The Maldives has officially entered the Guinness World Records after achieving the record for the most people snorkelling simultaneously, during the Baani Event held on 18 October 2025 in Baa Atoll.
A total of 623 snorkellers took part in the historic gathering, marking a major milestone that celebrated the nation’s enduring bond with the ocean and its leadership in sustainable marine tourism.
The large-scale event was organized by the Baa Atoll Council in partnership with the Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) and saw participation from 13 islands and 15 resorts, as well as international tourists and residents from across the country. The event united communities, resort employees, and visitors in a shared celebration of environmental awareness and marine conservation.
A Record-Breaking Celebration in Baa Atoll
The record attempt took place just ten minutes from Eydhafushi, the capital of Baa Atoll, at the scenic Villingilifaru Finolhu — a sandbank surrounded by coral reefs teeming with marine life. The lagoon’s clear blue waters and the sight of hundreds of black-naped terns circling above provided a spectacular setting for the event.
The synchronized snorkelling session began at 4:30 p.m., with participants entering the lagoon at multiple designated points and continuing for an hour. Following official verification, a Guinness World Records adjudicator presented the certification to the Baa Atoll Council during a special ceremony that featured live music, entertainment, and a fireworks display.
National Pride and Global Recognition
In recognition of the achievement, the record 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.
“This achievement is a proud moment for our nation. It reflects our people’s bond with the ocean and our collective commitment to preserving it for generations to come,” Shiury said.
The event’s success highlighted the Maldives’ global reputation as a leading island destination, blending tourism, community engagement, and environmental consciousness in one of the world’s most pristine marine ecosystems.
A Symbol of Unity and Sustainability
The Baani Event has been hailed as more than just a record-breaking feat — it stands as a symbol of unity and shared purpose, underscoring the Maldives’ dedication to marine protection and responsible tourism.
By bringing together communities, resorts, and visitors under a common cause, the event reflected the core vision of Visit Maldives Corporation: to promote the country not only as a luxury getaway, but as a model for how tourism and ocean conservation can coexist harmoniously.
