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Taylor Knox beats Tom Curren to win twin fin division

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Taylor Knox SurfingMaldives.net.mv – In an all-American final Taylor Knox, 42, defeated Tom Curren, 49, to claim the Twin Fin Division of the Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy at the third annual invitational at Sultan’s Point today.

With speed and maneuverability the hallmark of twin-fin performance, the iconic lineup of competitors maximized the testing but fun one-metre (3ft) point waves with Damien Hardman (Aus), Tom Carroll (Aus), Layne Beachley (Aus) and Pedro Henrique (BRZ) also in top competitive mode.

Ultimately the all-important inside connection proved key for big scores and heat wins in the strong offshore conditions. Something Knox and Curren had wired from the outset today, as they laid down timeless rail-to-rail surfing with smooth transitions between high-powered maneuvers as the competitive savvy between the master and protégé was on display.

“That was an emotional contest for me because I was surfing with all my hero’s,” said Knox. “It was just really cool today, everyone I came up against was just surfing so well.”

The first half of the final was a seesawing affair before Knox locked in a heat-high 8.03 score midway, to take the lead and never be headed. As the tide filled in conditions became inconsistent, leaving three-time world champion Curren requiring an 8.17 score on the siren. “I was really nervous at the end thinking the Tom Curren magic was going to strike me down but the ocean actually cooperated with me,” said Knox.

Last year the Californian retired from ASP World Tour after 22 years of circling the globe as one of the worlds most respected surfers and headed into the Maldives in vacation mode before getting swept up by his highly competitive rivals. “The guys are a little bit more into it than what I expected. I thought it was going to be a groovy, little fun event but they care. They really care,” laughed Knox.

“They woke me up after the first division, I went ‘Oh this is serious here’. But at the end of the day you get to go back to the Four Seasons and live in the lap of luxury so you really can’t get mad at any point,” he added.

Curren’s earlier win in the Single Fin division along with today’s runner-up result all but guarantee’s him a berth in tomorrow’s Grand Champions Final. “Taylor surfed really good, he deserved the win,” said Curren.

“I thought I had a pretty good chance, but I made a couple of mistakes. I fell on my first wave and could have made more of the final section on my last wave because no more sets came after that one. I am super happy to have been in the final and I’m going to get my board waxed up for tomorrow and hope for the best,” he added.

Curren was competing on an old board of Dane Reynolds that was originally built as a twinzer (two big main fins and two smaller fins), but the craftsmen at the Channel Islands factory knocked the fins out and rebuilt it as a standard twin-fin. In the warm-up session Curren looked downright deadly — flowing, flying, connecting sections and blasting big turns.

However today belonged to an inform Knox, who will be hoping to secure what is sure to be the hotly contested, second berth in the Grand Champions Final tomorrow. The three fin Thruster Division will prove the decider and kick start the last day of the 2013 Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy.

The event format showcases the evolution of the surfboard with the old school ‘70s single-fin in Round 1, Round 2 celebrates the brilliance of the twin-fin that dominated in the early ‘80s, and coming up in Round 3 we’ll see the state-of-the-art three-fin thrusters put to use. The two surfers with most accrued points at the end of the three rounds qualify for the Grand Champions Final.

The semi-finals saw Curren eliminate defending champion Hardman with a disciplined performance. Knox left former two-time world champion Carroll on the back foot in the second semi.

Lone female star Beachley suffered an opening round loss and was literally blown off her first wave due to the strong offshore winds, while fellow Australian Hardman and Carroll advanced through the three-person heat. “They were really challenging conditions out there,” said Beachley. “I’m disappointed, but I’m building a house, at least I caught a wave this time. Never underestimate the competitive spirit of these guys, they don’t want to lose, especially to a girl. It doesn’t matter how many world titles you have.”

Tournament young gun Pedro Henrique, 31, (BRZ/PRT) also bowed out in the opening round, out surfed by Knox and Curren in one of the events most explosive heats. Tomorrow the contest will end with the thruster division and the grand champions final.

Twin Fin Division Final
1st Taylor Knox (USA) 15.20 def. 2nd Tom Curren (USA) 13:43

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Unveiling ultimate escape: GlobeAir’s long-haul service to The Nautilus Maldives

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The Nautilus Maldives has announced an extraordinary partnership with GlobeAir, Europe’s leading private jet operator. This exclusive collaboration introduces GlobeAir’s long-haul private jet services to the Maldives, setting a new benchmark for bespoke travel and offering an unparalleled journey into the world of ultimate luxury.

