When visiting a resort, it’s highly recommended to enjoy the breathtaking ocean view from a seaplane. However, using unfamiliar transportation in an unfamiliar location can lead to unexpected troubles such as booking errors or misunderstandings about meeting points.
In this special feature, we will introduce the process and key points for first-time seaplane users. Please read on to make your trip trouble-free!
Following the previous “Reservation” and “Airport” articles, this post will cover the “Boarding” phase, highlighting points to know before and after boarding!
Check out the previous articles here ↓
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What to Know Before Boarding a Seaplane?
Arriving safely at the boarding gate as planned, all that’s left is to wait for the seaplane boarding instructions! But wait a moment!
For those of you who are casually waiting to fully enjoy the precious 30 minutes on the seaplane, there are several points you should know. If you’re going to ride a seaplane, you’ll want to enjoy it to the fullest. Let’s take a look at those points!
Point to Know #1: First-Come-First-Served for Seats
The first point to know is that seats on a seaplane are first-come-first-served. To secure a good seat, you need to board before other passengers. However, trying to forcefully go ahead of others or disrespecting others to be the first to board may be perceived as rude. So, what is the smart way to do it?
To gain the advantage of being early, it is desirable to sit in the front rows of the waiting area. By doing so, when the boarding staff calls, you can follow right behind them to the seaplane and be the first to board.
Point to Know #2: Front Row Seats Are Highly Recommended
Now that you know how to secure the best seat on a seaplane, where exactly are the best seats? You need to know this in advance as well. The answer is, the front row or the back row is recommended.
The front row is close to the pilot’s seat, allowing you to witness the adventurous experience of being near the pilots, something you wouldn’t see on regular passenger planes. The proximity to the control panel gives a sense of being on a mission crew. While the outside view is excellent, be mindful that the propeller may obstruct the view at certain angles, so it’s best to enjoy the scenery by looking diagonally forward.
If you want a more spacious view, the back row is recommended. There are no wings blocking the view like on regular passenger planes, providing a liberating feeling. Looking out the window, you’ll see a vast ocean view spread out.
Point to Know #3: Use Google Maps to Track Your Location
The next point to highlight is essential for enjoying the scenery to the fullest. Whether using a seaplane or a speedboat, it’s recommended to occasionally open mapping apps like Google Maps to understand your current location and direction.
Why? Because the Maldives is a small island nation made up of small atolls. In the airspace above the atolls, you can enjoy a fantastic view of emerald green reefs, but depending on the direction you look, you may see nothing but ordinary sea. Therefore, opening a map app allows you to judge in real-time which side of the window has a beautiful view.
During the seaplane journey, it’s a unique chance to capture an aerial view of the resort where you’ll be staying. By checking the map, you can anticipate when your resort is approaching, enabling you to seize the opportunity for a memorable photo.
Point to Know #4: Don’t Forget the Commemorative Photo After Disembarking
Lastly, a crucial reminder is not to forget to take a commemorative photo after disembarking. Upon arriving at the resort, you’ll be greeted by an unreal resort environment that may make you want to check in immediately. But wait! If you don’t take a commemorative photo here, you won’t have another chance to take a picture with the seaplane.
It might feel a bit awkward, but ask the resort staff who comes to welcome you for a favor, take a little time, and have them take a photo of you with the seaplane in the background. The staff are used to it and will warmly assist you.
How was it?
Over three articles, we have explained the process of using a seaplane. Using unfamiliar transportation can be confusing, but by understanding the process in advance, the 30 minutes on the seaplane will surely be a memorable experience. Give it a try!
Announcement of the Newly Established Cost-Effective Travel Open Chat
We have newly established a LINE Open Chat to provide even more useful cost-effective travel information and address individual inquiries about travel. If you are planning a trip to the Maldives or have an interest, please join us!
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