New underwater museum at Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi

The underwater museum was the attraction of the Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi, which opened in April 2018. But the partially naked figures hurt the religious feelings of the population. The authorities of the Maldives therefore had them removed without further ado. Now the artist and marine biologist Jason deCaires Taylor has created new sculptures for the first coral regeneration project in the form of an art installation.

The unique steel structure that protrudes from the water in the lagoon can be reached via a 100-meter-long underwater footbridge. Since it was installed in 2018, it has been home to hard corals, sponges and thousands of schooling fish. Together with the sculptures, it is supposed to form an artificial reef, which aims to raise guests’ awareness of the endangered ecosystem of the Maldives and at the same time create new living space for sea creatures.

Taylor’s artwork is all made of a non-toxic, pH neutral and water resistant material. Each of the sculptures, which are up to five meters high, consists of more than 500 artificial starfish that have been specially developed to attract fish and crustaceans: algae and other particles adhere to the rough surface, which in turn attract coral larvae, while dark corners and caves hide for fish and shellfish. This is how every sculpture is brought to life.

Together with a marine biologist or during the evening snorkeling tour, guests can discover the underwater world that has settled here, snorkeling or diving. In addition, they can even create their own work of art in the on-site studio or plant their own coral – and when they come back, watch them grow.

The Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi is located in the Shaviyani Atoll north of Male on a gently sloping nine-kilometer house reef. The largest lagoon in the Maldives is home to giant manta rays, endangered turtles, dolphins and more than 250 tropical fish species. The name is already promising – it means “island in secret water”.

The 112 villas on the beach, in the jungle and over the water all have their own pool. Materials such as wood and copper create a contemporary style with a boho feel.

Click here for the website of the Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi