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Thousands of Tourists Arrive in Maldives Aboard Two Cruise Ships

Maldives cruise ship arrival

The Maldives has quickly become a top destination for cruise travelers. Recently, two major ships, the MS Norwegian Sky and the MS Riviera, docked in Malé city, bringing thousands of visitors eager to experience the islands’ unique charm.

The MS Norwegian Sky, which carries nearly 2,000 passengers, arrived in the Maldives at the end of December. For the two days it stayed in port, passengers got the chance to explore local islands, immerse themselves in the culture, and take in the stunning landscapes. After their brief visit, the ship continued on its journey to other parts of Southeast Asia.

Not long after, the MS Riviera made its way to Malé, adding even more visitors to the island. With over 2,000 passengers on board, the ship added to the excitement surrounding the Maldives. Passengers spent time discovering the Maldives’ unique offerings before the ship left for Sri Lanka. This consistent flow of cruise ships reveals a shift in how people are traveling. More tourists are now opting for cruises that allow them to see the beauty of the Maldives in a short but unforgettable visit.

Growing Popularity Beyond Cruise Tourism

The holiday destination has hit a major milestone this year, surpassing two million tourists. This growth reflects the country’s rising popularity as a travel destination, and it is clear that more people than ever are looking to experience the Maldives for themselves. Additionally, the Maldives has seen a noticeable increase in private jets and international flights, highlighting the demand for luxury travel to the islands. With visitors arriving by both air and sea, the Maldives continues to prove it is a flexible destination that appeals to all kinds of travelers.

As more cruise ships are set to arrive in the Maldives, the islands will keep seeing a steady flow of visitors. With international cruises increasingly choosing the Maldives as a key stop, its combination of luxury, culture, and natural beauty continues to make it a top destination for travelers from around the world.

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InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort to Host Manta Retreat in March 2025

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort to Host Manta Retreat in March

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort will host its fourth Manta Retreat from March 17 to 20, continuing its efforts to provide guests with an in-depth understanding of manta rays and their habitat. Following the successful launch of the Manta Retreat in 2022, this upcoming event offers a range of activities and workshops focused on manta ray conservation and education.

The retreat engages participants in both learning and exploration, offering opportunities to gain insights into the world of manta rays, specifically those inhabiting the Raa Atoll. Moreover, a key highlight of the event is the chance for attendees to join guided snorkelling excursions, allowing them to swim alongside manta rays and observe their natural behaviour in the ocean.

Interactive Workshops and Hands-On Learning

Workshops during the retreat cover topics such as Manta ID and Manta Research, providing participants with a unique opportunity to identify individual manta rays and learn about the research conducted on these creatures. In addition, attendees get the chance to adopt and name a manta ray, furthering their involvement in conservation efforts.

Meral Hafeez, the Manta Trust base leader at the resort, will lead the retreat and share her extensive knowledge of marine life. Hafeez’s passion for marine education shines through in her presentations and activities, as she helps guests understand the importance of preserving manta rays and other marine species.

Conservation Activities: Coral Restoration and Plankton Study

The retreat also offers a workshop focused on plankton, the main food source for manta rays. Guests gain a deeper understanding of the marine food chain and the role plankton plays in the ecosystem. Furthermore, another workshop, the Coral Restoration and Planting session, allows participants to take direct action in supporting the health of coral reefs by planting coral and contributing to the reef’s restoration.

Guided snorkelling excursions around the resort’s house reef give guests the chance to explore the vibrant marine life that thrives around the island. Hafeez’s informative talk, “Manta Ray of the Maldives,” provides further insights into the behaviour and characteristics of manta rays, enhancing participants’ understanding of these majestic creatures.

Partnerships for Long-Term Marine Conservation

The Manta Retreat closely ties into conservation efforts by emphasizing the ongoing collaboration between InterContinental Maldives and the Manta Trust. This partnership, which has been in place since 2019, focuses on research and education initiatives that protect manta rays and their habitats. Guests who attend the retreat not only enjoy a luxurious vacation but also contribute to vital conservation work.

These activities and experiences help participants leave with a greater appreciation for manta rays and the ocean’s ecosystems. The retreat serves as a reminder of the critical role individuals play in marine conservation, and attendees return home with a deeper sense of responsibility toward protecting the oceans.

By the end of the retreat, guests gain knowledge and unforgettable experiences while becoming advocates for the preservation of manta rays and marine life.

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