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Vibrant and Enchanting Undersea World Awaits at Seaside Finolhu

underwater world at seaside finolhu
Seaside Finolhu offers an idyllic base from which to explore the reserve’s sheer diversity and abundance of underwater life.

Seaside Finolhu recently underwent extensive renovations and upgrades as part of an elaborate transition from luxury Maldives resort to a proud member of the exclusive Design Hotels portfolio. The resort’s bold new design concept is described as a kaleidoscope of colours that are inspired by the vibrant hues of the island’s natural wonders.

Guests will find this kaleidoscope concept brought to life in splashes of color throughout the resort when it reopens in October 2020. Enjoying a prime location in Baa Atoll’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Seaside Finolhu offers an idyllic base from which to explore the reserve’s sheer diversity and abundance of underwater life, some of which is found nowhere else on the planet.

Most of these beautiful animals can be seen year round while snorkelling and diving at Finolhu. However, we are world famous for manta rays roughly between the months of May and October. Anyone interested in seeing these unique megafauna in large numbers should therefore plan their trip for this time although the sheer diversity and abundance of marine life in the Baa Atoll’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve means there’s never a bad time to visit. Whenever you come, you’re sure to enjoy your diving experience here at Finolhu with our expert team of instructors and the five-star luxury service.

Dive Butler Finolhu’s Senior Diving Instructor, Tom Zimmer stated.

Under the expert guidance of the resort’s professional and highly knowledgeable dive centre team, guests at Seaside Finolhu can explore the Baa Atoll’s most enchanting sites on small group tours or private excursions that can be individually designed to optimise the guest experience through the centre’s Dive Butler. The options are available to guests including diving, snorkelling and even a semi-submersible boat for those who want to stay dry.

In addition to the vibrantly colored corals, the reefs of the Baa Atoll teem with a wide diversity of marine life, some of which are extremely rare or even unique to the area. While the reefs are home to an array of exotic fauna, there are also some exciting visitors that come from the open ocean to breed or eat in the shallow waters of the Baa Atoll.

The green sea turtle is the most commonly sighted sea turtle in the Maldives. Although these beautiful marine reptiles spend their lives out at sea, they breathe air and lay their eggs on land. After the baby sea turtles hatch, they can frequently be found swimming in the shallow reefs and lagoons of the Baa Atoll.

In addition to seagrass and algae, green turtles also enjoy the occasional jellyfish. Unfortunately, they have been known to die after ingesting discarded plastic bags which can look just like jellyfish drifting in the water. As an endangered species, sea turtles are protected in the Maldives where their friendly and curious nature make them a favourite among tourists and locals alike.

Another very popular visitor from the deep ocean is the white-spotted eagle ray, which comes to the shallow waters of the Baa Atoll in large schools to feed on invertebrates such as clams, shrimps, oysters, and worms. Growing up to 3 meters in wingspan and 5 meters in tail-length, these ocean giants can often be seen cruising close to the surface making them easy to spot even from a boat. One of the most spectacular sights in the Maldives is when these majestic creatures remove parasites by breaching and then slapping down on the surface.

In addition to these visiting ocean giants, there are also a few large creatures that call the Baa Atoll home. Named for their distinctive black fin tips, the blacktip reef shark spends much of its life in and around the reefs feeding on smaller reef fish. They can grow up to 1.8 meters in length but pose no danger to humans. Juveniles can often be seen using the Baa Atoll’s shallow lagoons as a nursery ground before venturing out into deeper waters.

The most common of the 40 species of eels in the Maldives is the giant moray eel. Growing up to 2.4 metres in length, only their black-spotted heads are generally visible poking out of rocky coves from where they ambush shrimps, fish, octopus, and even smaller eels. Although generally shy and peaceful creatures, they will use their extremely sharp teeth to bite if they are provoked.

One of the most colourful inhabitants of the Baa Atoll reefs is Clark’s anemonefish. Closely related to the clownfish and with similar colouration, these small fish get their name from the anemones in which they make their home. The stinging tentacles of the brightly coloured anemones provide protection for their small lodgers as part of a symbiotic relationship that also benefits the anemone. Clark’s anemonefish can grow up to 14cm and their markings depend on the type of anemone in which they make their home.

One of the more elusive occupants of the Baa Atoll reefs is the peacock mantis shrimp. Although they can grow up to 18cm in length, they can be difficult to spot as they make their home between the rocks and will only leave to hunt for clams and oysters in the surrounding area before quickly returning to their burrows. As they scurry over the reef tops, however, they are easily distinguished by their bright green color and curious, high stalked eyes.

Feature image by Seaside Finolhu Maldives
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Experience a LEGO Easter Adventure at Sun Siyam Olhuveli

Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives brings a fresh twist to Easter celebrations with a creative LEGO-themed experience from April 20th to 25th, promising an exciting holiday for guests of all ages. The celebration offers a vibrant mix of creativity, family adventure, and entertainment across the resort’s pristine beaches and venues. Additionally, special performances by award-winning magician Yollin Lee and internationally acclaimed DJ and rapper Ironik will add to the excitement.

Exciting Entertainment Lineup

Sun Siyam Olhuveli enhances the experience even further with a sensational lineup of entertainment. Yollin Lee, an international champion magician known for his award-winning sleight-of-hand performances, will dazzle guests with his mesmerizing illusions. Furthermore, DJ Ironik, a renowned British DJ, producer, and rapper who helped shape British urban music, will bring his signature beats to the resort, ensuring a night to remember.

Interactive Family Activities

The festivities kick off with a LEGO-themed Easter egg hunt at Sunrise Beach, followed by engaging LEGO workshops where families can unleash their creativity. As the sun sets, the Lagoon Bar Deck hosts an evening show filled with music, dance, and dazzling lights to mark the grand opening. Throughout the celebration, guests can enjoy a variety of interactive activities. For example, the Mosaic Challenge invites participants to construct a giant LEGO masterpiece, while kids can compete in the classic Egg Rolling competition at Milano Beach. Moreover, Easter brunch at Island Pizza and an exclusive Easter BBQ at Water Sports Beach will offer culinary delights, complemented by a Family Sandcastle Competition.

The fun doesn’t stop there. Guests can also enjoy activities like egg painting, a LEGO hunt, and Easter cookie decorating. Additionally, the Egg Spoon Race, which takes place across multiple beach locations, will add a lighthearted competition, while a special Easter cocktail will bring the celebration to a memorable close.

Exclusive Offers for a Perfect Getaway

For those seeking a more enhanced experience, exclusive promotions such as the Family Fun Holiday package, Easter BBQ, and Water Sports Beach Carnival will be available for an additional cost. In addition, families can enjoy 30% off all kids’ activities, making it the perfect time for a sun-soaked, adventure-packed holiday.

This Easter, treat yourself to a luxurious escape! Book a grand villa by April 20, 2025, for stays through December 23, 2025, and unlock exclusive perks—50% off à la carte dining, airport transfers, and a complimentary couple’s massage with a four-night stay. Furthermore, extend your stay to five nights in a pool villa and enjoy free round-trip transfers. Plus, enjoy irresistible discounts on room upgrades, water sports, and a romantic diving experience. To take advantage of this offer, visit Easter Offer at Sun Siyam Olhuveli.

For more information, please visit here

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