The Maldives: what the price includes — and what it does not
The biggest surprise cost in the Maldives is not the hotel but getting to it — potentially hundreds of dollars per person, and not included in the tour price.
Why it works differently here
In the Maldives a hotel is not a building but an entire ISLAND. One island, one resort, and nothing else: no neighbouring hotel, no shop, no street. “I will pop out to the restaurant next door” does not exist here.
Two consequences follow. Prices are high because everything arrives by boat or plane. And choosing the resort matters more than usual: you will spend the whole holiday in that single place.
Transfers — the main extra cost
You land at Malé, but the resort is on another island. There are three ways to get there, and price and travel time differ sharply.
Speedboat — for nearby islands, 20 minutes to an hour. The cheapest option.
Seaplane — for distant islands, 30–50 minutes. The views are extraordinary, but it costs hundreds of dollars per person. Crucially, seaplanes fly ONLY in daylight. A late arrival can mean an overnight stay in Malé — another separate cost.
Domestic flight plus speedboat — for the furthest islands.
So the first question when choosing a resort is: what transfer, and how much? A cheaper hotel with an expensive transfer can end up costing more.
Water villa or beach room
The famous over-water villa costs noticeably more than a beach room — sometimes double. Many split the stay: a few days on the sand, the last two over the water.
Practical side: from a water villa you step straight into the sea, but there is less shade and more wind. With children a beach room is safer — they can play at the shore.
For honeymoons many resorts add extras free: fruit, dessert, room decoration. Just say so in advance — tell your operator and they will pass it on.
What else costs extra
Drinks — unless you have all inclusive, island prices are steep: there is no other shop.
Snorkelling gear, water sports, excursions (dolphin watching, a trip to a neighbouring island), spa.
Wi-Fi is free only in public areas at some resorts.
Ask what is included BEFORE signing. “We will sort it out there” is expensive in the Maldives — there is no alternative on the island.
Still have questions? An operator will advise you free of charge.