Velana International Airport is small, efficient, and generally very easy to navigate, even for first-time travellers. After you exit the aircraft and clear passport control, you’ll find that most resorts have staff waiting just outside arrivals holding signs with their hotel logo. They will guide you directly to the correct area—whether that’s the domestic terminal, the seaplane terminal, or your speedboat pick-up point—so the transition from the airport to your island is seamless.

Baggage claim is usually quick, but it’s important to keep essential items in your carry-on. Always have your passport, resort booking, and transfer confirmation ready to show. Because transfers can sometimes involve a short wait, especially for seaplanes, it’s a good idea to keep swimwear or light clothing accessible so you can stay comfortable in the heat while you wait for your departure.

During peak travel periods, the airport and transfer terminals can get very busy, especially in the late morning and early afternoon when most international flights arrive. If possible, try to book an earlier flight into Malé or aim to arrive before the heavy daily rush. This can reduce waiting times, make your transfer smoother, and help you reach your resort sooner so you can start enjoying the island.

Getting Around the Maldives: Seaplane vs Speedboat

Seaplane transfers are one of the most magical experiences in the Maldives. They are used for resorts located farther from Malé, flying only during daylight hours—typically between 6am and 4pm. Because these planes are small, luggage allowances are strict, usually around 20kg checked and 5kg hand luggage. You may spend some time relaxing in your resort’s private lounge before boarding. The views from the air are unforgettable, but seaplanes can be more expensive, weather-dependent, and limited to daylight schedules.

Speedboats are the easiest and most convenient way to reach resorts close to Malé, usually between 10 and 60 minutes away. They operate 24/7, making them perfect for very early or late-night arrivals. Transfers are seamless with little waiting involved. While speedboats are more affordable and straightforward, the ride can be choppy depending on ocean conditions and, unlike seaplanes, you won’t get aerial views.

You can speedboat to many islands within the nearby North and South Malé Atolls, often within a 2–3 hour radius, which makes them ideal for quick and easy access. However, for the majority of Maldives resorts located in more remote atolls, speedboats are not feasible. Distances between atolls are long, and seas can be rough, so you’ll need either a seaplane or a domestic flight followed by a short speedboat ride. In most cases, long-distance boat transfers are only possible by returning to Malé first before continuing onward.

If you want to avoid the cost of a seaplane transfer, you’ll need to choose a resort that falls within the speedboat-accessible zone. This generally means selecting properties located in the North or South Malé Atolls, typically within a 2–3 hour radius. These islands are close enough for safe, direct boat travel and offer the most cost-effective transfer option. Once you move into more remote atolls, distances become too far, and a seaplane—or domestic flight plus speedboat—is the only feasible way to reach the resort.

Why All-Inclusive is a Must

The Maldives is known for being expensive, as almost everything has to be shipped to the islands. Dining, drinks, and activities can add up quickly, so choosing an All-Inclusive or Premium All-Inclusive package can often save you a significant amount of money while making your holiday far more relaxing.

All-Inclusive packages typically cover all your meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Many resorts also include snacks, afternoon tea, mini-bar refills, and non-motorised water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding. Some properties even offer excursions or resort credits as part of the package, giving you more flexibility and experiences without additional costs.

The benefits of all-inclusive are substantial. You won’t need to worry about paying $20–$30 for cocktails, $60 for buffet lunches, or $8 for bottles of water. Everything is included, so you can relax completely without thinking about the bill at checkout. This makes all-inclusive resorts particularly ideal for honeymoons, families, or anyone who wants a stress-free, worry-free holiday experience in the Maldives.

Best Things To Do In The Maldives 

The Maldives offers an incredible mix of relaxation and adventure, making it perfect for all types of travellers. Water-based activities dominate, with world-class snorkelling and diving that reveal vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, manta rays, and even whale sharks. For those who prefer to stay above the water, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and jet-skiing provide fun ways to explore the lagoons. Sunset cruises, dolphin-watching trips, and sandbank picnics add unforgettable moments, while luxurious spa treatments and overwater yoga sessions offer the ultimate in relaxation. Many resorts also host cultural experiences, cooking classes, and themed beach dinners, ensuring there’s always something unique to do each day. Whether you’re seeking adventure, romance, or pure relaxation, the Maldives has activities to suit every traveller.

Sun, Water & Skin: What You Need to Know

The Maldives sun is extremely strong, with equatorial-level UV that means even a short time outdoors can cause sunburn—sometimes in as little as ten minutes. UV rays are at their highest during midday, and even on cloudy days, they can still cause damage. Saltwater intensifies sun exposure because it reflects sunlight, and when snorkelling or swimming, your back, shoulders, and legs are particularly vulnerable.

Protecting yourself from the sun is essential. Reapply sunscreen every 60–90 minutes, especially after swimming or towel-drying. Wearing rash guards or UV-protective swimwear is highly recommended, not only for skin protection but also to make long hours in the water more comfortable. Reef-safe sunscreen is important to help preserve the delicate coral ecosystems, and staying hydrated is essential, as the combination of heat, sun, and ocean activity can dehydrate you more quickly than normal.

The water itself also affects your skin and hair. Saltwater can leave skin dry, so applying a good moisturiser after each swim is key. Hair can feel dry, brittle, or tangled, so using conditioner or a hydrating spray daily is recommended. Long periods of snorkelling or swimming can also be surprisingly tiring, so take breaks often and listen to your body to fully enjoy your time in the water.

When is the best time to visit the Maldives?

The best time to visit the Maldives is during the dry season, which runs from November to April, when the weather is sunny, humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal. This period is ideal for beach days, snorkelling, diving, and water sports, as the seas are calm and visibility is excellent. December to March is especially popular, so resorts and flights can be more expensive, and bookings should be made well in advance. The wet season, from May to October, brings higher humidity, more frequent rain showers, and occasional storms, but it also has fewer crowds and lower prices. Even during the wet season, rainfall is often short-lived, and there are still plenty of sunny days, making it a good option for budget-conscious travellers or those seeking a quieter experience.

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