Diving enthusiasts and marine conservation supporters are invited to immerse themselves in a unique underwater experience this September as Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort prepares to host the 8th annual PADI AWARE Week from 12 to 21 September 2025. The award-winning resort, recently named Best Dive Resort 2024 by Travel Trade Maldives, will partner with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) to lead a series of ocean-focused activities in the pristine waters of Baa Atoll, a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve and home to some of the Maldives’ most biodiverse marine ecosystems.
This annual initiative is part of a global campaign by PADI and the AWARE Foundation to raise awareness of marine conservation, and Avani+ Fares Maldives stands out as a leading destination for sustainable tourism. The 2025 edition of PADI AWARE Week at the resort offers guests an enriching blend of education, adventure, and environmental stewardship — all set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most sought-after diving destinations.
Highlights of the Week: Conservation, Education & Underwater Exploration
Guests staying at the resort during the event will have complimentary access to all PADI AWARE Week activities. The itinerary includes a variety of PADI specialty diving courses, snorkeling excursions, beach clean-ups, and marine biology talks, designed to inspire participants to protect and preserve the ocean.
One of the key events of the week is scheduled for 17 September, coinciding with World Manta Day. Guests can enroll in the PADI Manta Ray Awareness Specialty Course, which delves into the biology, behavior, and conservation needs of manta rays. The course culminates in an unforgettable guided snorkeling trip to Hanifaru Bay, one of the world’s largest known manta ray aggregation sites. Located just a short distance from the resort, Hanifaru Bay is globally recognized for its seasonal gatherings of hundreds of manta rays and occasional whale sharks.
Participants can also join the PADI Dive Against Debris® course, which not only teaches divers how to remove marine litter safely but also involves contributing collected data to the AWARE global marine debris database, aiding long-term conservation research and policy development.
Meet a Freediving Champion: Train with Hanli Prinsloo
A special feature of this year’s event is the presence of Hanli Prinsloo, an 11-time world record holder in freediving, who will lead freediving and breathwork sessions throughout the week. Her workshops will help participants gain control over their breath and confidence in the water, offering a unique chance to learn from one of the sport’s most accomplished figures.
Speaking about her return to the Maldives, Hanli Prinsloo noted:
“Baa Atoll offers ideal freediving conditions with both deep structures and stunning shallow reefs. The resort’s proximity to Hanifaru Bay makes it one of the most rewarding places to dive, especially during manta season.”
A Commitment to Long-Term Ocean Health
Beyond the recreational diving and exploration, the resort is emphasizing community engagement and long-term environmental responsibility. Guests are invited to participate in coral conservation workshops, hands-on learning sessions with marine biologists, and coastal clean-up initiatives that support the region’s ongoing sustainability efforts.
The Maldives, home to over 1,200 islands and more than 2,000 coral reefs, depends heavily on the health of its marine ecosystems. Initiatives like PADI AWARE Week align with the Maldives’ national goal to protect at least 20% of its marine area by 2030, in line with global biodiversity targets.
How to Join
All experiences during the PADI AWARE Week at Avani+ Fares Maldives are free of charge for resort guests, with special rates available for diving and snorkeling excursions. The full schedule and booking options are available at
👉 www.avanihotels.com/en/fares-maldives
📧 [email protected]
📞 +960 660 1660
Whether you’re a certified diver, a beginner looking to learn, or someone passionate about marine life and conservation, Avani+ Fares Maldives offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the Indian Ocean’s wonders while contributing to a cleaner, healthier planet.
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