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Experience the fascination of manta rays with the Sultans way
Maldives.net.mv – Mantas have been known as one of the most beautiful and graceful swimmers in the seas. Watching them glide through the water or simply to come in contact with them has become a truly fascinating and desired experience by the avid diver.
The waters around the thousands of tropical islands of the Maldives are home to the largest living manta rays in the ocean. In fact, they rank amongst the global manta hot spots for many researcher and make it one of the biggest attractions of the Maldives. With two distinctive seasons, mantas make seasonal migration intending to take advantage of particularly rich areas of food. The most manta ray sightings can be experienced in the western side atolls during the Northeast Monsoon and in the eastern side atolls during the Southeast Monsoon. Divers and manta fans can observe these avid swimmers best during the months of June and October.
Scores of manta rays are seen, making regular visits to the “cleaning stations”, at the edge of reefs, enjoying the services rendered by the Cleaner Wrasses. An exceptional phenomenon can be observed at Hanifaru Bay in the central atolls – one of the most celebrated and seldom displayed underwater events. The cyclone feeding, which happens only about twelve times a year and is often commented by even the most frequent travelers as one of the best experiences of a lifetime. The highly sought-out courtship and mating rituals are also observed during the monsoons transition phases at specific locations.
Experience the fascination of manta rays with the Sultans way! the Sultans way fleet of luxury yachts by Sultans of the Seas offers you unique possibilities to discover the colourful underwater world of the Maldives. The Sultans way yachts are designed from the prestigious family of Azimut yachts, featuring sleek and contemporary styling, state-of-the-art engineering and latest safety features. Each yacht is delivered with full complement of crew, including captain, private chef and of course diving instructor.
The three luxurious yachts of the Sultans way fleet offer guests the unique opportunity to experience the fascination of manta rays very closely. the Sultans way 001 and 007 offer accommodation for up to ten persons in a Master Cabin, a VIP Guests Cabin and two Twin Cabins. Both yachts feature Bang&Olufsen sounds and video systems, flat screens as well as WiFi internet connection. the Sultans way 006 offers a Master Cabin and a Guests Cabin for up to four persons and feature Sony Bravia viewing screens and BOSE entertainment system as well as WiFi internet connection. Besides a bar and sitting areas all yachts come with Jet Skis and other water toys. Discover the colourful underwater world of the Maldives and get pampered on board of a luxurious yacht by Sultans of the Seas.
Excursions
From first visit to thousand dives: Love story anchored at Bandos Maldives

Bandos Maldives recently marked a significant milestone with two of its most loyal guests, Kate and Andy, who have shared a long-standing connection with the island.
Andy achieved an impressive feat by completing his 900th dive, all undertaken with Dive Bandos. His wife, Kate, surpassed this accomplishment by reaching her 1000th dive, with over 900 of those dives also completed alongside the Bandos team.
The Dive Bandos team joined the couple in celebrating this memorable occasion, recognising not only their dedication to diving but also the enduring bond they have formed with the resort over the years.
Kate and Andy’s relationship with Bandos extends far beyond statistics. Having first visited the island in 2006, they have returned every year since, making Bandos an integral part of their lives. In 2014, the couple even chose to exchange their wedding vows underwater at the resort — a unique moment that forever linked their love story with Bandos.
“Celebrating guests like Kate and Andy reminds us of what Bandos truly represents,” said Ismail Rasheed, General Manager of Bandos Maldives.
For Bandos Maldives, moments such as these exemplify why guests continue to choose the island for both adventure and a sense of belonging. With stories like Kate and Andy’s, Bandos stands not merely as a dive destination, but as a home — both beneath and above the waves.
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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.
Featured
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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