The Baa Atoll Council has officially entered the Guinness World Records by setting a new world record for the most people snorkelling simultaneously during the Baani Event held in Baa Atoll. A total of 623 snorkellers participated in this remarkable feat, highlighting the Maldives’ enduring connection to the ocean and its commitment to sustainable marine tourism.

Organised by the Baa Atoll Council with strong support from all island councils, local communities, and partner organisations, the record-breaking event brought together participants from 13 islands and 15 resorts, along with representatives from across the nation. Resort staff, international visitors, and local residents united in a shared celebration of environmental stewardship and community spirit.

Just ten minutes from Eydhafushi, the capital of Baa Atoll, Villingilifaru Finolhu provided a breathtaking setting for this milestone achievement. Its serene western lagoon and coral-rich outer reef—home to vibrant marine life and flocks of black-naped terns—offered an unforgettable natural backdrop for the historic occasion.

The official snorkelling attempt commenced at 16:30 hrs and continued for one hour, as hundreds of participants entered the crystal-clear waters at multiple designated points across the pristine sandbank. Following verification, a Guinness World Records adjudicator presented the official record plaque to the Baa Atoll Council during a celebratory ceremony that featured live music, cultural performances, and a dazzling fireworks display.

In addition to the Guinness recognition, the record was also entered into the Visit Maldives Book of Records. To commemorate the achievement, Ibrahim Shiury, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC), presented a special plaque and commemorative coin to the Baa Atoll Council in honour of this historic success.

The Baani Event stands as a powerful symbol of unity, sustainability, and shared purpose perfectly aligned with Visit Maldives Corporation’s mission to position the Maldives as a global leader in marine tourism and environmental responsibility. It exemplifies how tourism and ocean conservation can thrive hand in hand, inspiring a future where community participation, ecological awareness, and visitor engagement work together to protect the Maldives’ marine heritage while celebrating its standing as the world’s leading island destination.