Resort Transfer Calculator
Speedboat vs seaplane, end-to-end β including lounge buffer, baggage, and per-person surcharges.
What this solves
The brochure price of a seaplane is rarely the real cost. The real comparison is door-to-door time (lounge check-in 2 h before the last flight, often earlier for international connections), baggage allowance (seaplanes allow ~20 kg + 5 kg hand; speedboats are more permissive), and missed-flight risk (last seaplane leaves around 16:00; late international arrivals cannot use it).
How to read results
- Cost is round-trip per adult, before child discount. Overweight on seaplane = (bags β 25) Γ rate.
- Door-to-door includes arrival β immigration β luggage β lounge β transfer β resort dock (β 30 min transfer at the resort end).
- Verdict uses both: if speedboat cost is < 60% of seaplane and time is < 2 h longer, speedboat wins. If your arrival is after 14:00, seaplane is usually impossible and we tell you so.
Limitations
FAQ
Why is seaplane so much more expensive?
Floatplane operations in the Maldives are small, regulated, and fuel-expensive. There are only a few operators (Trans Maldivian dominates), and resort contracts include per-pax landing rights.
Can I skip the seaplane lounge wait?
No. Seaplane check-in cutoff is firm (~2 h before departure). The lounge itself is at Velana International and is included in the ticket; if your international flight arrives after 14:00, you cannot make the last flight.
What if my flight is late?
Resorts typically hold a speedboat or arrange an overnight in Hulhumale. Seaplane tickets usually cannot be refunded; many resorts charge a change fee of $50β$150.