Brave the Blue : Master the Maldives Now

You’ve always pictured it: the Maldives, where clear turquoise water and playful marine life, just below the surface, beckons. While the ocean may feel unfamiliar, even unknown, with  Karma Fushi’s experienced water sport guides you could not be in safer, more expert hands. So besides exploring this archipelago aboard a luxury 50-metre vessel, you’ll meet Sandeep Pillai, one of our guest’s beloved guides.

Sandeep, originally from Mumbai in India, has been at home in the ocean since 2008. Find out here, how he has earned himself a reputation for turning apprehensive curiosity about nature’s Big Blue into joyful confidence. 

Spoiler alert: be sure to read to the end to find out if he has ever experienced any danger in the Maldives!

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Q: What water activities do you specialise in for Karma Fushi guests?

A: Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Kayaking, Paddle boarding, Jetksi  

Q: Do you have any formal training or certifications?

 A: I’m a PADI Scuba Diving Instructor.

Q: That sounds like a lot of time in the ocean, what does the certification entail?

A: To become a PADI Scuba Diving Instructor, you need to be a certified Divemaster, have 100 logged dives, hold an up-to-date first aid certificate, and complete both the Instructor Development Course and the final exam.

Q: Why do you love the ocean

A: The ocean has changed my life and keeps me alive.

Q: What would you say to someone who’s curious but nervous to try and ocean activity?

A: You, my dear friend, have come so far, so if not right now, then when? (With a smile).

Q: How do you help guests feel safe and at ease in the water?

A: I think when they see how comfortable and confident I am in the water, it helps. Also, I am constantly engaging with them and watching their every move.

Q: Can you tell us about a favourite memory of instructing or guiding a Karma Fushi guest in the water?

A : Two days ago, I had the pleasure of diving with two incredible guests, Henry and Chris, whom I met during our journey on Karma Fushi. We explored the Dhiffushi outer reef, and in just one dive, we were lucky enough to see three manta rays, countless sightings of both white-tip and black-tip reef sharks, a hawksbill turtle, boxer shrimps, moray eels, two spotted eagle rays, and even a deepwater stingray. It felt like every iconic Indian Ocean species turned up to say hello. For all three of us, it was easily one of our top ten dives ever. Best of all, we felt completely in tune with nature – a true sense of oneness.

Q: Whether experienced or new to the ocean, how do guests typically feel after an experience?

A: They are ecstatic, on Cloud 9, and that is always our goal for them!           

Q: Have you ever faced a dangerous situation in the Maldives?

A: To be honest, no – and that’s because we strongly believe in the power of a well-established process that always ensures safe and successful experiences!

Every guest is thoroughly briefed in advance about the sequence of events related to each activity. This helps them know exactly what to expect and always a smoother, more enjoyable experience.

When it comes to safety in the water, not only is all our equipment regularly serviced and maintained to the highest standards, but our team is well trained to handle any situation in and out of the water.

Safety is our middle name!

So, what are you waiting for? If visiting the Maldives on Karma Fushi is your dream, book now!

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