Royal Island is a faraway island retreat where every day is a new chapter. Located in the heart of the Baa Atoll, this all-inclusive & full-board option resort brings together the intimacy of a village, the spirit of escapism, and the warmth of Maldivian culture.
It’s a place to wake up to uninterrupted ocean views, connect over soulful South Asian dining, and be inspired by an ever growing collection of signature excursions and spa experiences.
Conditions:
To Consider:
Our villas combine contemporary amenities with the laid-back nature of island life. They are where peace and privacy meet panoramic ocean views. They are everything a beachfront villa in the Maldives should be: a place to disconnect from the world and reconnect with each other
The island has 5 VILLA TYPES to choose from, they are;
Positioned at either end of the island, these two-bedroom hideaways are the biggest and most luxurious of all beachfront villas at Royal Island Resort, in the Maldives.
Perfect for families or couples searching for more room to relax, these luxury villas feature private pools, direct access to the crystal-clear lagoon, and panoramic ocean views. Their location on the furthermost east and west sides of the island means they offer peace and privacy. And for those times when you need anything, you can call on your own private butler.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi | Air Conditioning | Satellite TV | Direct-Dial Telephone | Safe Deposit Box | Mini Bar | Hair Dryer | Tea & Coffee | Twice-Daily House Keeping Service.
Features: 257 square metres | sleeps 4 Adults + 2 children | Villas: 132 & 210 | Beach Access | Private Terrace | Private Pool | Private Whirlpool
Steps away from the ocean and spacious enough to sleep six. These villas have everything you could need for a family vacation in the Baa Atoll.
Shaded by dense, tropical greenery, but with Royal Island’s main restaurants, and bars, and facilities just a short walk away, these spacious, two-bedroom beach villas offer the best of both worlds. Step from your private outdoor terrace onto the deep, sugar-sand beach, and spend your evenings walking along the shoreline watching the sun dip below the horizon.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi | Air Conditioning | Satellite TV | Direct-Dial Telephone | Safe Deposit Box | Mini Bar | Hair Dryer | Tea & Coffee | Butler Service Upon Request | Twice-Daily House Keeping Service | 24-hr Room Service.
Features: 114 square metres | sleeps 4 Adults + 2 children | Villas: 101 – 106, 168 – 169, 241 – 250 | Beach Access | Private Terrace | Open-Air Shower
With a private pool, indoor and outdoor seating areas and open-air showers, dive into a blend of Maldivian elegance and unmatched relaxation.
Nestled along the shoreline, mere steps away from the ocean, Beach Pool Villas merge the charm of Beach Villas with the luxury of your own private pool. Enjoy the infinite sea-views from the terrace, or step on to your very own slice of beach to relax under the tropical sun.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi | Air Conditioning | Satellite TV | Direct-Dial Telephone | Safe Deposit Box | Mini Bar | Hair Dryer | Tea & Coffee | Butler Service Upon Request | Twice-Daily House Keeping Service | 24-hr Room Service.
Features: 125 square metres | sleeps 2 Adults + 1 child | Villas: 133 – 142 | Private Pool | Private Sundeck | Direct Beach Access | Open-Air Shower
The same simple luxuries of a Beach Villa in the Maldives, but with some of the island’s best sunset views. Memorable evenings begin right here.
These sunset-facing villas were tailor-made for couples. Uninterrupted ocean views and open-air showers surrounded by fragrant tropical greenery channel the spirit of the laid-back island resort, while the private outdoor terrace makes the golden hour all the more magical.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi | Air Conditioning | Satellite TV | Direct-Dial Telephone | Safe Deposit Box | Mini Bar | Hair Dryer | Tea & Coffee | Butler Service Upon Request | Twice-Daily House Keeping Service | 24-hr Room Service.
Features: 57 square metres | sleeps 2 Adults + 1 child | Villas: 170 – 209 | Private Terrace | Beach Access | Sunset View | Open-Air Shower
Traditional Maldivian charm, sea-view terraces, and a peaceful island setting. The Beach Villas set the standard for all the beachfront accommodation at Royal Island.
