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Safari Island Resort & Spa
4.5/5

You’re right – this is the only Island in Maldives, which provides a unique private boat tour experience.

Plan your own Safari Boat Tour to your needs, which can include, Sandbank Trip, Island Hopping, Local Island Visit, Snorkeling, Dolphin Trip, Diving (charges apply), Manta Trip or just Cruise around islands and sand banks.

Safari Island is surrounded by a beautiful house reef only a few meters away from the beach. Once settled in, it is time to enjoy the underwater beauty of the house reef. There is no restriction on snorkeling around the island. Collect your equipment’s and dip into the cooling water to view coral gardens with shades of all colors.

Special Features

  • Luxurious Maldivian Traditional Style Dhoani Cruise;
    • – Full Day Trip   |   Half Day Trip   |   Overnight Trip
  • Around the Island – House Reef for snorkelling

Conditions:

  • Check-In: from: 2:00 pm (1400 hours) of the Arrival Date
  • Check-Out: from 12:00 pm (1200 hours) of the Departure Date.
  • EARLY CHECK-IN:
      • Prior to 04:45 hrs – Book from previous day.
      • 04:45 – 08:00 hrs – 50% of overnight room rate.
      • 08:00 hrs onwards – FREE, subject to availability.
  • LATE CHECK-OUT:
      • 12:00 – 18:00 hrs – 50% of overnight room rate.
      • Beyond 18:00 hrs – Overnight room rate.
    • NOTE: Late Check-Out untill 1400 hrs could be provided on complimentary basis subject to availability on departure day. However, for guaranteed late check-out, reservation should be confirmed with Late Check-Out as per the above details.
  • Cancellation / Payment: Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodations type. Please contact us with the dates of your stay  and check what conditions apply to your preferred room category.
  • Children & Beds: Children of all ages are welcome.
  • No Age Restriction: There is no age requirements for Check-In.
  • Pets: Pets are NOT allowed.

To Consider:

  • DOMESTIC AIR TRANSFER
    • Arrival: International flight must land at or before: 03:15 pm (1515 hours)
    • Departure: International flight must depart at or after 09:00 am (0900 hours).
  • CHILD Policy
    • The ages for considering Infants and Children are as follows:
      • INFANT – from 00 to 01.99 years
      • CHILD – from 02 to 11.99 years
    • The Child rates are applicable based on the Child’s age at the arrival date to the resort.
    • Child Rates are valid for children sharing rooms with parents.
    • Children below 1.99 years will eat FREE based on the rules and meal-plan accompanied by an adult, excluding alcoholic beverages. And a mandatory Green-TAX of USD 6/- per child per night will be charged.
    • Parents must sign a liability release to accommodate children in Pool Villas and Overwater Villas.
  • GENERAL Policies:
    • Credit-Card holder name and the booking-holder name should be same.
    • Please present the same Credit-Card used to guarantee your booking when Check-In, making the payment at the hotel. Please note that property may contact the Card-holder for verification purposes.
    • Due to safety and privacy concerns the operation of unmanned aerial systems or drones by any of guests including model aircraft by recreational users and hobbyists is prohibited.
    • If the guests pay the Green-TAX and transfer using different Credit Card, the property will do USD 1 transaction and void for verification purposes at the time of Check-In.
    • All transfers to the Resort will be by Domestic Flight (between Velaana International Airport and Maamigili Airport), followed by a 5 minute Boat ride to/from the Resort.
      • Checked in Bagagge allowance of 25kgs and hand luggage allowance of 5 kgs is entitled per person. Excess baggage to be borne by clients and to be settled at the Airline counter at the rate of USD 2/- per kg plus taxes.
      • NOTE: Air transfer rates and excess baggage charges are subject to change upon revision by the carrier.
    •  
  • COMPLIMENTARY OFFERINGS
    • Meet and Greet service on arrival at the Airport.
    • Welcome refreshment on arriva to the Resort.
    • The Resort will provide a drinking water bottle (1 ltr) per person per day in the room.
    • Free drinking water at mealtimes served by glass.
    • Tea/Coffee making facilities in the room (1 set per day)
    • Free WiFi in all rooms.
    • Gymnasium (excluding personal trainer)
    • Land Sports: (excluding coach and instructors); Badminton, Snooker/Billiards, Table Tennis, Dart, Beach Volleyball, Squash, Daylight Tennis, Basketball.
    • HONEYMOONERS: A bottle of Sparkling Wine and a Fruit Basket for Honeymooners (for marriages within the last 12 months of arrival date).
    • WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES: A bottle of Sparkling Wine and a Cake for wedding anniversaries celebrated at the Resort.
    • BIRTHDAYS: A Birthday Cake and a Bottle of Wine for Birthdays celebrated at the Resort.
      • NOTE: All Honeymooners and Wedding Anniversary information shall be notified at the time of booking or specified in the service voucher. In addition Guests are required to present marriage Certificates at the time of Check-In to the Resort.
  •  

Drift off to sleep by the sound of natural waves.

