Taking place this October, this five-day retreat will offer guests the chance to gain an exclusive insight into the world of manta ray conservation – with a dose of Maldivian paradise alongside
Whether you’re fascinated with conservation or simply a fan of ocean creatures, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort new Manta Retreat is a must-book when it comes to adventure travel with an educational edge this autumn.
The first of its kind, the unique retreat will take place in paradise from 23rd to 28th October 2022, in collaboration with the resort-based Manta Trust organisation, featuring a thoughtfully curated programme has been put together to educate, explore and raise awareness for manta rays in their natural habitat.
The dedicated Manta Retreat, InterContinental Maldives and Manta Trust have joined forces to elevate their manta ray conservation and research efforts, offering guests the chance to get involved and experience first-hand why manta rays need protection and attention.
The resort’s unique location within the largely untouched Raa Atoll, just a few boat miles away from Hanifaru Bay, the largest manta ray feeding spot known in the world, and the resort island located within the unique Maamunagau lagoon, are perfect to spend time with manta rays all year round. Maamunagau is a known juvenile Manta Ray aggregation spot, where young manta rays spend their days in a sheltered area until they are large enough to travel the atolls.
Those attending the educational Manta Retreat will gain exclusive insights into the work of the Manta Trust, as well as get close to these gentle giants on several occasions.
The retreat will include several snorkelling trips to search and identify the manta rays of the Maldives, as well as workshops and talks on several marine topics. Take part in a mesmerising house reef night snorkelling experience, as well as enjoying a luxurious sunset cruise on a luxury yacht with champagne and canapés – after all, this is the Maldives.
Further 2023 dates will be announced over the coming months.
Jessica Haines, the resort-based Manta Trust Project Manager who will be leading the retreat, commented: “It is important to me to make this retreat an enjoyable but also educational experience for all participants. And as we want to take this opportunity to raise awareness to how our marine life is depending on each other, there will be many touch points on different topics.”
Participants will also learn about corals and coral propagation, turtles and how to ID a manta ray. She continued, “Of course, the mantas will be the stars of the retreat, but there is more to talk about. Understanding that the plankton in our ocean is the foundation for so much marine life is a great example and when you observe plankton under a microscope, you only begin to understand how diverse marine life really is. Our approach is to give a holistic experience that is enriching to the participants and raises awareness for marine protection at the same time.”
Those attending the retreat will also have the opportunity to enjoy the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort facilities and accommodation, with guests staying in a beautiful Over Water Pool Villa. For certified divers, arrangements can be made to visit the dedicated dive spots around the resort where they can observe the natural manta ray ‘spa’, known as cleaning stations.
Make it happen
When: 23rd to 28th October 2022 at the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort.
Wallet: The price starts from USD 10,950 for a single participant and USD 15,250 for a couple, staying in an Over Water Pool Villa, including half board for 5 nights and return seaplane transfers.
How: Find out more and make a booking via maldives.intercontinental.com
