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Curren, Pottz and Occy Reunited for Surfing Champions Trophy 2012 at Four Seasons Maldives at Kuda Huraa

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Surfing

Maldives Promotion House – In a reunion poised to set the Maldivian waves alight, surf legends Tom Curren and Martin “Pottz” Potter are the two latest world champions to join Mark “Occy” Occhilupo in the line up for Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2012.

Hosted in conjunction with luxury surf pioneers Tropicsurf, the boutique event with a twist sees six ex-world champions battle it out on single-fin, twin-fin and triple-fin boards in a USD 25,000.00 showdown for the ultimate crown. And with this year’s event so far reuniting three of the card-carrying “Big Four” from the 1980s, the twists are set to become a whole lot bigger.

American Tom Curren almost defies introduction. Three-time world champion, true soul surfer, retro aficionado and all-round enigma, Curren is one of Kelly Slater’s only surf idols. Emulated the world over since the mid-80s, his unparalleled style and quiet, unassuming nature has made him one of the sport’s most revered icons. In the 1985-86 season of the ASP (Association of Surfing Professionals), in one of the greatest heats ever, he defeated nemesis Mark Occhilupo at Bells Beach to clinch his first world crown, going on to take two further titles in 1986 and 1990.

Renowned for eschewing the limelight, Curren couldn’t be more delighted to be squaring up to his long-term rivals once more. “This is the kind of trip I’ve been wanting to do for a long time!” he said. “Surfing with Occy and Pottz, and staying at Four Seasons Kuda Huraa, it’s like a dream come true.”

Also hoping to make his mark in the Maldives crystal waters is English-born, South African-raised Martin Potter. Accredited with supercharging the surf culture with his very own brand of “cool,” prodigy Pottz set competitive surfing alight when he made the finals of two major events aged just 15 years old. One of the pioneers of “tow-in” surfing, Pottz was also renowned for his competition aerial moves, 360s and inventive “rock-n-roll” manoeuvres. In the late 80s he was widely regarded as the best freesurfer on the planet – an accolade he cemented by becoming ASP World Champion in 1989. He spent a record 14 seasons in the world’s Top 16, showcasing an almost unheard of style that was as fluid and powerful as it was radical, and utterly thrilling to watch.

Pottz is particularly looking forward to the challenge of the competition’s unique triple-discipline approach. “I love the concept,” he commented. “It already sounds like the highlight trip of the year!”

Billed as the “World’s Most Luxurious Surfing event,” the Surfing Champions Trophy is hosted aboard Four Seasons Explorer – the Maldives ultimate surf vessel – with all competitors, judges and spectators taking up residence Kuda Huraa’s paradisiacal private coral island for the duration of the event.

Guests booking Kuda Huraa’s all-inclusive four- or seven-night Champions Trophy package – available from August 27 to September 2, 2012 only – can get right on top of the action with competition day passes aboard the vessel plus three half-day surfing passes with Tropicsurf. Back on land, they’ll also get to rub shoulders with their surfing heroes and experience a level of intimacy and camaraderie unique in competition surfing.

Excursions

Marine encounters: spinner dolphins at Canareef Resort Maldives

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At Canareef Resort Maldives, one of the most popular experiences for guests is the dolphin tour. The abundant presence of dolphins in the surrounding waters ensures that each cruise offers a remarkable encounter with these marine creatures, creating lasting memories for visitors.

Every dolphin tour at Canareef provides an opportunity to observe pods of dolphins gliding and leaping across the waves. Guests often describe the sight of spinner dolphins darting through the clear ocean as a defining image of the Maldives’ natural marine beauty.

Morning cruises and sunset tours alike are guided by experienced staff, who share insights as dolphins appear in their natural environment. Many guests recount moments when dolphins swim alongside the boat, a spectacle that creates a unique sense of connection.

The activity is regarded as more than just an excursion; it is considered a celebration of nature and a highlight of a stay at Canareef. It allows guests to experience the Maldives in a way that underlines why dolphins are seen as ambassadors of the islands.

For travellers seeking encounters with dolphins amid turquoise waters, Canareef presents an ideal opportunity. The resort also offers seasonal promotions, including early booking discounts for the remainder of this summer, next winter, and summer 2026.