Safari Island holds a total of 30 Maldivian thatched roof, detached Beach Bungalows, 15 Semi-Water Bungalows and 39 Water Bungalows.

All the bungalows are beachfront and sea view.

BEACH Bungalow

EXCLUSIVE BEACH BUNGALOWS

These are thatched roof, Beach front Bungalows, with a private wooden deck with seating. All the rooms ae fitted with modern amenities including panorama glass mirrors and twin wash basins.

Amenities: Hot & Cold Fresh Water   |   Bathtub with Separate Shower   |   Air Condition   |   Mini Fridge   |   Satellite TV with Flat Screen   |   Hiar Dryer   |   Telephone   |   Tea/Coffee Making Facility   |   WC   |   Luxury Bamboo Furniture   |   Sun Chair   |   Bathroom Amenities (Bathrobe, Shampoo, Conditioner and Shower Gel), Free WiFi.

Features:   45 square metres   |   sleeps 3 Adults and/or 2 Adults + 1 child   |   Beach Access   |   Private Deck   |   Open Air-shower

PACKAGE Starts on HALF BOARD for 2 pax @ US$ 303 + to US$ 399 +

Semi-WATER Bungalow

Overwater Villas featuring a stunning glass bottomed coffee table. Private sundeck at the back leading to the turquoise lagoon.

Amenities: Hot & Cold Fresh Water   |   Bathtub with Separate Shower   |   Air Condition   |   Mini Fridge   |   Satellite TV with Flat Screen   |   Hiar Dryer   |   Telephone   |   Tea/Coffee Making Facility   |   WC   |   Luxury Bamboo Furniture   |   Sun Chair   |   Bathroom Amenities (Bathrobe, Shampoo, Conditioner and Shower Gel), Free WiFi   |   Glass Bottom Table   |   Backdoor to the Private Sundeck   |   Direct Access to Lagoon.

Features:   45 square metres   |   sleeps 3 Adults and/or 2 Adults + 1 child   |   Beach Access   |   Private SunDeck   |   Open Air-shower

PACKAGE Starts on HALF BOARD for 2 pax @ US$ 366 + to US$ 455 +

WATER Bungalow

EXCLUSIVE LUXURY WATER BUNGALOWS

Get the best of both beach and over water. Living spaces bathed in warm natural light, perched a top the turquoise lagoon. A full sea-facing wall opens out to the spacious over-water terrace and the expansive lagoon beyond.

Amenities: Hot & Cold Fresh Water   |   Bathtub with Separate Shower   |   Air Condition   |   Mini Fridge   |   Satellite TV with Flat Screen   |   Hiar Dryer   |   Telephone   |   Tea/Coffee Making Facility   |   WC   |   Luxury Bamboo Furniture   |   Sun Chair   |   Bathroom Amenities (Bathrobe, Shampoo, Conditioner and Shower Gel), Free WiFi   |   Glass Bottom Table   |   Backdoor to the Private Sundeck   |   Direct Access to Lagoon.

Features:   45 square metres   |   sleeps 3 Adults and/or 2 Adults + 1 child   |   Beach Access   |   Private SunDeck   |   Open Air-shower

PACKAGE Starts on HALF BOARD for 2 pax @ US$ 414 + to US$ 499 +

SAFARI Island, The Maldives / Dinning

Delight your palate with epicurean pleasures at Safari Island restaurant & bars.

Lagoon Restaurant

Shaded with a magnificent white roof, and floating over the lagoon the main restaurant is where breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided in an all-you-can-eat buffet style with variety of International and regional cuisines to please everyone’s taste.

The skillful chefs offer selectable International ruisine and ensures the best dining experience.

