How to get to Sun Siyam Vilu Reef
How to get to Sun Siyam Vilu Reef
The main method of reaching Sun Siyam Vilu Reef Maldives is via seaplane. The scenic 35-minute seaplane journey from Malé International Airport offers guests a breath taking introduction to their holiday, showcasing panoramic views of the azure lagoons and winding atolls.
This journey unveils the mesmerizing landscape of pristine white sandy beaches stretching alongside turquoise waters, seamlessly blending with the vibrant blue of the Indian Ocean, creating the quintessential image of paradise.
For guests arriving after 3:30pm into Malé, the resort provides a domestic flight option as an alternative transfer method. However, guests need to discuss this option with the resort prior to their arrival to make necessary arrangements.
Due to the considerable distance from Malé (144km or 90 miles), there are no boat-only transfers available to Sun Siyam Vilu Reef.
Your Arrival at Malé Airport (MLE)
Upon your arrival at Malé airport (Velana International) in the Maldives and clearing security to enter the arrivals hall, you'll be warmly greeted by a dedicated resort guide holding a wooden sign displaying the resort's name. They'll be readily available to escort you to your next transfer point and provide assistance with your luggage as needed.
Seaplane to Sun Siyam Vilu Reef
Your resort guide will help you and your belongings into a vehicle, which will take you to The Sun Siyam Resorts lounge, just a 5-minute drive away.
Upon arrival, you'll check in and await your seaplane flight. While you wait, you can enjoy close-up views of the seaplanes or relax in the comfort of the exclusive lounge. The lounge offers snacks and drinks, providing a tranquil setting for you to unwind before your transfer to the resort.
The Sun Siyam Resorts in the Maldives consist of five islands, and four of them share an exclusive seaplane (8Q-TMV) adorned with distinctive orange, red, and gold branding. However, due to multiple trips required to each resort daily, it cannot be guaranteed that guests will travel in the branded seaplane.
Operated by Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA), the Sun Siyam Resorts seaplane benefits from TMA's extensive seaplane fleet, which is renowned worldwide for its reliability. If the Sun Siyam seaplane is unavailable, an equivalent TMA-branded seaplane will be provided for the transfer.
The seaplane journey itself lasts approximately 35 minutes, offering breath taking views of the Indian Ocean from an altitude ranging between 2,000 to 6,000 feet. However, the overall transfer duration might be slightly longer if flying with TMA due to potential stops to drop off guests at other resorts along the way.
Landing on the water near the island, seaplanes offer a distinctive arrival experience. Upon disembarking onto the floating seaplane platform, guests will then proceed to a local ferry boat, known as a dhoni, for a short journey to reach the shores of Vilu Reef. Resort staff will be available to assist guests and handle luggage throughout the process.
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef Transfer Prices in 2024
These are the current costs for transfers to Sun Siyam Vilu Reef. Prices are per person for a return trip and include all taxes.
- Seaplane
- Adult $495
- Child $297
Infants under 2 are free. Children aged 12 or over are classed as adults for transfers.
Prices above are for guidance only, your actual charge will depend on the prevailing rates at the time of your booking.
Do I have to transfer via seaplane?
Seaplanes truly embody the essence of the Maldives, offering unparalleled views from their low flying altitude. It's a remarkable journey that everyone should experience at least once.
However, there are alternative modes of travel within the Maldives. If you or your family feel that seaplanes are not suitable, it's worth reaching out to Sun Siyam Vilu Reef to explore other transportation options.
Consider a domestic transfer if any of the following conditions apply:
- International flights arriving in the Maldives after 3:30pm Malé time (seaplanes only fly during daylight).
- You simply don't want to go on a seaplane.
- You have limited mobility which would make it difficult.
- You have a significant amount of luggage
Can I transfer between Sun Siyam resorts?
Yes, it is indeed possible to travel between resorts in the Maldives. If you're transferring between Sun Siyam Vilu Reef and Sun Siyam Iru Veli, both located in the Dhaalu Atoll, you can arrange for a speedboat ride from one island to the other. Whether this service is complimentary or not depends on your stay, and it's advisable to discuss this with both resorts before your arrival.
However, if you're transferring to Siyam World, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, or Sun Siyam Olhuveli, you'll need to return to Malé where you can await further transfer arrangements in the Sun Siyam Resorts Lounge. Please note that this transfer would be at an additional cost.