Rannamaari Shipwreck<\/h2>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/batch_Marine-biologist-planting-coral-in-our-house-reef-1024x614-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\nAt the centre of the experience lies the Rannamaari Shipwreck, a former dredger deliberately sunk in 1999 just off the island\u2019s shore. Today, it has evolved into a thriving artificial reef, drawing an abundance of marine life and offering an accessible yet captivating dive site for both beginners and experienced divers.<\/p>\n
On 23 May, the island comes alive with a full-day programme designed to bring this underwater legend to life. Guests can explore the wreck through guided dives led by the resort\u2019s PADI-certified Dive Centre, alongside activities such as underwater treasure hunts, marine discovery sessions, and interactive experiences with the resort\u2019s Marine Lab.<\/p>\n
The Marine Lab<\/h2>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/batch_Mujutaba-Ali-Marine-Centre-Manager-diving-at-house-reef-1-1024x614-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\nFounded in 2004 as the first of its kind in the Maldives, our Marine Lab continues to pioneer reef protection and restoration efforts. During the festival, guests can engage with our marine biologists and gain deeper information into the ecosystems that sustain island life.<\/p>\n
As part of the experience, guests will also be introduced to the resort\u2019s pioneering underwater initiatives, including the Barnacle Project \u2014 the Maldives\u2019 first electric reef, launched in 1996 \u2014 and the Necklace Reef, established in 1998. Today, these structures have evolved into thriving marine habitats, supporting coral growth and attracting a rich diversity of fish and marine life.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/batch_Dhwa-Ihuru-1-1024x614-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\nBeyond diving, the festival extends across the island with a vibrant mix of experiences for all. From watersports and island crafts to relaxed beachfront dining and family-friendly activities, the event reflects Dhawa Ihuru\u2019s easy-going, all-inclusive approach \u2013 where everything is thoughtfully in place, so guests can simply arrive and enjoy.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Rannamaari is more than a shipwreck \u2013 it is a living symbol of how responsible marine initiatives can transform history into habitat. From its unexpected sinking in 1999 to becoming a thriving artificial reef and the heart of our signature dive events, Rannamaari reflects our commitment to marine conservation, meaningful guest experiences, and celebrating the Maldives\u2019 deep connection with the ocean,\u201d said Mujuthaba Ali, Marine Recreations Manager, Marine Centre, of Dhawa Ihuru and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.<\/p>\n
Just 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Dhawa Ihuru offers seamless access to an island where reef, wreck, and relaxed island living come together.<\/p>\n
Check availability and book at Dhawa Ihuru 5-star resort in the Maldives<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
<\/figure>\nAt the centre of the experience lies the Rannamaari Shipwreck, a former dredger deliberately sunk in 1999 just off the island\u2019s shore. Today, it has evolved into a thriving artificial reef, drawing an abundance of marine life and offering an accessible yet captivating dive site for both beginners and experienced divers.<\/p>\n
On 23 May, the island comes alive with a full-day programme designed to bring this underwater legend to life. Guests can explore the wreck through guided dives led by the resort\u2019s PADI-certified Dive Centre, alongside activities such as underwater treasure hunts, marine discovery sessions, and interactive experiences with the resort\u2019s Marine Lab.<\/p>\n
The Marine Lab<\/h2>\n<\/figure>\nFounded in 2004 as the first of its kind in the Maldives, our Marine Lab continues to pioneer reef protection and restoration efforts. During the festival, guests can engage with our marine biologists and gain deeper information into the ecosystems that sustain island life.<\/p>\n
As part of the experience, guests will also be introduced to the resort\u2019s pioneering underwater initiatives, including the Barnacle Project \u2014 the Maldives\u2019 first electric reef, launched in 1996 \u2014 and the Necklace Reef, established in 1998. Today, these structures have evolved into thriving marine habitats, supporting coral growth and attracting a rich diversity of fish and marine life.<\/p>\n<\/figure>\nBeyond diving, the festival extends across the island with a vibrant mix of experiences for all. From watersports and island crafts to relaxed beachfront dining and family-friendly activities, the event reflects Dhawa Ihuru\u2019s easy-going, all-inclusive approach \u2013 where everything is thoughtfully in place, so guests can simply arrive and enjoy.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Rannamaari is more than a shipwreck \u2013 it is a living symbol of how responsible marine initiatives can transform history into habitat. From its unexpected sinking in 1999 to becoming a thriving artificial reef and the heart of our signature dive events, Rannamaari reflects our commitment to marine conservation, meaningful guest experiences, and celebrating the Maldives\u2019 deep connection with the ocean,\u201d said Mujuthaba Ali, Marine Recreations Manager, Marine Centre, of Dhawa Ihuru and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.<\/p>\n
Just 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Dhawa Ihuru offers seamless access to an island where reef, wreck, and relaxed island living come together.<\/p>\n
Check availability and book at Dhawa Ihuru 5-star resort in the Maldives<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
<\/figure>\nFounded in 2004 as the first of its kind in the Maldives, our Marine Lab continues to pioneer reef protection and restoration efforts. During the festival, guests can engage with our marine biologists and gain deeper information into the ecosystems that sustain island life.<\/p>\n
As part of the experience, guests will also be introduced to the resort\u2019s pioneering underwater initiatives, including the Barnacle Project \u2014 the Maldives\u2019 first electric reef, launched in 1996 \u2014 and the Necklace Reef, established in 1998. Today, these structures have evolved into thriving marine habitats, supporting coral growth and attracting a rich diversity of fish and marine life.<\/p>\n Beyond diving, the festival extends across the island with a vibrant mix of experiences for all. From watersports and island crafts to relaxed beachfront dining and family-friendly activities, the event reflects Dhawa Ihuru\u2019s easy-going, all-inclusive approach \u2013 where everything is thoughtfully in place, so guests can simply arrive and enjoy.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Rannamaari is more than a shipwreck \u2013 it is a living symbol of how responsible marine initiatives can transform history into habitat. From its unexpected sinking in 1999 to becoming a thriving artificial reef and the heart of our signature dive events, Rannamaari reflects our commitment to marine conservation, meaningful guest experiences, and celebrating the Maldives\u2019 deep connection with the ocean,\u201d said Mujuthaba Ali, Marine Recreations Manager, Marine Centre, of Dhawa Ihuru and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.<\/p>\n Just 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Dhawa Ihuru offers seamless access to an island where reef, wreck, and relaxed island living come together.<\/p>\n Check availability and book at Dhawa Ihuru 5-star resort in the Maldives<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/figure>\n
![\"Dhawa](\"https:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Dhawa-Ihuru-Gallery-Beachfront-Swing-300x169.jpg\")