Maldives Sets New Guinness World Record For Largest Snorkelling Event
Photo: Secretariat of the South Maalhosmadulu Atoll Council
The Maldives has achieved a new Guinness World Record for the most people snorkelling simultaneously during the Baani Event, held on 18 October 2025 in Baa Atoll.
A total of 623 snorkellers participated in the event, marking a milestone that highlighted the nation’s enduring connection with the ocean and its commitment to sustainable marine tourism.
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Organised by the Baa Atoll Council in collaboration with Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC), the event brought together participants from 13 islands and 15 resorts, including resort staff, international visitors, and local residents. The large-scale participation reflected a shared dedication to ocean conservation and community-driven environmental stewardship.
The record-setting activity took place near Villingilifaru Finolhu, located about ten minutes from Eydhafushi, the capital of Baa Atoll. The island’s western lagoon and coral-rich reef, teeming with marine life, offered a fitting natural stage for the event.
The attempt began at 16:30 hrs, with hundreds of snorkellers entering the water simultaneously across the sandbank. After an hour-long session, the achievement was officially verified by a Guinness World Records adjudicator, who presented the plaque to the Baa Atoll Council during a celebratory ceremony featuring music, performances, and fireworks.
The accomplishment was also included in the Visit Maldives Book of Records. A commemorative plaque and coin were presented to the Baa Atoll Council by Ibrahim Shiury, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of VMC, in recognition of the record.
The Baani Event has been described as a symbol of national unity and environmental consciousness, aligning with Visit Maldives Corporation’s efforts to promote the country as a global leader in marine tourism and sustainability. It underscores how tourism development and ocean conservation can coexist, serving as an example of how communities, visitors, and organisations can collaborate to preserve the Maldives’ marine environment for future generations.
