Journey to Inner Harmony with Nikki
Experience a transformative wellness journey with visiting practitioner Nongluck Chuaychuang (Nikki), an accomplished Holistic Wellness Practitioner, Reiki Master, and Sound Healing Facilitator. Guests can enjoy personalized treatments, including holistic massage, Thai fusion therapy, Reiki, chakra balancing, and sound healing sessions designed to relieve tension, restore emotional balance, and promote deep relaxation
Fari Islands Festival - One Festival. Every Sense.
The Fari Islands Festival is a signature multi-day cultural celebration set across the breathtaking Fari Islands archipelago in the Maldives, bringing together Patina Maldives and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives for a shared island experience of music, art, cuisine, wellness, and nature.
Returning from 13–15 August 2026, the festival transforms the islands into a dynamic cultural stage featuring live music performances, DJ sets, immersive art installations, chef-led dining experiences, and holistic wellness activities. Guests are invited to move seamlessly between venues across the two islands and the vibrant Fari Marina Village, where each space offers a distinct yet connected experience.
Rooted in the concept of “The Home of Island Artistry,” the festival blends contemporary creativity with the natural beauty of the Maldives, offering an elevated program of curated encounters designed to inspire connection, exploration, and shared moments.
A truly immersive destination festival that redefines luxury travel through culture, creativity, and island life.
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort presents: Across the Table — epicurean journeys across Asia
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort unveils its culinary programming as part of 2026 Marriott International’s Luxury Dining Series, presented under the theme Across the Table. This year’s edition brings together seven culinary talents, headlined by two-Michelin-starred Chef Emmanuel Stroobant from Saint Pierre in Singapore, alongside distinguished chefs from four St. Regis hotels across Asia—The St.Regis Bangkok, The St. Regis Mumbai, The St. Regis Singapore, and The St. Regis Osaka—who collaborate with the culinary artisans of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, together presenting a refined expression of culinary artistry, defined by craftsmanship and modern refinement across Asia.
At The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, guests are invited to experience Across the Table beyond the dining room through the Dine & Unwind Package, where signature culinary moments are paired with thoughtfully 4-night curated stays at the Maldives’ finest address, complemented by the legendary St. Regis Butler Service. Designed to inspire guests to slow the pace, deepen connections and the experience immerses guests in discover the destination’s distinct sense of place, elevating every moment shared at the table.
The following culinary program is presented through a thoughtfully curated series of immersive dining experiences, each designed to celebrate exceptional craftsmanship, cultural storytelling, and the art of gathering across every moment of the journey.
The Art of gathering: August 27
The experience begins along the shoreline in the late afternoon with a curated wine tasting experience, where guests are guided through a selection of wines, exploring the harmony between flavour, structure, and pairing. The experience is enriched by the presence of Thomas Ling, whose deep expertise in beverage culture brings a refined perspective to the art of pairing and craftsmanship.
As dusk sets in, the atmosphere shifts to The Whale Bar, where Brian Gonzalez from The St. Regis Bangkok presents a signature bar takeover, brings his globally refined approach to mixology, shaped by experience across leading European venues and recognized for creating award-winning cocktail programs. Brian reinterprets the legacy of refined cocktail culture, presenting a contemporary and expressive approach to the art of the drink.
The evening culminates at Orientale with an elegant four-course dining experience, where Executive Chinese Chef Chan Chung Shing of Yan Ting at The St. Regis Singapore, with over two decades of experience rooted in the Cantonese culinary tradition and Chef Abdelahad Ahmed present an elevated Japanese cuisine and contemporary interpretation of Pan Asian gastronomy. Each course reflects the distinctive perspectives of the two chefs, brought together through exceptional ingredients, precision, and thoughtful technique. The experience is further elevated through a curated sake pairing journey guided by Thomas Ling, bringing balance and depth to each course.
