Renowned for luxury overwater bungalows, turquoise lagoons and picturesque coralline islands, the Maldives offers unforgettable travel experiences by seaplane. Discover the beauty of tropical paradise from above, with a guide to seaplanes in the Maldives.
img via flickr
Trans Maldivian Airways
Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) operates the world’s largest seaplane fleet, connecting the capital, Malé, to luxury resorts scattered across the atolls. These seaplanes provide unparalleled aerial views of vibrant coral reefs, uninhabited islands, and the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean, making the journey as memorable as the destination itself.
Difference Between Seaplanes & Speedboat Transfers
While speedboats are suitable for resorts near Malé, seaplanes are the go-to for distant islands. Unlike the leisurely pace of a speedboat, a seaplane offers a swift, bird’s-eye view of the islands, scattered across the blue seas like a mosaic of white beaches and tropical greenery.
However, airport transfers via seaplane are slightly pricier than speedboat—consider selecting a Maldives water villa at a resort that offers free transfers or deals for seaplane journeys, such as Adaaran Prestige Water Villas.
Operation Times
Seaplane transfers operate only during daylight hours, typically from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Guests arriving late in the evening may require an overnight stay in Malé before their transfer.
Weight Restrictions
Remember, seaplane transfers impose a luggage limit of 20kg for checked bags and 5kg for hand luggage. Excess luggage up to 32kg may incur additional fees, costing 5 USD per added kilo.
