COMO Resorts Maldives Welcomes Marine Experts, Artists and Wellness Specialists to Its Islands

08 September, 2026

For the remainder of 2026, COMO Maalifushi and COMO Cocoa Island are redefining the luxury resort experience. The two private-island retreats have unveiled an inspiring calendar of expert-led residencies and immersive journeys that bring together leading marine biologists, acclaimed artists, and world-class wellness practitioners from around the globe.

Rooted in ocean stewardship, artistic expression, and holistic wellbeing, each programme is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the distinctive character of its island setting. Whether you're traveling with family, seeking creative inspiration, or in need of deep restoration, these experiences invite you to discover the Maldives in entirely new ways.

“Meaningful travel is about creating experiences that stay with you long after you leave. Through our COMO Journeys and residencies, we hope to give guests a deeper connection to the Maldives, whether through the ocean, creativity, conservation or wellbeing.” — Peter Nilsson, Managing Director of COMO Resorts, Maldives

Guardians of the Reef: Swimming with Sharks at COMO Maalifushi

October 20 – November 2, 2026

At COMO Maalifushi, the COMO Journey with Guardians of the Reef offers families a rare opportunity to meet one of the ocean's most misunderstood creatures — up close, safely, and on their own terms.

Led by marine biologist Jillian Morris — founder of Sharks4Kids, a PADI Ambassadiver, and award-winning conservationist — and Emmy Award-winning cinematographer Duncan Brake, this family-focused programme explores the world of sharks through guided reef adventures, marine education, citizen science, and underwater storytelling.

“Sharks aren't swimming around looking for people — they're maintaining the balance of their ecosystems. We're lucky to be allowed into their world.” — Jillian Morris

The experience begins gently: observing sharks from the beach or a boat, learning about them on land, and even using virtual reality to explore the underwater world before anyone gets their feet wet. Children practise snorkelling in shallow water before venturing farther, always supported by experienced guides.

“Once a child — or parent — puts their face in the water and sees the fish, colours, and movement, a lot of fear just goes away.” — Jillian Morris

Encounters are typically with white-tip reef sharks and nurse sharks — species that are wild, fascinating, and approachable. The shift can be immediate. “I've had kids who were too scared to get off the boat at first,” Morris recalls. “An hour later, they don't want to get back on.”

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Holistic Reset for Body and Mind at COMO Maalifushi

September 21 – October 5, 2026

Before the shark adventures begin, COMO Maalifushi welcomes visiting practitioner Martina Wegscheider, a physiotherapist and osteopath, for a residency focused on deep physical and mental restoration.

Wegscheider's personalised treatments combine osteopathy, craniosacral therapy, energy alignment, and mindful movement — a holistic approach designed to release tension, improve mobility, and restore balance.

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Balance and Harmony with Kimberly Rose Kneier

December 1, 2026 – January 10, 2027

Continuing the wellness offerings at COMO Maalifushi, practitioner Kimberly Rose Kneier brings over 20 years of experience in holistic health and healing. Her programme integrates acupuncture, Qi Gong, breathwork, and craniosacral therapy.

With a Master's degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, Kneier's approach draws from both Eastern and Western healing traditions, offering guests a comprehensive path to harmony and renewal.

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Ocean Culture Life: Photography and Conservation at COMO Cocoa Island

October 19 – 31, 2026

Over at COMO Cocoa Island, the COMO Journey with Ocean Culture Life brings together award-winning photographer Matt Porteous and environmental advocate Tamsin Raine for a 13-day journey uniting ocean storytelling, photography, film, and conservation.

Porteous, known for his long-term work with the British Royal Family, combines his artistic expertise with a deep commitment to ocean conservation, using photography and film as tools to inspire change. Together with Raine, the duo will turn the entire island into an open-air photography classroom.

Guests can participate in photography workshops, youth sessions, marine capture experiences, film nights, and discussions that explore the profound connection between people and the sea.

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The Art of Japanese Healing with Yuki Nishikubo

November 16 – December 27, 2026

With over 25 years of experience, practitioner Yuki Nishikubo brings the ancient wisdom of Japanese healing to COMO Cocoa Island.

Nishikubo provides personalised Japanese acupuncture and Shiatsu treatments designed to promote deep relaxation, restore balance, and enhance overall wellbeing. In the serene island setting, these therapies offer a profound escape from the stresses of modern life.

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From Sea to Self: Artist-in-Residence with Gregory Burns

December 8 – 27, 2026

The creative programme culminates with From Sea to Self, a COMO Journey featuring acclaimed artist and Paralympian Gregory Burns.

Burns is an award-winning abstract painter who set four world records in swimming across three Paralympic Games. His journey from Paralympic podiums to Ironman competitions, decades living in Asia, and ultimately a full-time career as an artist is nothing short of extraordinary.

“I've always felt there's more to life than the status quo.” — Gregory Burns

During his three-week residency, guests are invited to engage with Burns through open studios, intimate conversations, and hands-on workshops exploring the relationship between art, nature, and personal transformation. The programme culminates in an exhibition showcasing works created during the residency.

Burns paints with the same physicality that powered his athletic training. “Chinese calligraphy and abstract impressionistic painting are about channelling your spirit through the body and the brush. When I paint, I have the heart of an artist and the body of an athlete: very physical, raw and authentic.”

For Burns, the sea is where his two worlds — art and movement — meet most powerfully. “In water, I'm floating. The water is my medium; a sanctuary that's given me peace.”

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Plan Your COMO Journey

These expert-led residencies and COMO Journeys represent a new kind of luxury travel — one that prioritizes meaningful connection, personal transformation, and a deeper appreciation of the natural world.

2026 Programme Highlights at a Glance:

Whether you're swimming alongside sharks with marine biologists, capturing the ocean through the lens of a world-class photographer, or finding balance through ancient healing traditions, COMO Resorts Maldives invites you to experience travel that truly stays with you.

Learn more and book your COMO Journey at comohotels.com

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