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Let’s go katteylhi fishing in Fuvahmulah

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13 years ago

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By Maldives Holiday Homes. If you are looking for budget, island-style accommodations, and want to also experience life in the island communities, MaldivesHolidayHomes.com is the ideal site for you.

If you are tired of catching snappers, trevallies, and groupers in most of the fishing trips, then pack up your bags and choose Fuvahmulah as your next game fishing destination. Located just south of the equator Fuvahmulah is home to Katteylhi (Promethean Escolar)  – a unique large-toothed deep-sea fish — only caught in this island of 11,000 people.
About a 50-minute flight from the capital Male, the 5-square km Fuvahmulah itself is a unique island. Fuvahmulah, loosely translated, means “island of Areca nut” and any visitor would notice the tall areca palms in the island. Areca nuts, dried, roasted and fresh, are chewed with betel leaves. Its popularity among some people may be attributed to the stimulating effect of consuming betel and areca nut.
Back to the outdoor adventure – game fishing — that is more stimulating. Katteylhi fishing, popular among locals, enjoyed by the experienced fishermen as well as the novice, would also give an adrenalin rush of a different kind.
It was a year ago in February that I visited the island, having heard of the many stories about the deep-sea creature.  The fishing trips start from the harbor located on the southern tip of the island, close to the airport. Every day at about 5pm small boats, (locally known as bokkora), fitted with outboard motors, can bee seen leaving the inner harbor for katteylhi fishing.
I have always wanted to catch katteylhi and it was a perfect day for a trip to the sea. It was a sunny day and the weather forecast talked of smooth sea, low southeast winds and a 30-degree C temperature. But it didn’t feel that hot. Thanks to the mild sea breeze.
I was there in the harbor by 5pm looking for the bokkora and its crew with whom I had talked earlier and arranged for the trip.  It took a while for me to locate the boat and its crew of three. I knew one of them, Ibirehim Futhu, who was sitting on the bow of the vessel having his betel and areca nut – a single betel leaf, five large slices of raw areca nut and a piece of dried tobacco leaf. That was a fairly large serving and I could see the visible effects; sweats dripping from his forehead. The stimulant must give a good response.
The seemingly hyperactive Ibirehim Futhu loaded the fishing lines, reels, hooks, and sinkers to the vessel and we were ready to go. I was seated on the stern side and as we headed out there were few bokkoras ahead of us travelling for the same katteylhi fishing ground located west of the island.
Gone were the days when you have to use oars (called faali in the local dialect) to paddle the boat to the open sea. Nowadays the bokkoras are fitted with small outboard engines. Within 15 minutes of starting the engine we were out in the open sea, travelling over the Kedemoole faro (a shallow reef extending south from the southernmost tip of the island). There were four of us, the maximum for a small bokkora like ours, in this fishing trip.
By the time we reached the Katteylhi fishing spot we have caught enough baitfish. We can see clearly the big surf breaking on the island reef. We were about a kilometer off the reef.
It was about 15 minutes before sunset. With the clear skies, few cumulus clouds in the distant horizon, the sun was creating its magical effects casting rays in the twilight. The brightness of the day was receding slowly to darkness and it was time to cast the lines.
All of us, except Ibirehim Futhu, took the fishing lines, put bait, attached the sinkers and cast the line, sending them deep into the ocean.
As the bokkora has to be kept moving with the current Ibirehim Futhu was tasked to keep it stable. So he picked the oars and slowly paddled. Every now and then the bokkora captain Allidhi would say “elei” to which Ibirehim Futhu paddles the oars a little bit faster.
Few minutes before the sunset came the big bite. Allidhi hooked a fish. With a sudden jerk he swiftly started to pull the line. In about six minutes he brought the katteylhi, from depth of about 200 meters, to the surface.  The excitement and euphoria started as everyone began pulling up the elusive fish. Few minutes into the frenzy it was my turn. There was a sudden and powerful grab on the line, and in the knack of time I gave a quick pull to hook my first katteylhi. It took a while for me to bring to the surface the fish. It was fairly aggressive, and strong.
First catch of the day.
By 7pm, we have caught 15 katteylhi, sufficient for the day, and it was time to head home.
Soon we were ashore with the catch. Within few minutes the katteylhi fish were sold out. The larger ones, about two to three feet long, earned MVR 80 (about 6 US dollars). Some days when fishing was poor a large katteylhi could fetch MVR 200.
I took one and headed home to enjoy my katteylhi, local style – katteylhi boiled in water with a dash of salt, curry leaves, onion, garlic, chilies and pandan leaves. Eating it the fish with cooked taro, grated coconut, lime, and habanero. That was the most exciting fishing trip and uniquely Fuvahmulah cuisine I had.
How to make Katteylhi garudhiya (Katteylhi clear soup)
Catching a katteylhi, that is so enigmatic and unknown to most Maldivians is rewarding. And cooking a fresh katteylhi is exceptionally heartwarming. This is a very simple recipe for making Katteylhi garudhiya Fuvahmulah style.
Ingredients
1 large katteylhi (chopped into steaks, not filleted)
1 large onion (chopped)
2 stalks of lemon grass
Curry leaves
Pandan leaf (chopped)
2 chilies
Salt to taste
Coriander leaves (to garnish)
You would also need to have the following to go with boiled/ steamed taro
Lime
Grated coconut
Chilies
Direction
Add 5 cups of water and all the ingredients except the fish to a large pot. As the water begins to boil put the katteylhi steaks. Bring water to boil and leave for about 5 minutes. Garnish with coriander. Now you are ready to enjoy a popular local cuisine. Eat katteylhi with boiled taro.
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CROSSROADS Maldives welcomes international padel stars for historic women’s tournament

