If we were to write a list of reasons why you should visit the Maldives, that list would be endless. The Maldives is the very picture of paradise – of soft, white sands, swaying palms, and, of course, vast turquoise waters. Complemented by exceptional marine life, ultra-luxe accommodation and a warm, temperate climate, it offers visitors the ultimate dream destination for a tropical escape.
Within this blissful destination that covers over a thousand islands, The Nautilus Maldives is fortunate to be nestled in one of the archipelago’s most remarkable atolls – the Baa Atoll. This world-renowned region comprises 75 islands, of which only 13 are inhabited, and it is much loved by discerning travellers for many very good reasons. Here are our top five.
- UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
The Baa Atoll is one of just three UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in the Maldives, and it is the nation’s first to be designated this honour in 2011. It is also the country’s largest Biosphere Reserve – spanning 139,714 ha of pristine natural beauty. Few places in the world can claim this UNESCO status, recognising the region’s outstanding biodiversity and commitment to conservation, sustainable development and scientific research. A commitment that promotes a balanced, harmonious relationship between humans and nature.
- Home to Hanifaru Bay, a hotspot for manta rays and whale sharks
You couldn’t mention the Baa Atoll without mentioning Hanifaru Bay, perhaps its most renowned attraction. In this unique bay, during certain seasons (May to November), the alignment of tides and currents trap masses of plankton, in turn drawing masses of plankton feeders, the gigantic whale sharks and manta rays among them.
Indeed, Hanifaru Bay is one of the world’s largest manta-feeding hotspots and home to a remarkable natural phenomenon: cyclone feeding – where hundreds of manta rays join in a chain of frenzied feeding. Our team at AquaNautica offers special guided excursions to the nearby bay, where visitors are even afforded a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim or snorkel alongside these gentle giants – a rare privilege in this Marine Protected Area.
- Rich biodiversity and an underwater wonderland for divers
Home to around 250 coral species and 1200 fish species, including manta rays and sharks, as well as an abundance of sea turtles and dolphins, the Baa Atoll’s coral reefs are veritable hotspots of activity and ocean life.
Such a rich, unique and complex ecosystem offers an ocean paradise for scuba diving and snorkelling. The kaleidoscopic wealth of marine life is a feast for the eyes, with crystal-clear, warm waters ensuring optimum diving conditions. At The Nautilus, we take full advantage of this gift of nature, with our expert AquaNautica team offering guests diving courses and private guided tours to over 40 magnificent dive sites.
- A wealth of cultural heritage
With cultural preservation a priority, indigenous heritage abounds. You can engage with Maldivian traditions and learn local customs, cuisines and language. You can enjoy and even participate in music by local musicians – including the evocative boduberu drums – and visit Thulhaadhoo Island, which is well known for its traditional lacquer work, liyelaa jehun.
And, in a nation where fishing is both embedded in the culture and vital to local livelihoods, keen fishermen are invited to learn the centuries-old fishing methods from the locals – such as pole-and-line fishing, which doesn’t just tell the story of a people but is also naturally sustainable.
- An exemplar of exclusive, conscious tourism
With these multiple attractions and claims to fame, it’s little wonder that the Baa Atoll is such an enticing destination for visitors. But discerning travellers will be pleased to discover that the area, while popular, is not crowded and certainly not exploited. Here, conscious tourism is the name of the game and exclusive experiences the norm, with visitor numbers limited and experiences that much more personal and meaningful.
The Baa Atoll is strictly governed by ecological and ethical laws, to preserve not just the environment but the livelihoods of the community. The Nautilus goes above and beyond in its conservation and sustainability efforts. In addition to our green practices on the private island resort, we are also engaged in proactive marine conservation, where we invite our guests to join us in initiatives like coral adoption, which offers a living souvenir of one of the world’s most spectacular places.
Dive into a world of exceptional natural wonder in the heart of the Baa Atoll. Get in touch at [email protected] or talk to us by dialling +960 730 98 18.