Enjoy buffet style meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner including lively Theme Nights. Sunday night dinner is Maldivian/Asian night with a themed menu and Soups, breads and desserts are homemade and the fresh, tropical fruits are delicious. The buffet lines also include live action, cooking station which our chefs prepare your food as your preference.

OPENING HOURS:    Breakfast: 7:30 – 10:00 am   |   Lunch:  12:30 – 14:00 pm (Friday’s: 13:15 pm – 14:30 pm)   |   Dinner: 19:00 – 21:00 pm

PALM Bar

Floating on the turquoise lagoon next to the main restaurant is the island bar where guests may enjoy drinks and spend leisure time. Open from morning untill the last guest leaves, the bar also invites guests for daily happy hour (18:00 hrs – 19:30 hrs) with 20% discount on all drinks.

The coffee shop in the main bar also offers a range of coffee, light snacks or special meals which can be enjoyed in the spacious environment, serenaded by the sound of the waves and the salty ocean breeze.

Palm Bar will have a large bar counter, area with seating inside and out outside deck, over the lagoon, facing Seaview.

The bar has Live Band performance once every 2 weeks on Monday.

Saturday Diving Movie – by diving center team.

SUN DOWN Bar

The sun down bar set on a wooden deck with a view of the stunning lagoon turns into a splendid air at sundown when nature paints a different scene every dusk. The golden sun sinks beneath the horizon casting a multitude of orange, red and pink hues across the sky and there is no place better to enjoy the show that at sundown bar, accompanied with a drink or two.

POOL Bar

Pool Bar offers drinks & snacks. All Inclusive guests can enjoy their entitled drinks.

Pool Bar is open from morning 10:00 hrs – 22:00 hrs

Guests require to bring their own beach towels from the room, if they want to use it near the pool.

The pool is open from 08:00 hrs – 18:00 hrs. Please note that high level of Chlorine is put in the pool at night, therefore it is strictly prohibited to swim in the pool after 18:00 hrs for your own safety.

Pool bar hosts crab race on every Tuesday night from 21:00 hrs – 22:30 hrs.

Guests can choose their own crab from the bucket of crabs and place them in the racing track where you win FREE Beers if your crab crosses the line first.

Experience Boundless Safari Island Adventures

Float over fish and black-tip sharks in your kayak. Hear the wind whistling past as you slice up the waters on a wakeboard. There are so many ways to experience Safari Island waters from serene adventures on the sea to exciting offshore escapades. Just let them know your tastes and your skill levels and they will find the perfect offshore adventure for you.

Water Sports

Explore the sparkling waters that surround the sun-drenched isle at your own pace, whether you fancy heading off on a stand-up paddle board over the aquamarine lagoons or are in the mood for the thrill of being propelled up high or spinning on an exhilarating jet blade. This is an adventure seeker’s paradise with water sports to suit the whole family.

OPENING HOURS:  09:00 am – 18:00 pm

  • WINDSURFING – Courses and rental equipment for beginner and experienced rider.
  • STAND UP PADDLE – the fun and perfect workout training for the whole body.
  • POWER WATER SPORTS – Unlimited fun with wakeboard, waterski and sofa rides…
  • CATAMARAN – Explore the surrounding of Safari Island while sailing together with a professional guide.
  • GUIDED SNORKELLING – Explore Safari Island house reef with one of the professional guides and get some amazing information’s about the marine life.

Excursions & Tours to near by Attractions @ SAFARI Island

A number of exciting excursions are scheduled weekly and whenever guests have had their fill of catching rays on the beach, they are welcoming to sign up for an adventure at the reception.

Our guest experiences team is here to arrange the ideal island adventure for you, whether you join a group excursion or opt for a private experience.

Big Game Fishing   |   Manta Snorkeling   |   Half-Day Local Island Hopping   |   Sunset Fishing   |   Half-Day Snorkeling Adventure   |   Sunset + Lucky Dolphin Cruise.

Land SPORTS Facilities & Activities @ SAFARI Island

Sports and recreational activities catered for everyone. Compete with your friends in games, or participate in ongoing competitions (limited time period) and name yourself a winner with exciting prices.

Outdoor Activities

Tennis (06:00 hours – 22:00 hours) – Chargeable

  • Type of Tennis Court: Carpet Court
  • Beach Volley and Soccer

Indoor Activities

Garlando   |   Carrom   |   Chess   |   Table Tennis   |   Darts

24 hours Open Game Center

Fitness Centre & Gym @ SAFARI Island

Unleash the warrior in you and finish off sexier and sexier than you have ever been before with the Fitness Centre. Relax and increase your muscle endurance. Improve your stamina, Shred some fat!

