create memorable experiences for guests each day.

“International Women’s Day is an important opportunity for us to recognise and celebrate the incredible women across our team whose dedication, resilience, and passion contribute greatly to our workplace and the experiences we create for our guests,” said Ahmed Zahir, General Manager of Angsana Velavaru.“We are proud to work alongside such inspiring individuals who continue to make a meaningful impact within our resort and our community.”
Through initiatives that encourage collaboration, growth, and wellbeing, Angsana Velavaru remains committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every team member feels valued and empowered.
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