DIVE INTO THE MALDIVES MANTA SEASON WITH AMILLA FUSHI'S MARINE H.U.B

'Manta-on-Call' hotline helps guests swim with rays in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll

In Baa Atoll, Maldives, the summer months of June to November mean only one thing; Manta Ray season. This is when Reef Manta Rays migrate in their hundreds to feed in the atoll's plankton-rich waters - offering unrivalled viewing opportunities for anyone lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time. Located in the heart of Baa Atoll, Amilla Fushi  has created a Manta Adventure excursion offering guests a unique opportunity to swim with these graceful giants at Hanifaru Bay, a renowned protected marine area and the world's largest natural feeding destination for the rays. Guests can even sign up to Amilla's exclusive 'Manta-on-Call' hotline to ensure they will never miss an opportunity for a close-up with the majestic creatures, with spontaneous speedboat outings organised during sightings.

The new Manta Adventure excursions are run from Amilla's H.U.B. (Home of the Underwater Biosphere), a hive of water-based activities including guided excursions to explore the captivating house reef, complete with its renowned Blue Hole dive site; an enlightening Marine Biology programme highlighting the area's rich underwater biodiversity; adrenalin-fuelled water sports including Jet Skis, RS Sailing, Paddleboards, X-Jetpacks and Seabobs; and a fleet of private charter vessels for guests to explore the archipelago.

Each and every marine related pursuit has been verified and approved by the resort's resident Marine Biologist, helping to ensure that this fragile environment is protected and preserved for years to come. What's more, Amilla's experienced Marine Biologist has crafted a series of tailored excursions allowing guests to participate in a number of unique and rewarding conservation projects, combining knowledge and understanding with a hands-on approach.

Guests can choose their pace of adventure; whether it's simply relaxing on a deserted sand bank, snorkelling around the stunning coral reefs, or immersing in Maldivian culture with a visit to a local village.

Amilla Fushi's Manta Adventure Excursion costs USD $175++ per person per trip, and takes place on alternate days depending on the tide. Houses at Amilla Fushi start from US$1,050++ per night including breakfast. For reservations email: stay@amilla.mv, call tel: +960 660 6445 or visit www.amilla.mv.

 -ENDS-

About Amilla Fushi

Located just 30 minutes by seaplane from Malé International (Velana International Airport), Amilla Fushi offers a choice of 59 Houses that sit gracefully over crystal clear waters, nestle among lush tree tops or hug the shores of pristine white sand; plus eight spectacular four- to eight-bedroom Beach Residences ideally suited to large families, groups of friends and VVIPs seeking the ultimate in space and privacy. Amilla's innovative restaurants range from the diverse, informal foodie hub Baazaar to the relaxed yet sophisticated overwater dining at the signature Feeling Koi. Guests can even drop in to gourmet café and deli The Emperor General Store or The Wine Shop & Cellar Door to treat themselves to lighter snacks, a favourite bottle or a gourmet selection of artisanal cheeses. With an unrivalled range of purpose-designed multi-bedroom accommodation options, and an exciting, inspiring and active Kids' Club, Amilla Fushi is putting the Maldives on the map as a destination not just for couples, but for families and friends.

 About The Small Maldives Island Co.

The Small Maldives Island Co.'s main focus is on Resort Management in the Maldives for Coastline Hotels and Resorts.

Amilla Fushi and sister resort Finolhu are owned by Coastline Hotels and Resorts – part of the Coastline Group of companies, one of the Maldives' largest private companies, established in 1994. The Coastline Group is engaged in logistics; oil importing, storage and distribution; pilling and construction; building material supplies; hotel resort development; condominium development; airport ownership, development and operation; and luxury yacht and boat manufacturing.  It is the largest importer and distributor of Fuel Related Products such as Marine Gasoil and Mo Gas to resorts in the Maldives, servicing 65 per cent of the country's resorts through its company Asian Gasoil. In addition to building W Maldives and Huvafen Fushi, Coastline's recent developments within the tourism sector include Mudhdhoo island, subsequently acquired by Dusit Thani Hotels; Baa Atoll's Dharavandhoo Airport; and the newly opened Raa Ifhuru Airport.

For further press information please contact: Kate Faulkner (kate@bacall.net), Sarah Harvey (sarah@bacall.net), Nat Frogley (nat@bacall.net) or Flora Gandolfo (flora@bacall.net)

Bacall Associates Ltd, London.  Tel: 020 7630 2880