Facilities & Equipments available at the Gym

Abdominal Bench   |   Lat Pulldown Machine   |   Upper Right Exercise Bike   |   Pec Deck Machine   |   Dumb Bells   |   Stair Stepper   |   Leg Curl Machine   |   Spin Bike   |   Tread Mill   |   Barbell

Operating Hours: 05:30 am – 22:30 pm

Its no secret that Spa therapies are an enhancement to life. Duny Thai Spa emphasizes inner healing and the balance of mind, body and soul using a fusion of Eastern and Western philosophies and treatments set in contemporary oriental surroundings. The treatments are designed to help you relax and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul, but most importantly you will return home with more energy, greater focus and an enhanced sense of balance.

Feel the benefits as you experience a touchat Duny Thai Spa

Traditional Thai Massage

(Balancing Body Energy) – 5 min, foot spa and 45 min,/85 min, muscle stretching.

This non oil massage therapy was originally performed to facilitate a deeper meditation practice with the philosophy of peace. The massage focuses on muscle stretching and pressing to stimulate the natural flow of ten energy lines, which conduct and carry the energy throughout the body.

Royal Thai Aromatic Massage

(Aches & Tension Relief) – 5 min, foot Spa and 45 min,/85 min, medium to firm pressure massage with warm aromatic oil.

Most people will suffer stress through pressure of everyday living. Stress is often responsible for causing tension in our muscle. Combining vigorous and soothing massage movement, this massage melts away muscular aches and tension as well as relaxes the whole body and mind.

Stone Massage

(Deep Relaxation) – 5 min, foot Spa and 45 min,/85 mins, warm oil hot stone massage.

This holistic ritual is a massage that helps encourage balance, comfort and well-being. It is carried out using the warm stones. This massage can discover the healing power of stones, known for their energizing properties. The heat provided by the stones will penetrate deep into the body, giving a calming and relaxing experience.

Classical Swedish Massage

(muscle relaxation) – 5 min, foot Spa and 45 min,/85 mins, medium to firm pressure massage.

Uses the world-renowned classic massage techniques which release physical stress and fatigue. It combines vigorous and soothing massage movements adapted to the individuals specific areas of tension. This massage is highly effective for muscle relaxation.

Back, Neck & Head Massage

(Back Pain & Headache Relief) – 5 min, foot spa and 45 min, firming massage.

Tight muscles reduce circulation, letting waste products accumulate, which can leave you feeling fatigued and sore. Plus waste products can irritate nerves, causing pain to spread. This massage can release contracted muscles, increases circulation and relaxes the nervous system. Waste products are flushed away and replaced with oxygen and nutrients.

Foot Reflexology

(Stimulates the Nervous System) –

Sometimes tight muscles press on nerves, causing tingling, numbness, or main pain. This massage can help by stretching tight muscles and by applying medium pressure to specific points on the feet to stimulate the nervous system. This massage helps to relax muscle tension and boost the immune system.

Pre Tanning Treatment

(Prepares Skin For The Tanning Process) – 5 min, foot spa and 40 min, Pre Tanning Treatment.

The ideal preparation for your skin to get the most out of the sun with a well protected skin. Coconut exfoliating body scrub will remove debris while the traditional massage will help penetrate the pure virgin coconut oil into your prone to dry skin when exposed to the sun.

After Sun Treatment

(Soothing and Calming) –

Rejuvenate your skin again after sun bathing with soothing and natural Aloe Vera after sun treatment. It has a healing effect making it an excellent choice after exposure to the sun. Give your body a wonderfully healthy glow with this special treatment that will balance your skin color and moisture your entire body.

Moisturizing Facial

(Skin Moisturizing) – Facial Cleansing – Tone – Facial Scrub – Facial Massage – Facial Mask.

A facial treatment that will encourage the skin to reveal its luminosity by reducing fatigue signs on the face. Its active ingredients work to smooth and moisture the skin, leaving it looking and feeling younger as it helps the skin to battle against stress.

Sensitive Facial

(Skin Smoothing) – Facial Cleansing – Tone – Facial Scrub – Facial Massage – Facial Mask.

