The Visit Maldives Club (VMC) is gearing up for a major event in 2025: the first-ever global sports fishing competition, set to take place between April and May. The tournament is part of VMC’s broader initiative to enhance the Maldives’ tourism offerings and foster collaboration within the industry. Spearheaded by the Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives), the club aims to unite the tourism community and position the Maldives as a top global destination for sports tourism.
“We are thrilled to be working with Active Escapes again in 2025. The week-long retreat-style festival offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s perfect for people who like to prioritise health and fitness while on holiday, or perhaps turnover a new leaf,” said Sharon Garrett, Director of Marketing, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “I think it’s a dream come true for those who value staying in shape. With that said, it is not to be mistaken as a hell boot camp where you feel deprived of all the good stuff. On an Active Escapes retreat, you enjoy delicious cuisine prepared by the resort’s talented chefs and an impressive drinks list. The ethos is to work-out hard by day, and reward yourself at night.”
The Burunu Boma Sports Fishing Tournament, which will be officially launched on 20th December 2024, is designed to attract both local and international fishing enthusiasts. The event is a celebration of the Maldives' sustainable approach to fishing, with a focus on the “catch and release” method. This ensures that the competition remains environmentally responsible while still allowing for an exciting and friendly competition. The tournament will be held in the Maldives' beautiful and diverse waters, showcasing the country’s unique marine environment.
“This competition is another step towards promoting sustainable fisheries and tourism initiatives. The Maldives has won the World's 'Leading Green Destination' title for the first time and it is our mission to promote to the world the long-standing sustainable fishing practices of the Maldives. We hope that this event will attract international fishermen and make the country a prominent place for various fields of sports tourism,” said MMPRC CEO, Mr. Ibrahim Shiuree.
The tournament will feature several exciting categories, and participants will compete for various prizes, including special recognition for those who demonstrate sustainable fishing practices. This initiative aligns with global efforts to protect marine life while encouraging tourism professionals to adopt responsible practices.
The Burunu Boma Sports Fishing Tournament is endorsed by key national bodies such as the Ministry of Tourism (MOT), Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, and the Maldives Fisheries and Ocean Resources Marketing and Promotion Corporation (MFORMPC), as well as associations like the Maldives Association Of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) and the National Boating Association of Maldives (NBAM).
Through this initiative, the Visit Maldives Club seeks to elevate the Maldives as a premier global destination for fishing tourism. By promoting sustainable practices, the event will highlight the country’s commitment to eco-friendly tourism and strengthen its position as a leader in sports tourism.