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
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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.
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.
Performance by Kate Miller-Heidke
Renowned for her soaring vocals and captivating stage presence, Kate Miller- Heidke brings her extraordinary talent to Kandooma for an exclusive island residency. A classically trained vocalist and one of Australia’s most distinctive performers, Kate moves seamlessly between pop, folk and opera. From composing Muriel’s Wedding The Musical and the award-winning opera The Rabbits, to representing Australia at Eurovision and coaching on The Voice Australia, her performances promise emotional depth and musical brilliance in an unforgettable setting.
Sun-kissed festive escape at The Standard, Maldives: Get ready for your year-end ho-ho-holiday
This festive season, The Standard, Maldives invites guests to escape to a sun-drenched celebration where island spirit meets holiday magic. Set against the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, the resort presents an effortlessly vibrant lineup of experiences designed for all ages, bringing together joyful moments, lively entertainment, and exceptional culinary offerings in one unforgettable setting.
The celebrations begin on 20 December 2026 with a beachfront Tree Lighting Ceremony, where festive tradition meets laid back natural island charm. Set against the glow of the ocean at dusk, the evening is brought to life with sounds from the resident DJ and live performances, adding a contemporary pulse to the occasion. Guests are then invited to continue the night with a Fire & Grill Dinner, a curated dining experience at Kula. Across Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the resort embraces a lively blend of activity and indulgence. Days start on a playful note with energizing sessions by the pool and engaging classes, before easing into relaxed, flavour-forward dining experiences in the afternoon. As daylight fades, the atmosphere shifts, sunset cocktails set the tone, followed by immersive dinners and upbeat celebrations that stretch into the night.
Families and younger guests can enjoy beloved festive traditions reimagined with a tropical touch, while adults are invited to soak up the island’s vibrant social scene, think beachside gatherings, live acts, and high-energy performances that turn the shoreline into a dynamic backdrop of music, light, and movement. Throughout the festive period, Lil’ Shark Kids Club offers a variety of engaging activities, bringing together the warmth of Christmas with a playful island spirit.
Adding to the festive spirit, New Year’s Eve promises a dazzling grand finale. The seasonal celebrations culminate in a spectacular New Year’s Eve theme: Reveal Your Glow. The much-anticipated glow-up party will set the tone for the year ahead, headlined by internationally acclaimed DJ Kessaé Kimmi. Known for her magnetic stage presence and electrifying sets, the Thailand-based artist will take over the island with her signature sound, delivering vibrant beats, immersive visuals, and dance-floor euphoria that keeps the energy high until sunrise. Bringing the same high-octane energy that lights up full moon festivals, luxury hotspots, and global stages, she arrives with a suitcase full of irresistible beats, flawless mixes, and pure countdown magic. The night unfolds from an abundant gala dinner into an electrifying beach party, where music, fire performances, and captivating rituals ignite the shoreline. A midnight fireworks display lights up the Maldivian sky, creating a vibrant and unforgettable welcome to the new year.
Whether seeking relaxed holiday indulgence or high-energy celebrations, The Standard, Maldives offers the perfect balance of both, where good food, great company, and unforgettable moments come together in true island style.
Lhaviyani Turtle Festival
A two-day, large-scale community outreach event dedicated to raising awareness about marine conservation, with a special focus on sea turtles.
Day 1 features the Atoll Marine Symposium, where NGOs and marine conservation experts present on key ocean issues and engage in panel discussions.
Day 2 opens up to schools from across the Maldives, alongside the organizations from Day 1, to host interactive marine awareness stalls. These stalls include educational games and activities aimed at inspiring environmental stewardship.
Schools also participate in fun, eco-themed competitions such as Best Stall Design, Waste Sculpture, and Sand Sculpture. Additional optional contests—open to local residents—include recycled bag and dress making, traditional dance performances, and a plastic bottle collection challenge.
Missy Higgins to return to Maldives
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, in partnership with Music in Paradise, welcomes the return of acclaimed Australian singer-songwriter Missy Higgins for an exclusive island concert series from 13–20 June 2026.