This treatment is designed to deep cleanse and detoxify skin. A treatment that is extra gentle especially for sensitive skin, suitable for skin with inflammation, fragile capillaries, sun burn or other problems caused by sensitivity. This treatment will soothe your skin and give you a fresh radiant look.

Oxygenating Facial

(Skin Detoxifying). Facial Cleansing – Tone – Facial Scrub – Facial Massage – Facial Mask.

This treatment works on the lymphatic system to relieve congestion within the tissues. Increase the muscle tone, tighten the spores, brighten the eyes and reduce stress. This brings out the innate beauty and radiance of an individual.

Body Polish

Daily environment changes, busy activity and stressful lifestyle will affect your whole look. The skin will look tired and dull, lacking healthy radiance. This body soothing treatment will put the moisture level of your skin back to its normal state. A fantastic blend of aromatic essential oils will transform dull and tired skin into a silky, smooth and naturally glowing complexion.

Body Wrap

Perfect for sun worshippers, this cooling and soothing wrap, that uses Aloe Vera as the main ingredient, is the ideal choice to pamper skin that has had too much exposure to the sun. This treatment will leave your skin feeling wonderfully soft and refreshed.

Nail Care

Manicure & Hand Massage, Pedicure & Foot Massage, Color change.

Wax Treatment

Eye Brows, Upper Lips, Under Arms, Half Arms, Full Arms, Half Legs, Full Leg, Bikini Lines, Brazilian’s.

A Touch of Thai

Relaxing & Renewing. This experience starts with a special blend of Thai herbs used to deeply cleanse the skin to help the body to eliminate toxins and impurities. The massage with traditional Thai techniques is followed by a Thai herbal compress. A herbal scent soothes you into total relaxation.

You & Me Package (for a couple)

The perfect package for a couple that does everything togather. Enjoy relaxation for two with a holistic approach, utilizing natural active ingredients from aromatic oils. Start the experience with the Romance Bath. By combining the effects of aromatic oil and a thorough relaxing body massage, you can feel tension melt away, as mind and body are brought back to the point of equilibrium.

Blend to Bliss package

Oriental Rhythm of Respiration. The luxury of time where you can unwind. You will begin your time in pampering heaven. An unforgettable spa experience, rhythm of respiration is performed by experienced therapists working in rhythmic harmony with you. The rhythm of this treatment, synchronized to your respiration, is performed using special products blended with oriental essential oils.

For the most individualized and customized service for the divers, the planning is done on a day to day basis. They offer daily half-day trips (1 – 2 dives), full-day excursions (3 dives), as well as early morning and night dives.

Great Dive Sites such as; “Fish Head” (only 12 minutes away), “Maaya Thila, “Hafsa Thila”, “Manta Point”, “Fesdu Wreck”, and many others in the near surroundings, offer breathtaking diversity of corals and fish.

The absolute highlight and unique in the Maldives – is the possibility of an exclusive private dive safari on one of the luxurious, traditional boats, with the possibility to reach the top spots of the entire Ari Atoll. A good chance to see even Manta and Whale shark …….

Orientation Dive

Every diver starts his/her dive holiday with an orientation dive.

The idea of an orientation dive is to give the diver a safe chance to practice breathing underwater after a while to check the equipment and the correct amount of weights.

Also the dive-Instructors will demonstrate you the correct use of the Surface Marker Buoy.

House Reef

If you fullfill the minimum requirement for unguided diving (OWD with adventure DEEP or equivalent and 30 logged dives, at least some of them in the last 18 months), you have the opportunity to dive on the house reef independently with a buddy.

There ae 4 entry and exit points, marked by 4 buoys, with ropes to a depth of 20m to help as an orientation for you. House reef-tanks can be transported by the dive-center staffs to the requested entry and collected again after your dive.

For guided divers, a dive guide will always be available for you. He can also show you the most beautiful spots on the House Reef.

Boat Trips

Around Safari Island are many beautiful dive sites located which are well known for their diversity of fish life.

Driving time to the dive spots – between 10 – 60 minutes.

Half Day Excursions (08:00 hrs – 13:00 hrs) – 2 Dives

Full Day Excursions (08:00 hrs – 17:00 hrs – 2 to 3 Dives

Morning Excursions (09:00 returning latest 12:00 hrs) – 1 Dive

Afternoon Excursions (14:30 hrs returning latest 16:30 hrs) – 1 Dive

Night Dive Excursions (18:00 hrs – 19:00 hrs) – 1 Dive

Frequently Asked Questions

SNORKELING & SCUBA DIVING

I can’t swim. Can I still try scuba diving?

