Fifteen Years of Hope and Healing: Four Seasons Maldives Celebrates Turtle Rehabilitation Milestone

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What began with one injured Olive Ridley turtle named Oceane has, fifteen years later, blossomed into one of the most successful sea turtle rehabilitation initiatives in the Indian Ocean.

In March 2010, Oceane was found entangled and in distress by the dive team at Four Seasons Resorts Maldives. Her recovery marked the beginning of a long-standing commitment to turtle conservation that has since rehabilitated over 500 sea turtles, with more than 280 successfully released back into the wild.

Born from humble beginnings, the program gained momentum in 2011 with a generous guest donation and the formation of a partnership with local environmental agency Reefscapers, leading to the launch of the Maldivian Sea Turtle Conservation Programme (MSTCP). The first of two dedicated Turtle Rehabilitation Centres was then opened at Four Seasons Resort Landaa Giraavaru.

A Decade and a Half of Innovation and Impact

Over the past 15 years, the program has seen remarkable innovations, including:

1. An ocean enclosure for long-term rehabilitation
2. Development of prosthetic flippers and satellite tracking
3. Arrival of on-site turtle veterinarians and advanced medical equipment including an underwater ultrasound scanner, laser therapy machines, and the ability to perform complex surgeries under general anesthesia.

The Flying Turtles: From Survivors to Ambassadors

In 2016, the program introduced the “Flying Turtles” initiative, offering turtles with unreleasable injuries a second chance abroad. So far, six turtles have been rehomed in international marine centres, where they serve as ambassadors for their species. Among them is Peggy, who learned to dive again in Belgium and returned to the Maldives in 2019 to complete a 5,700-kilometre journey to her natal grounds on the east coast of India.

Empowering the Next Generation

Education is a cornerstone of the conservation program. Initiatives such as:

1. The Junior Marine Savers at Kuda Huraa
2. The Marine Biology Internship for Maldivians
3. The Trainee Marine Biologist Program at Landaa Giraavaru

have inspired young guests and locals alike to take up the cause. Many participants have gone on to study marine science at university.

Trooper’s Legacy and the Future of Turtle Prosthetics

In 2018, Trooper, a juvenile Olive Ridley turtle, captured hearts after losing both front flippers to ghost nets. A global collaboration led to the creation of 3D-printed prosthetics, allowing Trooper to swim again before his passing in 2019. Though he could not be saved, his story became a symbol of hope for the advancement of marine prosthetic technology.

Looking Ahead

“It’s been an incredible fifteen years of turtle-based learning, growth and unforgettable moments,” said Armando Kraenzlin, Regional Vice President and General Manager of Four Seasons Resorts Maldives. “Looking to the future, we’re excited to deepen our ties with international oceanariums and expand our advocacy for turtle conservation.”

The resort encourages everyone to help by reducing single-use plastic, choosing sustainable seafood, and supporting global efforts to prevent ghost net pollution, one of the greatest threats facing sea turtles today.