A mindful contemporary culinary journey: August 28
This chapter unfolds through a thoughtful balance of wellbeing and culinary expression. The experience begins with a guided breathing yoga session led by two Michelin-Starred Chef Emmanuel Stroobant, whose long-standing practice as a certified yoga instructor deeply immerses his culinary journey. Blending breathwork and culinary philosophy, the session explores the connection between mindfulness, nourishment, and intentional living through a calming and immersive practice designed to restore both body and mind. Set within an atmosphere of quiet sophistication at The Library, the experience unfolds as a reflective ritual where stillness, breath, and sensory awareness come together in balance.
This sense of harmony continues at ALBA, where guests are invited into an interactive four-hands cooking class. Here, Chef Emmanuel is joined by Chef Ahmet Özuçucu, Executive Sous Chef at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, in a dynamic exchange of perspectives—blending Chef Ahmet’s Mediterranean roots and refined culinary approach with Chef Emmanuel’s globally inspired techniques. Limited to just 10 guests, the experience presents a rare insight into the philosophies and precision behind contemporary culinary craftsmanship.
As evening falls, the experience transitions into a richly layered Maldivian and Indian dining journey as Cargo welcomes Master Chef Taj Mohammed Sha of Sahib Room at The St. Regis Mumbai presenting family-style set menu. Known for his deep respect for regional Indian traditions and mastery of heritage recipes, Chef Taj crafts a menu that celebrates depth of flavour, authenticity, and storytelling. The evening is complemented by cocktail pairings curated by Brian Gonzalez.
Expressions of Seasonality and Culinary Artistry: August 29
The day begins at T•Pan with a curated Omakase lunch led by Chef Takato Kitano, from The St. Regis Osaka whose presence brings a new dimension to the Luxury Dining Series. Having begun his culinary journey as a teppanyaki chef in Osaka, Chef Kitano has developed a distinctive style shaped by both Japanese discipline and European culinary influences. His continued refinement under the guidance of Michelin-recognized talent reflects a growing reputation for precision, curiosity, and a deep respect for ingredient-driven cuisine.
At ALBA, two Michelin-starred Chef Emmanuel Stroobant presents a refined four-course set menu shaped by over two decades of culinary excellence and innovation. A pioneer of modern French cuisine in Asia, his work bridges classical European technique with Asian influences, creating dishes defined by balance, depth, and emotional resonance. This exclusive dining experience offers guests a rare opportunity to engage with one of the region’s most influential culinary voices—bringing the day to an elegant and memorable close.
A farewell with flavor: August 30
The final morning offers a calm and elegant close to the culinary journey. Guests gather for a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast in Alba, where simplicity, freshness, and quality take center stage. Set in a relaxed atmosphere, the experience provides a moment of reflection—bringing together the flavour, conversations, and connections created over the course of the series.
Marriott Bonvoy Moments: August 26-30
Elevating the Luxury Dining Series, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort presents a one-of-a-kind stay-and-dine journey woven into the program, offering Marriott Bonvoy members privileged access to bid for immersive culinary encounters, behind-the-scenes experiences, and the most sought-after moments of the series.
The experience includes a five-night stay in an Overwater Villa with Pool, complemented by daily breakfast at ALBA and shared return seaplane transfers. At its core is a series of signature culinary moments, including a private six-course dinner with wine pairing curated by two Michelin-Starred Chef Emmanuel Stroobant, alongside a thoughtfully curated dine-around experience across The Whale Bar, Decanter, T•Pan, and Orientale, where each dining destination reveals a new expression of craftsmanship, and collaboration. Guided by storytelling and sensory discovery, the Dine Around Experience celebrates community, flavour, and shared moments across the island. Guests may place bids for exclusive experiences at Marriott Bonvoy Moments page until 17 July, 2026.
“Across the Table reflects our vision of creating meaningful luxury experiences that bring people together through exceptional cuisine, cultural connection, and immersive storytelling,” said Özgür Cengiz, General Manager of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. “Through this year’s Luxury Dining Series, we are honored to welcome internationally acclaimed chefs and culinary talents to the Maldives, offering our guests a truly unforgettable journey shaped by Michelin-starred dining, wellness, and the art of gathering.”
Reservations for the Dine & Unwind Package and Luxury Dining Series experiences are now available. Discover more about The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort at stregismaldives.com.
