Amilla Maldives Signs Manta Trust Responsible Operator Partnership

With the world-famous manta destination of Hanifaru Bay on its doorstep, Amilla Maldives Resort wanted to do more to help protect these magnificent creatures. So Amilla Maldives has teamed up with the Manta Trust, an NGO dedicated to protecting manta rays and the marine ecosystems they inhabit. Now, as a Manta Trust Responsible Operator hotel partner, Amilla is officially committed to minimising the impact its guests have on the mantas and mobula rays they encounter.

Manta Season runs from April to November in Baa Atoll, Maldives. Peak time is July, and when the lunar, tidal and weather conditions are perfect something magical happens in the atoll’s horseshoe-shaped Hanifaru Bay. Some of the largest aggregations of mantas in the world gather in the bay to gorge upon zooplankton trapped there. This manta ‘feeding frenzy’ is a remarkable phenomenon and the subject of much scientific interest. It’s only 15 minutes away from Amilla Resort by speedboat.

As part of the Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, access to Hanifaru Bay is monitored and there is a ticket system to limit the number of visitors itching to swim with the wild mantas there. But sadly, not every tour operator considers the well being of the manta rays, and not every guest is informed of how to behave around these gentle giants.

Since Amilla’s H.U.B Water sports Centre runs trips for guests to Hanifaru Bay during Manta Season, as well as multiple manta cleaning stations in the area, the Amilla Islanders decided to play their part in helping to ensure the protection of the mantas by teaming up with the Manta Trust’s Maldivian Manta Ray Project and signing its Responsible Operator Agreement.

This ensures Amilla’s guests are educated on sustainable manta tourism using the project’s Swim With Mantas resources (including manta encounter guidelines) before they encounter them. Manta encounter guidelines include staying at least 3m (10ft) away from the mantas and not touching them (as your touch can damage the delicate membrane covering their skin).

The Maldives has the world’s largest known population of reef mantas – around 5,000 individuals. Manta ray tourism in the Maldives generates an estimated US $8.1 million per year in direct revenue.

To find out more about Amilla’s manta ray excursions, email stay@amilla.com.

Feature image by Amilla Maldives

Imagine being swept away to a tropical paradise. Every sunrise feels like a fresh start, every sunset a celebration of love. This February, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives invites you to experience the Month of Love. From 1 to 28 February, you and your partner can reconnect, relax, and celebrate romance with enchanting experiences crafted just for couples.

Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, expresses the resort’s excitement for the event

“Throughout our Month of Love, we are thrilled to offer couples the chance to create truly unforgettable memories in the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives. Whether it’s a romantic dinner under the stars or an intimate wellness retreat, each experience is thoughtfully designed to celebrate love in its purest form. We can’t wait to help couples reconnect, unwind, and make every moment together feel like magic.”

Romantic Dining Experiences to Savor Together

Dining is an experience at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. With every meal, you will indulge your senses and spark romance.

A Taste of Love: Embark on a six-course culinary journey. Each dish is crafted to impress and paired with an optional wine selection. You will enjoy this intimate dining experience in a breathtaking, romantic setting.
Love Birds Under the Stars: Dine under a canopy of stars, right on the beach. This four-course dinner, surrounded by the sounds of the ocean, creates the perfect ambiance for an unforgettable night together.

Wellness Retreats for Reconnection and Relaxation

Reconnect with your partner and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. These wellness experiences are designed to help you both unwind and enjoy peaceful moments together.

Couples’ Massage Workshop: Learn the art of relaxation with expert therapists from Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala. In this private workshop, you’ll discover massage techniques that will create a shared sense of calm and intimacy.
Couples’ Rejuvenating Combo: Spend the day in harmony with yoga, ice baths, and peaceful sunset sessions. This combination offers a tranquil space for couples to relax and rediscover their inner peace.

Exciting Adventures for Couples Seeking Thrills

Add some excitement to your romantic escape with thrilling activities designed just for couples. These adventures will help you create lasting memories together.

Romantic Sunset Parasailing: Soar above the sparkling turquoise waters of the Maldives. As you take in the views, a professional drone will capture every magical moment, so you can relive the experience over and over again.
Love Boat Excursion: Set sail on a private boat just for the two of you. Your day includes a secluded sandbank visit and a snorkeling adventure through vibrant reefs. It’s the perfect mix of romance and exploration.
Sunset Jet Ski Tour: Share the thrill of jet skiing across the stunning Maldivian waters at sunset. This exhilarating ride will leave you feeling invigorated and closer than ever.

Proposals and Ceremonies for Unforgettable Moments

Whether you are planning to propose, elope, or renew your vows, these unforgettable ceremonies are the ultimate way to celebrate your love.

“Marry Me” Proposal: Make your proposal one to remember with a beachfront dinner set under the stars. Romantic floral decorations, a celebratory cake, and a special turndown service will create the perfect atmosphere for your big moment.
Underwater Proposal or Wedding Ceremony: Take your love to new depths with an underwater proposal or ceremony. With scuba kits and a master of ceremonies, you’ll exchange vows beneath the waves for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Elopements and Vow Renewals: Say “I do” again on a secluded beach. After your intimate ceremony, celebrate with a candlelit dinner and a romantic bubble bath. Every detail is personalized to make the moment uniquely yours.

Capture the Moment with a Couples’ Beach Photoshoot

Preserve your special moments with a Couples’ Beach Photoshoot. A professional photographer will capture stunning images of you and your partner against the beautiful Maldivian backdrop. These timeless photos will help you relive your love story for years to come.

Special Offer Island Romance Package

Make your escape even more extraordinary with the Island Romance Package. This offer creates the perfect couple’s getaway. Choose your villa and enjoy daily buffet breakfast and dinner at Kandooma Café. Personalized in-villa amenities and a luxurious breakfast in bed add a special touch to your stay.

With this package, you will also enjoy a beach picnic lunch and a private beach dinner setup. Certified divers can take advantage of two complimentary scuba dives per day, complete with equipment and professional guidance. Don’t forget the complimentary access to non-motorized water sports, giving you the chance to explore the beautiful Maldivian waters at your own pace. Prices start at USD 475++ per night for two adults, with a three-night minimum stay.

Even if you are planning an underwater proposal, a vow renewal, or a romantic sunset cruise, every experience during the Month of Love at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is designed to make your love story unforgettable. You will find moments of magic, connection, and adventure around every corner in this stunning island paradise.

Amilla Maldives Signs Manta Trust Responsible Operator Partnership

Feature image by Amilla Maldives

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