News
Renowned Marine Conservationist Jean-Michel Cousteau Returns to The Ritz-Carlton Maldives for Exclusive Guest Experience
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has announced that Jean-Michel Cousteau will be returning to the resort not only as a continuation of his Ambassadors of the Environment program but also to provide a truly unique guest experience this April. Guests can embark on an extraordinary journey to explore the mesmerizing underwater wonders of the Maldives during the exclusive Marriott Bonvoy Moments at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands from April 13th to 17th, 2024.
The Marriott Bonvoy Moment will offer two guests the chance to explore the ocean depths guided by marine legend Jean-Michel Cousteau. This extraordinary package includes accommodations in a luxurious Beach Pool Villa, complete with daily breakfast, a captivating marine biology presentation tailored for enthusiasts, and the resort cocktail hosted by Cousteau. To secure this unforgettable journey, interested parties can start bidding from February 10th, with the auction closing on March 23rd, ensuring a once-in-a-lifetime fusion of luxury, marine exploration, and insightful discourse with Jean-Michel Cousteau.

During his time on property, Cousteau will host several presentations focused on marine biology, connect with the Ambassadors of the Environment team to discuss future programming, host a resort cocktail hour, and conduct several dives with guests including a coral regeneration session at the resort’s Beach Shack. Here, participants will actively contribute to the preservation of the underwater ecosystem by planting coral near the overwater villas, representing the property’s unwavering dedication to marine conservation. Cousteau will also interact with local school programs through the resort’s Community Footprints initiative, fostering environmental awareness and education. As the only resort in Asia Pacific to offer the Ambassadors of the Environment program, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, remain steadfast in upholding the values of Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society through immersive and educational programming aimed at exploring and safeguarding the delicate ecosystem of the Maldives.
Resort guests will have the opportunity to partake in a Cinema under the Stars event at the property’s Mystique Garden. This captivating evening will showcase Jean-Michel Cousteau’s acclaimed film ‘Wonders of The Sea,’ followed by an interactive Q&A session where participants can delve into his marine exploration and conservation efforts.

For those craving a more immersive experience, the “Cities Under the Sea” snorkeling trip awaits. Here, guests can engage in a thought-provoking panel discussion led by Cousteau, alongside marine biologists and representatives from the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy. Together, they will delve into crucial environmental issues, including climate change and its profound impact on nature, fostering enlightening dialogue and heightened awareness among participants.
To conclude the week, guests can celebrate World Dolphin Day with a memorable dolphin cruise, experiencing the beauty of Maldivian dolphins in their natural habitat. Jean-Michel Cousteau’s visit underscores The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands’ unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and marine conservation. Through these engaging experiences, the resort aims to inspire guests to cherish and protect the fragile ecosystems of the Maldives.
Drink
Sirru Fen Fushi hosts Flor de Caña mixology event with Dinesh Mondkar
The Behind The Bar Sirru Icon series recently hosted a mixology event at Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort, featuring Dinesh Mondkar, Flor de Caña’s brand ambassador for India.
The event gave guests an opportunity to explore a selection of rum cocktails while learning more about the craftsmanship and heritage behind the Flor de Caña brand. Set against a sunset backdrop over the ocean, the session combined cocktail-making techniques, brand storytelling and a relaxed island setting.
Guests were introduced to a range of cocktails that highlighted bold flavours and the versatility of rum in contemporary mixology. The evening also offered insight into the methods and presentation behind premium cocktail service, adding an interactive element to the experience.
The event formed part of the resort’s ongoing Behind The Bar Sirru Icon series, which continues to bring recognised figures from the international spirits industry to the Maldives. Through the series, the resort aims to expand its food and beverage offering with curated events that connect guests with global brands and industry expertise.
Such experiences are designed to complement the wider guest programme by combining destination dining and beverage concepts with the setting of the Maldives, while offering visitors a more immersive way to engage with the resort’s hospitality offerings.
Featured
Angsana Velavaru marks reopening of upgraded futsal ground
Angsana Velavaru has reopened its futsal facility as part of efforts to enhance guest experiences and staff engagement through sport and community activities.
The reopening ceremony was officiated by Dhaalu Atoll Council president Ahmed Shafiu and the resort’s general manager, Ahmed Zahir, who jointly cut the ribbon to mark the occasion.
Located within the island grounds, the futsal court measures 57 metres by 38 metres and is intended to serve as a space for both recreational use and organised activities for guests and resort associates.
The resort said the facility would form part of its wider recreational offering and would host workshops and expert-led collaborations aimed at providing guests with sports-based experiences while also supporting skill development and interaction. It added that the initiative also reflects its focus on staff wellbeing, teamwork and active living.
The opening event included friendly matches between the Angsana Velavaru men’s and women’s teams, as well as an inter-resort match between the Angsana Velavaru Orange Army and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.
Adjacent to the futsal court is the resort’s upgraded watersports centre, which now includes updated guest facilities such as shower and changing areas.
Ahmed Zahir said the reopening of the futsal ground represented more than a recreational upgrade and reflected the resort’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences for both guests and associates. He said the facility would support active living, connection and wellbeing, while also serving as a space for learning and collaboration.
Angsana Velavaru, located in South Nilandhe Atoll, said the reopening of the futsal facility forms part of its wider efforts to expand its lifestyle and community-focused offerings.
Featured
World Art Day inspires new Graffiti Club at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort has launched the Graffiti Club to mark World Art Day, introducing a team-led initiative focused on artistic expression, collaboration and storytelling through art.
The resort said the initiative brings together more than 18 team members from across different departments, reflecting a shared interest in creativity. As part of the project, selected back-of-house spaces have been turned into canvases, transforming staff areas into spaces for artistic work.
Inspired by the natural environment of the Maldives and the Maamunagau lagoon, the first set of artworks features marine life such as manta rays, whale sharks and sea turtles. The resort said the designs reflect the biodiversity of the destination and its connection to the surrounding ocean. Additional artwork is also being developed as the project continues.
InterContinental Maldives said the initiative is rooted in its brand culture and service philosophy, Inspire Incredible, and is intended to support creativity, collaboration and self-expression among team members.
Renuka Gupta, cluster director of learning and development, said creativity exists in every individual, regardless of role or background. She said the initiative was created to provide team members with a space to express themselves, connect with colleagues and contribute to the environment in which they work each day.
The resort said the Graffiti Club forms part of its wider approach to workplace culture, with a focus on creativity, wellbeing and personal expression alongside the guest experience.
-
Honeymoon1 week agoCentara Grand Lagoon Maldives offers secluded island experiences for couples
-
Awards1 week agoKuda Villingili listed in Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards 2026
-
Awards1 week agoAngsana Velavaru achieves 4.8 rating in British Airways Customer Awards
-
Cooking1 week agoBaros Maldives to showcase sustainable dining for Earth Day
-
Action1 week agoFour Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa to stage 14th edition of Surfing Champions Trophy
-
Drink1 week agoSirru Fen Fushi showcases mixology collaboration during Easter programme
-
Featured1 week agoGrand Park Kodhipparu to host lunar-themed experiences in May
-
Awards1 week agoCinnamon Dhonveli Maldives earns TUI Global Hotel Award recognition


