As part of its environmental commitment and social responsibility, Velaa Private Island and their dedicated marine biology team oversee the development of the largest coral restoration program in the Maldives. Led by the island’s resident Coral Biologist, Emeline Bouchet, the project aims to raise awareness of the destruction of coral reefs following the severe global bleaching in 1998 and 2016 which destroyed 60% of the country’s reefs.

As the ocean covers over 70% of the planet, it is considered as the main life source that supports and sustains all living organism on earth. To emphasize the important role the ocean has on our lives and the planet in general as well as raise global awareness of the current challenges faced, World Ocean Day is celebrated annually on June 8.

This year’s World Oceans Day will highlight the theme Revitalization: Collective Action for the Ocean that aims to highlight the need to work together, create a new balance with the ocean that no longer depletes its bounty but instead restores its vibrancy and brings it new life.

Since embarking on this journey in 2016, the project has had remarkable success with key focuses and actions including reef restoration, marine life monitoring and educational programs such as teaching guests how to look after the ocean for future generations.

With an aim to care and preserve the habitat under the water, the property has successfully transplanted over 8,000 corals which has resulted in an increase in coral growth of about 5% since then. Owing to the plantation, the marine life has flourished as we see a surge in the quantity of fish.

Guests who are committed to the restoration of its natural resources can have first-hand experience of this incredible Coral Restoration Project by planting corals in the nursery when snorkeling or scuba diving alongside the marine team.

The team at this ultra-luxury property keeps a strenuous watchful eye on the growth of the underwater life which has flourished over the last couple of years.

Because after all, where there is coral, there is life!