Yes you can! You can do SUB AQUA Dive Center’s try diving program, called ‘Discover Scuba.’

We do recommend that you are at least comfortable in the water but an instructor will be with you 100% of the time and assists you in every way so that you can simply relax, breathe and enjoy the amazing underwater world that Maldives has to offer.

The try dive program is not a certification and you will not get your scuba diving license from this but you will experience the thrill of scuba diving in the Maldives, and being underwater close-up to beautiful fish and corals!

You must be able to swim if you want to complete your certification and learn to dive with the PADI Open Water Diver course.

No! As explained above, non-swimmers can experience scuba diving safely and do, every day, with a try diving program called, ‘Discover Scuba’.

However, if you want to complete your PADI certification to become a PADI Open Water Diver then you must be able to swim a distance of 200m without any flotation aid. This is an un-timed assessment, but you must be able to complete the swimming distance of 200m without stopping!

You need to be aged 10 years or above and you must be medically fit. You can download the PADI medical questionnaire here. You must be able to answer ‘no’ to all questions! If you must answer ‘yes’ to one or more questions on the PADI medical questionnaire then you need a certificate from your Doctor confirming your fitness to dive before we can take you scuba diving.

Yes. Absolutely you should record your Maldives scuba diving experience on camera to share with friends and family!

DiveCenter offer a digital underwater camera rental service or if you have an underwater camera of your own, please bring it with you. However, please be cautious. Breathing underwater and staying safe is a priority – capturing your experience on camera should only come AFTER you are feeling comfortable.

A special try diving program for kids is the Bubblemaker program and this starts from age 8 with a maximum depth limitation of just 2 metres on the first dive.

For all other divers trying scuba for the first time, the minimum age is 10 years old

If it is your first time diving you will start in water you can still stand up in! Simply put your face in the water and breath. Remember, your PADI Instructor will be right beside you so you have nothing to fear.

You may go up to 6 metres depth on your first dive. If you decide you want to make more dives, they can take you diving again but without completing the full PADI Open Water Diver course, your maximum depth limit will be 12 metres.

If you want to go deeper than 12 metres then you should sign up to complete your PADI Open Water Diver Course!

The maximum depth limit for all divers in Maldives is 30 metres.

Absolutely and at DiveCenter, safety is a top priority. With any water sport there are inherent risks and this is why we ask you to complete a short medical questionnaire before you take part in any scuba diving activity.

This medical statement is to be read and signed by you, stating whether you have any pre-existing medical conditions that might stop you from scuba diving. You will not need to bring a medical certificate with you unless you think you may have medical conditions that prevet you from diving.

In this case, make sure your Doctor signs the medical statement to confirm that you are fit to dive before you arrive.

Asthma is classed as a pre-existing medical condition. Some people with asthma do still enjoy scuba diving but you must obtain a signed medical certificate from your Doctor stating that you are fit to dive if this is the case. Bring it with you on holiday or we won’t be able to take you diving!

Divers should ensure that their travel insurance covers them for scuba diving activities. More recommendations for diving insurance can be found here.

They do make full day diving trips to the outer reef of Baa Atoll where whale sharks are frequently seen. However this is the ocean and they cannot guarantee!

It is hard to give a specific date when the Manta season starts and ends, since the occurrence of the mantas depends on the phases of the moon and the monsoon change, which changes every year slightly. However, usually the mantas can be spotted between May and November in the east of the Baa Atoll. 

In the period between July and November, there will be a more festival of mantas around Hanifaru Bay and the chances of sightings will increase immensely.

The house reef is untouched and lot of marine fauna, fishes and corals can be seen. We can guide you with the currents and a detailed explanation of the house reef.

REQUEST A QUOTE

SAFARI Island Resort & Spa

LET "Hello Maldives Holidays" PLAN YOUR TAILOR-MADE, MIC or Corporate Event's

World-Class Conference Facilities

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]

Seaplane Accidents Maldives

Seaplane Accidents - Maldives

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:

  • Accident vs Incident
  • Statistics
  • List of Seaplane Accidents & Incidents
  • Summary of Investigation Reports
  • 2023
  • 2021
  • 2020
  • 2017
  • 2015
  • 2013
  • 2012
  • 2010
  • 2009
  • 2008
  • 2004
  • 2001
  • 1994-2000
Accident vs Incident

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.