By joining forces, The Nautilus and GlobeAir aim to redefine bespoke travel, combining their expertise to deliver highly personalised and unforgettable experiences for the most discerning global travellers. This partnership seamlessly merges two realms of exceptional luxury, elevating both the travel experience and the destination itself.

GlobeAir’s newly launched long-haul private jet services to the Maldives reimagine private aviation with tailored itineraries, exceptional service, and unmatched comfort. From the moment passengers board, their journey is designed to reflect the elegance and exclusivity synonymous with The Nautilus. This collaboration exemplifies The Nautilus’s commitment to absolute freedom and bespoke ultra-luxury hospitality, where every detail is meticulously curated to ensure an unforgettable experience. Together, The Nautilus and GlobeAir invite guests to embark on a seamless transition from takeoff to the barefoot luxury of the Maldives.

The Exclusive Nautilus Experience:

  • A Seamless Voyage: Guests begin their journey with a round-trip aboard a GlobeAir private jet, where every detail is crafted to provide ultimate comfort and personalised service.
  • A Timeless Stay in Paradise: Upon arrival at The Nautilus, time slows down, and bespoke experiences take centre stage. With only 26 ultra-luxury boho-chic houses and residences, each space offers complete privacy and is tailored to individual preferences.
  • Complimentary Cinema Under the Stars: Guests can indulge in an enchanting beachside cinema experience, featuring a custom bokkura setup and the soothing sounds of the Indian Ocean. The evening is complete with a bottle of fine champagne, blending barefoot sophistication with the magic of the Maldives.
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Bond beyond travel: Iain and Debbie’s 40-visit love affair with Reethi Faru Resort

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Reethi Faru Resort proudly celebrates the extraordinary journey of two devoted guests, Iain and Debbie, who recently marked a special milestone: Debbie’s 40th visit to the Maldives. Iain, who has visited even more frequently, shares this remarkable tradition with Debbie, which began in 2005 when they discovered the Mahogany Group by chance. Since then, their deep connection with the resort has brought them back year after year.

Iain and Debbie’s love for the Maldives transcends mere vacations, evolving into a meaningful relationship with the resort and its staff. “When we arrive, it feels like we’re meeting family at the end of a very long journey,” Debbie shares, describing the warm and welcoming environment that greets them every time. Their bond with the staff is reflected in the many holidays, birthdays, and special occasions they have celebrated together.

Now retired, the couple enjoys extended stays at Reethi Faru, often spending up to three months a year diving, dining, and relaxing at the spa. Their loyalty to the resort is a testament to the exceptional service and community spirit it fosters. “We know everyone who works in the restaurants, and they treat us like friends,” Iain explains. “Those little touches—like trying something new or receiving a taster dish—make all the difference.”

The emotional connection the couple has with the resort runs deep. “Every time we leave, I cry all day, even though I know I’ll be back in a few months,” Debbie admits. “It’s always very hard to leave such a wonderful place.”

Iain and Debbie have also shared their enthusiasm for Reethi Faru with others, inspiring friends to join them. “We’ve recommended Reethi Faru to many of our friends, and it has become a central meeting point for divers and food lovers,” Iain says. “We all share a common passion for what we love.”

Having now visited Reethi Faru 30 times, the couple has already planned their next trip to the resort, underscoring their unwavering affection for the island paradise.

Reethi Faru Resort remains committed to fostering an environment where guests can create lasting memories and forge deep connections. The resort eagerly anticipates welcoming Iain, Debbie, and all returning guests for many years to come.

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Awards

Coco Bodu Hithi wins ‘Best Service’ at 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards

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Coco Bodu Hithi, a renowned boutique resort in the Maldives celebrated for its Maldivian-inspired elegance, has received recognition at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence.

This prestigious accolade honours outstanding quality across recommended properties worldwide and serves as a trusted benchmark for travellers and industry professionals alike. Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of ‘Best Service’ by Condé Nast Johansens for its exceptional hospitality, which seamlessly blends serene surroundings with meticulous, personalised service.

Additionally, the resort was recently recognised in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the top resorts in the Indian Ocean, cementing its position as a leader in luxury travel. Offering a thoughtfully curated guest experience, Coco Bodu Hithi continues to set itself apart within the industry.

The resort also excels in culinary innovation, boasting four exceptional restaurants. Renowned Michelin-starred chefs frequently collaborate with Group Culinary Director and Michelin-starred chef Martin Cahill to craft exquisite dining experiences, reflecting Coco Bodu Hithi’s unwavering commitment to service excellence and world-class gastronomy.

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