These spacious one-bedroom villas are backed by tropical greenery, steps away from the edge of the lagoon. In addition to the indoor and outdoor seating areas, you’ll find an open-air shower, plenty of room to unwind, and your private area of beach to relax on.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi | Air Conditioning | Satellite TV | Direct-Dial Telephone | Safe Deposit Box | Mini Bar | Hair Dryer | Tea & Coffee | Butler Service Upon Request | Twice-Daily House Keeping Service | 24-hr Room Service.
Features: 57 square metres | sleeps 2 Adults + 1 child | Villas: 170 – 209 | Private Terrace | Beach Access | Sunset View | Open-Air Shower
Dining at Royal Island is soulful and always seasonal. The restaurants reflect the colorful, carefree nature of the island, and the menus help to create memories across the table. Dine on South Asian feasts with a side of ocean views, sample freshly caught seafood with sand between your toes, and dance to the rhythm of the resort with palm-fringed beaches as your backdrop.
Open morning, noon, and night, this beachside restaurant, Maakanaa, is a place to come together and feast on food that captures the true spirit of the Maldives.
Every meal promises a fusion of flavors. From continental buffet-style breakfasts made for grazing on to the chef’s playful take on dishes synonymous with South Asia, all the food showcases ingredients sourced from nearby Maldivian islands or the colorful open-air markets in Malé.
OPENING HOURS: Breakfast: 7:30 – 10:00 am | Lunch: 12:30 – 14:00 pm | Dinner: 19:30 – 21:00 pm
The food at Raabondhi is a celebration of the underwater world around us. Flamed-grilled meats and freshly caught seafood, ocean-facing tables on the sugar-white sandy shoreline, and a laid-back atmosphere to match.
Backed by a grove of swaying coconut palms on the quieter south side of the island, Raabondi is a place for everything from light lunches to candlelit dinners. The chefs are famed for their locally caught Maldivian lobster, cooked whole on the outdoor coal-fired grill.
OPENING HOURS: 11:00 am – 23:00 pm
With soft, cabana-style seating and classic beach bar vibes, Boli Bar is where you can come together over live music, freshly brewed coffee, and coconut-infused cocktails.
By day, gather for freshly pressed juices and a game of pool. After dinner, pick from the selection of fine wines, beers, spirits, and liquors and settle in for a night of live music on the moonlit deck.
OPENING HOURS: 24 hours
The swim-up pool bar serves everything from ice-cold beers to freshly pressed juices. With submerged seating and a traditional palm-thatched roof, it’s a place to embrace a slower pace of life.
Take a break from the midday sun and stop by for refreshing coconut water, chilled wines by the glass, or a selection of spirits and liquors. Or, ask the talented bar team to mix up a new version of your favorite cocktail.
OPENING HOURS: 10:00 am – 18:00 pm
With a well-stocked bar and music from live bands and DJs until late, Fun Pub provides the setting and soundtrack for those livelier nights on the island.
Open every night from 9:00 pm, Fun Pub is where you can sit back and relax with a cocktail, make some music of your own at the karaoke bar, or simply dance the night away.
OPENING HOURS: 24 hours
With some of the best experiences in the Maldives, Royal Island opens the door to a world of opportunities. It’s where you can discover first-class diving, relax on sandbanks at sunset, and immerse yourself in local culture. It’s a place to live in the moment, and leave with unforgettable memories.
Water Sports | Excursions & Tours | Private Dining | Land Sports
Say I do and leave the rest to “Royal Island – Team” to curate your dream wedding ceremony in the Maldives.
Set the scene for a lifetime of happiness with a picture perfect wedding in the romantic island setting. The wedding ceremonies can be seamlessly tailored to suit your most intimate desires in a range of dreamy locations fringed by white sands, tropical palms and endless Indian Ocean blues.
Sunset Bliss | Royal Romance | Romantic Experience
Indulge in a romantic sandbank wedding featuring a pre-ceremony beauty ritual at Araamu Spa, followed by a festive escort with local drums and dance. Exchange your vows on the beach during a stunning sunset and celebrate with champagne, a wedding cake, and refreshments. Enjoy a candlelit BBQ dinner for two on the beach or an indoor venue, depending on the weather. Your special day ends with a turndown service adorned with fresh flowers, a champagne breakfast, a Loabi-Loabi couples massage at Araamu Spa, a sunset cocktail, and professional wedding photography.
