Velaa Private Island Is Home To The Maldives Largest Coral Restoration Project

Velaa Private Island

Velaa Private Island is probably one of Troon’s most unique and luxurious golfing destinations, off the beaten track on the Noonu Atoll in the Maldives. But they are achieving big things as they look to care and preserve the local habitat around the golf course; including under the water.

The facility is home to the Maldives largest Coral Restoration Project with the successful transplantation of over 4,200 nursery-grown corals. This project has seen an increase in coral growth around the island of 5% since is plantation and has led to a surge in the quantity of fish throughout the transplant areas and the surrounding, endangered sites.

Led by the islands onsite Coral Biologist, 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.

Guests have an extraordinary first-hand experience of the Coral Restoration Project; adopting corals is a unique experience and guests can even plant their corals via snorkeling or scuba diving and a guest can go one step further and join the marine team for the day.

Commenting on the work being done through this project, Juan Manuel Fuentes Perez, Director of Golf on the island said: “I am so proud to be able to work with such a dedicated marine biology team, this close to nature to ensure Velaa Private Island continues to respect and preserve the local environment. The Maldives is such a fragile ecosystem, so it’s great that we can be part of something bigger, and contribute to the health and longevity of the natural habitat below water.”

About Velaa Private Island

Velaa Private Island is a place of outstanding natural beauty. Part of the Maldive archipelago which stretches north from the equator in the Indian Ocean, Velaa (which means Turtle) opened in 2013 and consists of a number of modern, luxurious villas placed either by the white sand beach or overlooking the turquoise waters of the lagoon. In addition to the outstanding accommodation and service, Velaa Private Island is also home to a Troon Short Game Academy. “Private Golf Moments by Olazabal”” has been designed by the ex-Ryder Cup captain and twice Masters champion and provides an unrivaled level of intimate tuition to enhance the short game of any visitor to the Island. With the latest technology available to assist the PGA professional