Fifteen years ago, something small yet powerful sparked a movement in the heart of the Indian Ocean. A lone, injured Olive Ridley turtle named Oceane was discovered by the dive team at Four Seasons Resorts Maldives. She needed help—and in answering her call, the team laid the foundation for one of the region’s most impactful and enduring marine conservation initiatives.
Since that moment in March 2010, the Turtle Rehabilitation Programme at Four Seasons Maldives has become a lifeline for hundreds of sea turtles, and a beacon of hope for ocean lovers across the globe.
From One Turtle to a Global Program
Oceane’s recovery was just the beginning. With the early support of a guest donation in 2011 and a visionary partnership with local environmental group Reefscapers, the Maldivian Sea Turtle Conservation Programme (MSTCP) was born. What started as a single turtle pool evolved into two fully equipped rehabilitation centres—one at Landaa Giraavaru and one at Kuda Huraa-dedicated to healing, researching, and protecting vulnerable sea turtles.
Over 500 turtles have come through the program’s doors. More than 280 have made their way back to the wild. The program now includes everything from satellite tagging and 3D-printed prosthetics to surgeries performed under general anaesthesia. All of it made possible by the passion of marine biologists, veterinarians, and dedicated resort staff.
The Flying Turtles: Second Chances, New Homes
Not every turtle can return to the ocean-but that doesn’t mean their journey ends. The Flying Turtles initiative, launched in 2016, gives non-releasable turtles a second chance. These turtles-often missing flippers or dealing with buoyancy challenges-are rehomed in oceanariums around the world, where they serve as ambassadors for marine conservation.
One such ambassador is Peggy, an amputee who was among the first turtles sent abroad. After spending time in an oceanarium in Belgium (where she even relearned how to dive), Peggy made her way back to the Maldives and was released into the ocean. Her journey didn’t stop there-Peggy swam more than 5,700 kilometers, returning to her natal home on the coast of India.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Ocean Guardians
The work at Four Seasons Maldives goes far beyond rehabilitation. It’s about education, inspiration, and nurturing a deep connection between people and the ocean. From the Junior Marine Savers program at Kuda Huraa to marine biology internships at Landaa Giraavaru, young minds are being encouraged to explore the world of marine science, conservation, and sustainability.
Teenagers can take part in immersive modules that introduce them to turtle care, manta tracking, coral planting, and more. Some past participants are now pursuing degrees in marine biology, turning their curiosity into careers.
Innovation Meets Compassion: The Story of Trooper
Among the many unforgettable stories is that of Trooper, a juvenile Olive Ridley rescued in 2018. With both front flippers severely injured, Trooper became the face of innovation when he was fitted with 3D-printed prosthetics. Though he eventually passed away in 2019, Trooper’s legacy lives on-he helped push the boundaries of what’s possible in turtle prosthetics and inspired countless others along the way.
A Future Full of Possibility
Fifteen years on, the journey continues. Four Seasons Resorts Maldives remains committed to deepening its work, expanding global partnerships, and advocating for simple changes that can create massive impact-like reducing single-use plastics and supporting sustainable seafood.
Ghost nets-abandoned fishing nets that drift across the seas—remain the biggest threat to these gentle creatures. While the Maldives isn’t the source, it’s often where the damage lands. Advocating for global change starts with local awareness, and that’s exactly what the Flying Turtles and their human allies are working to achieve.
Experience It For Yourself
If you’ve ever wanted to be part of something meaningful while surrounded by natural beauty, this is your chance. Visit Four Seasons Maldives and witness first-hand the care, science, and heart behind one of the Indian Ocean’s most extraordinary conservation programs.
Swim beside purpose. Learn from nature. Be part of the story.
Book your journey with Lets Go Maldives and be inspired by the remarkable world of sea turtle conservation in paradise.