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1 day ago

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November 1, 2026

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The Maldives is set for an electrifying sporting spectacle as CROSSROADS Maldives welcomes the country’s first FIP Silver Women’s Padel tournament, taking place from 5–8 November 2026 at SAii Lagoon Maldives. Organised in collaboration Asia Padel Events, the event brings international sporting excellence to paradise, with professional competition, exclusive masterclasses, and exciting opportunities for the public to experience the game firsthand.

The tournament will feature 26 international professional players, including eight athletes ranked among the world’s Top 100. Headlining the competition are Spanish padel stars Nuria Rodriguez (World No. 24) and Marta Talavan (World No. 36), alongside an impressive line-up featuring Finland’s No. 1 player Martina Minetti, UK’s No. 3 Rosie Pooley, an Italian national champion, European champions, Malaysia’s No. 1 player, and national team representatives from multiple countries.

Beyond the championship, CROSSROADS Maldives is opening the courts to everyone. From 5–8 November, padel enthusiasts can train alongside Nuria Rodriguez and Marta Talavan through exclusive masterclasses, available at USD 450 per day or USD 1,200 for the four-day experience. The programme includes:

  • Four hours of intensive training and matches daily, divided into two sessions.
  • An exclusive dinner with the professionals on 5 November.
  • Access to watch all FIP Silver Women’s Padel tournament matches.

For those seeking a personalised experience, exclusive training sessions with Finland’s No. 1 Martina Minetti and UK’s No. 3 Rosie Pooley will also be available from 2–4 November, offering one-on-one private coaching at USD 200 per hour, or an exciting one-hour matchplay session with two professionals at USD 400.

The tournament is open for everyone to watch, welcoming resort guests, Maldivian residents, expatriates, and visitors to witness world-class padel against the spectacular backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Masterclasses and private coaching sessions are likewise open to the public, with limited slots available.

As a multi-island lifestyle destination, CROSSROADS Maldives, home to SO/ Maldives, SAii Lagoon Maldives, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, and The Marina at CROSSROADS, continues to elevate the island experience through international sporting events, entertainment, and lifestyle programming that connect travellers with the local community.

This November, the CROSSROADS Maldives isn’t just one destination. It’s centre court.

Event Details

2–4 November | Private Training & Matchplay:

  • One-on-one training with international professionals: USD 200 per hour
  • One-hour matchplay with two professionals: USD 400

5–8 November | Padel Masterclasses:

  • Daily Pass: USD 450 per person
  • Four-Day Pass: USD 1,200 per person
  • Includes four hours of daily training and matches across two sessions, dinner with the professionals on 5 November, and access to watch tournament matches.

