In a powerful demonstration of ecological responsibility and regional cooperation, Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort in Baa Atoll, has successfully concluded a four-day coral transplantation initiative, an important step toward preserving the Maldives’ marine biodiversity and bolstering sustainable tourism. The initiative, led by the resort’s in-house marine biologist, Ivanna Tobar, saw the careful relocation of approximately 1,200 coral colonies from Finolhu’s coral nurseries to its vibrant house reef.
This ambitious effort not only underlines the resort’s longstanding commitment to marine conservation but also reflects a rare spirit of inter-resort collaboration within the Maldives’ luxury tourism sector. The project welcomed four marine biologists from neighboring world-class resorts, Joali Being, Westin, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, and Dusit Thani. Each contributed hands-on support to the coral transplantation dives and reef health assessments, enriching the initiative with their unique expertise. Philippa Darby-shire Jenkins (Joali Being), Rosalie Bailie (Coco Palm), Harry Longin (Westin), and Louna Marchand (Dusit Thani) joined forces in tasks ranging from equipment preparation to the removal of invasive crown-of-thorns sea stars, which pose a serious threat to coral ecosystems.
Finolhu’s General Manager, Steven Phillips, highlighted the broader implications of the project. “This initiative goes far beyond coral restoration,” he remarked. “It brings together like-minded professionals across resorts to strengthen collective conservation expertise. Thriving coral reefs are vital not only for the Maldives’ marine life but also for the livelihood of communities and the resilience of the tourism industry that the nation depends on.”
The Maldives’ coral reefs are among the most biologically diverse and economically valuable marine ecosystems in the world. They protect coastlines from erosion, provide critical habitats for fish and marine life, and directly support local communities through fisheries and tourism. However, they are under increasing stress due to climate change, particularly rising sea temperatures, as well as pollution and human impacts. Restoration programs like the one undertaken by Finolhu serve as an essential lifeline for the long-term survival of these reefs.
The program was designed to create a dynamic balance between action and knowledge-sharing. Each morning began with briefings to coordinate dive plans and safety protocols, while afternoons were devoted to reef health monitoring and preparing tools and resources for the next day’s work. This structured approach ensured that both ecological goals and capacity-building outcomes were met, reinforcing the shared mission of the participating marine professionals.
Finolhu’s leadership in this event is part of its broader environmental strategy. The resort continuously monitors reef health, maintains a coral nursery, and implements sustainable marine practices to protect its local ecosystem. Guests are also invited to participate in these efforts through the resort’s unique Coral Conservation Package, which offers immersive educational experiences coupled with direct involvement in reef restoration activities. This initiative allows visitors to not only enjoy the Maldives’ natural beauty but also contribute meaningfully to its preservation.
Such programs reinforce Finolhu’s standing as a luxury resort deeply rooted in ecological consciousness—a value increasingly important to today’s environmentally aware travelers. The resort’s efforts reflect a growing shift across the tourism sector in the Maldives, where hospitality is increasingly aligned with sustainability and environmental stewardship.
As the Maldives continues to attract travelers from across the globe, particularly from the Middle East and Gulf region, initiatives like Finolhu’s coral transplantation project serve as shining examples of how tourism can support conservation and community resilience. Guests who visit the Maldives not only encounter breathtaking beauty but also become part of a global effort to protect it.
To learn more about Finolhu and its environmental programs, visit: www.finolhu.com
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