Werner Lau Dive Centers conclude operations at Medhufushi and Filitheyo after decades

Werner Lau Dive Centers, one of the longest-standing names in Maldivian diving, has officially ceased operations at Medhufushi Island Resort and Filitheyo Island Resort. Both properties are managed by AAA Hotels & Resorts. The decision follows the non-renewal of operating contracts by AAA, ending a significant chapter in a partnership that has spanned more than two decades.

Werner Lau confirmed the development in a farewell statement shared this week, marking the end of a 26-year presence at Filitheyo and a long-running operation at Medhufushi. Despite the exits, the company will continue to run dive centers in the Maldives at Bathala, Canareef, and Hondaafushi, alongside its international destinations.

According to the company, their Maldivian partner, AAA Hotels & Resorts, opted not to renew the expired contracts for the two dive schools. The statement mentioned that the relationship had become “tense,” referencing a long-standing financial arrangement that reportedly caused friction.

At Medhufushi, Werner Lau noted that all existing instructors have remained on the island under new arrangements. The company believes dive operations there will continue without interruption.

At Filitheyo, their team completed its final handover this week, relocating equipment to Malé and Bathala. Several team members have been reassigned within the company, while others are returning home or moving on to new opportunities within the Maldives.

Werner Lau described the transition as largely smooth, with a few exceptions—including an attempt by an island employee to photograph proprietary dive site maps. These were not handed over, and the company emphasized its commitment to protecting its intellectual property and the work of its dive professionals.

Fixtures, built-in furnishings, and certain structures remained on the island as per contractual obligations.

AAA Hotels & Resorts has reportedly installed a new dive team at both properties, which the management describes as “highly professional and well-trained.”

Though leaving behind a significant legacy at Filitheyo and Medhufushi, Werner Lau expressed optimism for the future. Returning divers can still experience the company’s operations at their remaining Maldivian centers, including Bathala—now strengthened by the addition of some of the Filitheyo team.

In their message, Werner and Lilly Lau extended heartfelt gratitude to their staff, guests, and AAA colleagues across departments—from management to kitchen teams, boat crews, carpenters, and spa staff.

“It was great working with all of you; we had a blast. Wishing you all the best for the future,” the farewell note concluded.

With this transition, an iconic era of Maldives diving quietly comes to an end—but the spirit of exploration and underwater excellence cultivated by Werner Lau continues across the archipelago and beyond.

A Legacy Dating Back to 1980

Werner Lau first arrived in the Maldives in 1980, opening the company’s inaugural Maldivian dive center at Eriyadu Island Resort in 1986. Over the decades, the brand has become known for its experienced instructors, strong safety standards, and a loyal community of repeat divers.

In its farewell post, Werner Lau thanked generations of divers, staff, and partners who contributed to what they described as “many beautiful memories of great dives, great people.”