Velassaru Maldives has launched the Velassaru Coral Project, a new initiative inviting guests to engage in marine conservation by supporting coral restoration and enhancing marine biodiversity. Through this immersive project, guests can actively participate in building an artificial reef, deepening their environmental connection during their stay.
As part of the project, guests have the option to purchase a coral frame, adorned with coral fragments collected and secured by Velassaru’s marine team. Each frame includes a personalized plaque, allowing participants to leave a lasting legacy in the Maldives. Over the following two years, guests receive biannual updates on the coral’s progress, complete with photos and videos of its growth.
Velassaru’s commitment to education ensures participants understand coral reefs’ critical role in sustaining marine life and supporting local communities. Although coral reefs cover only a small portion of the ocean floor, they are home to 25% of all marine species, providing shelter and food for fish, invertebrates, and other sea life.
Divers, both certified and novice, are welcome to explore the artificial reef near the Immersion Dive Centre, where professional guides provide insights into coral regeneration and the vibrant marine ecosystem flourishing around the reef.
A standout feature of this artificial reef is “The Dome,” a 4-meter by 6-meter structure located 10 meters below the water’s surface. Sunk on September 12, 2024, The Dome offers an accessible dive site for Velassaru guests to explore and help maintain. During dives, participants can monitor the corals’ health, adjusting fragments held by zip ties and fishing lines.
The Velassaru Coral Project also contributes essential data for coral research. Each dive at the artificial reef includes assessments of coral health, with records on coral color, size, and species. Regular monitoring includes checking water temperature and quality, as even a slight rise in temperature can cause coral bleaching. The team also watches for common coral diseases like white syndrome and pests that may harm coral health.
Occasionally, sharks are spotted near smaller reefs close to the artificial site, and Velassaru hopes for more sightings as coral and fish populations expand. These predators are crucial for maintaining ecosystem balance and supporting the surrounding reefs’ health and diversity.
All data collected from the Velassaru Coral Project will be shared with Coral Watch, a global database dedicated to coral health and conservation. Through this initiative, Velassaru guests contribute not only to the restoration of Maldivian reefs but also to coral research and preservation worldwide.
By involving guests in this unique, hands-on experience, Velassaru Maldives seeks to foster coral growth, promote marine biodiversity, and provide an educational experience that contributes to a sustainable future for the oceans.
