From 2–8 August 2026, The Nautilus Maldives returns with Ocean Discovery Week, a thoughtfully curated programme that invites guests to deepen their connection with the ocean through exploration, storytelling and shared discovery. Set within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, the annual experience brings together diving, underwater photography and marine conservation in a way that reflects the island’s philosophy of living without scripts.
Leading this year’s edition is internationally acclaimed underwater photographer Tobias Friedrich, joined by his wife, Isidora, and their sons, Kian and Dorian. Together, the family offers a rare perspective on the underwater world, combining professional expertise with a shared passion for ocean exploration that spans generations.
Throughout the week, guests are invited to experience the Maldives from above and below the surface. Encounters with manta rays in nearby Hanifaru Bay, guided snorkelling excursions and night dives reveal the extraordinary biodiversity of Baa Atoll, while Tobias leads photography workshops exploring composition, storytelling and the art of capturing life beneath the sea.
The programme extends beyond technical instruction to encourage a deeper appreciation of the marine environment. Isidora, a PADI AmbassaDiver and ocean advocate, hosts engaging storytelling sessions and family-focused experiences, while younger guests discover the wonders of the reef through Young Wonderers, taking part in coral planting, ocean-inspired art and guided activities alongside the resort’s resident marine biologist.
As the sun sets, Ocean Discovery Week continues with outdoor cinema evenings showcasing remarkable underwater phenomena and intimate conversations that explore the stories hidden beneath the surface. At Naiboli, guests can also discover Tobias Friedrich’s Ocean Gallery, featuring a curated collection of books, calendars and photographic works, with selected proceeds supporting marine conservation initiatives.
More than a programme of activities, Ocean Discovery Week reflects The Nautilus Maldives’ belief that meaningful travel begins with curiosity. Whether sharing a first dive, photographing a passing manta ray or simply seeing the ocean from a new perspective, the experience offers guests an opportunity to create lasting memories while developing a deeper understanding of one of the Maldives’ greatest natural treasures.
