Planning a seaplane transfer in the Maldives ? Here’s what you should know before you go :
The seaplane terminal
Once your international flight lands at Velana international airport and after clearing customs, you’ll be welcomed by your resort representaive and, depending on how you booked your holidays, your local agent. You’ll be assisted to check in for the seaplane transfer, and embark onto a bus to be driven over to the other side of the airport where the seaplane terminal is located.
Some luxury resorts have their own airport transportation service, so you might hop on your own private vehicle with private chauffeur to reach the seaplane terminal.
Here, The St Regis Vommuli Bentley limousine service which will transfer you at the seaplane terminal if you stay in one of the resort private Estates.
Immediate Transfer to your resort? a question of time
In Maldives, the time it takes for an seaplane immediate transfer to your resort depends on several factors, including the location of the resort, the arrival of other pasengers ( most of the transfers are shared ), the weather conditions and, one of the key factor : the arrival of your international flight.
On this photo, we’re ready for take-off. Remark the 2 pilots hands on the throttle controls, which in twin-otters, are hanging of the ceiling.
If your flight arrives after 03.00pm, you will have to spend the first night around Male ( Male city, Hulhumale or Hulhule ), as seaplanes do not operate afterwards for safety reasons.
If your resort is near an island with a domestic airport you’ll be transferred onto a scheduled domestic flight to the nearest airport. Depending on your resort location, you’ll then embark on a speedboat to reach your island.
If you choose to fly with a domestic flight, you will have plenty of choice. The Maldives, being an island nation, boast multiple domestic airports (currently 13). These airports serve as crucial links for locals and enable tourists to access resorts located in remote areas unreachable by speedboat.
This said, once at the seaplane terminal, here is what to expect :
The seaplane main terminal is divided in several sections. It provides a general public section with seating areas, café, local shop, smoking area, and toilets as well as a VIP section.
The terminal also features various resort lounges. If you book a resort with its own lounge, you can take advantage of its amenities and services.
seaplane transfers in Maldives in 11 key points.
- Daylight Operations : Seaplanes operate from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM due to aviation regulations for safety.
- No Toilets Onboard : Be prepared as seaplanes do not have restroom facilities.
- Seating Options : Standard seaplanes lack business class seats; luxury options may offer them.
- Overnight Layovers : Arriving after 3:00 PM? You’ll likely need to stay overnight around the airport or in Male ( which you should visit ) before catching your seaplane.
- Cost : Seaplane transfers are a significant expense—budget accordingly.
- Baggage Allowance : You get 25kg free ( 20 kg of checked-in luggage and 5 kg of hand luggage per person ). The weight for any bag should not exceed 32 kg.
– If you have extra luggage ( the weight for any bag should not exceed 32 kg ) count USD 5.00 per extra kg- plus applicable taxes .
– If you travel with surf / windsurf equipment, you must advise your resort before hands. - Waiting Times : Expect to wait 1 to 4 hours at the seaplane terminal.
- Check-in Details : Gates close 1 hour before departure, adjusting for international flight schedules.
- Onboard Comfort : No air conditioning, just fans on the walls at the cabin front —prepare for a warm sitting time. Once in the air, it gets much fresher. And the crew advises you to fan yurself with the booklets located at the back of the chair in front of you.
- Seating Arrangements : It’s tight. Limited to 15 seats, sometimes less, with approximately the half offering window views.
- Private Options : Consider private transfers, excursions, or scenic flights on request.
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