Luxury Escapes goes all-in on Melbourne to Male flights
Launched in May 2026 in partnership with Maldivian, the route is the first regular direct service between Australia and the Maldives.
Four months after launch, the flights have achieved an average load factor of 90% and Luxury Escapes’ Maldives accommodation package bookings have increased by 65% compared with the same period last year, giving the company confidence to extend the service year-round.
Luxury Escapes CEO and co-founder, Adam Schwab, said the unconventional decision to work directly with an airline to operate a regular scheduled service, has filled a clear gap in Australia’s outbound travel network.
“We had a short lead time between announcing and launching flights and took a punt on the ‘if we build it, they will come’ strategy, and Australians are coming in force,” he said.
Not only is the Maldives a truly awe-inspiring destination, our direct flights and all-inclusive five-star resort packages have made it more accessible and affordable.
“We’re seeing standout growth from families, multigenerational travellers and groups of friends.
“The Maldives will always be an iconic honeymoon destination, but Australians are now also choosing it for anniversaries, milestone birthdays and even post-break-up escapes,” Schwab said.
Maldivian’s Airbus A330-200 features 263 seats across Business and Economy cabins, with extra-legroom Economy Plus seating also available on the Luxury Escapes flights.
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Wayfarer recommends booking a stay at the Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort, which is nestled within the turquoise waters of South Ari Atoll.
Guests are drawn to its intimate island setting, elevated all-inclusive offering, world-class dining, transformative wellness experiences and unrivalled access to the marine wonders of the Indian Ocean.
From swimming alongside whale sharks and exploring a vibrant house reef teeming with marine life to unwinding at Navasana Spa, every stay is designed to foster a deeper connection to both nature and self.