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Would you Prefer a Seaplane or Domestic Transfer to Far Away Resort Trips?

One of the biggest questions that many guests have when it comes to travelling to resorts is whether to choose seaplanes or domestic transfers. Although both modes of transportation offer the Maldivian scenic view, both are truly unique experiences. While some people might choose to fly to their resorts through seaplanes facilitated by Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA), Maldivian or Manta Air, for many, the domestic transfer is the better option. So, what’s the difference between these modes of transportation, and how do you make the choice between seaplane and domestic transfer?

Why Choose Seaplane Transfer?

For travellers who opt for the seaplane transfer, it might just be due to its truly unique aspect. While you can get on a flight to several destinations around the world, seaplane transfers are not as easily accessible. However, when it comes to the Maldives, seaplane transfers are one of the most common modes of transportation to your resort. Due to its unique nature, some travellers even opt to ensure that they are booking a resort that facilitates seaplane transfers. In addition to the. uniqueness, seaplanes also offer quick and easy access to your destination with amazing views. For many, just filming their seaplane arrival itself is an adventurous experience that they are getting while in the Maldives. As seaplanes operate a bit differently, you would be able to get a much closer view of the beautiful Maldivian islands.

Additionally, for VIP guests seaplane transfer also offers a personal touch that many travellers seek. One of the major benefits is the convenience when it comes to connecting you directly to your destination. Unlike domestic transfers, on seaplanes, you just need to get your luggage, passport and ticket and they’ll transport you right to the shores of your resort destination. Moreover, with seaplanes passengers are able to avoid the long crowds as the seaplane terminal is separated from the domestic and international airports. This also means that you will have more time to sit back and relax, and enjoy the amazing views of the beautiful terminal!

Why Domestic Transfers?

Although the seaplane might sound filled with adventure and excitement, for some, it domestic transfers all the way. According to PackThePJ’s, a travel blog, seaplanes can be quite noisy. Although the seaplanes offer ear plugs, for some the noise in addition to the heat can ruin the start of their trip. For this reason alone, passengers may prefer domestic transfers whether that is through speedboats or domestic flights. In the blog, PackThePJ’s also noted that the moment of landing, when the pilot tips down the plane was a very dsicering moment. As a lot of travellers from big cities are not used to landing on water or getting on seaplanes, this ‘feeling’ of motion sickness might come as a unique and foreign feeling. However, many of these travellers would not have these issues with domestic flights.

Some additional benefits of domestic flights might also include being able to carry more luggage. When it comes to seaplanes, depending on the capacity it might be difficult to haggle to bring more luggage. For domestic flights, however, it is oftentimes easy to just pay access luggage fees and have a hassle-free trip. Some of the bigger factors for domestic transfer also include the cheaper cost compared to seaplanes, comfort and convenience, as well as accessibility. Through Maldivian, Villa Air as well as Manta Air, passengers are able to connect not only to resorts but also to explore local islands.

Whether it is to a faraway resort or a nearby Maldives resort, for many passengers it’s all about the experience. So, are you a seaplane person or would you choose domestic transfers? If you’re planning to book your next trip with a seaplane transfer, here are some important facts you should know!

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Marriott International Celebrates Second Wave of Graduates in Maldives Apprenticeship Program

Marriott International Celebrates Second Wave of Graduates in Maldives Apprenticeship Program

On April 19, 2025, Marriott International celebrated the success of 31 apprentices who graduated from the second batch of its Maldives Apprenticeship Program. The special ceremony took place at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa and featured key dignitaries, including Hon. Ibrahim Waheed, the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts, along with other officials from the Ministry of Youth Empowerment and the Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT). Additionally, Mark Fletcher, Marriott’s Area Director of Human Resources for Singapore and the Maldives, also attended to acknowledge the graduates’ achievements.

Hon. Ibrahim Waheed highlighted the program’s role in empowering the youth of the Maldives, commenting, “Today, we celebrate 31 apprenticeship graduates. These are 31 futures redefined—each a testament to what happens when opportunity meets action. To our apprentices, you step forward as ambassadors of possibility. And to Marriott International, thank you for not just supporting this program, but for championing it—your commitment to mentorship and local capacity building is truly admirable.”

A Collaborative Effort in Hospitality Training

The Marriott Apprenticeship Program is a collaborative effort between Marriott International, the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment, and MIT. This 10-month program provides participants with a well-rounded education that includes theoretical lessons at MIT and hands-on experience at various Marriott resorts across the Maldives. Specifically, the apprentices received training in several key hospitality sectors, including front office operations, culinary arts, food and beverage service, and housekeeping.

By partnering with the Maldivian government, Marriott became the first international hospitality brand to support such an apprenticeship initiative in the country, reinforcing its dedication to developing local talent. In this way, the program supports Marriott’s broader mission to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the fast-growing Maldivian tourism industry.

Practical Experience Across Marriott’s Maldives Resorts

The apprentices completed their theoretical training at MIT before gaining practical experience at Marriott’s luxurious properties in the Maldives, such as The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands; The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort; JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa; W Maldives; Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa; Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa; and The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort.

True to the company’s guiding principle of “We Put People First,” Marriott focuses on helping young professionals grow and succeed. As a result of their hard work, all the graduates received Level-3 certification, officially recognized by the Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA). This certification acknowledges their successful completion of both the academic and practical components of the program, preparing them for careers in the hospitality industry.

Looking Ahead to a Bright Future

Mark Fletcher reflected on the program’s origins, noting, “When we launched this program in 2023, it was envisioned as a pilot, a leap of faith, grounded in belief. A belief in crafting talents of Maldivian youth, belief in the strength and collaboration, and belief in Marriott’s commitment to “take care” – not just our people but the communities where we serve. What began as an initiative is now a movement, and Marriott International is proud to be the first international hospitality brand to officially launch such apprenticeship program in the Maldives”

Ultimately, this graduation marks a key milestone in Marriott’s efforts to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the Maldives’ tourism industry by fostering a talented and skilled local workforce. Marriott looks forward to watching its graduates embark on successful careers and continue playing an essential role in the growth of the country’s hospitality sector.

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