Saving Earths Treasures

Turn a good holiday into a memorable one. Join a turtle conservation holiday program in the Maldives and make a difference to some of the world’s most environmentally challenged areas; seize the opportunity to give back to the world! Live and work with local people, learn about Maldivian culture and more importantly understand the need to conserve energy, minimize waste and reduce your carbon footprint while having a wonderful time experiencing white sandy beaches, calm blue seas and getting up close to the country’s extraordinary marine life.

Turtle numbers are known to be reducing around the Indian Ocean region due to poaching, particularly of females while nesting and the collection of eggs. Other factors include turtles getting entangled in fishing nets and the destruction of nesting grounds for development. Populations of Green and Hawksbill turtles and some Leatherbacks that are known to use the islands in the Maldives as nesting sites are severely impacted by these activities. Although the Maldivian Government has banned the catching and killing of turtles, harvesting eggs has not been banned. The sea based tourism industry of the country is also a direct threat to turtle nesting grounds and feeding areas. It has therefore become the responsibility of everyone visiting the Maldives to give these sea creatures the best possible chance of survival in the wild.

The conservation programs and turtle sanctuaries that have now taken root in the country are engaged in rearing and relocation of sea turtles at various stages of growth, rehabilitating injured turtles, educating the local population in environment conservation and protection, stopping poaching of turtle eggs and making the beaches and water safe and clean for turtles. As these reasonably priced all inclusive programs are implemented through volunteers, they may appeal to many responsible individuals as a unique and meaningful way of spending a holiday without missing out on the sun, sea and adventure.

Programs at the sanctuaries include feeding the hatchlings fish eggs, tuna fillets and vegetables, cleaning out the holding tanks and refilling them with sea water. This exercise takes place three times a day. Other duties may include weighing the turtles and updating the database and if the turtles are ready to be released into the sea, preparing them for this journey. Volunteers will also have the opportunity to assist with classes to inform local children about turtle conservation. They are encouraged to stay in small family run establishments, visit other islands to assist with education programs and participate in coral and beach cleaning programs. During their spare time, of which there is plenty, they can enjoy the beautiful seascapes of the Maldives, catch some sun, do some fishing and enjoy barbecuing their catch. So if you are looking for a unique holiday experience, turtle conservation programs offer a different way of getting to know the Maldives, through its wildlife and people.

Anantara Veli Maldives offers all one needs for a perfect coastal holiday; from the palm tree fringed white sandy beaches, to the calm blue sea teeming with marine life to the spacious selection of contemporary bungalows and a host of excellent facilities and amenities. These well designed and spacious Maldives bungalows feature all the amenities required by modern travellers. As a well known luxurious Maldives resort, the hotel does its utmost to deliver a truly special holiday experience.