Embrace your love with a royal affair, starting with a beauty ritual at Araamu Spa and a traditional escort with local drums and dance. Declare your devotion on the beach during a breathtaking sunset, followed by a wedding cake and refreshments. The experience is complete with a special turndown service featuring flowers and memorable wedding photography.
Beach front accommodation, private island excursions, and intimate sunset dinners on the beach - all this awaits on our romantic tropical retreat.
It’s no secret that some of the island’s best experiences take place off dry land. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-fuelled adventures, want to experience the true tranquility of life out on the water, or fancy taking to the skies and see a new side to the tropical island, the Royal Island team takes watersports in the Maldives to new heights.
WindSurf | JetBlade | Canoeing | Jet Surf | Sea Bob | Fun Tube | Water Skiing, Kneeboarding & Wakeboarding | Parasailing | Jet Skii Rides | Jet Skii Tours | Sea Master Boat Trips | Standup PaddleBoarding
Hire one of our windsurfing boards and let the ocean breeze carry you across the crystal-clear waters in the bay. The team can teach you all the basics in a private lesson, or you can make use of the island's equipment and enjoy a few hours out on the water.
This jet pack will propel you high into the air, enabling you to perform spins and turns over the lagoon. There's no experience necessary for Jetblade and a full safety briefing will be given before your flight
Take out a double or single canoe and see a new side to Royal Island's tropical blue lagoon. Paddle around the nearby reefs, explore sugar-sand beaches and get up close to the species of sea life which live in the waters surrounding the island.
Dive a little deeper below the beautiful azure waters and discover countless tropical marine life. The hand-held scooters are perfect for exploring the nearby coral reefs and swimming with fish, turtles, and mantas
Fun tube is perfect for families. Expect big splashes, high speeds, and lots of fun. Simply hold on tight as the boat pulls your inflatable tube across the water
Our board sports are perfect for thrill-seekers or those looking to see a new side to our tranquil lagoon. Whether you're a beginner or experienced at water sports, we'll ensure you get the very best from your time in the water.
Take to the skies over Royal Island and soak up stunning views of the island from above. With no experience necessary, and breathtaking views to be had, this truly unique experience is a must for thrill-seekers.
Jump on one of our Jet Skis for a white-knuckle ride around Royal Island's beautiful turquoise bay. The Jet Skis can carry one person or two, and the team will let you know all the top spots for exploring.
Go beyond the crystal waters of the bay and discover hidden sandbanks and beautiful coral reefs. The team will take you to all the best places for snorkeling. Simply choose between 1, 2, or 3-hour tour.
Explore the very best of our tranquil lagoons and beyond with the sea master boat trips. Venture to local villages and coral gardens, snorkel with turtles, or embark on a dolphin safari - the choice is yours.
Explore Royal Island's beaches and work on your core strength and fitness with a SUP session in the shallows. The tranquil, turquoise lagoon stretches far and wide in every direction and is the perfect place to spot tropical fish or soak up views of the island from the water.
Embark on a big game fishing adventure, experience the magic of snorkelling around nearby reefs at sunrise, or spend the golden hour watching wild dolphins play in the waves on a traditional dhoni.
These island tours, excursions and activities have been designed to help you make the most of your vacation in the Maldives.
Hanifaru Bay | Sunset Cruise | Stargazing | Moonlight Cruise | Big Game Fishing | Dolphin Safari | Local Island Experience | Night Fishing | Sandbank Sunset Cocktails | Sandbank Picnics | Hello Sunshine
Royal Island is located in the protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, home to rich coral reefs, a variety of tropical marine life, whale sharks and manta rays which gather at the unique marine reserve of Hanifaru Bay. The bay is located just 15 minutes by speed boat from Royal Island.
Set sail from Royal Island and watch the sun dip below the horizon on a traditional Maldivian dhoni. As the sun sets, head out into the lagoon and soak up panoramic views of pastel-colored skies with a cocktail or mocktail of your choice.
