JW Marriott Phuket to host 16th annual Mai Khao Marine Turtle Release
Celebrate Songkran with a purposeful experience that supports marine conservation
In celebration of the Thai New Year this Songkran, JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa has partnered with Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation once again to host the 16th Annual Mai Khao Marine Turtle Release on Sunday, April 13, from 10am to 12pm at the Andaman Grill beachfront.
All guests, families, and community members are invited to participate in a heartwarming and meaningful experience of releasing endangered sea turtles and bamboo sharks back into their natural habitat.
The event is organised in partnership with the Phuket Marine Biological Centre, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, and the Third Naval Area Command, with proceeds supporting vital initiatives such as the Injured Turtle Rehabilitation Programme and Turtle Hatchery Programme.
Guests are encouraged to make a donation of 8,000 baht per sea turtle or 5,000 baht per bamboo shark, with all proceeds going directly to marine conservation efforts. Advance reservations are required.
This year’s release event is more than a tradition, it’s a chance to reflect on the importance of protecting Phuket’s natural heritage. Thais believe that releasing animals back into the wild brings good luck and longevity, making this ceremony both spiritually meaningful and ecologically impactful.
Arjun Channa, General Manager of JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, spoke on the importance of sea turtles in Phuket.
“Our resort sits on one of Phuket’s last remaining turtle nesting beaches, and we are proud to champion efforts that preserve this fragile ecosystem. The turtle release has become a symbol of hope, awareness, and renewal—and we’re honoured to welcome guests and locals alike to be part of this memorable occasion.”
The beachfront setting provides a serene and symbolic backdrop for this conservation celebration. Alongside the release, participants will gain deeper insight into marine life, conservation challenges, and how their support contributes to long-term ecological impact in southern Thailand.
For more information or to reserve your participation, please contact the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Rehabilitation and Education Centre at:
- Email: maikhaoturtlefoundation@gmail.com
- Phone: +66 (0)76 338 000
- Visit their website
Celebrate Songkran by giving back to nature—join us in making a difference, one turtle at a time.
Press release
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