Seaplanes in the Maldives: 10 Things You Need To Know -Tips Travellers Should Know about Seaplane Travel in the Maldives

Most seaplanes used by local airlines in the Maldives are twin-otter DHC-6-300s planes which are also commonly called Havilland Twin Otter aircraft. With the capacity to safely carry 15 passengers, these planes are compact and fuel-efficient. As these aircraft can land and take off on both water and land, they are ideal for exploring an island nation such as the Maldives.

Although there is more than one seaplane carrier or airline in the country, most tourists will use Trans- Maldivian airlines, the largest seaplane operator in not only the Maldives but the world at large. With a fleet of 48 aircraft, Trans-Maldivian Airlines provides transfers all across the country. Maldivian Air is the second-largest carrier and is the national airline of the Maldives.

Seaplane operating times will depend on your arrival time and how many passengers need transfers to their resorts. All seaplanes depart from the Velana International Airport which lies next to the International Terminal. Seaplanes do not operate after 3.30 pm so those who arrive in Male after this time will need to spend the night in the capital.

Seaplane transfers cannot be booked separately from your reservations at Adaaran Prestige Water Villas or any other 5 Star Resorts in Maldives. This means your seaplane transfer must be booked when making accommodation arrangements as your resort will offer seaplane transfer to the property for a surcharge.

Those who book accommodation at resorts that are far removed from Male or the atolls near the Maldivian capital will need to rely on a seaplane transfer to reach their hotel.

Upon arrival at Male Airport, passengers will need to find your particular resort's counter in the Arrivals region of the airport. A representative from your hotel will be on hand at this counter to escort guests to the seaplane check-in area.

You are allowed to carry 5kg in hand luggage and 20kg for check-in luggage. Your overall luggage will be weighed during the seaplane check-in process.

Seaplanes do not have air-conditioning so it is best to wear light and airy materials as it can get humid and warm inside the vessel.

There isn't much room to move around, stand or walk around inside a seaplane as the aircraft is small. You will be able to catch spectacular views of the Maldives from every window although snapping photos is not recommended as the plane's wings will also be captured alongside the view.

The best seats inside a seaplane are the first row as they offer more leg space and better views out of the window.