Maldives Yacht Rally sets sail to promote cultural tourism

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The second Maldives Yacht Rally set sail from Noonu Landhoo on Wednesday (1 March), journeying from the northern atoll to explore heritage sites on nine islands with stops at famous dive sites and sandbanks along the way.

Organised by the Maldives Integrated Tourism Development Corporation (MITDC) to “promote Maldivian culture and heritage, its rich history as well as nautical tourism,” the first edition of ‘Savaadheeththa Dhathuru’ took place last year to commemorate the golden jubilee of tourism.

“We are embarking on this journey with a total of 13 yachts registered in six different countries. Sailors of 13 different nationalities will be sailing in these 13 yachts,” MITDC managing director Mohamed Raaidh said at the opening ceremony in Landhoo. “And I am extremely pleased to announce that for the very first time, two vessels registered in the Maldives are also joining us in this rally.”

The tourists will have the chance to experience the island lifestyle and visit ancient shrines and coral stone mosques. Covering 169.62 nautical miles, the yachts will anchor at Lhaviyani Hinnavaru and Baa Goidhoo before heading to six islands in the central atolls of Alif Alif and Alif Dhaal (Alif Alif Thoddoo, Alif Alif Rasdhoo, Alif Alif Ukulhas, Alif Dhaal Dhangethi, Alif Dhaal Dhigurah and Alif Dhaal Maamigili). The tour is due to end with a gala night on Maamigili.