Celebrate Mother’s Day with Unforgettable Escapes Across the Sun Siyam Collection
This Mother’s Day, leave the planning behind and give mum the gift she truly deserves—time to relax, reconnect, and create lasting memories with the people she loves. Across the Maldives and Sri Lanka, the Sun Siyam Collection has curated exceptional experiences designed to celebrate mothers in a meaningful way, transforming a simple getaway into an unforgettable occasion.
At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, part of the Luxury Collection, mothers and daughters can enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Newly renovated water villas provide a stylish island retreat, while the renowned Spa by Thalgo offers over 165 treatments, including signature wellness journeys inspired by Polynesian and Far Eastern traditions. Guests can indulge in private hydrotherapy experiences, personalised spa treatments, or even share a memorable first diving experience together through the resort’s female-led diving centre, creating meaningful moments both above and below the water.
At Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, within the Privé Collection, every detail is designed to encourage complete relaxation. From bespoke wellness experiences and rejuvenating spa treatments to intimate family dinners beneath the stars, the resort offers a seamless blend of comfort and indulgence. Evenings become even more special with the private Cinema by Moonlight, while guided snorkelling excursions and glass-bottom kayaking adventures provide opportunities to explore the surrounding beauty at a leisurely pace.
Also part of the Privé Collection, Sun Siyam Iru Veli offers a setting where extraordinary moments come naturally. Families can treat mum to a private sandbank dining experience surrounded by endless ocean views or unwind with the resort’s signature Haveeru Harmony – The Iru Veli Ritual, inspired by the tranquillity of island sunsets. Whether through private dining, wellness experiences, or uninterrupted quality time together, every experience is thoughtfully designed to feel personal and memorable.
For those seeking a cultural escape, Sun Siyam Pasikudah in Sri Lanka presents a unique way to celebrate. Guests can accompany the resort’s chef on a visit to a local market before preparing and enjoying a personalised Sri Lankan lunch together. Alternatively, a relaxed beachside bonfire dinner offers the perfect setting for families to gather and celebrate by the ocean.
At Sun Siyam Olhuveli, part of the Lifestyle Collection, the focus is on creating joyful experiences that allow mum to fully unwind. Families can arrange thoughtful surprises before enjoying a range of activities, from rejuvenating treatments at the overwater Ocean Spa to creative sessions at the art studio and hands-on Maldivian cooking classes. For those seeking a little excitement, the resort’s popular jet car experience adds a fun and unforgettable twist to the celebration.
Meanwhile, Siyam World brings a playful and distinctive approach to Mother’s Day. One of its most unique experiences is a sunrise or sunset horseback ride along the beach at the Maldives’ only horse ranch, offering a truly memorable way to experience the island’s natural beauty. Guests can also elevate the celebration with an intimate dinner in the resort’s underground wine cellar, where carefully curated dining experiences are paired with rare vintages and expert recommendations from the sommelier.
Across every destination within the Sun Siyam Collection, the message is simple: celebrate mum with meaningful experiences, genuine relaxation, and quality time spent with loved ones.
To make the occasion even more rewarding, Sun Siyam’s summer offers provide exclusive savings and added benefits across the collection. Available for bookings until 31 August 2026 for stays through 31 October 2027, these offers present the perfect opportunity to transform a Mother’s Day celebration into a truly unforgettable escape.
Giants of the Maldivian Sea
Maldives Manta Rays and Whale Sharks Season
From May to November, the waters of Hanifaru Bay in the heart-shaped Baa Atoll come alive during manta season — a stunning natural event that reaches its peak from June to October.
A rich bloom of nutrient-dense plankton draws in gentle ocean giants, including manta rays spanning 3 to 5 meters and majestic whale sharks reaching up to 12 meters, adorned with their unique, mesmerizing patterns.
This annual phenomenon offers one of the most awe-inspiring marine experiences in the Maldives. For the best chance to witness these graceful creatures in large numbers, plan your snorkeling excursions around the full moon or new moon phases (ideally 4 days before or after).
Don't miss your chance to swim alongside hundreds of manta rays while staying on our islands this season — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget.
Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2026
Experience one of the world's most prestigious invitation-only surfing events as the 14th Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy returns to the legendary Sultans surf break. The week-long competition brings together internationally renowned surfers to compete across single fin, twin fin, and thruster disciplines, while guests enjoy exclusive surf experiences, coaching sessions, wellness activities, and vibrant island events at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa.
Sunset Beach Concert - ICEHOUSE
One of Australia’s most iconic rock bands, ICEHOUSE, will perform two unforgettable sunset beach concerts on Kandooma’s private island, with attendance limited to just 250 guests. Fronted by creative visionary Iva Davies, ICEHOUSE has been a defining force in Australian music since the late 1970s, blending rock, new wave and electronic influences into a string of timeless hits over more than four decades.
The concerts form part of a week‑long tropical celebration from 5–12 September 2026, offering music lovers a rare chance to experience the band’s enduring catalogue — including classics like Great Southern Land, We Can Get Together, Can’t Help Myself and Hey Little Girl — in a stunning island setting.
In addition, frontman Iva Davies will host a special fan Q&A session, giving attendees an intimate opportunity to connect with a true music legend and hear stories behind the band’s creative journey. This exclusive event has now completely sold out, marking a landmark moment for live music in the Maldives.
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa Launches the second edition of Maldives Hideaway Resort Run 2026
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa has officially launched the second annual Maldives Hideaway Resort Run 2026, with the main race set to take place on 18 September 2026 as part of a wider World Wellness Weekend programme from 17 to 20 September 2026 on the natural island of Dhonakulhi in Haa Alifu Atoll. The event brings together destination running, wellness, fitness, and island-inspired lifestyle experiences in one of the Maldives’ most scenic luxury resort settings.
The official partnership signing and launch ceremony, held at Muraka Maalam, Maagiri Hotel in Malé, brought together key event partners to formalise their commitment to the Maldives Hideaway Resort Run 2026. The event featured the official unveiling of the branding theme, event logo, launch video, and running jersey, all inspired by Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa’s lush tropical vegetation, natural island landscape, and Flora & Fauna. Guests were also introduced to the scenic race routes, designed to highlight the resort’s pristine beaches, island pathways, and tranquil surroundings. The race route spans three distinct terrains: North Point Beach, island trails, and the Deluxe Water Villa jetty.
The initiative is endorsed by Visit Maldives and delivered in partnership with TFG as race partner, with race consultation, registration, timing, and bib services powered by TFG Races. Maldivian joins as transport partner, Coral Glass as content partner, and Sporting Vacanze as agent partner. This partnership reflects continued collaboration between tourism, aviation, media, sports, and lifestyle stakeholders in supporting wellness tourism in the Maldives.
The Maldives Hideaway Resort Run 2026 will feature a 10K Challenge and a 5K Fun Run, welcoming both experienced runners and recreational participants. The 5K route will cover one lap of the resort’s scenic course, while the 10K will complete two laps. Participants will receive a race timing bib powered by TFG Races, a partner goodie bag, and the official Flora & Fauna Greenery Run T-shirt. Trophies will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers in both the 5K and 10K categories.
Beyond the race itself, the World Wellness Weekend programme will offer a curated series of activities including shakeout runs, stretching sessions, fitness clinics, group workouts, sunrise and sunset yoga, aqua yoga, sound bath experiences by Naga Healing, wellness experiences, and evening entertainment. The programme has been designed to balance movement, recovery, connection, and celebration throughout the event period.
“Following the success of the historic inaugural edition in 2025, we are delighted to launch the Maldives Hideaway Resort Run in 2026,” said Mohamed Muzaffar Ahmed, Business Development Manager of Lily Hotels. “With the continued endorsement of Visit Maldives Corporation and the support of our partners, this event reflects the growing opportunity to position the Maldives as a destination for luxury wellness, sports, and active travel. Our ambition is to develop the Maldives Hideaway Resort Run into one of the country’s leading luxury destination running events, offering participants an experience that is truly unique to the Maldives.”
