In a prestigious recognition by the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025, the house reef of Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa, The Centara Collection, has been honoured as one of the Best House Reefs in the Maldives, further elevating the destination’s appeal to luxury travellers, snorkelling enthusiasts, and diving aficionados across the globe.
Formerly known as Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa, the property is nestled in the heart of South Ari Atoll, one of the Maldives’ most coveted diving regions. The region is globally renowned for its crystal-clear waters, rich coral ecosystems, and diverse marine species, making it a magnet for underwater exploration. The house reef of Machchafushi complements this natural setting with its expansive underwater landscape and rich marine biodiversity, creating a sanctuary that blends adventure with sustainability.
A Reef Larger Than the Island Itself
Encircling a serene lagoon, the house reef spans an area approximately five times larger than the island, offering unparalleled underwater experiences directly accessible from the resort. The reef gently slopes to depths of 15–20 metres before levelling into a soft sandy seabed. About 30 metres from the reef’s edge lies a fascinating shipwreck, an artificial reef that has become a thriving habitat for rare coral species and marine life. The wreck is home to unique coral species such as Acropora granulosa and Acropora latistella, found exclusively in this location, adding to its ecological value.
Vivid coral gardens abound with Blue Coral, Staghorn Coral, and other vibrant coral varieties, creating a dramatic and colourful underwater panorama that mesmerises both novice snorkellers and seasoned divers.
An Ecosystem Alive with Marine Life
The reef’s ecosystem is teeming with life. Seven resident Nurse sharks including three adults, one sub-adult, and three juveniles—are among its most iconic inhabitants. The reef also hosts White Tip Reef sharks, known for their curious nature and frequent close encounters with divers, along with Black Tip sharks, Lemon sharks, Leopard sharks, Guitar sharks, and several species of rays.
One of the standout features of this marine environment is the presence of Black Blotched Stingrays, which are notable for their large size and friendly demeanour. Barbless male rays are often seen gliding peacefully near the shallow waters, occasionally interacting with visitors during feeding sessions, offering a memorable and educational wildlife experience.
A Resort Committed to Sustainability
Beyond its natural beauty, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa stands as a model of eco-conscious hospitality. The resort’s coral protection and reef restoration initiatives are part of an ongoing strategy to preserve and rehabilitate marine ecosystems. These efforts include guest education programs, guided snorkelling tours with marine biologists, and hands-on involvement in coral planting projects. Guests are encouraged to participate in the resort’s sustainability mission, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
According to Francesco Pompilio, Cluster General Manager of the resort, the recent accolade underscores the importance of conservation-led tourism. “This honour reflects not only the natural beauty of our house reef but also the unwavering commitment of our team to its protection and preservation. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and we remain dedicated to safeguarding this vibrant marine sanctuary for generations to come. We are deeply grateful to our guests for their continued trust and patronage,” he said.
A Premier Destination for Divers and Eco-Tourists
Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa, The Centara Collection, is designed to offer the complete Maldivian island experience, featuring beachfront villas and overwater suites that blend traditional architecture with modern luxury. With world-class facilities, including gourmet dining, a serene spa, and family-friendly activities, the resort attracts a diverse clientele ranging from honeymooners to families and eco-tourists.
Accessible via a scenic 25-minute seaplane flight from Velana International Airport, the resort is strategically located to offer guests direct access to both protected marine reserves and iconic dive sites of South Ari Atoll, including seasonal encounters with manta rays and whale sharks.
Discover a Marine Paradise
Whether guests are exploring coral gardens, encountering gentle sharks, or simply admiring the reef from their villa’s deck, the house reef at Machchafushi offers a marine spectacle that goes beyond leisure, it offers meaning, awareness, and connection to the natural world.
For travellers seeking more than just a luxury stay, those looking for an immersive marine experience backed by responsible tourism, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa presents one of the most compelling underwater experiences in the Maldives.
Visit Machchafushi and witness nature in its most vibrant form.
For more information, bookings, and eco-program details, visit Centara Hotels & Resorts official website.
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