Anyone who has been lucky enough to visit the Maldives knows what a special and unique place it is, with its crystal clear waters, exotic sea life and extraordinary natural beauty. Well, from now until November is manta ray season and The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is offering guests the opportunity to witness one of the world’s largest manta ray aggregation sites in the neighbouring Hanifaru Bay.
Nature lovers who stay at the hotel over the coming months will be able to visit the protected waters of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and witness the extraordinary cyclone feeding phenomenon, where hundreds of manta rays glide and spiral in an amazing underwater ballet.
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is a five-star holistic wellness sanctuary located right at the heart of this renowned atoll. The Westin Maldives’ marine experts will be offering snorkelling excursions so you can come face to face with this natural wonder where more than 1,800 manta rays have been recorded in these waters. The opportunity to swim alongside these majestic creatures is a rare and memorable experience.
A 40 minute speedboat ride from the resort takes you to Hanifaru Bay, where you will be able to enjoy guided snorkelling excursions led by the resort’s marine experts. In fact, the resort is a gateway to more than 20 superb dive sites across the Baa Atoll, a region renowned for its thriving reefs and marine diversity. For example, there’s Dhigali Haa, which is a protected submerged reef, also known as thila, characterised by coral-draped overhangs, narrow canyons and a wonderful abundance of marine life.
So, what can you expect to see when diving? Well, there is everything from schooling snapper and fusilier to giant trevallies, eagle rays and you may even encounter some curious dolphins. Nelivaru Thila, which is also not far away, has a maze of coral pinnacles and ledges where moray eels, turtles and reef sharks glide through fields of soft coral. There are over 250 recorded species in the Baa Atoll, making it a diver’s paradise for all levels of experience.
Back at the hotel you are more than likely to spot some playful spinner dolphins from one of the spacious 69 luxury villas. As well as having access to complimentary snorkelling gear and canoes, the resort also offers jet ski rides, private snorkelling with turtles, sunset dolphin cruises and traditional Maldivian line fishing. In addition, you can join the resort’s Marine Biologist to learn more about the underwater world and marine conservation efforts.
When it comes to a little rest and recuperation, then why not enjoy one of the restorative treatments at the Heavenly Spa by Westin™ with its views over the ocean. Wellness is a big feature of the resort where the WestinWORKOUT® Gear Lending Program includes the Recharge and Recovery Kit by Hyperice which is designed to soothe tired muscles and recharge the body.
For more information on the manta ray season at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort and all it has to offer, including the Premium All-Inclusive Around-The-Clock package, with prices starting from £700 per room, per night, please visit: www.westin-maldives.com.
Author Bio:
Simon Burrell is a UK-based travel and motoring journalist and editor, a former member of The British Guild of Travel Writers and professional photographer.
Photographs courtesy of The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort
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