Marine Conservation in the Maldives
I distinctly remember sitting with Marteyne, General Manager of Six Senses Laamu Resort in the Maldives, several years ago, discussing her dream of having a marine conservation centre on the island. A physical space where her team of marine biologists could showcase the work of MUI (the Maldives Underwater Initiative), educate guests and invite researchers from all over the world, to come and participate in the work that Marteyne, the team and the brand of Six Senses, are so deeply passionate about.
Skip forward to January 2023 and SHELL (the Sea Hub of Environmental Learning at Laamu) recently opened its doors. From Marteyne’s dream to a first-of-its-kind reality, MUI and NGO partners, the Manta Trust, Blue Marine Foundation and the Olive Ridley Project, have found their forever home in SHELL. Located on Laamu’s famous sunset beach, the almost 6,000 square foot building boasts extensive immersive guest experiences, gallery exhibition space, offices, a marine laboratory, cinema room, kids’ zone and space for designated research facilities to accommodate visiting marine biologists.
For a hotel which has been on the map for over ten years now, Six Senses Laamu Resort continues to grow, develop and adapt with our changing world. Since day one, sustainability has been at the heart of every decision. From the building materials used to the plant pots made from old towels, nothing is unnecessarily wasted, and no stone left unturned to always find a way to reuse and recycle, focussing solely on protecting the surrounding environment. Also new for this year is the island’s first four-bedroom villa, offering one of the largest accommodation options in the Maldives. Perfect for multi-generational holidays or groups of friends looking to stay together. The island also has one and two-bedroom beach villas, all with private pools, as well as an array of one-bedroom overwater villa options.
A truly unique hotel experience is one which goes beyond the rooms, villas and restaurants. It’s one which effortlessly educates and enriches each guest. Something only achievable if a dedicated passion runs through the DNA of the team and brand behind it. There’s no doubting Six Senses Laamu will be topping our Maldives charts for years and decades to come.
