A cruise liner docked at HDh. Makunudhoo for the first time Monday, marking a new tourism milestone for the island. Passengers from the MS Hebridean Sky were welcomed by the island’s residents with cultural displays reflecting Maldivian heritage.

According to the Makunudhoo Island Council, 94 tourists disembarked from the vessel. The islanders gathered at the harbour in traditional attire to greet them.

As part of the visit, the tourists were divided into groups, each guided by local residents dressed in traditional clothing. They were taken on a tour of the island, visiting historical and significant sites. A festival was also held at the harbour, where islanders demonstrated traditional crafts, sports, and dances. A marketplace was set up as part of the event, where visitors could purchase local products.

The tourists, who arrived in the morning, departed at 1pm. Before leaving, they donated sports equipment to the island’s school.

“They were pleased with the welcome and the opportunity to explore the island,” said Auzam Adam, President of the Makunudhoo Council.

The MS Hebridean Sky visited Makunudhoo after stops at islands in Addu and Alif Alif Atoll. The vessel is now en route to another country.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is set to host an extraordinary gastronomic event featuring Chef Yim Jung-sik, a celebrated pioneer of modern Korean fine dining. On February 13 and 14, 2025, Chef Yim will take over Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, showcasing his innovative approach to Korean cuisine. His restaurant, Jungsik New York, made history in December 2024 by becoming the first Korean establishment in the United States to earn three MICHELIN stars.

Located five meters beneath sea level, Ithaa Undersea Restaurant is the world’s first undersea dining venue, offering an exclusive experience for just 14 guests. With panoramic views of vibrant coral gardens and marine life, the setting enhances the dining experience with breathtaking scenery.

This exclusive multi-course event will present a fusion of artistry and nature, blending Chef Yim’s avant-garde flavours with the stunning backdrop of the Maldivian waters. Every aspect, from meticulously curated ingredients to Ithaa’s surreal ambiance, is designed to transcend traditional dining and deliver a moment of pure culinary excellence.

For two nights only, attendees will have the opportunity to witness the convergence of modern Korean gastronomy and the unparalleled beauty of an underwater setting.

Limited seating is available for this once-in-a-lifetime event.

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands presents an unparalleled introduction to Spring with a week-long celebration designed to uplift spirits and indulge guests in pure luxury. From February 16 to 22, a diverse array of multigenerational experiences at this Indian Ocean retreat will encompass gastronomy, adventure, wellness, and discovery, all while immersing visitors in nature. Whether through awakening the senses on a gourmet journey, acquiring new skills on land and at sea, or achieving balance in mind and body, the ‘Spirit of Spring ensures a seamless transition from the winter season.

For families and groups of friends, The Ritz-Carlton Estate serves as the premier residence to welcome the arrival of Spring. This architectural masterpiece, designed by the renowned Kerry Hill Studio, features three villas and four bedrooms, offering a private beach retreat for up to 12 guests. Designed for celebrations, the estate boasts a 19-meter infinity pool, an outdoor entertainment pavilion, a private chef, a fire pit, and direct beach access. Guests staying here will also benefit from the impeccable service of the resort’s Aris Meeha butlers. Meanwhile, couples and smaller families can choose from an elegant selection of one- or two-bedroom ocean and beach villas.

With breathtaking views of the endless ocean, the resort’s Spring wellness experiences are curated to heal, nourish, and rejuvenate both body and mind. Sunrise yoga sessions at the Mystique Garden provide a refreshing start to the day, while Vinyasa flow classes energise participants. Face yoga and gua sha massage masterclasses equip guests with valuable wellness techniques. For those seeking an active start to the season, “Boxing Burn” and Tabata workouts on the beach boost energy levels, while professional tennis workshops on the resort’s state-of-the-art court prepare players for the upcoming season. The Ritz-Carlton Spa—often referred to as the “halo of happiness”—offers holistic treatments by Bamford, including a special 60-minute “Harmony Touch” healing massage for Spring. As the day winds down, sunset meditations on the recreation beach provide the perfect opportunity for relaxation.

Culinary experiences take centre stage both on and beyond the resort’s dedicated culinary island. Guests can savour an exclusive chef’s table omakase dinner at IWAU, featuring innovative Japanese cuisine under the stars. The holiday’s Arabian family-sharing dinner at Arabesque showcases rich Middle Eastern flavours, while The Beach Shack will host both a Spring beach barbecue highlighting smoky regional flavours and a twilight lobster feast.

The resort’s Ambassadors of the Environment program, founded by world-renowned oceanographer and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau, introduces young guests to marine conservation through education and exploration. This Spring, workshops will examine the critical role of various marine species within underwater ecosystems. Younger children can enjoy marine life sponge painting, while adventurers aged 12-16 can explore the house reefs through snorkelling and GoPro expeditions. At Ritz Kids, junior guests will be entertained with an array of engaging activities, including treasure hunts, outdoor movie screenings, cooking and crafting sessions, and surfboard design workshops.

For adults, the resort offers immersive marine experiences, beginning with guided explorations of the reefs surrounding the Fari Islands. Led by the resort’s Dive Butlers, the holiday program includes exhilarating shark snorkelling and an awe-inspiring twilight dive into the vibrant underwater world at dusk. Families can also participate in the coral regeneration program, contributing to the growth of the reef’s flourishing coral nurseries.

Each day at the resort concludes with the signature Defining Moment, a tribute to the natural cycle of the sun. Hosted at the iconic Eau Bar, this ritual features the rhythmic beats of Boduberu drumming and the resonant call of the Sangu shell, creating a mesmerising atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to take in this enchanting moment with a sundown cocktail in hand.