Phuket, Thailand – Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas and Anantara Layan Phuket Resort continue to strengthen their commitment to marine conservation through their long-standing partnership with the Phuket Marine Biological Centre, supporting annual sea turtle and bamboo shark release programmes that help restore marine ecosystems in southern Thailand.

Established in 2002 by Minor Hotels, the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation has played a significant role in protecting Thailand's endangered sea turtle population. Since its inception, more than 1,500 sea turtles have been successfully released into the Andaman Sea, contributing to the long-term recovery of local marine life.

Each nesting season, vulnerable sea turtle eggs are carefully relocated to protected hatcheries operated by marine specialists, where hatchlings are raised under expert supervision until they are ready for release. The annual release takes place during Thailand's Songkran celebrations in April, allowing guests and local communities to participate in a conservation activity that carries both environmental and cultural significance.

Alongside sea turtle conservation, Anantara also supports bamboo shark restoration. Fertilised bamboo shark eggs and juvenile sharks are nurtured at the Phuket Marine Biological Centre, where they remain under expert care for approximately eight months before being released into the Andaman Sea. The programme helps rebuild populations of these important reef-dwelling species, which face increasing threats from habitat degradation, pollution and illegal harvesting.

Guests at both resorts are encouraged to participate in the annual release activities and learn more about marine conservation through Anantara's Dollars for Deeds initiative, which supports environmental and community projects across the region.

The resorts also maintain sustainability practices certified by Green Growth 2050, including reducing single-use plastics, protecting coastal ecosystems and promoting environmental awareness through educational programmes involving guests, local communities and schools.

The 2026 conservation events will take place on 13 April at Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas and 15 April at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, offering visitors a unique opportunity to contribute directly to marine conservation while experiencing Phuket's natural beauty.