World Record Freediver Hanli Prinsloo to return to the Maldives
21 އޯގަސްޓު 2026 | ހުކުރު 09:59World record holder Hanli Prinsloo will host two freediving retreats this September at Minor Hotels in the Baa Atoll. The programs at Avani+ Fares and NH Collection Havodda feature family workshops and advanced training focused on ocean conservation. Activities include coral replanting and manta ray excursions to promote marine awareness
The retreat will also include an excursion to Hanifaru Bay, approximately 15 minutes from the resort | Breakingtravelnews
Eleven-time world record holder and committed marine conservationist Hanli Prinsloo is returning to the Maldives to host a pair of specialized retreats. Building upon the achievement of her 2025 program at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, she will guide upcoming sessions across two Minor Hotels locations in the Baa Atoll this September.
The itinerary begins with a three-night Family Freediving Retreat running September 7–10 at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, followed by a four-night Into the Blue retreat taking place September 14–18 at NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort. Each getaway provides attendees the chance to discover the marine life of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Offerings feature interactive family experiences alongside rigorous training created for both novice and advanced freedivers who are at least 16 years old.
During the stay at Avani+ Fares, Prinsloo will instruct parents and their children in core freediving fundamentals, covering breath-hold methods, buoyancy management, snorkeling, and aquatic games.
This initial gathering also kicks off the resort’s yearly Ocean Awareness Month. The broader September schedule incorporates coral replanting efforts, underwater photo and video workshops, coastal cleanups, and specialized PADI certification courses. Additionally, to honor World Manta Day on September 17, Avani+ Fares will provide trips to Hanifaru Bay to observe manta rays, accompanied by creative art sessions.
Speaking with Breaking Travel News, Prinsloo conveyed that the Baa Atoll remains a cherished location her team always looks forward to revisiting. She highlighted her enthusiasm for presenting a family-focused experience following the previous year’s success at Avani+ Fares, while noting that the subsequent stay at NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort grants participants ample time to enhance their diving proficiency. The overarching goal for both events centers on building aquatic self-assurance and underscoring the urgent need to safeguard fragile ocean habitats.
Pricing for the three-night Family Freediving Retreat at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort begins at 3,160 USD per guest. This rate covers resort accommodations, all daily meals, round-trip seaplane transportation, and every scheduled retreat activity.
