Vakkaru Maldives appoints Mehdi Boudault as Marine Biologist
Vakkaru Maldives has appointed Mehdi Boudault as Marine Biologist, strengthening the resort’s commitment to marine conservation within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Boudault, a French marine biologist, scientific diver and PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer, holds a Master’s degree in Biology, Ecology and Evolution with a specialisation in tropical marine ecosystems. His academic background is supported by extensive field experience across the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea, where he has been involved in coral restoration, nursery construction and reef monitoring initiatives.
In the Seychelles, Boudault worked as Scientific Diver and Marine Biologist with Nature Seychelles, contributing to coral transplantation projects, coral bleaching mitigation measures and the implementation of CBASS (Coral Bleaching Automated Stress System) laboratory protocols. He later joined Coralive in Saudi Arabia as Junior Coral Biologist, where his work focused on coral nursery development, micro-fragmentation techniques and long-term monitoring of coral fragments within established nurseries.
Boudault has also contributed to peer-reviewed scientific research and presented his work at international conferences, reflecting a science-based approach to coral reef restoration and marine conservation.
At Vakkaru Maldives, he will lead marine education and conservation initiatives in collaboration with the resort’s Splash Dive and Watersports Centre. Each Wednesday from 5:00pm to 6:00pm, Boudault hosts a Marine Life Presentation, providing guests with an introduction to the island’s house reef, coral ecosystems and the marine biodiversity of Baa Atoll. The sessions are designed to offer insight into reef ecosystems and highlight the environmental balance that supports marine life.
He also oversees the resort’s Coral Adoption Programme, which enables guests to contribute to reef restoration. Through a contribution of US$150, coral fragments are transplanted onto dedicated frames in the waters surrounding the resort. Participants receive updates on the progress of their adopted coral, creating a long-term connection to the reef while supporting restoration efforts in vulnerable marine areas.
Commenting on the appointment, Teddy Susanto Wiryawan said the resort operates in close connection with the surrounding marine environment. He added that Boudault’s expertise strengthens the resort’s commitment to understanding and protecting the ecosystem within the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, while also enriching guest experiences through education and engagement with the reef.
Through Boudault’s appointment, Vakkaru Maldives continues to integrate marine conservation into the guest experience, supporting initiatives aimed at protecting and restoring coral reef ecosystems for the future.
