Featured
Flyme to begin seaplane operations with ‘Flying Yellowfin Tuna’ floatplanes

Villa Air’s Flyme has announced plans to begin commercial seaplane operations.
In a Facebook announcement, the airline said it will offer seaplane services to resorts following the completion of a new seaplane base at the main Velana International Airport.
As part of an ongoing USD 800 million mega project to expand and upgrade the Maldives’ main gateway, construction of a new seaplane terminal kicked off in January 2018. The four-storey terminal, which will be equipped with over 80 docking platforms and other support facilities, is expected to come into operation in August.
Flyme is reportedly bringing in four Twin Otter 300 series planes to begin seaplane operations. The planes are expected to arrive in Maldives by October.
The airline has also unveiled its seaplane livery.
Dubbed the Flying Yellowfin Tuna, Flyme’s seaplane livery is inspired by the yellowfin tuna found in abundance in Maldivian waters. With a colour scheme that resembles the yellow-coloured fins and finlets of the yellowfin tuna and the picture of a yellowfin tuna painted from tail to nose in navy blue, the livery pays homage to one of the most widely caught tuna species by Maldivian fishermen and a staple of the traditional Maldivian diet.
https://www.facebook.com/www.flyme.mv/videos/2090545884388120/?__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARDCz4nTG7OJubch6gV9W77l7ac9xMy9lQjN9RJf6zMiJhvfPtGKM-hu8zRNNk5T5ayfO5Hyd42SAxGI0KJUyiTB1C72rSoxd0HfRKqBClsRD1-DA8BuDPapn1eb3YyRi40USvtfxi1xBdgLPKBPlI6kAgwkjPby1q9E7Un7GrNngi80BmYa8dIWdddCiHb_yAY32u–t1a1IO6RCrxcHgA2D07VDDby2s1tyY4n18cf62f_96f65gclI8hQ6tFMcOUGs_26nnDIAuVJVenqE_8JxWoAfdsHo1uUaguf3aHetV2Qe89nQ1gg-DLe6XROcSvv6XztmILp6XiWmxpBwDMhH06z_plCu8MAmQ&__tn__=-R
Flyme, part of the Villa Group of Companies owned by local business tycoon Gasim Ibrahim, had its maiden flight on October 1, 2011 between Velana International Airport and parent company Villa Air’s own domestic airport on the island of Maamigili in Alif Dhaal atoll.
With a fleet of two ATR aircraft, the airline operates daily flights between Male and Maamigili, and serves another nine domestic airports across the archipelago with weekly services. In addition to catering to locals, Flyme carries tourists to the resorts in Alif Dhaal atoll, including Villa’s own Holiday Island Resort and Sun Island Resort.
Flyme had earlier brought in a Cessna Caravan C208 aircraft for seaplane operations but it was only used for charters as well as sight-seeing and excursion trips.
Seaplane is the preferred mode of transport between the main Velana International Airport and dozens of resorts, especially those located in outer atolls.
Two airlines currently handle seaplane operations: flagship carrier Maldivian and privately run Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA). A third operator, Manta Air is set to begin service this year.
TMA, which is controlled by a consortium led by US-based Bain Capital and Chinese conglomerate Tempus Group, operates an all-amphibian fleet of more than 50 aircraft, making it the largest seaplane operator in the world. Maldivian has a fleet of 13 seaplanes and serves over 10 resorts.
The seaplane operators are investing heavily in expanding their operations, especially their fleet. The expansion comes in line with growing tourist arrivals and increasing bed capacity due to the opening of dozens of new resorts in the Maldives.
Drink
Golden hour bliss with Zoe London and Giorgio Chiarello at Dhigali Maldives

This November, Dhigali Maldives will transform its iconic Haali Bar into a lively stage for music and mixology, as British DJ Zoe London and Italian Flair Bartending Champion Giorgio Chiarello join forces for an unforgettable sunset residency from 11 to 15 November 2025.
Each evening, Zoe London will take to the decks, delivering her distinctive mix of house, classic remixes, and uplifting energy to the shores of the Raa Atoll. With more than 15 years’ experience performing at venues such as Soho House and The Ned, as well as at prestigious events including the Formula 1 Paddock Club and festivals like Glastonbury, Reading & Leeds, and Latitude, Zoe’s sets promise the perfect soundtrack to golden hour in paradise.
As the sun slips beneath the horizon, guests will be treated to masterfully crafted cocktails from Giorgio Chiarello, Italy’s most decorated Flair Bartender. Renowned for his captivating performances and expertise in American-style mixology, Giorgio will present a bespoke menu featuring three classic cocktails alongside three of his own original creations, each prepared with precision and flair at Haali Bar.
Nestled in the heart of the remote Raa Atoll, Dhigali Maldives is an exclusive Premium All-Inclusive resort that seamlessly blends contemporary minimalist design with the island’s natural beauty. From overwater villas and beachfront suites to snorkelling adventures, fine dining, and rejuvenating spa rituals, the resort offers an immersive and refined escape. With its vibrant house reef just steps away, every element is designed for effortless relaxation and indulgence.
Together, Zoe London and Giorgio Chiarello will infuse the island’s evenings with rhythm, flavour, and artistry, creating an immersive fusion of music and mixology framed by the serene backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
Featured
Huvafen Fushi introduces soulful stays for rest, reconnection and renewal

