Tourism Breaking News
Oceans-first island innovator Patina Maldives, Fari Islands together with pioneering diving and water sports operator Dive Butler International has announced the exclusive addition of a glittering new gem to its trove of exceptional guest experiences: the two-person submarine, Ocean Pearl. As well as deepening the resort experience through next-level exploration and adventure, Ocean Pearl will make significant contributions to environmental protection and marine biology projects across the Maldives and the surrounding region.
The resort has also partnered with Dive Butler to establish the first submarine pilot training facility in the Maldives. Ocean Pearl has been engineered by the world-renowned SEAmagine Hydrospace Corporation, established in 1995 and recognised for its leadership in the recreational submarine industry. Today, SEAmagine submersibles have accumulated over 12,000 dives – surpassing the total number of dives accumulated by all of its competitors combined – and are extensively used by various leisure, commercial, defence and scientific organisations around the world. Ocean Pearl will be operated in conjunction with Dive Butler, all of whose submarine pilots have completed SEAmagine’s rigorous training programme, initially developed in collaboration with the US Coast Guard, and since established as the industry standard. Every expedition is led by an on-board pilot and a surface co-pilot, ensuring guests’ safety and access to profound knowledge of marine life, complementing the sheer wonder of the experience with an educational dimension.
DEEPER ADVENTURES
The introduction of Ocean Pearl offers Patina Maldives guests an unparalleled perspective on the breathtaking marine life and underwater wonders that surround the Fari Islands. With a unique propulsion system that offers unsurpassed agility, 360-degree cabin view and an array of subsea tools, Ocean Pearl can be safely and precisely piloted up close to reefs – providing mesmerizing, unobstructed views of the corals, exotic marine species and sunken treasures that lie beneath the surface.
CONTRIBUTING TO MARINE CONSERVATION
For guests seeking an even more purposeful experience than simply admiring the gliding grace of manta rays or observing elusive sea turtles in their natural habitat, Ocean Pearl also offers a unique opportunity to participate in hands-on, immersive initiatives under the sea, contributing directly to the preservation and protection of the marine ecosystem. Under the guidance of marine biologists and environmental experts, guests can engage in data collection and documentation, aiding ongoing research efforts. By contributing to marine biology projects, guests become part of a vital collective effort to understand and preserve the delicate marine ecosystem, not only in the Maldives but also in the wider region.
“With the launch of Ocean Pearl, we invite all adventure-seekers, marine enthusiasts, and travellers to embark with us on an extraordinary and immersive journey into the wonders that await below the surface. Whether it’s exploring vibrant coral reefs, actively participating in marine conservation efforts, or simply revelling in the sheer beauty of the ocean, Ocean Pearl promises to deliver unforgettable memories and a profound sense of connection to our planet’s most treasured aquatic ecosystems.”
– Antonio Saponara, General Manager, Patina Maldives, Fari Islands
“We would like to express our profound gratitude to Pontiac Land for their innovative approach to tourism; and to our partners Dorado Legacy, Aston Investment Group, and Immerse Submarine Piloting for their unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and expanding this project’s impact beyond leisure into marine conservation. Becoming the first-of- its-kind facility to provide submersible pilot training and offer private submarine dives could only be achieved through a mindful collaboration and unwavering pursuit of excellence.”
– Alexis Vincent, Founder, Dive Butler
Ocean Pearl submarine experiences start from USD2,500++ per hour. Rates at Patina Maldives, Fari Islands start from USD2,144++ (approx. GBP1,699++) per night based on two adults sharing a One Bedroom Pool Villa including daily breakfast, USD100 resort credit, plus complimentary Guest Benefits. Must be booked at least 90 days in advance.
Price excludes tax and service. Terms and conditions apply. To book email reservations.maldives@patinahotels.com, visit https://patinahotels.com/ maldives-fari-islands/offers/advance-purchase or tel. +960 4000 555.
Part of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) DISCOVERY loyalty programme, Patina Maldives, Fari Islands recently enhanced its offering so that PATINA DISCOVERY members at all levels can now expect even more VIP recognition, rewards and access to members-only experiences.
CarbonSifr and Rixos Hotels Launch Strategic Partnership in Eco Hospitality
– Strategic Partnership for Enhanced Environmental Practices: CarbonSifr and Rixos Hotels collaborate to integrate advanced environmental measures in the hospitality sector.
– Elevating Climate Action in Corporate Events: The partnership extends to enhancing eco-conscious practices in business events hosted by Rixos Hotels.
UAE, 10 JAN 2024 – CarbonSifr, a UAE based climate tech company, together with Rixos Hotels, a leading hospitality group, have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement is centred on incorporating climate action into eco-friendly hospitality experiences. Bridging CarbonSifr’s expertise in climate technology with Rixos Hotels’ commitment to environmentally responsible practices, the partnership marks a significant step in the evolution of sustainable hospitality in the region.
At the heart of this partnership is the goal to elevate Rixos Hotels’ environmental responsibility. This will involve a detailed assessment and active reduction of their carbon footprint, a process steered by CarbonSifr’s technological insights. This move is a continuation of CarbonSifr’s strategy to introduce climate action solutions across various market segments, further solidifying its role as a catalyst for eco-conscious practices in diverse industries.
Climate Action Meets Business Events
CarbonSifr and Rixos Hotels’ partnership will also cover business events, adding a significant aspect to their collaboration. CarbonSifr’s solutions will enhance environmental reporting’s transparency and accountability at these events, aiding organizers and attendees in making eco-friendly decisions. This move aligns with their joint goal to embed climate action in standard business practices, especially in corporate events and conferences.
“We believe the hospitality sector holds immense potential in leading environmental practices. Our partnership with Rixos Hotels is not just about implementing eco-friendly measures; it’s about setting a precedent for the wider industry. By combining our technological expertise with Rixos Hotels’ operational reach, we can significantly amplify our impact on the environment. This alliance is a testament to our continuous effort in making climate action an integral part of every industry,” stated Muhammed Yildirim, Co-founder and COO of CarbonSifr.
“Today marks a pivotal moment as CarbonSifr and Rixos Hotels forge a transformative partnership. This reflects our joint commitment to integrating climate action into eco-friendly hospitality, reshaping sustainability in the UAE. With Rixos Hotels’ dedication and our technological insights, we’re not just reducing carbon footprints—we’re reshaping industry standards. This partnership exemplifies our mission to make climate action integral to every industry, setting a transformative precedent for a sustainable future,” said Ozgul Aktolga, Country Director of Quality and Sustainability of Rixos Hotels Gulf Region.