When the evening comes, watch as a candy-colored sunset is transformed into a starry night sky. With some of the clearest skies in the world, our stargazing excursion is undoubtedly one of the most romantic experiences at Royal Island
When night falls, board a traditional dhoni and experience the beauty and tranquility of an evening on the water. Explore the nearby lagoon, or pay a visit to a nearby sandbank and gaze up at the stars.
Try your hand at catching your own supper with a big game fishing adventure in the heart of the Indian Ocean. You'll learn more about traditional fishing methods in the Maldives, and anything you do catch can be barbecued or grilled by our chefs when you arrive back at Royal Island.
Come sundown, board a high-powered speedboat or a traditional dhoni and watch dolphins play in the surf. Available every day, our dolphin safari is the perfect start to an unforgettable evening at Royal Island
Pay a visit to a neighboring island and learn more about traditional Maldivian culture. Speak with the island's locals, sample South Asian food made with home-grown ingredients, and discover more about what life is like on these remote islands in the Baa Atoll.
Board a Maldivian dhoni and embark on a nighttime fishing trip in the waters surrounding Royal Island. Our team will take you to a nearby reef where you can try your hand at catching your supper, the traditional way. Anything you catch can be grilled by our chefs when you return to the island.
No trip to the Maldives would be complete without cocktails at the golden hour. After a short boat trip to a secluded sandbank, sit back and watch the sun set with your choice of cocktail or mocktail
Swim, snorkel, and sample delicious Maldivian food with the sandbank picnic experience. Choose between morning, afternoon, and full-day experiences, or, enjoy a private tour with just the two of you and a bottle of champagne. The packages include a packed lunch, refreshments, and a selection of fresh fruits
Enjoy a day of fun in the sun with a barbecue lunch on a private island. Perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends, this island-hopping adventure includes lunch, refreshments, and the use of snorkeling gear.
Whether you want to sample traditional Maldivian specialties or dishes from across the globe, the chefs have created menus that are sure to delight.
There’s nothing more memorable on an island holiday than eating outdoors on the beach or discovering a new cuisine.
Whether it’s a seafood lunch at sea or a private barbeque under a thousand stars as the air fills with the fragrant scent of the flower gardens, you’re spoilt for choice at Royal Island.
Candlelit Beach Dinner | Dig-in Dinner | Lagoon Lunch | Private BBQ on the Beach
The candlelit beach dinners are the quintessential island experience. After all, there’s nothing more memorable than eating a delicious meal together, toes in sand, with the water lapping nearby. Set out under the stars, the night is yours and we promise a memorable one!
A specially dug table and chairs in the sand is quite simply the most authentic way to experience dining on the sand under a balmy night sky. Set up especially for you in a secluded beach location – it’s always surprise so we’ll leave you do discover the rest.
Authentic and relaxing, our private seafood lunch at sea is a treat. Have a quick swim or snorkel to cool off and then sit down for a seafood lunch or celebratory lunch to remember, particularly if it’s a special birthday or anniversary.
There’s nothing better than a laid-back, private barbeque under the stars, especially for families or groups of friends who simply want to relax.
The island’s sports facilities are here for those looking to keep their feet firmly on dry land. Royal Island’s land sports include everything from badminton and volleyball on the beach to floodlit tennis for cooler evenings, plus a state-of-the-art fitness centre.
Futsal | Badminton | Tennis | Fitness Centre | Table Tennis
Hit the courts for a high-octane futsal game - the perfect way to work up an appetite ahead of lunch or simply put your skills to the test.
Our badminton courts are positioned in the center of the island, perfect for an intense work-out and just a few metres from the bar for a cooling off drink afterwards.
Challenge your partner to a game of tennis. Our floodlit courts allow you to play in cooler temperatures after sunset. It’s advisable to book ahead.
Keep working on your strength, balance, and cardio in our state-of-the-art fitness centre. Open early until late, seven days a week.
Take a break from relaxing on the beach and enjoy a game of ping-pong under the shade of the palm trees.
