OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Deepens Conservation Efforts with New Resident Marine Biologist

RELEASE NUMBER 37 | 25

HONOLULU – As travelers increasingly seek meaningful and responsible ways to explore the world, a new form of travel is emerging, one that goes beyond creating memories to making a lasting, positive impact. The Euronews Travel Trends Report 2025 highlights this shift, describing “purposeful journeys” as a transformative force in tourism that supports local communities, protects ecosystems and drives change beyond the trip itself.

At OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru, this evolving approach to travel is not just a trend but a guiding philosophy and it now has a new face: Chloe Mclanachan, the resort’s resident marine biologist. Her role exemplifies how travel can inspire action, turning guest stays into hands-on contributions to ocean conservation and education. And the need could hardly be greater: with 44 percent of reef-building coral species now classified as threatened, according to the latest IUCN Red List update (November 2024), protecting the reef ecosystems of the South Ari Atoll has never been more urgent.

Mclanachan’s recent appointment reflects OUTRIGGER’s deepened dedication to embedding sustainability not only behind the scenes but also at the heart of the guest experience. Visitors of all ages are invited to engage directly with marine conservation efforts, from planting coral frames on the house reef and snorkeling alongside majestic manta rays to participating in educational programs and marine-themed interactive sessions in the kids’ club.

Originally from California, Mclanachan holds a BSc in marine vertebrate zoology and a master’s in marine environmental management. Her journey has taken her from the UK to the Maldives and Seychelles, including work in Laamu Atoll, where she co-authored a Code of Conduct for dolphin cruises that is now proposed for the atoll’s official conservation plan.

At OUTRIGGER Maldives, Mclanachan brings the brand’s environmental mission to life through a holistic approach grounded in three pillars: guest engagement, coral restoration and community outreach. As part of the OUTRIGGER Zone, a global initiative that unites all properties under a shared vision for ocean protection, she leads a variety of impactful programs designed to educate, inspire and empower.

Through twice-weekly marine presentations, guided snorkel excursions with manta rays and whale sharks, and creative workshops for children, Mclanachan transforms the marine environment into a living classroom. Younger guests can get involved on “Marine Monday” at the resort’s Kids Club, a fun and educational program that blends games, crafts and marine exploration into a day of discovery. Children learn about coral anatomy, shark behavior and plastic pollution through hands-on activities, and even get to quiz a real marine biologist.

Equally hands-on is the coral restoration program, where Mclanachan oversees more than 35 coral frames across three reef sites that serve as the foundation for regenerating coral ecosystems. Guests are invited to sponsor and assemble their own coral frame, learning firsthand how fragmented corals are carefully attached and placed on the seabed to encourage natural growth. Over time, these underwater structures have grown into thriving ecosystems, attracting reef fish, rays, and even sharks. For guests it is a tangible way to give back to the ocean while witnessing the direct impact of their efforts during their stay.

“Conservation becomes powerful when guests can be part of it,” says Mclanachan. “It’s one thing to read about ocean threats; it’s another to build a coral frame or snorkel with a manta and feel that connection firsthand.”

Each month, Mclanachan visits local island schools to teach children about marine ecology, ocean health and the importance of sustainable living. She is also working on partnerships with UK-based NGOs and local organizations such as MIYARU, a Maldivian shark conservation group.

Looking ahead, she hopes to establish an ex-situ coral nursery, a land-based coral tank that would serve as an engaging and educational feature for guests. The goal: to make marine science accessible, visible and inspiring to every visitor. She also envisions expanding the coral restoration program into a signature guest experience that deepens OUTRIGGER’s role as a pioneer in regenerative tourism. To inspire the next generation, plans are also underway to introduce a Junior Marine Biologist Certificate, a fun and educational initiative designed to engage young ocean enthusiasts and offer them a first step toward a future in marine science.

With year-round encounters with manta rays and whale sharks just 20 minutes offshore and embedded into reefs, OUTRIGGER Maldives continues to offer a rare combination of barefoot luxury and active marine immersion which is now further enriched by Mclanachan’s expertise, energy and unwavering dedication to protecting the ocean, one guest at a time.

Learn more about the World Ocean Month 2025 initiatives held at OUTRIGGER properties across the globe, HERE.