In celebration of World Oceans Day 2025, Summer Island Maldives curated a full-day ocean awareness programme that brought guests closer to the marine wonders of the Maldives while reinforcing the resort’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and marine conservation. The event was headlined by national freediving record-holder and ocean advocate Umair Badheeu, who guided visitors through a series of enriching experiences aimed at fostering respect for marine ecosystems.
World Oceans Day, observed globally on June 8, serves as a reminder of the vital role oceans play in the Earth’s climate and biodiversity. At Summer Island Maldives, a resort renowned for its eco-conscious ethos and innovative sustainability practices, this year’s celebration went beyond symbolic gestures to deliver hands-on education and engagement for guests and staff alike.
The day began at Avi Bar, where Umair Badheeu introduced participants to the fundamentals of freediving. Guests were introduced to the art of breath-hold diving, gaining insights into how the sport encourages a calm, mindful connection to the underwater world. Umair, who holds multiple national freediving records, is known for combining athleticism with marine advocacy, using his platform to inspire younger generations to protect the ocean.
The highlight of the morning was a guided snorkelling excursion to Summer Island’s iconic house reef and Blue Lagoon coral garden, which is home to the world’s largest 3D-printed coral reef structure. Designed in collaboration with marine scientists, this artificial reef acts as a habitat for marine life and a living laboratory for coral regeneration. Guests were given safety and equipment briefings, along with a refresher on responsible reef interaction practices. Umair conducted a live freediving demonstration, which was met with enthusiasm by guests, many of whom praised his approachable style and the session’s educational depth.
The excursion was seamlessly supported by the resort’s Water Sports and Transport team, ensuring a smooth and safe experience for all participants.
Following the snorkelling adventure, guests gathered for an open Q&A session with Umair. In an engaging conversation, he shared personal stories about his diving journey and discussed broader issues such as coral bleaching, microplastic pollution, and the role of tourism in marine conservation. Umair also highlighted Summer Island Maldives’ sustainability initiatives, including its long-term coral planting programme, efforts to phase out single-use plastics, and curated guest experiences that promote marine awareness and eco-friendly practices.
In the afternoon, guests and staff teamed up for an ocean clean-up session, reinforcing the resort’s dedication to responsible tourism. Plastic waste and debris were collected from the shoreline and lagoon, further emphasizing the importance of community involvement in preserving the ocean environment.
Summer Island Maldives, located in the North Malé Atoll, is a 45-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport. The resort features 156 villas ranging from beachfront to overwater accommodations, offering a mix of modern comfort and traditional Maldivian charm. It has built a reputation as one of the most sustainable resorts in the country, with awards recognizing its efforts in environmental stewardship and guest experience.
Building on the success of the World Oceans Day celebration, Summer Island Maldives plans to host regular ocean-themed events throughout the year. Each session will explore a unique aspect of marine conservation, offering guests a chance to engage with the underwater world in meaningful ways.
These experiences not only enhance the resort’s appeal to environmentally conscious travellers but also underscore the Maldives’ broader mission to preserve its precious marine ecosystems for future generations.
For more information or bookings, visit www.summerislandmaldives.com.
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