A voyage of the senses starts at Araamu Spa, a tropical garden sanctuary where time doesn’t move from hour to hour but mood to moment. Surrounded by the lush greenery of a private spa pavilion, find your zen while the restorative power of the island and sounds of exotic birds allow you to fully experience physical, mental and spiritual rejuvenation.
Let them melt away the layers of tension and transport you to a sublime world of inner calm. The secluded Araamu Spa is the ultimate oasis on your journey to personal wellness.
Your lifestyle, mood and needs are the key to crafting a customized spa experience. Indulge in progressive health and wellness concepts including classic body and face treatments, ancient Ayurvedic healing therapies as well as beauty care. Reconnect with nature in our tropical garden sanctuary while we ensure pampered pleasure with each spa visit.
Back To Roots | Exotic Cocoon | Voyager | Shirodhara
Clear this space of all stagnant energies and soak in the good vibes. Begin the experience with purifying cucumber shot, exotic milk foot ritual and deep abdominal breathing. Therapist will start with clearing your aura from any stagnation and invite positive energy. Inspired by the local healing rituals, the smudging ceremony involves the burning of medicine leaves gathered from around the island. Continue your journey with grounding sand & coconut milk poultice therapy followed by intensive bamboo fusion massage designed to instantly melt away any muscular tightness and body pains. Finish with herbal vitality bath ceremony then nourish the body with fresh papaya smoothie and a local snack. With lifted spirits, set an intention for the coming days, breathe deeply and reconnect with elements of nature.
Wrap yourself in an exotic aroma of the Maldives. Start with a gentle coffee and coconut body scrub, followed by a smoothing coconut yogurt body cocoon. Finish your island inspired ritual with a nourishing hair treatment and a relaxing pressure point scalp massage.
Let go of muscular tension, shoulder knots and stiff joints. Start with stimulating bamboo brooming followed by deep tissue massage. During this treatment, therapist will combine powerful stretching techniques and joint rotations to help facilitate muscle recovery and release deeply accumulated tension all throughout the body
Unblock the natural flow of energy, increase clarity and bring peace of mind. This holistic treatment starts with stimulating scalp massage, followed by meridian body massage with friction-based strokes. The therapy ends with a warm, herbalized oil steadily poured onto your forehead to improve blood supply to the brain, reduce restlessness and improve sleep quality
Home to colorful coral gardens, schools of exotic sea creatures, and crystal-clear waters all year-round, the dive sites near Royal Island are some of the best in the Maldives. Among our collection of carefully chosen reefs is Kakani near the Baa Atoll’s Hanifaru Bay – one of the best places in the world to see mantas and whale sharks.
An award-winning dive centre with a passion for exceptional service, exhilarating diving and environmental conservation.
The Baa Atoll is a diver’s paradise and is one of the best places to learn to scuba dive in the Maldives. The experienced team at “Royal Island” dive center, diveOceanus, offers a range of courses, from beginner level and kids’ courses right through to PADI Dive Master.
OPENING HOURS: 08:00 am – 12:00 pm & 14:00 pm – 17:00 pm
Discover Scuba Diving Course | Scuba Diver Course | Open Water Course | Adventure Diver course | Advanced Open Water Course | Rescue Diver Course | Dive Master Certification | Bubble Maker
Take your first step into the world of scuba diving. Discover Scuba Diving covers basic techniques and skills and allows you to put them into practice in the shallow lagoon. this introductory course can be credited towards a Scuba Diver Certificate or an Open Water course.
Covering three of the five parts of the Open Water course, Scuba Diver certifies you to dive to a maximum depth of 12m (40ft) under the supervision of PADI Dive Master, assistant instructor or instructor. Once you have completed the course you will also be one step further to an Open Water Diver certification.
The Open Water Course covers more complex dives. Upon completion, you will be permitted to dive to a depth of 18m (60ft) under supervision. As well as performing Confined Water Dives and Open Water Dives you will also be required to complete several online courses
To become certified as an Adventure Diver, you will need to prove that you are more competent in the water. Once you have completed three dives, all of which meet the criteria of Deep Diver, Night Diver and Underwater Navigator, you will gain the Adventure Diver qualification.
Once you have gained your Adventure Diver Certification, you can complete a further two adventure dives that include lower depths and navigation, and you will become a certified Advanced Open Water Diver.