Huvafen Fushi has unveiled a soul-stirring escape created for women who appreciate the power of pause. Whether bringing together a close circle of friends or seeking cherished solitude, this retreat has been designed to smooth the edges and awaken the spirit. Behind closed doors lies the quiet seclusion of Huvafen’s renowned two- and three-bedroom Pavilions, where privacy is paramount, barefoot elegance is assured, and time moves to a rhythm entirely one’s own.
There is little need to leave – unless by choice. Mornings may begin with floating breakfasts on the deck, sunrise yoga by the sea, or tranquil hours drifting in a private pool. With personal butlers, customised mini bars, private coral garden snorkelling, and candlelit feasts, every detail encourages guests to soften, settle, and reconnect with themselves.
Accommodation options include:
- Two Bedroom Ocean Pavilion with Pool – Overwater and sunset-facing, this private retreat sleeps up to six and features a unique indoor–outdoor pool that opens directly into the sea, ideal for dusk dips and long, starlit evenings.
- Two Bedroom Lagoon Pavilion with Pool – Bathed in morning light, this sunrise-facing pavilion offers an uninterrupted view of the lagoon. With space for six, a vast sundeck, and serene water vistas, it invites both connection and clarity.
- Three Bedroom Beach Pavilion with Pool – Positioned directly on the beach and facing the sunset, this expansive hideaway sleeps up to nine. Ocean views, a private pool, and generous indoor and outdoor living areas make it ideal for multigenerational escapes or milestone celebrations.
- Two Bedroom Beach House with Pool – A private sanctuary on the sand, this beach house accommodates up to six. Guests can unwind in their own pool, take in panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, and embrace a slower pace of life.
This is a stay for long conversations and easy silences, for secrets shared over cocktails, for saltwater swims that soothe, for laughter, solo sunrises, and the rare luxury of simply being oneself. Whether with friends, family, or alone, it is not merely a getaway – it is a return to one’s own tide.
Featured
Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas unveils magical holiday celebrations

This festive season, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas will offer guests a journey of connection, wonder and celebration, inspired by the four natural elements: earth, water, fire and air. A series of thoughtfully curated experiences will capture the spirit of the season and the beauty of the island, creating a magical escape for both couples and families.
Christmas celebrations will begin with the lighting of the island tree and Santa’s arrival in true Kihavah style. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, guests will enjoy beachfront feasts, sunset cocktails and joyful family gatherings.
Younger guests will be treated to a host of festive activities, from gingerbread house decorating to a children’s pirate cruise exploring local islands, as well as a friendly wall-climbing challenge.
As the year draws to a close, New Year’s Eve will invite guests to celebrate beneath the stars with cosmic-themed cocktails by the sea, followed by a Gala Dinner featuring world-class cuisine, live cooking stations and vibrant entertainment, culminating in a spectacular countdown under the Maldivian night sky.
On 7 January, Orthodox Christmas will be marked with a serene celebration inspired by the element of water, offering oceanfront dining, soulful live music and moments of quiet reflection.
Throughout the festive period, guests will also be able to enjoy signature experiences such as a sunset wine tasting on a private sandbank and a five-course coral-aged wine dinner at SEA, the world’s only underwater wine cellar. Complementing these will be grounding island activities, rejuvenating wellness rituals and culinary delights, all designed to reconnect guests with nature, loved ones and themselves.
With its breathtaking setting, newly reimagined Beach Pool Villas and exceptional holiday programme, Anantara Kihavah promises an unforgettable seasonal celebration in luxury and style.
-
Action1 week ago
OBLU NATURE Helengeli guests witness rare Ornate Eagle Ray
-
Featured1 week ago
Solo travel with purpose at Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah
-
Featured1 week ago
Ada Ooi brings integrative wellness to The Island Spa at Four Seasons Kuda Huraa
-
Celebration1 week ago
Kandima Maldives unveils ‘Rhythms of the Eras’ festive celebration for 2025/26
-
Featured1 week ago
Transformative wellness retreat with Jono Castano at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
-
Drink1 week ago
Huvafen Fushi to host iconic 17-course omakase by Japan’s Chef Setsuo Funahashi
-
Celebration1 week ago
Where time stands still: The Nautilus Maldives unveils unscripted holiday celebrations
-
Featured1 week ago
Elevated wellbeing: seasonal healing journeys at Amilla Maldives