"Into the Blue Week" at Soneva Fushi

Want to learn the art of freediving? Fancy discovering the mysteries of the deep on a night dive or learning how to take photos underwater? With some of the most beautiful beaches in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi may be the perfect place for a lazy luxury sunshine break, but for those seeking a more active holiday, the wonders of the Indian Ocean are waiting to be explored.

During the resort’s Into The Blue Week a wide choice of water-based activities are on offer each day to help guests make the most of the ocean – and it’s all included in the price.

Situated in the Baa Atoll, in the middle of a protected UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, few places boast a more pristine marine environment. Known for its biodiversity, the extensive unspoilt coral reefs teem with life, from whale sharks and manta rays to turtles.

Guests can join day-time snorkelling trips of various lengths to discover the reef and sea creatures – and can head to Hanifaru Bay, a famous feeding and cleaning station for manta rays, to try and swim with the gentle giants (an amazing experience, though hard to 100% guarantee!)

For those after something more unusual the chance to learn to freedive with our resident expert is not to be missed. Holding your breath while exploring beneath the waves is simply magical, pushing personal boundaries and encouraging bonding with the ocean. Night snorkelling or diving is also on the cards for the adventurous – seeing glowing plankton and shining comb jellies are some of the rewards.

Education is at the heart of everything Soneva does – and guests can learn how to take good shots while diving on an underwater photography session (those fish are trickier to snap than you think!), or perhaps work with the resident marine biologist on a reef survey, collecting data on marine life. Learning to kite surf or cat sail are other options, while keep fit fans can join aqua fitness sessions and feast on healthy picnics on trips to nearby desert islands.

All activities are designed for minimal environmental impact too, as seen on the catch and release fishing trips available (in fact, local fishermen working for the resort are actually paid to put back undersized baby fish).

Children are also well-catered for, with a special programme to introduce little ones to the marvels of the sea. From swimming lessons in the sheltered lagoon to snorkelling sessions with the marine biologist, there’s something for all ages. The marine theme continues with a screening of Finding Nemo at the outdoor Cinema Paradiso – a great end to a watery fun-filled day.

Into The Blue Week runs from: 12th May – 10th October 2014.

Sourced: TravelDailyNews