Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas

The seaplane transfer: what to expect

Anantara Kihavah sits in Baa Atoll, 133 km north of Malé. The only practical way to get there is by seaplane—a 35-minute flight that’s as scenic as it is efficient. The resort partners with Manta Air, a carrier known for its modern fleet and comfortable cabins. Inside, you’ll find padded seats, cool air conditioning, and large windows that frame the Maldives like a living postcard. The plane makes a few stops along the way, dropping off guests at neighboring resorts, so don’t be surprised if you touch down briefly at another island before reaching Kihavah.

Seaplanes operate only during daylight hours, typically between 6 AM and 4 PM. If your international flight lands outside these times, the resort arranges a domestic flight to Dharavandhoo Airport, followed by a 15-minute speedboat ride to the island. The whole process is seamless: your villa host will confirm the transfer details before you depart and meet you at the jetty upon arrival. No need to worry about tickets or schedules—just show up at the seaplane terminal and let the resort take care of the rest.

• Flight duration: 35 minutes from Malé to Kihavah
• Operating hours: 6 AM to 4 PM (daylight only)
• Alternative for night arrivals: domestic flight + speedboat
• Baggage allowance: 20 kg per person (soft-sided luggage preferred)
• Check-in: 45 minutes before departure at the seaplane terminal

Arriving at Velana International Airport (MLE)

Your Maldives holiday begins From arrival off the plane at Velana International Airport. After clearing immigration and collecting your luggage, head to the arrivals hall where a resort representative will be waiting. They’ll whisk you away in a private van to the seaplane terminal—a short five-minute drive. The terminal itself is small but well-appointed, with air conditioning, complimentary refreshments, and a balcony where you can watch the seaplanes take off and land.

If you’re connecting from an evening flight, the resort will have already booked you on a domestic carrier to Dharavandhoo. The domestic terminal is adjacent to the international one, and the transfer between them is quick and hassle-free. Once you land in Dharavandhoo, a speedboat will be waiting to take you the final leg to Kihavah. The whole journey, from touchdown in Malé to stepping onto the resort’s jetty, rarely takes more than two hours.

The welcome ritual: a Maldivian tradition

Anantara Kihavah doesn’t just greet you—it celebrates your arrival. As your speedboat approaches the jetty, you’ll see a line of staff dressed in crisp white uniforms, clapping and singing to the rhythmic beat of Bodu Beru, the traditional Maldivian drum. It’s a warm, joyful welcome that sets the tone for your stay. After a quick introduction, you’ll be handed a cold towel and a refreshing drink before being escorted to your villa by your personal butler.

The ritual is the same for most guests, whether you arrive at noon or midnight. It’s a small touch, but it’s these details that make Kihavah feel less like a hotel and more like a homecoming. A good rule: to lean into the moment—let the music wash over you, take a deep breath of the salty air, and let the stress of travel melt away.

Daylight cut-offs and how to plan around them

Seaplanes can’t fly in the dark, so if your international flight lands after 4 PM, you’ll need to spend the night in Malé. The resort can arrange a stay at a nearby hotel—usually the Hulhulé Island Hotel, which is just a five-minute drive from the airport. It’s a comfortable, no-frills option with all the essentials: a pool, a restaurant, and easy access to the seaplane terminal the next morning.

If you’d rather not overnight in Malé, consider booking an earlier international flight that arrives in time for the last seaplane of the day. Most guests find this the easiest option, as it means you can start your holiday the same day you land. The resort’s team can help you coordinate flight times to ensure a smooth connection—just message Fede on WhatsApp when you’re planning your trip.

• Last seaplane departure from Malé: typically 4 PM (varies by season)
• First seaplane departure to Kihavah: around 6 AM
• Domestic flight alternative: available for night arrivals/departures
• Overnight in Malé: Hulhulé Island Hotel (resort can arrange booking)

Combining Kihavah with other resorts

Baa Atoll is home to some of the Maldives’ most well-known resorts, and it’s possible to combine Kihavah with a stay at a neighboring property. The most popular pairings are Soneva Fushi and Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, both of which are a short speedboat ride away. The logistics are straightforward: you can fly into one resort and out of another, with the transfers handled by the resorts themselves. It’s a great way to experience two different sides of the Maldives without backtracking through Malé.

If you’re considering a multi-resort itinerary, Worth recommending: splitting your stay between Kihavah and Soneva Fushi. The contrast is striking—Kihavah is sleek and contemporary, while Soneva Fushi is all about barefoot luxury and Robinson Crusoe charm. Together, they offer a well-rounded Maldives experience: one for adventure and one for relaxation. Message Fede to discuss the best way to structure your transfers and itinerary.

What to pack for your transfer

Seaplane cabins are small, so packing light is key. Most resorts enforce a 20 kg baggage limit, and soft-sided luggage is preferred because it’s easier to stow. Essentials to bring include:

• Sunscreen and a hat (the Maldivian sun is intense, even in the morning)
• A light cover-up or sarong (useful for the speedboat ride)
• Motion sickness tablets (if you’re prone to seasickness)
• A reusable water bottle (the resort provides complimentary refills)
• A good book or headphones (the seaplane ride is peaceful but not silent)

Leave your formal wear at home—Kihavah is all about laid-back luxury. The dress code is barefoot chic: think linen shirts, flowy dresses, and swimwear. If you forget something, the resort’s boutique stocks everything from reef-safe sunscreen to sarongs, but prices are premium, so it’s best to come prepared.