Measuring up to five meters, reef manta rays are among the largest species of ray in the world. They are also highly intelligent and often swim together in large social groups. Every summer, these magnificent creatures flock to Hanifaru Bay, a Marine Protected Area and UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve located just a short 35-minute boat ride across the sparkling sea from The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives. With a local population thought to number approximately 5,000 individuals—the largest anywhere in the world—this is a truly spectacular sight for nature lovers.
To celebrate the start of manta ray season in the Maldives, The Standard’s “Go Deep Blue” campaign will give guests a unique opportunity to get up-close and personal with the area’s mesmerizing marine life. Under the “Manta Magic” special offer, experience-seeking visitors can stay in one of the resort’s private pool villas, either perched over the water or nestled on the pristine sandy beach, and enjoy up to 30% off the best available rates for stays from May 1 to November 31, 2022.
Having arrived in paradise, guests can embark on an immersive excursion to Hanifaru Bay, where the manta rays gather to feed and socialize, creating an awe-inspiring underwater spectacle. The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives is a strong advocate of sustainable tourism and strictly adheres to the Manta Trust’s guidelines on responsible and respectful encounters. The resort’s water sports team will provide guests with full information on how they can enjoy this unique activity in an ethical and eco-sensitive manner. The manta ray excursion to Hanifaru Bay is priced at just USD250 per person, with a minimum of two people per trip.
Back at the resort’s turquoise lagoon, thrill seekers can feel the spray of the ocean waves with a variety of complimentary ocean sports and activities, including unlimited snorkeling equipment hire and 30 minutes of kayak or paddle-board rental daily, free access to the tennis court, gym and other sports facilities, plus scheduled yoga and wellness classes. Scuba divers can also plunge deeper into this pristine marine ecosystem with offshore excursions to dive sites and expert-led PADI diving courses, both available at an extra charge.
The Standard hotels and resorts are present in the most desirable of destinations worldwide, from Miami Beach to the Maldives, London to New York, now Hua Hin and soon Ibiza and Bangkok.
To learn more about this summer’s “Go Deep Blue” campaign and to reserve this one-of-a-kind “Manta Magic” experience at The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives, please click here.
