Action
Renowned marine biologist Steven Weinberg joins Carpe Diem Maldives for three weeks of marine expeditions

Carpe Diem Maldives has extended its Dive with a Purpose trips to include coral reef and marine biology research with internationally acclaimed marine biologist Steven Weinberg.
As part of the ongoing Dive with a Purpose events and International Year of the Reef 2018 celebration with Carpe Diem, avid divers can take to the clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean while on board the cruises for two weeks in July, followed by a week at Carpe Diem Beach Resort and Spa in August.
Benefitting from over 40 years of marine biology knowledge with Steven Weinberg, divers can learn or improve their skills and understanding in one of the world’s most beautiful tropical countries and award-winning dive destination. Steven is multilingual (Dutch, French, English, German), a much appreciated guest speaker and has inspired countless divers over the years as they discover marine life and underwater photography.
Diving since the age of eight and passionate about photography since the age of 11, Steven became a qualified marine biologist in 1979. Since then, he has taught reef ecology at the University of Puerto Rico, and for almost 30 years he taught biology at the European School of Luxembourg. In addition to over 30 scientific publications, he is the author of more than 550 magazine articles on the underwater world.
With fluent French language skills, since 1992 Steven has become France’s most celebrated marine author with several illustrated books, including a very popular series of underwater field guides (“Mediterranean”, “Atlantic”, “Red Sea & Indian Ocean”, “Caribbean” and “Tropical Pacific”), “Ocean Life”, “Ecologically Yours!” He also co-authored the astonishing “History of Underwater Imaging – from 1856 to the present” and “Ar(t)cachon – Jewels of the Bay”.
In July this year, Steven Weinberg returns to the Maldives for the first time in over 25 years.
“I am thrilled to be returning after such a long time away, and especially with opportunity to explore so many different reefs together with Carpe Diem Maldives. The explorations will serve as research for my updated version of the ‘Red Sea & Indian Ocean’ field guide, to be released next year. In the process, I am looking forward to sharing my marine knowledge and underwater photography advice with their enthusiastic divers as we explore the dives together,” he explains.
On each Dive with A Purpose week with Steven Weinerg from July 15-22 and July 22-29, up to 20 recreational divers can join the Carpe Diem Cruises marine expeditions. Priced from USD 1,863 per person (inclusive of 12 percent GST) for the week, the expeditions include:
- Seven nights aboard the assigned Carpe Diem Maldives vessel
- Three meals daily, plus between-dive snacks
- Three to four dives daily (except for on day of arrival and day before departure)
- Use of tanks, weights and belts
- Drinking water, tea and coffee
- Airport transfers on the days of embarkation/disembarkation
- Evening workshops on marine ecology, coral reef, marine life and photography
- On-board marine biologist
Agnes van Linden, the Assistant Managing Director at Carpe Diem Maldives, says: “Our previous Dive with a Purpose trips have been popular with our guests and we are constantly seeking new and informative ways to bring more variety as well as benefit research. With Steven on our cruises and at the new resort in August, guests can dive in crystal blue water and discover the rich biodiversity of the Maldives while learning, documenting and exploring coral reefs. The majority of our guest divers have underwater camera equipment with them to document their trips, so I am sure there will be lots of questions between dives and around the lunch and dinner tables about camera technique and capturing marine life through the lens.”
In January this year, Carpe Diem Maldives began a year-long celebration of IYO 2018, inviting all divers to share their underwater images on social media using #maldivesreefawareness, #iyor2018 #carpediemmaldives. This provides research scientist easy access to a live feed of images on regularly visited dive sites.
Towards the end of 2018, campaign images posted throughout the year can be submitted to a panel of professional photographers, conservationists and IYOR officials, with a chance of winning a four-night stay in 2019 at the new Carpe Diem Beach Resort and Spa.
Carpe Diem’s Dive with a Purpose trips are aimed at anyone with a passion for the ocean; enthusiasm is valued over experience and you don’t need a scientific background.
Whether divers are looking to further their studies or just looking for a meaningful conservation holiday, Dive with a Purpose trips offer something different, and past guests refer to it as an experience they’ll carry with them for the rest of their lives.
Since 2008, the award-winning hospitality group Carpe Diem Maldives has been operating luxury dive and surf liveaboard cruises, sharing the beauty of the Maldivian waters with adventurous travellers. Carpe Diem is the only liveaboard operator in the Maldives to offer diving adventures with a team of all-Maldivian dive masters.
With the expansion into resorts, Carpe Diem Maldives becomes the only hospitality brand in the country to offer year-round liveaboard cruises that can be combined with a resort stay.
Action
New era of luxury Wellness: Pilates Reformer arrives at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

