Getting Around the Maldives

Velana International Airport in Male is the primary gateway for most visitors to the breathtaking island-nation of the Maldives. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the invigorating salty sea air and the stunning view of the captivating turquoise waters.

The arrivals hall is often bustling with representatives from various resorts, holding signs with guests’ names, ready to whisk you away via internal flights, seaplanes, or speedboats. The Maldives comprises 26 atolls and over 1,000 islands, meaning visitors must consider not only their destination but also the transportation method to get there. Below is a guideline to help you navigate the various options available.

Hop on a Seaplane

For many travelers to the Maldives, experiencing a seaplane flight is a remarkable way to travel between the islands. The seaplane terminal at Velana International Airport resides in a separate building from the international arrivals and departures halls. You’ll be shuttled to and from this area via bus, showcasing a luxurious environment established in 2022, which includes private lounges for various resorts.

Seaplanes typically accommodate around 10 passengers. While luggage is stowed in the rear, you’re allowed to admire the scenic views from the cockpit, where the captain may be seen piloting barefoot. Although seaplanes are relatively small, hot, and noisy, they fly at lower altitudes, allowing for breathtaking views that certainly make the minor inconveniences worthwhile.

Seaplanes do not operate at night. If your resort is located near an island with a domestic airport, you’ll be transferred onto a scheduled flight to the nearest domestic airport at no additional cost and then take a speedboat for the remainder of your journey. Expect to pay between $290 and $700 for a round-trip seaplane flight, typically with Trans Maldivian Airways, which boasts the world’s largest seaplane fleet.

Take a Speedboat

If your resort offers a speedboat transfer included in your stay, don’t envision small boats jumping over waves; instead, consider larger vessels resembling yachts. These boats feature spacious covered areas outfitted with comfortable seating, televisions, and food and drink stations. You may even be welcomed with a beverage and a cold towel upon boarding.

Transfer times can range from 20 minutes to one hour, depending on your resort’s location. Be sure to enjoy the surroundings during your journey as it’s common to spot dolphins playing in the waves near Velana International Airport.

Scheduled Inter-Island Flights

The Maldives includes several domestic airports (currently 13), which serve as vital links for both locals and tourists traveling to remote resorts. While seaplanes are available for these destinations, scheduled flights are generally more economical, especially for families.

Popular airlines serving the Maldives include Maldivian Airlines and Manta Air. Scheduled flight prices typically range from $150 to $550, depending on the destination, with flight durations varying from 20 to 90 minutes. Transportation costs can be higher in the Maldives due to limited airlines and smaller aircraft.

Explore on Wheels or by Golf Buggy

Most resort islands in the Maldives can be circled in under an hour by foot. However, some resorts provide bicycles for guests, as well as golf buggies that staff use to transport luggage. You can either call reception to arrange buggy pick-ups or flag down passing ones.

Excursions via Yachts, Boats, and Liveaboards

Once settled into your resort, consider venturing beyond the island! Many resorts offer excursions to adjacent islands, including local community visits that allow for an enriching understanding of the region. Some resorts even have yachts available for chartering for extended adventures through the Maldives.

For those willing to spend, renting a private yacht may be an option. For example, Soneva in Aqua offers short excursions for guests staying at nearby Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani. Additionally, small cruise lines provide opportunities to visit more luxurious resorts, many of which offer day passes for visitors.

A liveaboard—a boat equipped for overnight stays—is a fantastic way to delve into the remote atolls, particularly attractive for divers eager to explore less frequented waters.

Accessibility Challenges in the Maldives

While the Maldives boasts stunning natural beauty, it faces challenges regarding accessibility. For instance, guide dogs are not permitted, and there are limited air bridges at the airport, meaning most passengers disembark using stairs. Nevertheless, special assistance is available at Male Airport, provided arrangements are made in advance with your airline.

Accessibility can also be an issue on public ferries, as there is often a lack of staff to assist or ramps for wheelchairs. If you have specific accessibility requirements, it’s crucial to communicate these with your resort ahead of time. However, due to the country’s geographical layout of sandy islands with minimal infrastructure, navigating can be complex for those in wheelchairs.