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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.
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.
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.
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:
These are all excellent choices if you prefer minimal travel time after a long flight from Australia.
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:
Speedboats are ideal for those who want a smooth, direct transfer with less waiting time.
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):
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?
After you land at Velana International Airport, your journey continues with one of three main transfer options:
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.
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.
