The Insider’s Guide on How to Get to Maldives by Plane, Seaplane, and Speedboat

Traveloka Team
16 Sep 2024 - 4 min read

Thinking of a getaway to the Maldives? You’re in the right place! This tropical gem, with its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, is easier to reach than you might think. Wondering how to get to Maldives?

Get ready to explore the top three ways to get to this luxe paradise. Whether you’re flying in style, cruising along, or opting for a bit of adventure, each option has its own unique appeal and brings you closer to an epic holiday. Let’s dive in and start planning your Maldives adventure!

How to Get to Maldives from Malé Airport: 3 Main Options

When heading to the Maldives, you’ll land in Malé at Velana International Airport (MLE) on Hulhulé Island, close to the capital. Most international flights touch down here, and from Malé, you can hop on a domestic flight, catch a seaplane, or take a speedboat to get to your island paradise.

Flight From Singapore to Maldives

Thu, 21 Aug 2025

IndiGo

Singapore (SIN) to Male (MLE)

Start from SGD 181.78

Sun, 31 Aug 2025

AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)

Singapore (SIN) to Male (MLE)

Start from SGD 194.79

Tue, 26 Aug 2025

Batik Air Malaysia

Singapore (SIN) to Male (MLE)

Start from SGD 198.24

1. By Plane

If you hop on a domestic flight from Malé, you’ll land at one of the regional airports scattered across the Maldives. Which airport you end up at depends on where you’re off to.

Some of the local airports are:

Dharavandhoo Airport (DRV)
Maamigili Airport (VAM)
Gan International Airport (GAN)

Airlines

You’re in luck! Flights to these local airports are available almost daily, so you must choose the one that suits your schedule.

Via

Airlines

Operating Days

Departure

DRV

Flyme

Every day

6:00 AM11:30 AM4:45 PM

Maldivian

Every day

11:30 AM6:20 PM

Pamir Air

Every day

11:30 AM5:25 PM

VAM

Flyme

Every day

9:30 AM1:30 PM6:45 PM

GAN

Pamir Air

MondayWednesdayThursdayFridaySunday

11:25 PM

Maldivian

Every day

12:05 PM4:45 PM11:30 PM

One&Only Reethi Rah

9.4/10

SGD 3,255

SGD 3,172

Flight Times

How long does it take to get to the Maldives? You’ll be pleased to hear that the flight from Velana International Airport to any local Maldives airport is quick. Check out these flight times based on your destination.

Maamigili Airport: 30 minutes
Dharavandhoo Airport: 30 minutes
Gan International Airport: 1 hour and 40 minutes

Booking Tips

Flights from Malé to the local airports can sell out fast, particularly from December through April. It’s a good idea to book ahead to grab a seat and maybe even score a better price.
Flyme, Maldivian, and Pamir Air operate domestic flights in the Maldives. Compare their flight times, costs, and extras to find the best option.
Most resorts offer package deals that cover domestic flights or transfers. This is handy and can sometimes be cheaper than booking flights separately.

2. By Seaplane

How do you get to Maldives hotels quickly? Seaplanes are the fastest way to get to your resort, with just a 10-minute flight from Malé to the north or south atolls.

You can choose from two seaplane operators: Manta Air and Trans Maldivian. The cost of services from these companies can differ, but the starting price is about $250.

Manta Air

You can book a seaplane with Manta Air online or at the Velana International Airport sales point. They offer two seating choices: Comfort and Sapphire.

With four flights a day, you can pick whichever time suits you best. Before boarding, you’ll head from the Arrival Area to the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal. We recommend booking ahead to avoid any long waits.

Trans Maldivian

With Trans Maldivian, you can choose from three booking choices: resort transfer, charter, or photo flight. The price will vary depending on your preference. We suggest booking ahead, as waiting at the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal can take a while.

Once you've passed through immigration, you can check in for your Trans-Maldivian flight. If you’ve booked directly through your hotel, pop by their counter in the Arrival Area or meet your tour rep if you’re on a package. They’ll arrange a comfy car to take you to the terminal.

Maldives Day Tour from Hulhumale

SGD 329

3. By Speedboat

How to get to Maldives cheap? You might miss the seaplane ride if your island’s only reachable by boat. But no worries—speedboats are usually a more budget-friendly option and heaps of fun!

You’ll catch your speedboat—often the resort’s own—from the jetty across from the airport. Then, it’s a quick dash to your resort. Your resort’s location will dictate the trip time, ranging from 15 to 75 minutes.

The great thing about speedboat transfers, besides the lower cost (kicking off at just $35), is what you might see along the way. Since you're suitable at sea level, you can check out other islands and spot some dolphins on your way to the resort.

Top 5 Things to Do in Maldives

Heading to the Maldives means you’re up for a good time and won’t be disappointed! Here are the top 5 must-do activities while you soak up this slice of paradise.

1. Try Scuba Diving

Scuba diving in the Maldives is a real thrill. The clear blue waters, lively coral reefs, and diverse sea creatures make it a favourite spot for divers, no matter your skill level.

2. Dine Underwater

Many expensive resorts in the Maldives have underwater restaurants where you can tuck into gourmet meals with epic ocean views and marine life. It’s a one-of-a-kind dining experience that pairs delicious food with gorgeous underwater vistas.

3. Get Your Hand on Fishing

Fishing in the Maldives is a brilliant way to have some fun. Whether you’re up for a night fishing trip or a deep-sea adventure, there’s plenty to try. See if you can reel in local catches like tuna, snapper, or grouper.

4. Relax at Spa

Many resorts boast lush spa experiences, from massages to facials, usually in fab overwater pavilions or beachside spots. The peaceful setting and the gentle ocean sounds make it ideal for a bit of R&R.

5. Go to A Sandbank

Sandbanks boast stunning, unspoilt beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for a peaceful getaway. You can chill on the sand, dip in the shallow, turquoise sea, or even have a picnic.

So, there you have three fantastic ways to get to the Maldives. Whether you’re curious about how to get to Maldives directly or through connecting flights, we’ve covered all the options. For hassle-free bookings and great deals, check out Traveloka. Use Traveloka to book your flights, find comfortable accommodations, and arrange delightful activities in one place. Our platform is committed to offering the best deals, ensuring you always get great value. Get everything ready in one go, and you'll be all set to start your new adventure soon!

Tags:

singapore to maldives

maldives

In This Article

• How to Get to Maldives from Malé Airport: 3 Main Options
• 1. By Plane
• Airlines
• Flight Times
• Booking Tips
• 2. By Seaplane
• 3. By Speedboat
• Top 5 Things to Do in Maldives
• 1. Try Scuba Diving
• 2. Dine Underwater
• 3. Get Your Hand on Fishing
• 4. Relax at Spa
• 5. Go to A Sandbank

Flights Featured in This Article

Thu, 21 Aug 2025
IndiGo
Singapore (SIN) to Male (MLE)
Start from SGD 181.78
Book Now
Sun, 31 Aug 2025
AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)
Singapore (SIN) to Male (MLE)
Start from SGD 194.79
Book Now
Tue, 26 Aug 2025
Batik Air Malaysia
Singapore (SIN) to Male (MLE)
Start from SGD 198.24
Book Now
Hotels
Flights
Things to Do
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