Maldives Transport

Tourism is strictly regulated in the Maldives and independent travel is discouraged because it is seen as disruptive to traditional island communities. Those wanting to see the Maldivian way of life can stay in Male, the intriguing capital city, and make daytime visits to island communities close to tourist resorts. It's not impossible to visit the outer islands, but it's difficult enough to deter all but the most dedicated and determined. An Inter Atoll Travel Permit is required to visit islands outside the tourist zone, and the Ministry of Atolls Administration will only issue them to those whose visit if sponsored by a resident of the island concerned.

By Air The Maldives has a small national airline and operates regular and very scenic flights to four air strips in the outer atolls. Helicopters and seaplanes are used to transfer guests to some of the remoter resorts. Air Male International Airport is the only international gateway; departure tax is $US10 per passenger. Helicopter or sea-planes do take guests to the resort island of their choice.

Apart from international flights operated by South Africa, Malaysia, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Singapore, the U.A.E., and a number of European countries to and from Male International Airport (Tel: 322073) Air Maldives, the national carrier, operates regular flights to the domestic airports at Hanimaadhoo, Kadhdhoo, Kaadedhdhoo and Gan.

By Boat The Dhoni is the main form of local transport. It is a traditional all-purpose vessel now usually powered by a diesel engine. Larger boats called Vedis are used for longer trips to outer atolls. Safari cruises in modified, dhonis are increasingly popular, especially with dive groups who want to reach more remote sites. Most safari trips cruise around the tourist zone, but it is possible to arrange longer trips to the outer atolls - the operator will have to obtain the necessary permits. Most islands are so small that transport is not a problem.

The tourist resort islands have their own transfer boats to carry their clients. There is no regular inter-island transportation system between inhabited islands. The ad hoc transportation system is serviced mainly by Dhoni or Baththeli which average a speed of about 8 miles per hour. Modern speed boats are also available for hire.

Taxis are only available in the capital and are un-metered, charging Rf 15, if hailed on the road or Rf 10, if called on phone from the taxi service.

Motorcycles can be rented on the main island of Male only.

Bicycles can also be rented in the capital city, Male as well on some of the other islands, where wheeled transport is necessary. Most islands though are small enough for 'Shank's pony' (walking) to be enough.