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Vakkaru Maldives Introduces First-Ever ‘Baa Atoll Big Five’ Safari

vakkaru maldives big five
Vakkaru Maldives is inviting guests to explore the underwater wonders surrounding the resort on the first-ever Baa Atoll Big Five safari.

In recognition of its incredible marine diversity and spectacular sea life, it was 10 years ago this month that Baa Atoll was named the Maldives’ first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

To mark this significant anniversary, Vakkaru Maldives is inviting guests to explore the underwater wonders surrounding the resort on the first-ever Baa Atoll Big Five safari and to enjoy a range of special events and privileges as part of its 50 Shades of Blue celebration.

Inspired by Africa’s land-based big five safaris, Vakkaru Maldives’ Baa Atoll Big Five safari highlights five of the most beloved creatures that can be observed in Baa Atoll, ones that sea lovers from the whole world over regularly request to see while visiting Vakkaru.

The Baa Atoll Big Five

Manta Rays: Ethereal creatures with wingspans of up to 9 metres, manta rays are regularly seen at Hanifaru Bay near Vakkaru from May to November each year.

Whale Sharks: Stretching up to 12 metres in length and also found in Baa Atoll from May to November, whale sharks are the world’s largest fish and a momentous sight to behold.

Turtles: Hawksbills and green turtles are found in Baa Atoll year-round and sightings are almost guaranteed in Turtle Reef, about 15 minutes from Vakkaru by boat.

Dolphins: Spinner and bottlenose dolphins are also regularly spotted on Vakkaru’s dolphin-watching cruises, with their playful antics and acrobatic jumps making them a particular favourite with children.

Sharks: Nurse, whitetip reef and blacktip reef sharks can often be seen at Baa Atoll’s dive sites.

Vakkaru Maldives dive-centre team can organise special Baa Atoll Big Five trips that will maximise guests’ chances of seeing these creatures for themselves, which can be customised to include a range of special experiences.

Private cruises to Hanifaru Bay might conclude with champagne and canapes to celebrate a successful manta ray or whale shark sighting; dolphin-watching cruises can be supplemented with visits to castaway sandbanks for private picnic or sundowner suppers; visits to Turtle Reef can be complemented with conservation work that protects the Indian Ocean’s threatened species.

Image: Vakkaru Maldives

Anyone who manages to spot the Big Five can consider themselves privileged to have witnessed some of the Indian Ocean’s most awe-inspiring residents, and Vakkaru’s F&B team can enthusiastically arrange a special celebratory Big Five Feast for any parties who witness all
five on one trip, but Baa Atoll provides so much more to admire besides and every visit promises to reveal its own underwater wonders.

The Maldives’ coral reefs support approximately 250 species of coral and 1,200 reef- and reef-associated fish species. Vakkaru Maldives’ expert marine biologist knows the region intimately and has also created a guide to Baa Atoll’s Top Five Dive Sites in celebration of its 10th anniversary as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. They are:

  • Maavaru Thila where a thila (underwater mountain) emerges at 12 metres deep. These waters provide a vibrant home to jackfish, napoleons, stingrays and much more. Coated in soft corals, the walls of Maavaru Caves are a marvel in and of themselves, but this atmospheric setting is also populated by grey reef sharks, eagle rays, turtles and dolphins.
  • Mutafushi Thila is packed with anemones, kaleidoscopic schools of fish and curious octopus.
  • At Miyaru Thila the underground mountain emerges at 8 metres deep, where sharks and batfish might also be seen.
  • Barracuda Thila is expansive and beautiful, with its waters enlivened by darting schools of yellow snapper, tuna and, of course, barracuda.

The team at Vakkaru’s dive centre will happily arrange visits to each of these remarkable settings, while anyone who visits the resort over the remainder of 2021 will be able to enjoy much more besides.

Throughout the rest of the year, the ongoing 50 Shades of Blue programme will celebrate Baa Atoll’s 10th anniversary as the Maldives’ first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve by hosting a panoply of special events.