In the Rescue Diver Course, you will learn how to prevent potential problems in the water and mange them effectively, from recognizing fellow divers in distress to rescuing someone unresponsive.
A Dive Master is certified to supervise diving excursions and assist student divers. To become a Dive Master, you will work closely with a PADI Instructor to expand your knowledge and skills and develop your leadership qualities.
Specially designed to teach the basics of diving and build confidence in the water, VILLA PARK Kid's diving courses are great for little ones looking to explore the underwater world surrounding Villa Park.
Your symposium, conference will be on a flowering jewel among the Maldives island resorts. Cruise along the stunning sapphire lagoons by jet-skii, canoe or catamaran.
Explore the spectacular local scenery and unique culture with excursions to neighboring islands or, simply let the ocean breeze caress you to sleep as you sway gently in your beach hammock.
From invigorating activities to precious tranquility, our Maldivian resort will captivate the heart with extraordinary experiences and unforgettable memories.
for more details and queries, just send us an e-mail: [email protected]
Before we begin it’s worth pointing out that travelling by seaplane in the Maldives is safe. They have a great track record and accidents are rare.
Reports going back to 1994 indicate zero fatalities, and only one case involving serious injury.
Over this same period of time millions of people have travelled safely on seaplanes in the Maldives.
All aviation accidents and incidents are investigated by the AICC of the Maldives and we summarise all published reporting below. Whilst this may seem like a significant amount of material at a glance, keep in mind this covers 30 years of aviation!
Contents:
In aviation accidents are not the same as incidents, but both are reported and investigated to maintain high standards of safety.
Accidents involves at least one of the following: aircraft damage or structural failure, complete loss of the aircraft, or in exceptional cases serious injury or fatality.
Nearly all seaplane accidents in the Maldives receive this classification on the basis of aircraft damage rather than injury. None have involved a fatality.
Incidents are any events which affect or could affect the safety of operation. Serious incidents are those that had a high chance of leading to an accident.
Over the period January 1994 to November 2023:
In 30 years of seaplane flights there have only been 11 injuries in the Maldives, of which 7 were crew.
In terms of tourists and passengers there have been just 4 injuries in 30 years, of which 3 were minor and 1 was serious.
Of the 16 accidents recorded 11 received this classified on the basis of aircraft damage rather than injury.
Date | Aircraft | Category | Injuries |
---|---|---|---|
25 Oct 2023 | 8Q-RAL | Incident (P) | – |
16 May 2023 | 8Q-TAQ | Accident (P) | – |
13 Nov 2021 | 8Q-MBC | Incident | – |
14 Feb 2021 | 8Q-RAE | Accident | 1 Minor |
22 Oct 2020 | 8Q-TMR | Incident | – |
05 Oct 2020 | 8Q-TMF | Accident | 2 Minor |
24 Feb 2020 | 8Q-MVC | Accident | 3 Minor |
16 Nov 2017 | 8Q-IAG | Accident | – |
04 Oct 2017 | 8Q-ISB | Accident | – |
27th May 2017 | 8Q-TMV | Accident | – |
2nd Jul 2015 | 8Q-MAN | Accident | – |
2nd Aug 2013 | 8Q-TMK | Accident | – |
9th Jul 2012 | 8Q-TMT | Accident | – |
9th Feb 2012 | 8Q-MAT | Accident | – |
10th Mar 2010 | 8Q-TMK | Accident | – |
2nd Jun 2009 | 8Q-MAG | Accident | 2 Minor |
14th Jul 2008 | 8Q-MAS | Accident | – |
17th May 2004 | 8Q-TMC | Accident | 3 Serious, 1 Minor |
19th Feb 2001 | 8Q-TMA | Accident | – |
(P) – Preliminary Report
A complete overview of all investigation reports from the Maldives Accident Investigation Coordinating Committee involving commercial seaplane flights is presented below.
The first seaplane flights in the Maldives were in 1993 and proved to be significantly safter than the preceding helicopter flights which suffered much more serious consequences in accidents. By 1999 helicopter flights were practically eliminated as seaplane travel took over.