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Managing Director and CEO of Visit Maldives Corporation, Ibrahim Shiuree, highlighted the significance of events such as the Maldives Hideaway Resort Run in inspiring greater participation in sports tourism and diversifying demand for visiting the Maldives. He emphasised that initiatives of this nature play an important role in positioning the Maldives not only as one of the world’s leading luxury holiday destinations, but also as an emerging destination for sports, wellness, and active travel. He commended the work behind the event and highlighted the value of continuing such experiences to strengthen the Maldives’ competitiveness in the global travel market.
The event is open to international guests and Maldivian residents, with dedicated participation packages available for participants booking directly with the resort. Packages include a stay at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, meal plan benefits, transfer arrangements, and access to selected resort experiences during the event period.
Registration is free. Participants can register online at http://races.3000tfg.com/. For accommodation packages, event details, and more information, visit http://hideawaybeachmaldives.com/.
Upcoming events
Coco Bodu Hithi Celebrates PADI Women's Dive Day with a Purpose
Women of the Ocean Reef Clean-Up Dive
In celebration of PADI Women’s Dive Day on 18 July 2026, Coco Bodu Hithi invites certified women divers to come together for a meaningful morning beneath the surface, combining marine conservation with the joy of exploring the ocean in one of the Maldives; most vibrant natural environments.
Inspired by this year's global theme, "Celebrate Community. Create Change", the resort's Women of the Ocean Reef Clean-Up Dive encourages to connect through shared passion for the underwater world while making a positive impact on the environment. Designed exclusively for certified women divers, the guided reef clean-up dive offers the opportunity to explore Coco Bodu Hithi's biodiverse house reef while helping remove debris and protect its delicate ecosystem.
- Location : 09:00 – 11:30 | Meet at the Dive Centre, Coco Palm Bodu Hithi
- Requirements : Open to Certified Women Divers only. Standard Single-Dive rate applies. (includes Personalised Certificate of Participation & Complimentary video of your dive).
(Subject to weather and sea conditions. Other Terms and Conditions apply. The resort reserves the right of final discretion. For enquiries or reservations, please visit the Dive Centre).
Dive free in the Maldives: Kandooma unlocks access to top South Malé Atoll dive sites
Diving enthusiasts staying at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives can experience some of the Maldives’ most respected dive sites with added value, thanks to the resort’s Dive Free programme.
Named Maldives’ Leading Dive Resort last year by World Travel Awards, Kandooma is located in the South Malé Atoll and is just 45 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport. The resort offers direct access to a diverse collection of dive sites known for strong currents, healthy reef systems and consistent marine life encounters. Many of the area’s most sought-after sites are located just 10 to 30 minutes from Kandooma by boat, allowing guests to maximise time in the water and multiple dives each day.
From coral-rich pinnacles to channel dives that attract larger pelagic species, the surrounding waters deliver a varied experience suited to both progressing and experienced divers.“What makes diving here so rewarding is the combination of proximity and variety,” said Ibrahim Shaan, Dive Centre Manager. “We can reach sites like Kandooma Thila in just minutes, and within half an hour, guests have access to everything from relaxed reef dives to more advanced channel dives with sharks and rays. It allows divers to spend more time underwater and really experience the diversity of the atoll.”
Sharon Garrett, Director of Marketing & Sustainability added,“Kandooma has always been known for its accessibility, and the Dive Free programme builds on that by making world-class diving part of the stay. It removes both the time and cost barriers, giving guests a straightforward way to experience the Maldives through diving, whether they are returning divers or newly certified.” With warm waters year-round and visibility often exceeding 20 metres, the area offers consistent conditions for diving across the seasons. Among the standout sites:
Kandooma Thila
Widely regarded as one of the top dives in the atoll, Kandooma Thila is a coral covered pinnacle where currents attract grey reef sharks, white-tip reef sharks and eagle rays.
Guraidhoo Corner
A classic channel drift dive, Guraidhoo Corner is known for nutrient-rich currents that draw in schools of fish, reef sharks and passing pelagic species.
Cocoa Corner
Combining reef and open-water diving, Cocoa Corner offers steep walls and drop offs where divers may encounter sharks, tuna and rays, depending on conditions.