A particular focal point will come in mid-August when a week-long 50 Shades of Blue celebration will see the resort host residencies by ocean experts; musical performances and a showstopper pool party; a series of special dining experiences; creative kids’ activities; thrilling ocean expeditions; and a range of revitalising wellness offerings.

For further information and reservations, visit vakkarumaldives.com or contact reservations@vakkarumaldives.com.

Feature image by Vakkaru Maldives
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Barceló Nasandhura Malé City

If you think luxury and the city don’t mix, think again. The bustling capital of the Maldives just welcomed a game-changer in hospitality: Barceló Nasandhura Malé, the city’s first-ever five-star hotel. Located in the heart of Malé, where ocean breeze meets urban rhythm, this stunning new property now offers guests a rare fusion of indulgence and convenience. Whether you’re visiting for business or seeking a refined island-city getaway, here are five compelling reasons to make Barceló Nasandhura your go-to destination for your next Maldivian visit.

1. An Unbeatable Location That Brings Everything Closer

Just 10 minutes from Velana International Airport and directly opposite the Henveiru Ferry Terminal, Barceló Nasandhura delivers something few others in Malé can: seamless connectivity without sacrificing tranquility. As a result, this prime location lets both business travelers and tourists transition from plane to paradise in record time. Step out of the busy city streets and into a peaceful haven, where the rhythm of the waves plays counterpoint to the urban hum just beyond the lobby doors.

2. City Sophistication Meets Seaside Serenity

Barceló Nasandhura stands apart with its architectural elegance and thoughtful design: a blend of modern sophistication and Maldivian charm. Moreover, the hotel curates each room and apartment as a sanctuary. From the minimalist lines of the Superior Ocean View rooms to the sprawling three-bedroom penthouses with panoramic views, every space floods with natural light and invites you to unplug in style. Whether you’re staying for a few days or settling in for an extended visit, the serviced apartments deliver all the comforts of a high-end home in paradise.

3. A Culinary Journey Worth Booking a Room For

Barceló Nasandhura doesn’t just serve food, it indulges you. With three signature restaurants and two stylish bars, the hotel transforms dining into a destination. For instance, you can grab a morning brew or light snack at Alimas Café, dive into a rich international buffet at Oivaru, or savor bold flavors at Dons, the in-house Chinese restaurant with unbeatable sea views. Then, head up to BHeaven, the rooftop lounge where sunset mocktails meet a panoramic skyline, or unwind by the city’s only oceanfront pool with a refreshing drink in hand. In short, dining here goes beyond necessity it becomes an experience.

4. Wellness Experiences That Recharge You

Barceló Nasandhura brings the wellness retreat to the city, so you don’t need to rush off to remote islands. The on-site Mandara Spa offers six serene treatment rooms, where world-class massages and facials melt away every trace of stress. If you prefer to sweat it out, the fully equipped fitness center, complete with ocean-facing windows, turns workouts into moments of calm and clarity. Ultimately, whether you want to relax, rejuvenate, or reinvigorate, the hotel supports your mind, body, and soul.

5. A New Standard for Business and Events

Barceló Nasandhura offers more than just a comfortable stay for business travelers, it provides a smart strategic base. Notably, with over 1,000 square meters of flexible event space, including meeting rooms, exhibition areas, and ballrooms that host up to 600 guests, the hotel meets the demands of MICE events. Guests can also enjoy the sea view from the Ari room and seamless access to a sleek buffet hall next to the wedding venue. In this way, Barceló Nasandhura merges luxury with logistics, ensuring your professional trip feels as seamless as it is stylish.

The Final Word: More Than a Stay, It’s a Statement

Barceló Nasandhura Malé doesn’t just elevate hospitality in the Maldives, it redefines it. With its strategic location, thoughtful design, high-end amenities, and warm service, the hotel proves you can enjoy both the energy of Malé and the serenity of the Maldives in one unforgettable experience. So, whether you’re planning your next business trip, a romantic escape, or a long-term stay with all the perks of a luxury apartment, Barceló Nasandhura stands ready to welcome you into a new era of urban island living.

So why settle for ordinary when you can check in to extraordinary?

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