During this period there were very few seaplanes operating compared to today and only a limited number of flights. It’s not that accidents have become more common, there’s simply tens of thousands of flights more per year today.
The Maldives has made significant advances in safety and procedures over it’s 30 year history of seaplane flight. They now boast the largest seaplane fleet and arguably the most experienced seaplane pilots in the world.
Serious Incident, no injuries.
Based on preliminary report.
Aircraft lost power in its right engine on approach to Malé at 350 feet, causing a sudden right turn and difficulty controlling the aircraft. Pilots were able to land safely on the water with a small bounce, and shortly after shut down the engines. Assisted by a rescue boat the aircraft taxied to a platform for passenger and crew to disembark.
Accident, no injuries.
Based on preliminary report.
Aircraft encountered issues upon initial touchdown on water. The aircraft hit a swell during landing, causing a bounce, a drop of the left wing, and subsequent contact with the water. Once stationary, the crew assessed and confirmed damage to the left wing. The aircraft then taxied to a platform, shut down the engines, and passengers disembarked via the main door.
Serious Incident, no injuries.
Based on preliminary report.
Take-off was aborted due to unexpected aircraft behaviour. Unable to stop, the aircraft shut down its engines and drifted into two water bungalows, sustaining damage but causing no injuries. The aircraft was then towed to a platform where passengers and crew disembarked safely.
Accident, 1 minor injury to cabin crew.
Flight from Maalifushi to Velana International Airport had an accident upon touchdown. The aircraft touched down on the right-hand float, dug into the water, and turned steeply right before coming to a stop inverted. Although the aircraft was substantially damaged, all six passengers and two pilots evacuated without injury; one cabin crew member sustained minor injuries.
A rise in accidents coincided with global emergence from COVID restrictions. Planes and pilots had been grounded around the world without regular flying. This was not unique to the Maldives.
Serious Incident, no injuries.
After a normal touchdown at Sun Siyam IruFushi, an aircraft experienced an uncontrolled left turn during reverse thrust, leading the left wing and propeller to contact an anchored vessel. The incident caused damage to the aircraft’s left wing and propeller blades, as well as to the vessel, but no one was on board the vessel at the time. The Pilot in Command regained control and taxied to a platform, with all passengers and crew disembarking safely without injuries.
Accident, 2 minor injuries.
During an approach with a left crosswind of about 20 knots at Velana International Airport, an aircraft landing on the ‘North Right’ area rapidly rolled to the right after touchdown, with the right wing dipping into the water. It swerved but settled upright on both floats. The aircraft was taxied to the dock with assistance from a rescue vessel and personnel onshore. All passengers and crew disembarked safely. Minor injuries were reported among the flight and cabin crew, but no passengers were injured.
Accident, 3 minor injuries including 1 passenger.
An aircraft landing on an unmarked water runway bounced upon touchdown, banked left, and then the right wing dropped, causing the nose to dig into the water. The Pilot in Command’s attempt to go around was unsuccessful. The fuselage, wings, engines, and propellers were substantially damaged, but the floats remained intact, and the aircraft was upright post-accident. It taxied to the mooring with left engine power and dinghy assistance. All occupants evacuated safely, with minor injuries to two crew members and one passenger.
Accident, no injuries.
Aircraft encountered an accident during take-off from DOR water aerodrome. The aircraft hit a series of sea swells during acceleration, which resulted in both floats detaching and the nose plunging into the water. The engines were shut down by the PIC after the second impact. The detached floats, trapped under the wings, kept the aircraft afloat despite water entering the fuselage. All 12 passengers and 3 crew evacuated without injury.
Accident, no injuries.
The first officer was flying when the aircraft bounced during landing in a crosswind at Velana International Airport. The captain’s go-around attempt failed, causing the aircraft to flip and crash, landing upside down in shallow water. Despite substantial damage to the aircraft, all passengers and crew escaped without serious injuries.
Accident, no injuries.
During a landing on the North Right Water Runway, the aircraft bounced off the left float and then, after a second bounce, banked right causing the right wing tip to dip into the water. This led to an abrupt right veer and crash. All passengers and crew evacuated uninjured before the aircraft submerged.
