The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo resort, located in Baa Atoll, the first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers guests the chance to get up-close-and-personal with manta rays at the world’s largest natural manta feeding destination. Guests have the rare opportunity to snorkel with the gentle giants at the protected site of Hanifaru Bay just 18 kilometers from the resort, which can attract more than 100 rays around the time of the full moon. With the season well underway, guests will have the privilege to witness the spectacle first hand before the end of November 2021.
With wingspans up to seven meter, speeds up to 24 kilometers per hour, and cognitive function at par with dolphins, manta rays are indeed one of the most majestic creatures in the ocean. Classed as vulnerable, the Maldivian government added all ray species to the list of protected species, which also strengthens the countries reputation as a leader in marine conservation and promotes the valuable, sustainable tourism based around manta populations. By connecting people to mantas, the mantas’ chances of survival will increase.
Up to seven species of turtles can also be found nesting along the island’s pristine sandy beaches at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort and may, at times, include threatened and critically endangered species such as the green turtle and hawksbill turtle and leatherback turtle.
The wellness resort has curated a Rendezvous with Manta Rays package, with once-in-a-lifetime experiences of this magnificent marine life, unveiling the secrets of the deep. With turtles to float alongside, mantas to gaze upon and an entire underwater world to plunge into, one can discover the beauty of the blue planet through a dream-worthy dive or a snorkel.
The package includes:
Daily breakfast at Island Kitchen
One time Turtle Snorkel Trip
One time Manta Ray Snorkel at Hanifaru Bay (included for bookings from July through November)
One time Scuba Diving in Resort Reef
One time Scuba Diving in open water
Use of snorkeling equipment and ocean kayaks for 2 hours
A minimum stay of four nights is required