Search
Close this search box.

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
Ad - immaldives.com

Latest

Maldives Tourism Highlights: Key Updates from the First Week of April

Maldives Tourism Highlights: Key Updates from the First Week of April

The first week of April has been a remarkable one for the Maldives’ tourism sector, with several key developments underscoring the country’s growing influence on the global stage. The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has spearheaded several initiatives that highlight its unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism, international collaboration, and enhancing the nation’s tourism appeal. From launching a high-profile campaign with Liverpool Football Club to taking decisive steps toward a greener future, this week marks a pivotal moment for the Maldives’ tourism industry.

Tourism Promotion with Liverpool FC: A Landmark Partnership

One of the standout moments this week was, without a doubt, the official launch of the Maldives’ tourism promotion campaign in partnership with Liverpool Football Club (LFC). President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, joined by Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim, attended the Merseyside Derby between Liverpool FC and Everton, marking the global debut of this exciting collaboration. The Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has, in fact, worked alongside LFC to run a co-branded tourism campaign across the UK, aiming to attract high-value travelers to the Maldives. Specifically, the campaign includes extensive outdoor and digital advertisements in prime locations like the London Underground, airports, and major billboards across Europe, promising the Maldives significant exposure in international markets.

Advancing Climate Action: Maldives Sets Example with Transparency and Sustainability

In line with its commitment to environmental sustainability, the Maldives also focused on climate action this week. Notably, the Ministry of Tourism and Environment is currently undergoing a technical expert review of the nation’s first Biennial Transparency Report (BTR), submitted as part of the Paris Agreement’s Enhanced Transparency Framework. This review will, in turn, assess the country’s efforts in managing greenhouse gas emissions and climate change impacts. Ultimately, this review process demonstrates the Maldives’ dedication to global climate action, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a leader in sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.

Renewable Energy Progress: A Step Toward Sustainable Tourism

In a related effort to promote sustainability, the Ministry has signed an agreement to install 38 MWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems across 18 islands. This initiative, backed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), is a significant step toward increasing the use of solar energy in the Maldives, thereby helping to reduce reliance on costly diesel fuel. Furthermore, this project is expected to not only save millions in fuel costs but also support the Maldives’ broader goals of becoming more environmentally resilient, ultimately further enhancing its appeal as an eco-conscious tourist destination.

Strengthening International Relations and Local Industry Development

Minister Thoriq Ibrahim met with officials from Pakistan to discuss cooperative efforts in waste management, a critical issue for the archipelago’s scattered islands. Additionally, the Minister welcomed Japan’s newly appointed Ambassador, Mrs. Ishigami Rumiko, to discuss climate mitigation, waste management, and energy transition, thus demonstrating the Maldives’ commitment to fostering strong international partnerships.

Moreover, Minister Ibrahim also met with the Maldives Association of HR Professionals to explore opportunities for developing the tourism workforce, ensuring that the Maldives can continue offering exceptional service to visitors. These discussions are, indeed, crucial for strengthening the Maldives’ tourism industry and its global competitiveness.

Looking Ahead

With a continued focus on sustainable tourism, international collaborations, and workforce development, the Maldives is positioning itself for long-term success in the global tourism market. The nation’s commitment to environmental stewardship, alongside initiatives like the partnership with Liverpool FC, will undoubtedly ensure it remains a top destination for travelers worldwide.

Ad - immaldives.com
No more posts to show