5–8 November | FIP Silver Women’s Padel Tournament (Open to spectators):

  • 5 November: Round of 16
  • 6 November: Quarterfinals
  • 7 November: Semifinals
  • 8 November: Championship Final

Venue: SAii Lagoon Maldives, CROSSROADS Maldives

Bookings & Enquiries: KoimalaandMaalimi@crossroadsmaldives.com

Masterclass packages exclude food and beverages beyond the stated dinner inclusion, accommodation, and transfers. Public access and participation are subject to event arrangements and availability.

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W Maldives welcomes Olympic badminton champion Wang Chi-Lin for exclusive coaching experience

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1 day ago

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November 1, 2026

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This December, W Maldives is set to elevate the island getaway experience as two-time Olympic badminton gold medalist Wang Chi-Lin takes up residence at the luxury private island resort from December 1 to 3, 2026. During his stay, the badminton icon will host a complimentary one-hour badminton coaching session for resort guests, adding an exciting sporting dimension to a tropical escape in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations for families, groups of friends, and solo travellers.

A Taiwanese badminton player specialising in men’s and mixed doubles, Wang Chi-Lin is widely regarded as one of the sport’s biggest stars. He has earned global recognition through a remarkable career winning back-to-back Olympic gold medals in men’s doubles at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and the Paris 2024 Olympics. Known for his dynamic playing style and relentless determination, Wang continues to inspire a new generation of athletes and badminton enthusiasts around the world.

Located in the heart of North Ari Atoll and reached via a scenic 25-minute seaplane journey from Malé, W Maldives is a private island playground where luxury, adventure, and vibrant island living come naturally. Guests can discover the resort’s award-winning house reef teeming with marine life, savour bold dining concepts, and recharge with wellness experiences designed to inspire every sense. Every stay embodies W Maldives’ signature spirit of energy, freedom, and unexpected discovery.

From snorkelling vibrant coral reefs and encountering nurse sharks to sunset cruises and relaxing by the water, guests can experience the many sides of island living at W Maldives. For those seeking even greater seclusion, Gaathafushi, the resort’s private castaway island, provides the perfect setting for bespoke experiences and private dining amid untouched natural beauty.

As part of this collaboration, W Maldives is also unveiling a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity through Marriott Bonvoy Moments, where members can bid on an Exclusive Badminton Coaching Experience with Olympic Champion Wang Chi-Lin paired with a four-night stay in a Premier Overwater One-Bedroom Villa from December 2 to 6, 2026.

“We are always looking for unexpected ways to bring together passion, play, and meaningful experiences for our guests,” said Amila Handunwala, General Manager of W Maldives. “Welcoming Wang Chi-Lin to W Maldives adds an exciting new dimension to the guest experience. Whether you’re passionate about badminton or simply looking for something unexpected during your island escape, this is the kind of once-in-a-lifetime moment that perfectly captures the energy, adventure, and sense of discovery we love creating at W Maldives.”

Package for the bid winner and one guest includes:

  • Four-night stay in a Premier Overwater One-Bedroom Villa
  • Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner with non-alcoholic beverages at select dining venues
  • A private one-hour badminton coaching session with Olympic Champion Wang Chi-Lin on the paddle court
  • An intimate sunset experience with drinks and canapés on Gaathafushi, W Maldives’ private castaway island
  • One 60-minute signature treatment per person at AWAY® Spa
  • Guided snorkelling at the resort’s award-winning house reef
  • Shared roundtrip seaplane transfers from Velana International Airport

Members can now bid on this once-in-a-lifetime experience from now through November 14, 2026 through Marriott Bonvoy Moments. For more information, visit www.wmaldives.com or contact reservations.wmaldives@whotels.com.

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Kandooma Maldives adds pickleball to recreational offerings

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4 days ago

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October 29, 2026

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Kandooma Maldives has introduced a new pickleball court, expanding its recreational facilities as the paddle sport continues to gain popularity worldwide.

Combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball is a sport that is relatively easy to learn and suitable for players of different ages and abilities. The new facility allows guests to participate in singles or doubles matches, offering an additional recreational activity for families, couples and groups staying at the resort.

The pickleball court is open daily from 6am to 6pm, with paddles and balls available for guests to borrow from Reception.

Court reservations can be made through the resort’s Recreation or Front Office team. Each villa is entitled to one complimentary hour of court use per day.

The introduction of pickleball forms part of Kandooma Maldives’ efforts to expand its recreational offerings and provide guests with more opportunities to participate in sports and group activities during their stay.

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