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How the World’s Largest Seaplane Terminal Makes Travel to Maldives Resorts Easier!

Velana International Airport made seaplane travel easier for passengers connecting to Maldives resorts in 2022. This was the year when the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal was introduced, marking the launch of the largest seaplane terminal in the world. Since then, this beautiful seaplane terminal has marked the start and end of the journey for every traveller connecting to a Maldives resort by seaplane.

A Journey to the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal

Upon arrival at the Velana International Airport (VIA), travellers must locate the correct counter for check-in. For seaplanes, it’s going to be one of the three operators: Trans Maldivian (TMA), Manta Air or Maldivian. If your resort has a lounge based at VIA, you can often head straight there to relax and cool down. From there, a resort vehicle or the airport bus will transport you to the beautiful Noovilu Seaplane Terminal.

Quite a number of resorts have already developed their own lounges for travellers to relax, unwind and grab a snack before travelling. One of the best parts is that you can even sneak in a quick shower at some of these lounges! If the resort does not have a dedicated lounge, travellers can explore the main lounge which is accessible to all. There’s always fresh beverages, hot drinks, an amazing view, and free Wi-Fi for travellers here. If you’re extra hungry, you can also order meals at any of the outlets based at the terminal.

Coral Lounge by Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA)

If you’re flying with TMA, you can explore the Coral Lounge. This new VIP lounge is located on the 2nd floor, offering VIP guests the best of the terminal. With one of the best views, guests can watch the seaplanes landing and take off from the water runways. In addition to the scenic view and comfortable seating, the terminal also provides:

  • Dedicated quiet zone with recliners & massage chairs
  • An array of meals, snacks and refreshments
  • Free Wi-Fi access
  • Kids play area with toys and activity books
  • Comfortable washrooms with baby changing facilities & showers
  • Service staff to take care of your every need, with special assistance for wheel-chair bound passengers

Although repeated guests are quite used to the workings of the seaplane terminal, new travellers shouldn’t worry about the process. If you’ve booked directly with the hotel, a representative will ensure your check-in and departure go smoothly. With the Noovilu Seaplane terminal, your journey to paradise is made easier, convenient and fun!

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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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