Kuda Giri Wreck
A more relaxed dive site with generally mild current, Kuda Giri features a small wreck and adjacent reef that support a thriving mix of reef fish and macro life.
Kandooma Caves
Characterised by large overhangs and caverns, this visually striking site is home to sponges, soft corals and reef species, with occasional sightings of larger marine life along the reef edge.
Additional sites within easy reach of Kandooma include Manta Point, Lhosfushi, Medhu Faru, and Waggiri, offering a mix of reef, channel and seasonal manta encounters.
With a PADI 5-star Dive Centre, experienced guides and a broad range of dive sites accessible by boat, Kandooma is well placed for travellers planning a dedicated Maldives diving holiday.
The Dive Free programme offers guests staying three nights or more up to two complimentary scuba dives per day for up to two certified divers per villa, providing a straightforward way to experience diving in the Maldives.
For divers looking to maximise time in the water without the need for domestic transfers, Kandooma offers a practical and rewarding island base close to the action.
For more information, visit: www.maldives.holidayinnresorts.com
Diving brochure:https://holidayinn.aflip.in/HIRKM_DiveBrochure.html#page/1
Into the blue after sunset: a new manta experience at Sun Siyam Olhuveli
As part of its evolving lifestyle collection under the House of Siyam, Sun Siyam Olhuveli unveils a captivating new way to experience the Maldives after sunset with the launch of Night Snorkelling with Mantas, an immersive encounter that brings guests face to face with one of the ocean’s most graceful wonders in their natural rhythm.
Set against the stillness of the island’s house reef, this guided experience reveals the quiet drama of the underwater world at night. As darkness falls, powerful underwater lights draw in phytoplankton, creating a glowing stage that attracts manta rays as they arrive to feed. Guests float comfortably at the surface, watching as these gentle giants glide, loop, and turn beneath them in an effortless underwater ballet.
Led by the professional team at Sun Diving Dive Center, this experience is thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort and confidence in the water. Guests are guided through each step, and snorkelling vests provide ease and stability, allowing even first-time night snorkelers to relax. The result is a serene yet exhilarating encounter where time seems to slow and nature takes center stage.
“Night snorkelling with mantas is one of those rare experiences that stays with you long after you leave the water,” said Ahmed Nihaan, Dive Center Manager at Sun Siyam Olhuveli. “There is a quiet magic in seeing these incredible creatures up close, moving so effortlessly through the light. Our team is there every step of the way to make guests feel safe, relaxed, and fully present for what is truly a remarkable encounter.”
What makes this experience particularly remarkable is the proximity and clarity it offers. As manta rays perform their signature feeding loops, often turning belly-up just below the surface, guests are given a rare and unobstructed view of their unique spot patterns, markings so distinct they are used by researchers to identify individual mantas. It is both a visual spectacle and a quiet lesson in marine life.
Understanding Manta Ray Behaviour and Anatomy
Manta rays are among the ocean’s most intelligent and graceful creatures, known for their wide wingspan and gentle nature. Unlike many marine species, they feed on microscopic plankton, using coordinated movements to funnel food into their mouths. Their looping and barrel-rolling behavior during feeding is both efficient and mesmerizing to witness. Each manta carries a unique pattern on its underside, much like a fingerprint, offering insight into ongoing conservation and research efforts across the Maldives.
Experience Highlights:
- Night snorkelling with manta rays in one of the most consistent viewing locations within the house reef
- Guidance and support from professional instructors at Sun Diving Dive Center
- Snorkelling Vest provided for ease and comfort in the water
- Full snorkel gear included, with prescription masks available for guests requiring vision support
Taking place between 19:00 and 20:00, this one-hour guest activity invites a discovery of a different side of island life, one that feels quieter, deeper, and profoundly moving. This new guest activity is available for experience at a special rate. Bookings can be made at the Dive Centre or through each guest’s Island Host.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli continues to craft meaningful, story-rich experiences, such as Night Snorkelling with Mantas, connecting guests to the natural beauty of the Maldives in unexpected and unforgettable ways. The resort remains dedicated to curating immersive island moments that feel both effortless and extraordinary. To explore the various programmes offered by Sun Diving at Sun Siyam Olhuveli, visit their website at https://sundiving.com/sun-siyam-olhuveli/
Her ocean, her moment: Nova Maldives to celebrate Women's Dive Day with barrier-breaking Maldivian diver
Every July, the diving world pauses to celebrate the women who have made the ocean their own. This year, Nova Maldives marks Women's Dive Day with a three-day programme from 17 to 19 July 2026, brought to life by Zoona Naseem, the first Maldivian woman to qualify as a PADI Course Director, alongside Jenna Lehocki, the resort's resident marine biologist.
