The most beautiful perspective to see the Maldives is from up in the air! Seaplanes fly relatively low which offer the most beautiful view over the islands, reefs and sometimes even Mantas from above!
If your resort requires a seaplane transfer, your hotel representatives will pick you up after landing from your International flight and guide you to the check in of TMA (Trans Maldivian Airlines). Usually you have to wait 30 minutes until max. 2 hours for your flight with the seaplane! But no worries, you can relax in the TMA lounge until boarding. The seaplanes have their own boarding area at the Velana International Airport, with the only difference, that the runway is on the water!
The planes are quite small, with mostly window seats. Passengers don’t get a seat number on their ticket so make sure to board the plane early and save yourself a good spot in the front. The other amazing thing about seaplanes in the Maldives: The cockpit has no door and you’re sitting directly behind the barefoot pilots, watching the flight from their perspective.
When booking your stay with a resort, keep in mind that the price for the transfer is not included in the room rate and will be added during the last step of the booking process. The rate depends on your resort and the mode of transportation. Seaplane transfers cost up to 350,- USD per person and direction. However speed boat transfers are usually less expensive. But you will be surprised that the most expensive transfer in the Maldives is actually by water: The private yacht of the Waldorf Astoria Maldives costs around 800,- USD per person and direction!