Rooted in care for the ocean, JOALI BEING’s marine journey invites guests of all ages to connect with the rhythms of the sea through gentle discovery and meaningful engagement. Guided by mindful conservation, these experiences inspire curiosity and a deeper appreciation for marine life, fostering awareness and a meaningful connection to the delicate ecosystems that surround us.
SEA TURTLE CARE CENTRE PROGRAMME
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JOALI BEING is proud to partner with the Olive Ridley Project (ORP) to protect sea turtles in Raa Atoll. Launched in 2021, our ongoing collaboration includes research, educational outreach for guests and locals, and a dedicated sea turtle clinical care centre on the island.
With sustainability and conservation at its core, JOALI BEING has created several initiatives and partnerships aimed at preserving the natural marine habitats of the Maldives. The crystalline waters of the archipelago are home to five species of sea turtles as well as an astonishing variety of other marine creatures.
Raa Atoll Sea Turtle Care Centre
Located at JOALI BEING, the centre is dedicated to providing long term care for sick and injured turtles. Led by our Resident Veterinarian and Sea Turtle Biologist, the facility can house up to two sea turtle patients, functioning as a quiet space for recovery. Once fully recovered, the sea turtles are released back into the wild.
Each one carries a story of rescue, recovery, and a second chance in the wild.
Kuda, a young Olive Ridley turtle, was rescued in December 2025 after being entangled in a ghost net with injuries to three flippers. After dedicated clinical care, she made a strong recovery and was released back into the ocean on 4th February.
Koamas was found in October 2025 during a dolphin cruise, struggling with floating syndrome. Rescued and treated, she was transferred for continued care. Named after the Dhivehi word for dolphin, her journey inspires awareness and compassion.
Kurangi, a young Olive Ridley turtle, became the first patient at our sea turtle care centre after being found entangled in a ghost net, resulting in the loss of her left flipper. After nearly six months of care, she was released back into the ocean on 2nd November 2024.
TREATING SEA TURTLES
Distressed sea turtles most commonly come into our care due to entanglements in marine debris, particularly lost or abandoned fishing gear called ‘ghost nets’. These devastating injuries can leave turtles weak and debilitated, which is why proper veterinary treatment is so important. The Sea Turtle Care Centre at JOALI BEING works with patients to restore their health, so they can survive and thrive when released back into the ocean.
Currently under our care, Sanfa continues the journey of recovery.
PARTNERSHIP WITH ORP
Founded in 2013, the Olive Ridley Project (ORP) is a charity dedicated to protecting sea turtles from the numerous threats they face in their natural habitat.
The partnership with JOALI BEING allows ORP to expand their reach, educate a wider audience, and provide even better care for injured turtles. Our collaborative efforts significantly increase the chances of sea turtle populations thriving in the Maldives.
OCEAN WONDER FOR ALL AGES
At JOALI BEING, guests are invited to connect with the ocean’s rhythms through engaging, hands-on discovery.
Sea Turtle Care Centre Exploration
Step into the world of sea turtle conservation at the Raa Atoll Sea Turtle Care Centre. Guided by resident experts, guests of all ages are invited to explore the centre through an immersive tour, followed by an interactive session on sea turtle entanglement—learning how to respond with care and responsibility when encountering marine life in need. Educational visits are also extended to Raa Atoll residents, fostering wider community awareness and understanding.
Coral Planting
Discover the vital role corals play in sustaining ocean ecosystems. Following a hands-on introduction, guests will create their own coral frame and contribute to the flourishing house reef nursery—placing their creation in the ocean as part of its ongoing regeneration.
MINI MARINE BIOLOGISTS PROGRAMME
Guided by our Marine Biologist
Recommended ages: 6–12 years
Ray Researchers
Did you know the Maldives is home to over 5,000 reef manta rays? Practice recognising different types of rays through images, videos and guessing games. You will then become a manta ray researcher and collect data using real photos from the Maldivian Manta Ray Database. Analyse the patterns on the mantas’ bellies to identify individual rays and give them names. Record important information like the ray’s sex, visible scars and presence of remoras (small fish that attach themselves to rays).
Fish Finders
A quick theory session introduces you to the biology and behaviour of reef fish, with a special focus on three fish families — parrotfish, surgeonfish, and butterflyfish. After that, we dive into the clear waters around our island for hands-on data collection. Here, you will monitor the biodiversity of the reef ecosystem using the visual census technique. Identify different types of fish and record your findings on an underwater slate.
Coral Scientist
We start with a brief theory session, covering the basics of corals and the symbionts found within them. Understand the importance of corals and how we can help to protect them. Then, it’s time to get into the ocean where you will monitor the health of our house reef using the Coral Health Chart. This chart helps you assess coral health, by documenting changes in their coloration. Note down this data and collect valuable information to protect the reef.
Eco Fishers
Learn the environmental impact of different fishing techniques like spearfishing, casting, pole and line, and trawling. Discover the meaning of terms like ‘bycatch’, ‘no-take’ and ‘minimum catch size’. Our team will also share sustainable fishing methods and explain the strict guidelines followed at JOALI BEING to preserve marine life. Next, step into the shoes of a fisheries biologist. Using a wooden scale model of the ocean, filled with different marine creatures, you will catch, identify, and measure fish. Test your new knowledge as you decide which ones to keep and which ones to release.
Coral Conservation Journey
Begin with an introduction to the wonders of coral and their essential role in our ecosystem. Then, create your own coral frame and contribute to our flourishing coral nursery on the house reef. Once your frame is complete, swim it out and place it in the perfect spot. Every six months, you’ll receive updates, watching your coral grow and thrive over time.
