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Once-in-a-lifetime, flop-and-drop, postcard-perfect. The Maldives has many labels that capture its crystal-clear lagoons, overwater bungalows, and powder-white sands. But there’s one badge it hasn’t earned, until now: a stopover-free trip from Australia.
There’s now a shortcut to paradise, as Luxury Escapes has partnered with Maldivian Airlines to cut the journey time to less than 12 hours, on Australia’s first and only direct flight from Melbourne to Malé.
According to Luxury Escapes hotel bookings data, the Maldives was the third most popular overseas destination in 2024, with bookings up 16%. There’s never been a better time to make this bucket list experience a reality.
Read on for everything you need to know.
What is the usual route?
Flights from Melbourne to the Maldives typically involve an Asian carrier with stopovers in cities such as Singapore, Colombo, Kuala Lumpur or Dubai. Travel times usually range from 15 to 20 hours, though longer journeys are common, with total travel often extending well beyond the hours spent in the air.
What is the Luxury Escapes Private Charter route?
It’s a straight shot: less than 12 hours from takeoff at Melbourne Airport to land directly at Malé’s Velana International Airport – no stopovers required. The flight is overnight, which, paired with early check-in and late checkout at the resort, is designed to maximise your holiday time.
Flights aboard the full-service Airbus A330-300 are reserved exclusively for Luxury Escapes guests, and you can expect the usual in-flight service.
As an added perk, if you aren’t 100% sure of your dates, you have free cancellation or date change options within 7 days of purchase (conditions apply).
You’ve arrived, so what’s next?
The moment you reach the resort, you’ll slip into island life straight away with early check-in.
This means no waiting in the lobby or dropping off luggage – you can hit the ground running on your VIP inclusions, whether that’s free-flow cocktails, gourmet dining or island adventures.
On the way home, do it in reverse – soak up every last bit of barefoot bliss before your transfer back to Malé and your direct flight to Melbourne.
How do you book?
Seats are limited, so act quickly to secure your spot. Click here to browse packages including direct flights, or call a Maldives travel expert on our priority line; 1300 676 418.
Feature image: Sirru Fen Fushi. Source: supplied.