Following her sold-out 2025 debut, Missy returns for three intimate sunset performances set against the stunning Maldivian backdrop, along with special meet-and-greet experiences. With 26 ARIA nominations and five Australian No. 1 singles, her 2026 shows are expected to sell out quickly, with attendance limited to just 200 guests to ensure a truly personal experience.
The Gold Experience Package includes seven nights’ accommodation, daily breakfast, return speedboat transfers, three exclusive concerts, a meet-and-greet and photo opportunity, plus curated island experiences. Several premium packages have already sold out.
Located in South Malé Atoll, just 40–45 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Kandooma offers beachfront and overwater villas, family-friendly facilities, diverse dining, and a tranquil spa — the perfect setting for an unforgettable music escape in paradise.
Dive into the legend: Rannamaari Dive Fest returns to Dhawa Ihuru
A story long resting beneath the surface returns this May, as Dhawa Ihuru invites guests and ocean enthusiasts to experience the Rannamaari Dive Fest 2026, taking place on 23 May 2026.
Set against one of the Maldives’ most accessible and vibrant house reefs — recognised among the Best House Reefs in the Maldives by Travel + Leisure Asia (2025) and awarded Best Dive Resort by Travel Trade Maldives (2025) — Dhawa Ihuru offers a compelling setting for discovery both above and below the surface.
At the centre of the experience lies the Rannamaari Shipwreck, a former dredger deliberately sunk in 1999 just off the island’s shore. Today, it has evolved into a thriving artificial reef, drawing an abundance of marine life and offering an accessible yet captivating dive site for both beginners and experienced divers.
On 23 May, the island comes alive with a full-day programme designed to bring this underwater legend to life. Guests can explore the wreck through guided dives led by the resort’s PADI-certified Dive Centre, alongside activities such as underwater treasure hunts, marine discovery sessions, and interactive experiences with the resort’s Marine Lab.
Founded in 2004 as the first of its kind in the Maldives, our Marine Lab continues to pioneer reef protection and restoration efforts. During the festival, guests can engage with our marine biologists and gain deeper information into the ecosystems that sustain island life.
As part of the experience, guests will also be introduced to the resort’s pioneering underwater initiatives, including the Barnacle Project — the Maldives’ first electric reef, launched in 1996 — and the Necklace Reef, established in 1998. Today, these structures have evolved into thriving marine habitats, supporting coral growth and attracting a rich diversity of fish and marine life.
Beyond diving, the festival extends across the island with a vibrant mix of experiences for all. From watersports and island crafts to relaxed beachfront dining and family-friendly activities, the event reflects Dhawa Ihuru’s easy-going, all-inclusive approach – where everything is thoughtfully in place, so guests can simply arrive and enjoy.
"The Rannamaari is more than a shipwreck – it is a living symbol of how responsible marine initiatives can transform history into habitat. From its unexpected sinking in 1999 to becoming a thriving artificial reef and the heart of our signature dive events, Rannamaari reflects our commitment to marine conservation, meaningful guest experiences, and celebrating the Maldives' deep connection with the ocean", said Mujuthaba Ali, Marine Recreations Manager, Marine Centre, of Dhawa Ihuru and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.
Just 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Dhawa Ihuru offers seamless access to an island where reef, wreck, and relaxed island living come together.
Jazz- Funk performance- The Cat Empire
Experience the electrifying sounds of the multi‑award‑winning jazz‑funk phenomenon as they bring their infectious global groove to Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives in May 2026. The Cat Empire are renowned worldwide for their dynamic fusion of jazz, funk, ska, Latin, reggae, and rock, creating high‑octane live shows that get audiences dancing and celebrating together.
Over three sunset beach concerts, guests will enjoy feel‑good rhythms against a stunning Maldivian backdrop, from relaxed beachfront sets to vibrant performances framed by crashing waves. These intimate concerts form part of a unique Music in Paradise week‑long experience, blending soul‑stirring music with island hospitality and unforgettable moments. Events may include artist meet‑and‑greets, behind‑the‑scenes access, and curated island activities that celebrate connection and musical culture.
The Cat Empire, formed in Melbourne in 1999, have built a passionate international following over more than two decades through countless tours, festival stages and studio albums, earning acclaim for their genre‑blending sound and joyous spirited performances.