Despite making up nearly 40% of divers worldwide, women still account for just 20% of PADI Pros, a gap that a 2025 peer-reviewed study attributes in part to the male-centric portrayal of the sport, with constraints that foster stigma and self-doubt that continue to create barriers for women at every level – a pattern that Nova is determined to help change.
A Weekend for Beginners & Avid Divers
True to Nova's belief that the ocean belongs to everyone, the weekend will draw together resort guests and a group of participants from the neighbouring Dhangethi community for a shared journey into the water.
Guests and participants can embark on guided Discover Scuba dives and open water exploration led by Zoona, and an intimate fireside discussion joined by Jenna, where tales of the reef – memorable dives, marine encounters, and a shared wonder for the ocean, flow freely as the currents of the sea.
Guests and participants can embark on guided Discover Scuba dives or try dives led by Zoona, alongside open water exploration and enjoy an intimate fireside discussion hosted with both Jenna and Zoona — where tales of the reef flow freely: memorable dives, marine encounters, and a shared wonder for the ocean.
Zoona's journey to becoming a PADI Course Director, and the first Maldivian woman to ever hold this title, is an inspiration for women seeking to carve out space in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Alongside her, Jenna brings a different but equally profound connection to the ocean: one built not in the pursuit of firsts, but in the patient, daily work of understanding and protecting the reef that Nova calls home.
"Growing up in the Maldives, the ocean was always there, but a seat at the table was not. I hope that every woman who enters the water this July leaves knowing that it was always hers to claim," said Zoona.
Drawing on her lived experience from working with stakeholders from within the marine research sector and in hospitality, Jenna added - "Living and working on this island, you come to understand the reef not just as a place to dive, but as something that breathes and changes with the seasons. Sharing that with people, whether they are first-time snorkellers or seasoned divers, is the part of this work that never gets old.”
"There is something about the ocean that has always belonged to women. Its depth, its quiet power, its ability to hold everything at once. Women's Dive Day is a celebration of every woman who has ever felt called to the water, and our commitment to making sure every woman who wants to experience that, whether for the first time or the hundredth, has every opportunity to do so." said Abdulla Aboobakur, General Manager of Nova Maldives.
A Setting Unlike Any Other
Nestled on a natural island within the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), the largest marine biodiversity reserve in the region, diving is one of the things that consistently draws travellers from around the world to the island. With 35 dive sites on its doorstep, and whale sharks and manta rays a quiet, year-round presence in the waters beyond its shore. Guests here do not simply visit the ocean, they can observe and truly live alongside it.
An active coral nursery sits at the heart of Nova's marine offering, where seafarers are warmly invited to take part in coral planting to contribute to the reef's ongoing restoration. The resort also holds a long-term partnership with the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP), to run educational and conservation-focused experiences for researchers, local school pupils, and the wider community throughout the year.
For those seeking a more introspective connection with the sea, Nova also offers a unique Wellness Diving experiences, one that introduces mindfulness with marine exploration through floating meditation, buoyancy workshops, underwater yoga, and breathwork. Research has found that recreational diving can be more effective at reducing stress and boosting mental wellbeing than other sports, with the slow, controlled breathing required underwater naturally stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, evoking a sense of deep calm that so many divers describe as unlike anything they have found on land.
The water is waiting. Join Nova Maldives for Women's Dive Day from £301/night in a villa on Full Board Plus basis. Visit nova-maldives.com to find out more.