Setting a new standard in luxury wellness, the iconic St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is expanding its holistic offerings with the introduction of Pilates Reformer—a dynamic full-body workout renowned for its ability to lengthen, strengthen, and restore. Against the backdrop of turquoise waters and lush island serenity, guests will soon be invited to experience this transformative practice as part of a thoughtfully curated wellness journey.
With a growing global demand for integrative fitness experiences, Pilates Reformer has become a favourite for those seeking mindful movement and functional strength. Utilising a specially designed apparatus, the method elevates traditional Pilates through resistance-based training that enhances flexibility, balance, and core stability, while remaining gentle on the joints. At St. Regis Maldives, certified instructors will guide guests through personalised sessions tailored to a variety of goals, from rehabilitation and toning to posture improvement and stress relief.
The addition of Pilates Reformer complements the resort’s deep-rooted commitment to wellness, extending far beyond conventional spa treatments. Central to this philosophy is the overwater Iridium Spa—a serene sanctuary that offers more than indulgence. Guests can engage in Ayurvedic consultations, guided meditation, and holistic health screenings conducted by in-house wellness doctors. These screenings integrate Heart Rate Variability (HRV) technology with the ancient Ayurvedic technique of Nadi Pareeksha, a traditional pulse diagnosis, to identify imbalances and customise each guest’s path to optimal well-being.
Whether seeking deep relaxation, detoxification, or enhanced physical performance, the resort’s integrative approach ensures that every element of a guest’s stay contributes to overall wellness. Daily yoga, breathwork sessions, oceanfront meditation, and nutrition guidance are seamlessly woven into the island’s natural rhythm to create a truly transformative retreat.
Private Pilates Reformer classes will be offered to suit all experience levels, providing an inspiring way for guests to reconnect with both body and mind. With its iconic overwater villas, pristine beaches, and impeccable service, St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort continues to redefine luxury through the lens of well-being.
Action
Game on! Upcoming Meyyafushi unveils Maldives’ first overwater padel court

Get ready for a unique sporting experience in paradise! Meyyafushi Maldives, the highly anticipated new resort from the owners and operators of Fushifaru Maldives, has teased an extraordinary amenity on its social media channels: an overwater padel tennis court. Set to open in October 2025, Meyyafushi Maldives is already generating buzz, and this innovative addition is sure to elevate its appeal.
Building on the established success of Fushifaru Maldives, known for its intimate atmosphere and stunning natural beauty in Lhaviyani Atoll, Meyyafushi Maldives promises a similar commitment to exceptional hospitality and unforgettable experiences. While details about the new resort have been gradually unfolding, the recent reveal of the overwater padel tennis court marks a significant and exciting development.
Padel tennis, a popular racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, squash, and badminton, is gaining traction globally. However, Meyyafushi Maldives is taking the game to a whole new level – literally. Imagine the thrill of a friendly (or perhaps a fiercely competitive!) match with the breathtaking backdrop of the turquoise Maldivian waters stretching out beneath the court. The social media post showcasing the court hints at a truly exceptional spot to engage in some active fun with loved ones while soaking in the unparalleled scenery.

This pioneering amenity underscores Meyyafushi Maldives’ dedication to offering distinctive and memorable experiences for its guests. It signals a resort that is not only focused on relaxation and natural beauty but also on providing unique and engaging activities. The overwater padel tennis court is poised to become a signature feature, attracting sports enthusiasts and those seeking novel ways to enjoy their Maldivian getaway.
As Meyyafushi Maldives gears up for its October 2025 opening, the introduction of the first overwater padel tennis court in the Maldives adds another compelling reason to anticipate its arrival. This innovative amenity promises a memorable and picturesque sporting experience, further solidifying the resort’s position as a noteworthy addition to the Maldivian hospitality landscape.
Action
Ifuru Island Maldives takes part in Burunu Boma sport fishing tournament

Ifuru Island Maldives has announced its participation in the inaugural Burunu Boma Sport Fishing Tournament, taking place from 2 to 4 May 2025. Organized by the Visit Maldives Club (VMC), this premier event aims to position the Maldives as a leading destination for sustainable sport fishing.
As one of the select resorts competing in this prestigious tournament, Team Ifuru Maldives will showcase its commitment to marine conservation and responsible tourism. The competition emphasizes “catch and release” practices, aligning with global efforts to preserve marine biodiversity.
Participants will target species such as marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, swordfish, and bigeye tuna, with a grand prize of USD 25,000 awarded to the top-performing team. The event also features live entertainment and a festive atmosphere, celebrating the Maldives’ rich fishing heritage.
“We are thrilled to be part of Burunu Boma and to represent Ifuru Island Maldives in this landmark event,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Our participation underscores our dedication to sustainable practices and our passion for the ocean that surrounds us.”
-
Featured1 week ago
Villa Resorts Maldives recognised globally for luxurious halal-friendly experiences
-
Celebration1 week ago
Family fun and Maldivian traditions await this Eid at Summer Island Maldives
-
Awards1 week ago
Jawakara Islands Maldives ranks among global elite in 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards
-
Celebration1 week ago
Experience Maldivian traditions this Eid at NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi
-
Awards1 week ago
HolidayCheck 2025 recommends Canareef Resort Maldives for unmatched hospitality
-
Awards1 week ago
OBLU NATURE Helengeli and OBLU SELECT Sangeli earn top honours in Tripadvisor’s 2025 rankings
-
Awards1 week ago
Veligandu Maldives Resort Island celebrates HolidayCheck Award 2025 with 5.9/6 score
-
Awards5 days ago
OZEN LIFE MAADHOO ascends to elite global ranks with Tripadvisor ‘Best of the Best’ 2025