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Dusit Thani Maldives offers direct access to Baa Atoll’s living reef

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At Dusit Thani Maldives, the experience of the ocean begins directly at the doorstep. Situated within the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, the resort is surrounded by one of the most vibrant house reefs in the country, offering guests the opportunity to explore a thriving underwater world just steps from their villa.

What distinguishes the resort is its 360-degree house reef. Each villa, whether set above the lagoon or along the beach, opens directly onto the water. Guests can enter the ocean within moments of leaving their deck, where coral gardens, schools of tropical fish, and turtles can often be seen. The seamless access allows families, beginners, and experienced snorkellers to engage with the reef naturally, without the need to plan or schedule an excursion.

The location within the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve makes every swim a part of a wider story of conservation and discovery. Recognised globally for its corals and tropical marine life, the reserve becomes a key gathering site for manta rays and whale sharks during the season. Around the reef, visitors can observe parrotfish, angelfish, eagle rays, and reef sharks, making it a living example of biodiversity and preservation.

Life at the resort is centred on this connection with the sea. Guests may begin their day with a morning swim, take part in a guided snorkelling safari with marine experts, and conclude by observing the coral gardens as they take on new colours in the evening light. The ocean becomes not simply a backdrop but an integral part of daily life.

The PADI-certified Dive and Watersports Centre further enhances this relationship with the ocean, offering night snorkels, freediving, drift dives, and marine education programmes designed for families. Guests are supported to safely explore the biodiversity of the atoll at their own level, whether through a gentle introduction or more advanced diving experiences.

Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager, Dusit Maldives, noted that snorkelling at the resort is not treated as an activity but as part of the rhythm of island life. He explained that the reef begins where the villa deck ends, allowing guests the freedom to explore the ocean at their own pace and making the location distinctive in its accessibility and natural beauty.

At Dusit Thani Maldives, the distinction between villa and ocean fades away. From sighting turtles at sunrise to drifting beside reef sharks at dusk, every moment reinforces the natural character of the Maldives and the unique setting of the resort.

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From reef to horizon: Immersive island experiences at Angsana Velavaru

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Angsana Velavaru invites travelers to immerse themselves in a rhythm shaped by tides, coral gardens, and island breezes. This oceanfront retreat is located in one of the Maldives’ most vibrant marine environments. It is known as “Turtle Island” and is a 40-minute seaplane ride from Male’. The resort curates experiences for those who are drawn to discovery, depth, and the beauty of nature’s untouched corners. Angsana Velavaru offers a getaway to extraordinary diving, barefoot island adventures, and sea-bound journey.

Into the Blue: Dive Sites and Snorkelling Discoveries

Angsana Velavaru is at the center of a marine wonderland with more than 30 dive sites just minutes away. The resort’s PADI 5-Star Gold Dive Centre leads guests to explore dramatic drop-offs, gentle coral slopes, and manta ray cleaning stations. The resort offers tailored expeditions and daily two-tank dives for both experienced and beginner divers.

For those who prefer to snorkel, the house reef offers an introduction to coral life. Guided safaris, led by marine experts, provide a deeper appreciation for reef ecosystems10. The calm waters surrounding the island make it easy for even first-time snorkelers to experience the ocean.

Ocean Adventures: Cruising, Fishing and Sunset Moments

Guests can step aboard traditional dhonis to experience the ocean from a new perspective. Unforgettable views are available whether you are on a dolphin cruise or a sunset sail. Traditional handline fishing trips, guided by a local crew, are also available for a hands-on experience. Other highlights include sandbank escapes and private boat charters, which are designed to slow down time and deepen one’s connection to the sea.

Land Experiences and Island Explorations

Angsana Velavaru offers morning nature walks and visits to local islands for a glimpse into Maldivian island life. At the resort’s Marine Lab, guests can take part in coral planting or learn about marine conservation from resident marine biologists. For families, the Ranger’s Club provides meaningful moments for young explorers with treasure hunts, marine workshops, and outdoor games. Solo travelers or couples can enjoy quiet moments under the stars, yoga by the beach, or walking around the island.

Angsana Velavaru offers immersion and the chance to become part of a living seascape. Every moment resonates with nature’s quiet power.

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