British Airways will continue direct flights from London to Male throughout the summer and Gili Lankanfushi will introduce new programmes and packages that are best experienced during nature’s lushest season
British Airways has announced that it will continue its direct flight route between London Heathrow and Male Maldives throughout the summer, and with the hefty premium being placed on heavily in-demand UK and European holiday destinations, once international travel reopens later this year holidaymakers can bypass the bustling British beaches and escape Europe in favour of perfect privacy and nature-based programmes at eco-resort Gili Lankanfushi.
Gili Lankanfushi will launch a variety of summer package offers, from Manta Ray diving excursions to surfing adventures for all ages and exclusive new rates for families travelling with teenagers. A lesser considered destination for summer sojourns, families and couples will be delighted to discover the diverse offerings of this island idyll during nature’s lushest season. Where average temperatures remain comfortably warm around 27 degrees and the commonly high humidity levels of the Maldives are countered by short-lived rain showers to clear the air.
Dive In: Manta Ray excursions
Keen-divers and marine life enthusiasts will be delighted to hear that, from June to November, the diverse and abundant underwater world beyond Gili Lankanfushi’s peaceful lagoon is further enhanced by an increased number of Manta Rays which can be spotted congregating in the area at this time. With an estimated population of around 5,000, the Maldives’ is home to the largest known population of reef Manta Rays in the world, one of the many reasons for guests to embark upon a diving or snorkelling excursion during their stay. Guests are invited to join the team of expert instructors on day and night dives visiting a selection of renowned sites in the surrounding area such as Manta Point and Sunlight Tila, both of which are a short boat ride away from the resort.
To book: Manta Ray diving stays start from USD 1175 per night based on 2 guests sharing a Villa Suite (minimum 7 night stay & excludes taxes).
Surf’s Up: Wave Warriors and Silver Surfers
Gili Lankanfushi is the perfect springboard to experience the many revered surf spots of the Maldives. In the summer months, wave breaks in North Male Atoll are at their highest, offering some of the best surfing on the planet. With a variety of surfing spots nearby, it is the ideal location for surfers of all abilities and ages to learn or hone their surfing skills. With tropical water temperatures and consistent swells brought on by seasonal off-shore winds, guests will be accompanied by an experienced instructor from luxury surfing company Tropicsurf who can accommodate a range of abilities: from beginners learning in the lagoon to expert wave warriors looking for a more substantial challenge. Not simply the reserve of younger guests, Gili Lankanfushi encourages all ages to try surfing or wind surfing with a dedicated ‘Silver Surfers’ programme for guests over 50 which includes morning yoga to limber up and a post-surf full body massage at the Meera Spa to revive aching muscles.
To book: Instructor-led surfing adventure stays in partnership with Tropicsurf start from USD 1395 per night based on 2 guests sharing a Villa Suite (minimum 7 night stay & excludes taxes).
Treat Your Teens: exclusive rates for families with big kids
New for the upcoming summer season and perfectly timed ahead of the summer holidays, Gili Lankanfushi will offer families travelling with teenagers an additional 50% discount on the usual supplementary cost incurred for shared villa bookings, reducing the daily supplement from $350 to $175. In addition, older children have the opportunity to dive into the marine wonders with three days’ work experience on The Coral Lines Project, where they can assist on coral reef recovery and report their findings on the Marine Biology Blog. Resident marine biologists will showcase the natural wonders of the deep through opening their eyes to the importance of preserving seagrass before assisting teens on their quest to identify sea-life first-hand. Families can also partake in a healthy cooking lesson with the on-site chef, learning delicious culinary secrets as well as the nutritional benefits of the dishes prepared with all ingredients coming from Gili’s Organic Garden.
To book: Treat Your Teens packages start from USD 2512 per night based on 4 guests in either Residence or Crusoe Residence Island View and includes Full board, transfers and activities (min. 7 night stay & excludes taxes).
For media enquiries, contact BIRD: [email protected] / 020 7112 882
