The pristine house reef at Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa, part of The Centara Collection in the Maldives’ South Ari Atoll, earned a prestigious accolade from the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025, cementing its reputation as one of the finest in the region. Previously known as Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa, the resort offers unparalleled access to a vibrant marine ecosystem, drawing snorkelers and divers to its thriving coral gardens and diverse aquatic life. The reef, encircling a stunning lagoon, stretches roughly five times the size of the island itself, with a gentle slope descending to depths of 15 to 20 meters before leveling into a sandy seabed.
Divers and snorkelers exploring the reef encounter a remarkable shipwreck about 30 meters from the reef’s crest, teeming with marine species like glassfish, stonefish, and nurse sharks. The reef hosts an impressive array of coral, including rare varieties such as Acropora granulosa and Acropora latistella, found only around the wreck, alongside vibrant Blue Coral and Staghorn Coral that enhance the underwater spectacle. The marine biodiversity includes seven resident nurse sharks—three adults, one sub-adult, and three juveniles—along with curious White Tip Reef sharks that often approach visitors. Black Tip sharks, Lemon sharks, Leopard sharks, Guitar sharks, and various rays, including the sociable Black Blotched Stingrays, further enrich the underwater experience, particularly in the reef’s shallow feeding areas.
Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa places a strong emphasis on sustainability, implementing ongoing coral protection, reef conservation, and restoration initiatives to preserve this delicate ecosystem for future generations. Guests are actively educated about the reef’s ecological significance and the resort’s commitment to environmentally responsible practices. Francesco Pompilio, Cluster General Manager, expressed pride in the recognition, stating that it underscores both the reef’s natural splendor and the team’s dedication to its preservation. He extended gratitude to guests for their continued support, emphasizing the resort’s mission to maintain this marine sanctuary.
The house reef at Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa offers an unforgettable experience, blending exceptional diving opportunities with the Maldives’ breathtaking natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for marine enthusiasts.