Statistics

Over the period January 1994 to November 2023:

  • Total Accidents: 16
  • Total Serious Incidents: 3
  • Total Fatalities: 0
  • Total Serious Injuries: 3
  • Total Minor Injuries: 8

 

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.

List of Seaplane Accidents & Incidents
DateAircraftCategoryInjuries
25 Oct 20238Q-RALIncident (P)
16 May 20238Q-TAQAccident (P)
13 Nov 20218Q-MBCIncident
14 Feb 20218Q-RAEAccident1 Minor
22 Oct 20208Q-TMRIncident
05 Oct 20208Q-TMFAccident2 Minor
24 Feb 20208Q-MVCAccident3 Minor
16 Nov 20178Q-IAGAccident
04 Oct 20178Q-ISBAccident
27th May 20178Q-TMVAccident
2nd Jul 20158Q-MANAccident
2nd Aug 20138Q-TMKAccident
9th Jul 20128Q-TMTAccident
9th Feb 20128Q-MATAccident
10th Mar 20108Q-TMKAccident
2nd Jun 20098Q-MAGAccident2 Minor
14th Jul 20088Q-MASAccident
17th May 20048Q-TMCAccident3 Serious, 1 Minor
19th Feb 20018Q-TMAAccident

(P) – Preliminary Report

 

Summary of Investigation Reports

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.

2023

25th October 2023: 8Q-RAL

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.

 

16th May 2023: 8Q-TAQ

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.

2021

13th November 2021: 8Q-MBC

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.

14th February 2021: 8Q-RAE

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.

2020

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.

22nd October 2020: 8Q-TMR

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.

5th October 2020: 8Q-TMF

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.

24th February 2020: 8Q-MBC

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.

2017

16th November 2017: 8Q-IAG

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.

4th October 2017: 8Q-ISB

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.

27th May 2017: 8Q-TMV

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.

2015

2nd July 2015: 8Q-MAN

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.

2013

2nd August 2013: 8Q-TMK

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.

2012

9th July 2012: 8Q-TMT

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.

9th February 2012: 8Q-MAT

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.

2010

10th March 2010: 8Q-TMK

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.

2009

2nd June 2009: 8Q-MAG

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.

2008

14th July 2008: 8Q-MAS

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.

2004

17th May 2004: 8Q-TMC

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.

 

2001

19th February 2001: 8Q-TMA

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.

1994-2000

There are no accidents involving seaplanes recorded in the Maldives CAA historical archives.

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References

[1] AICC, Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. Preliminary Incident Report 8Q-RAL, retrieved Nov 06, 2023
[8] AICC, Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. Final report on accident to Viking air DHC-6-200, 8Q-IAG aircraft at Dhoores Floating Platform, Maldives, retrieved Nov 06, 2023
[10] AICC, Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. Final report on the accident to Viking Air DHC-6-300, 8Q-TMV at Velana International Airport, Maldives, retrieved Nov 06, 2023
[11] AICC, Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. Final Report on the accident to Viking Air DHC-6-300, 8Q-MAN near Kuredu Resort, Maldives, retrieved Nov 06, 2023
[12] AICC, Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. Twin Otter, 8Q-TMK, at Ibrahim Nasir international Airport, Water Runway, retrieved Nov 06, 2023
[13] AICC, Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. De Havilland, DHC-6-300, 8Q-TMT, Collision with the fixed platform at Condrad(Rangali) South Ari Atoll, retrieved Nov 06, 2023
[14] AICC, Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. Twin Otter, 8Q-MAT, at Ibrahim Nasir international Airport, Water Runway, retrieved Nov 06, 2023
[15] AICC, Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. De Haviland DHC-6-200, 8Q-MAG, Crash at the reef of Halaveli Resort Lagoon, retrieved Nov 06, 2023
[16] AICC, Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. De Haviland DHC-6-300, 8Q-MAS, Collision with a Speedboat at Adaaran Club Bathala, retrieved Nov 06, 2023
[17] AICC, Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. De Havilland DHC-6-300, 8Q-TMC, Collision with Seawall at Male’ International Airport, retrieved Nov 06, 2023
[18] AICC, Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. De Havilland DHC-6-100, 8Q-TMA, Collision with 8Q-TMH at Sun Island, retrieved Nov 06, 2023
[19] AICC, Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. Aircraft Accident History, retrieved Nov 06, 2023
 
 

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