Getting Around the Maldives
The Maldives is a dream destination, and the journey there is part of the magic. With its unique geography made up of over 1,000 islands across 26 atolls, understanding how to navigate the Maldives will help you choose the right resort and plan your journey with ease.
Here’s everything you need to know about travel times, island transfers and what to expect after landing.
Where is the Maldives located?
The Maldives is set like a gem in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. It’s a tropical paradise known for its turquoise lagoons, white sand beaches and luxurious overwater villas. The country consists of a chain of islands studding the equator, making it a year-round destination for warm weather and sunshine.
Which ocean is the Maldives in?
The Maldives lies in the Indian Ocean, specifically in the Arabian Sea region. Its remote setting is part of what makes it such a peaceful escape, surrounded by calm, clear waters ideal for swimming, diving and relaxing.
Which Maldives island is closest to Malé Airport?
The main international gateway to the Maldives is Velana International Airport (MLE), located on Hulhulé Island, near the capital city of Malé. Several resort islands are within 20 to 30 minutes by speedboat from the airport, making them ideal for quick and easy transfers. Some of the closest include:
- Adaaran Prestige Vadoo Maldives is a 15-minute speed boat ride away.
- Centara Ras Fushi Resort and Spa Maldives is a 20-minute speed boat ride away.
- Ifuru Island Resort Maldives is a 40-minute scenic flight away.
- Kuredhivaru Resort and Spa is a 45-minute scenic flight away.
These are all excellent choices if you prefer minimal travel time after a long flight from Australia.
Which Maldives islands are accessible by speedboat?
Resorts in the North Malé and South Malé Atolls are generally accessible by speedboat directly from Velana International Airport – no domestic flight or seaplane required. Transfers usually take 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the island’s distance.
Popular speedboat-accessible resorts include:
- OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi is a 15-minute speed boat ride away.
- Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort and Spa is a 15-minute speedboat ride away.
- Taj Exotica Resort and Spa is a 20-minute speedboat ride away.
- OBLU SELECT Lobigili is a 15-minute speedboat ride away.
Speedboats are ideal for those who want a smooth, direct transfer with less waiting time.
Maldives flight times from Australia
Wondering how long it takes to get to paradise? Here are average flight durations (with one or more stopovers) from major Australian cities to Velana International Airport (MLE):
- Sydney to Maldives: 14–16 hours with one stop.
- Melbourne to Maldives: 14–17 hours with one stop.
- Brisbane to Maldives: 15–18 hours with one stop.
- Perth to Maldives: 12–15 hours with one stop.
There are no direct flights from Australia to the Maldives, but many routes connect through Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Doha or Colombo. If you’re planning to travel via Colombo, why not combine your Maldives escape with a Sri Lanka tour?
How to get from Male Airport to your resort
After you land at Velana International Airport, your journey continues with one of three main transfer options:
- Ideal for nearby islands – mainly in Male Atoll.
- Operates frequently throughout the day.
- Comfortable and scenic ride across the lagoon.
- Transfer time: 15–60 minutes.
- Used for resorts located on outer atolls.
- Breathtaking panoramic views of the atolls.
- Operates during daylight hours only.
- Transfer time: 30–60 minutes.
- For remote islands not serviced by seaplane.
- A domestic flight is usually 20–60 minutes to a local airport.
- Followed by a short speedboat transfer to the resort.
My Maldives takes care of you from the moment you book to your first steps off the plane. We will organise your transfers so all you have to do is hop on and start your holiday.
Travel made easy in the Maldives
The Maldives offers a variety of travel options to suit every style. Whether you’re looking for quick and easy access or a scenic journey across the atolls, with the right planning, getting around the Maldives can be seamless, comfortable and a breathtaking part of the adventure.
Need help choosing a resort with convenient transfers? Let our experienced My Maldives Travel Experts take care of the details, so you can focus on enjoying your island escape.