Accident, no injuries.
During final approach to land at KUR, at about 400 feet with flaps fully down, the aircraft pitched up and vibrated uncontrollably as the stall warning activated. The PIC’s recovery manoeuvres initially failed, but some control was regained after retracting the flaps. Despite this, the aircraft continued a right turn, lost height, and hit the sea. All 11 passengers and three crew members evacuate uninjured before the aircraft sank.
Accident, no injuries.
During a westbound landing approach approved due to westerly winds, the aircraft banked left, losing control and touching down on the left float first. Control was transferred from the co-pilot to the Captain, who noted the aircraft’s significant left turn and wing damage. All passengers disembarked without injuries. The cause of the incident was identified as an unexplained left bank on approach despite facing a headwind.
Accident, no injuries.
Upon landing, the crew struggled to dock at a fixed platform due to the tailwind and swells. After aborting the first docking attempt, the second attempt led to a collision with the platform when the aircraft moved forward despite full reverse and rudder inputs. The left float and propeller were damaged, and the aircraft eventually became fully submerged. All aboard evacuated safely.
Accident, no injuries.
On final approach to MLE the co-pilot made a hard landing on the north right water runway due to easterly winds, causing the aircraft to bounce and the right float to dig into the water. The PIC then took over and steadied the aircraft, but the right float detached and became stuck under the fuselage, preventing sinking, while the left float also detached. All aboard evacuated without injury.
Accident, no injuries.
We were unable to retrieve report 2010-01, (“De Havilland, DHC-6-300, 8Q-TMK, Right wing struck on water at Cocoa Palm/Dhunikolhu Island Resort (Baa Atoll)”), at the time of writing.
Accident, 2 minor injuries including 1 passenger.
The aircraft took off from Halaveli for a 40-minute photo flight with good weather conditions. After take-off, the co-pilot gave his seat to a passenger and moved to the cabin.
Whilst CAR Part 15.11 does allow a special exemption for a passenger to take the right hand seat during professional photography flights, both pilots must be at the controls during take-offs and landing.
Once the shots were complete, the PIC began descending in a right bank, keeping the passenger in the first officer’s seat in order to provide further photography opportunities.
Before the PIC could complete the turn, the aircraft struck the water with its right wing/float. The crash broke both wings and detached the left float, while the right float jammed, blocking the co-pilot’s exit and twisting the empennage. All passengers and crew escaped without fatalities from the shallow wreckage.
The investigation attributed the accident to the PIC’s low flying, a passenger in the co-pilot’s seat, and the operator’s inadequate communication of procedural updates.
Accident, no injuries.
The 8Q-MAS aircraft, with 17 people onboard, departed from Male to Adaaran Club Bathala. Encountering rough seas and strong westerly winds, it struck a swell on landing, veered left, and collided with a moored speed boat, losing its right float and engine. The aircraft sank in shallow water, but all on board safely escaped without fatalities.
Accident, 3 serious injuries including a passenger, and 1 minor injury.
The most serious seaplane accident in the Maldives and one of the first, there were still no fatalities.
Departing from Male’ International Airport to Velaavaru Resort with 14 passengers, the aircraft experienced a longer-than-normal take-off, struggling to gain height. Nearing a seawall, the captain’s abrupt control pull to avoid the obstacle induced a stall, causing the left float to shear off upon impact with the seawall. This led to the left wing folding upwards and detaching, with the left propeller slicing through the cockpit ceiling. The aircraft then skidded across the ground, losing the right float and propeller, before halting on the mainland runway. The accident resulted in serious injuries to both pilots and one passenger, minor injuries to another passenger, while the rest were unharmed.
Accident, no injuries.
The aircraft was manoeuvring on the water near the Floating Platform, after landing in the lagoon near Sun Island resort, when it struck another Twin
Otter that was parked against the floating platform. There were no passengers on either aircraft, and no injuries to any of the crew were reported.
There are no accidents involving seaplanes recorded in the Maldives CAA historical archives.
In case, if you would like to change your given e-mail ID, please e-mail to: [email protected] or whatsapp / viber: +(960)757-7700