One of the best ways to explore the breathtaking Maldives resorts is with Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA). In addition to being the world’s largest seaplane operator, TMA also connects tourists from all across the globe to new Maldives resorts that opened in 2024 as well as resorts that have been around since tourism was introduced in the Maldives. If you’re struggling to pick the perfect resort for your Maldives getaway, here are some amazing destinations to fly with TMA!
Step 01: Picking the Resort
The first step when planning your Maldives getaway is to pick the perfect Maldives resort. If you’re looking to fly with TMA, you won’t be short of options. Some things you should, however, consider include:
- Are you planning on a family-friendly vacation or a romantic Maldives getaway?
- Do you want to book an all-inclusive getaway?
- Do you want a resort nearby to the airport or you don’t mind the distance?
- Are you looking for a luxury Maldives resort or something more laid-back?
- Do you prefer seaplane transfer compared to speedboat and domestic flights?
After you’ve already sorted the answers to these questions, then you can start planning with the resorts you have in mind. As TMA connects travellers to a large number of Maldives resorts, no matter which one of these options you are going for, you can probably still book with TMA.
Step 02: Booking Your Stay & Transfer
One of the best things about booking a Maldives resort stay is the ease of it all. Whether you book directly with the resort or through a travel agency, you can usually book everything from your villa category to your transfer all in one go. This means you can always request for seaplane transfer if it’s available while booking your stay.
There are quite a number of resorts that will also provide discounts on your transfer if you’re booking directly! We always recommend travellers take advantage of the discounts and benefits to make their stay more worthwhile.
There are a few options that TMA provides when you’re booking your seaplane getaway. This includes:
- Photo Flights: The standard photo flight package starting and finishing at the airport includes a 10-minute flyover. It is a very popular charter service and comes at a reasonable price.
- Resort Transfers: Transfer of guests to and from contracted resorts on scheduled flights.
- Private Charter: This is mainly for VIP guests or those who require dedicated flights to and from any destination of preference. These charters also include Top VIP charters on TMA’s VIP-configured aircraft.
- Excursions: Full-day and half-day excursions to uninhabited islands or sandbanks.
Step 03: Enjoying the Journey
Your Maldives resort journey with TMA starts at the Velana International Airport. Following your international or domestic flight to the city, you can either check in at the TMA counter or have the resort representatives help you check in!
After your check-in is complete, TMA with transfer you via an air-conditioned bus, VIP vehicle or the dedicated resort vehicle to the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal. You can either choose to rest at the main seaplane lounge until your seaplane is ready for boarding or you can make a prior request for VIP lounge as well. Another option is to check whether the resort you booked with has its own lounge.
At these lounges travellers can access comfortable seating for rest, free Wi-Fi access, an array of meals and snacks as well as refreshments. Kids can also explore kids’ play areas as well as the quiet zone for a little rest before boarding to your next destination. The TMA lounges have service staff available to take care of your every need, with special assistance for wheelchair-using passengers as well.
Get your cameras ready when you head out to board your seaplane, as the view is something you should not miss. From the moment you get on the seaplane until you reach your destination, the view from the window will look out of this world.
What Are Some Maldives Resorts to Explore with TMA?
You can explore resorts across all corners of the Maldives with TMA. Here are some traveller favourites:
