Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi has announced the launch of a new collection of unforgettable ocean adventures.
Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi, a secluded island hideaway in the archipelago’s secluded Shaviyani atoll, has announced the launch of a new collection of unforgettable ocean adventures, offering intrepid guests the chance to explore its vibrant nine-kilometre reef and beyond from both above and below the waves.
Advertisement
Home to a colourful circus of tropical fish, manta rays and turtles, the waters surrounding the island are ripe for exploration – whether a scuba diving adventure with the resort’s resident marine biologist, big game fishing excursion or fun-filled Jet Ski ride.
Dive Deep
Head out on a two-tank dive trip and return with everlasting memories of the underwater wonders surrounding Fairmont Maldives, with a collection of scuba diving experiences designed for deepwater aficionados and amateur explorers alike. Accompanied by an expert guide, divers will discover an underwater paradise of tropical fish, manta ray cleaning stations, rare shark species and the resort’s Coralarium, the Maldives’ first and only underwater art gallery and coral regeneration project.
Three-, four- and five-day Diving packages are available, starting from $700 (approx. £506) per person, including a professional guide, nitrox, full dive equipment, onboard refreshments and additional activities (room charges not included).
Keep it Reel
For a fishing experience like no other, Big Game Fishing at Fairmont Maldives takes guests in search of the ocean’s extraordinary marine species to try their luck at making a catch. Led by a local and suitable for both amateur and experienced anglers, relax onboard a comfortable fishing boat on a journey to the open water, before casting your rod in search of tropical marine life including wahoo, sailfish, tuna, snappers and bonitos.
One- and two-day Big Game Fishing experiences are available, starting from $1,250 (approx. £905) for two people, including use of PENN fishing gear, local guide, on-board refreshments, one underwater photo or video, and additional activities (room charges not included).
Make a Splash
Thrill-seekers can leave the tranquillity of the island lagoon behind and enjoy a hair-raising adventure by Fun Tube or jet ski. Pulled along by speedboat, Fun Tube riders need only worry about holding on tight as they are guided at speed across the still blue waters, while jet skiers take matters into their own hands, watching the island from afar as they zip and zoom across the waves. Each package includes an additional experience of either stand-up paddleboarding or the use of a glass-bottomed canoe.
The Fun Tube and Paddle Boarding package costs from $140 (approx. £101) per person. The Jet Ski and Canoe package costs from $250 (approx. £181) for two people. Room charges not included.
Feature image by Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi
The Maldives has officially hit a remarkable tourism milestone by welcoming its one millionth visitor for 2025 earlier than ever before. This historic achievement highlights the island nation’s growing popularity as a top luxury travel destination and its rising appeal for honeymooners, adventure seekers, and eco-conscious travelers alike. Minister for Tourism and Environment, Hon. Thoriq Ibrahim, expressed that this milestone fills the nation with immense pride, reflecting the success of destination marketing efforts that truly capture the Maldivian experience. He also recognized the dedication of everyone in the tourism sector who contributed to this achievement.
Advertisement
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, the one million mark arrived on June 7, nearly two weeks earlier than in 2024, when the milestone occurred on June 27. This is the fastest the Maldives has ever welcomed one million tourists within a single calendar year. The rapid pace of arrivals shows the country is on track to meet its ambitious target of 2.2 million tourist arrivals by the end of 2025.
A Milestone Visitor and a Commitment to Sustainability
The traveler who marked this significant milestone was Kajal Singh, visiting from India, who came with her husband to celebrate their honeymoon. Their chosen destination was Bandos Maldives, a legendary resort and a cornerstone of Maldivian hospitality that continues to attract travelers from all corners of the globe.
To mark this special occasion, Visit Maldives, alongside the Ministry of Tourism and Environment and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), hosted a commemorative event at Velana International Airport. Demonstrating the nation’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability, Kajal was invited to take part in the “Five Million Trees Planting Program” initiated by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. As part of this meaningful gesture, she planted a tree on Hulhulé Island, contributing to a nationwide effort to combat climate change, enhance biodiversity, and nurture a greener Maldives for generations to come.
Bandos Maldives: A Historic Icon in Maldivian Tourism
Kajal Singh and her husband checked into Bandos Maldives, the country’s second resort to open and a cherished landmark in the Maldives tourism industry. Situated just a 10-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, Bandos perfectly balances island tranquility with easy access, making it a preferred choice for honeymooners, families, and returning visitors.
Having completed 52 years of continuous operation, Bandos Maldives stands as a testament to the enduring charm and evolving excellence of the Maldives as a travel hotspot. The resort offers 220 well-appointed rooms, diverse dining options, a tranquil spa, a professional dive center, and comprehensive leisure facilities. Its commitment to sustainable tourism practices, ongoing renovations, and guest-first approach ensure that Bandos remains relevant and beloved in a market filled with new luxury resorts.
Hosting the one millionth tourist at Bandos Maldives highlights the resort’s lasting popularity and its crucial role in the country’s tourism landscape. For Kajal Singh and her husband, their honeymoon at Bandos represents not only a personal celebration but also a memorable moment intertwined with the Maldives’ tourism success story.
Tourism Growth Fueled by Strategic Marketing and Enhanced Connectivity
In 2025 so far, the Maldives has experienced an 8 percent increase in overall tourist arrivals compared to the previous year, with June alone seeing an impressive 18 percent growth. Leading source markets contributing to this surge include China and Russia, followed by Germany, the Middle East, and a resurgent India, which shows strong recovery after a slight dip in 2024.
Key drivers behind this impressive growth include:
Well-coordinated international marketing campaigns by Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), including partnerships with Liverpool FC, Mumbai Indians, and prominent tour operators across Europe and Asia
Expanded flight connectivity through enhanced collaborations with Emirates, Qatar Airways, and other regional airlines
Sustainability-focused initiatives such as the government’s ‘Five Million Trees’ campaign and eco-friendly resort developments
Innovative digital marketing strategies, including influencer collaborations and engaging social media events like “The World’s Biggest Giveaway 2025”
Significant infrastructure upgrades, notably the ongoing expansion of Velana International Airport, ensuring the Maldives can support continued tourism growth
Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director of MMPRC, highlighted this achievement as a testament to the ongoing commitment of all stakeholders, emphasizing that efforts to enhance the Maldives’ tourism industry remain steadfast to keep the country a dream destination for travelers worldwide.
Maldives’ Ambitious Target of 2.2 Million Tourists
Following a record-breaking 2024, when the Maldives welcomed 2 million tourists and secured its fifth consecutive title as the World’s Leading Destination, the country aims even higher for 2025. The early arrival of the one millionth tourist sends a clear message that the Maldives remains well on course for another historic tourism year.
With strong momentum across all major source markets, the Maldives continues to strengthen its position as a premier luxury island destination. This success comes from preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage while delivering exceptional guest experiences.
For travelers like Kajal Singh, becoming part of this milestone while enjoying the warm hospitality and timeless charm of Bandos Maldives creates a lasting memory. It offers a perfect blend of personal celebration and witnessing the rise of one of the world’s most sought-after tropical destinations.
