Coral Reef Islanders
Coral Reef Islanders is the eco-education and tourism division of SDM Ventures, founded by Saddam Ali and Hussain Rasheed (Sendi)
to showcase Huvadhoo Atoll’s biodiversity and inspire responsible island tourism.
Through exploration, education, and cultural exchange, the initiative connects people — locals and visitors alike — to the natural and human heritage of the Maldives.
Ga. Kolamaafushi
Kolamaafushi sits at the centre of 17 natural channels and offers access to 15 untouched uninhabited islands, making it one of the most strategically located islands in Huvadhoo Atoll. Its waters are rich in marine life, with vibrant reefs, manta cleaning stations, and deep channels ideal for diving, snorkeling, and ocean-based education tourism. The island’s strong fishing heritage and warm community make it a perfect base for sustainable mariculture, ocean research, and student programs.
Ga. Kondey
Kondey, where our farm is proudly established, is one of the most iconic islands in Huvadhoo Atoll. Known for its dense forests, freshwater wetlands, and rare flora and fauna, Kondey holds a special place among nature lovers and researchers. The community is warm, hardworking, and deeply connected to the land, making it an ideal location for our large-scale plant nurseries, educational visits, and hands-on eco-learning experiences.
M. Muli
Muli, located in Meemu Atoll, is where SDM’s marine team is actively engaged in large-structure coral restoration, including a 15-foot turtle-shaped coral frame placed in the lagoon with local youth. Beyond its thriving reef ecosystems, Muli is renowned for its iconic surf breaks, drawing surfers from around the world who come to experience its long, clean right-hand waves. With protected reefs, a calm lagoon, a passionate community, and internationally known surf spots, Muli stands as a vibrant hub for coral science, student expeditions, and ocean-focused adventure tourism.
Ga. Dhevvadhoo
Dhevvadhoo is one of the most historically rich and naturally captivating islands in Huvadhoo Atoll. During our exploration visit, we discovered its quiet beaches, healthy nearshore reefs, and deep-rooted cultural traditions that make the island feel truly timeless. The community is warm and closely connected to the ocean, with stories of ancient sailors, traditional fishing practices, and unique island folklore. With its peaceful environment and untouched coastal ecosystems, Dhevvadhoo is an ideal destination for cultural immersion, ocean education, reef studies, and sustainable community-based tourism.
Gdh. Vaadhoo
Vaadhoo in GDh. Atoll is one of the most culturally and naturally significant islands we encountered during our Explore Huvadhoo journey. The island is world-famous for Bluebowl, its powerful, perfectly peeling right-hand surf break that draws surfers from across the globe. Vaadhoo’s housereef—known locally as “Marine School”—is a vibrant underwater classroom where generations have learned to swim, explore coral life, and build a deep connection to the ocean. Beyond its natural beauty, Vaadhoo is home to pre-Islamic ruins, offering rare insights into the island’s ancient past and positioning it as one of the historically rich islands in southern Maldives. With its mix of iconic surf culture, thriving reefs, warm community spirit, and archaeological heritage, Vaadhoo stands as a unique destination for ocean lovers, students, historians, and eco-tourists alike.
Gdh. Rathafandhoo
Rathafandhoo is one of the most captivating islands we explored during our Explore Huvadhoo journey, uniquely positioned between two chains of uninhabited islands that surround it with untouched wilderness. The island is bordered by a long, vibrant reef stretch, where we encountered some of the healthiest shallow-water corals in GDh. Atoll—bright, resilient, and full of life. Rathafandhoo is also known for its pockets of black corals, rare and ecologically valuable, as well as its mangrove areas, which provide natural protection and support rich lagoon biodiversity. Fishing remains at the heart of the island’s identity, with a community deeply connected to the sea through generations of traditional practices. This combination of thriving marine ecosystems, pristine natural surroundings, cultural warmth, and easy access to uninhabited islands makes Rathafandhoo a remarkable destination for eco-tourism, lagoon exploration, marine education, and authentic local experiences.