Since its inception, SAii Resorts has championed the cause of marine life conservation. The group’s two Marine Discovery Centres, located in Thailand and the Maldives, actively involve travellers in vital conservation initiatives. Their ambitious goal is to attract over 50,000 visitors annually across both centres, engaging them in critical projects such as shark conservation, coral propagation and mangrove planting.

As the world celebrates Shark Awareness Day this July, SAii Resorts proudly showcases its efforts at SAii Phi Phi Island Village – a Green Globe™-certified resort that recently achieved a significant milestone: the release of the 30th bamboo shark from its on-site nursery.

Set amid 70 acres of coconut palm plantations, the exclusive retreat fronts a private 800-metre sandy beach nestled in the serene Loh Ba Gao Bay. Guests can choose between traditional Thai-style bungalows and exclusive Hillside Pool Villas, each with its own private pool overlooking the island’s magnificent scenery.

The shark release milestone at SAii Phi Phi Island Village coincides with the launch of the new ‘A Sharktastic Escape’ package. Ideal for PADI-certified travellers seeking an immersive encounter with Phi Phi’s captivating marine realm, the package seamlessly blends informative on-land activities with exhilarating dives. Beyond encounters with blacktip and leopard sharks, guests can get up close and personal with near-threatened bamboo sharks recently released as part of the “Save Our Sharks” – a programme managed by the resort’s Marine Discovery Centre in collaboration with Phuket Marine Biological Centre. Since 2021, a total of 30 sharks have been released, with 29 more shark eggs currently nurtured at the onsite hatchery.

As well as learning about marine life preservation from the resident Marine Biologist during minimal-impact dives or bi-daily snorkelling trips followed by guided visits to the Marine Discovery Centre, guests booking the package will find delightful shark-themed room décor, special cocktails and other exclusive benefits.

“Shark preservation is crucial for ecosystem balance,” said Bart Callens, Cluster General Manager, SAii Phi Phi Island Village and SAii Laguna Phuket. “These apex predators regulate marine species populations, maintaining a healthy equilibrium. As part of SHR’s promise to preserve the pristine destinations we are present in, our Marine Discovery Centres are steadfast in protecting these remarkable creatures.”

In July 2024, SAii Phi Phi Island Village was recognised by the Green Globe™ Certification for the second consecutive year for sustainable operations. Sister properties SAii Laguna Phuket and Santiburi Koh Samui have also been certified for 2024, following their initial recognition last year, as well as the CROSSROADS Maldives project, which comprises SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and The Marina @ CROSSROADS.