Celebrate the Festive Season in Style at The Marina@CROSSROADS
Velassaru Maldives launches the Velassaru Coral Project, a forward-looking initiative aimed at engaging guests in marine conservation efforts while restoring coral growth and increasing marine biodiversity. This immersive experience invites guests to play an active role in building an artificial reef, fostering a deeper connection to the environment during their stay in the island nation.
At the heart of this initiative, guests have the opportunity to purchase a coral frame, which will be adorned with coral fragments collected and secured by Velassaru’s marine team. Each frame comes with a personalised plaque, offering participants the chance to leave a lasting legacy in the Maldives. Over the subsequent two years, guests will receive six-monthly updates on their coral’s progress, complete with photos and videos documenting the growth and development of their frame.
Velassaru’s commitment to education ensures that all participants will understand the vital role coral reefs play in supporting marine life and local communities. Despite covering only a small portion of the ocean floor, coral reefs are home to 25% of all marine species, offering shelter and food to fish, invertebrates, and other sea creatures.
Certified and beginner divers alike are invited to explore the new artificial reef located near the Immersion Dive Centre. Professional guides will lead the dives, offering insights into the coral regeneration process and the marine ecosystem that thrives around the reef.
A standout feature of this manmade reef is “The Dome”, a remarkable 4-meter by 6-meter structure structure that sits 10 meters below the water’s surface. Sunk on September 12, 2024, The Dome offers an accessible dive site for Velassaru’s guests to explore and nurture. During their underwater adventure, divers are encouraged to monitor the health of the corals, taking care of the fragments secured with zip ties and fishing line.
In addition to providing a unique guest experience, the Velassaru Coral Project aims to gather crucial data to contribute to coral research. Each dive at the artificial reef allows for an assessment of coral health, with meticulous records kept on coral colour, size, and species. Regular checkups will also track environmental factors, such as water temperature and quality, as even a two-degree rise in temperature can lead to coral bleaching. The team will be vigilant in monitoring common coral diseases like white syndrome and pests that can harm the corals.
Sharks have been spotted occasionally near smaller reefs close to the artificial site, and the Velassaru team hopes to see an increase in shark sightings as the coral and fish populations flourish. These predators play a crucial role in balancing the ecosystem, ensuring the health and diversity of the surrounding reefs.
All relevant data collected from the Velassaru Coral Project will be shared with Coral Watch, a global database that compiles information on coral health and conservation efforts. Through these contributions, Velassaru guests are not only supporting the restoration of the Maldives’ reefs but also contributing to coral research and preservation worldwide.
By engaging guests in this unique and hands-on experience, Velassaru Maldives aims to foster coral growth, increase marine biodiversity, and provide a meaningful and educational experience for every visitor.
