Boats are how the Maldives moves. Besides seaplanes and domestic flights, there are three main ways to travel by sea: public ferries, public speedboats and the speedboats that resorts use for transfers.
Most resort guests only ever use the last one. This guide explains all three, so you know what to expect, whether you're heading straight to your resort or planning a trip beyond it.
Resort speedboat transfers
Resorts within reach of Velana usually transfer guests by speedboat. The resort runs the boat or arranges it with a partner, and its team meets you at the airport.
- Booked with your stay. The resort arranges the transfer, and it is confirmed with your booking.
- Day and night. Speedboats usually run at night as well, which helps with late arrivals.
- Luggage. Speedboats are usually more flexible about luggage than seaplanes, but tell the resort about bulky items such as dive gear.
- Sea conditions. Crossings can be bumpy on windy days, and the crew decides when it is safe to sail.
Trips to more distant atolls usually combine a domestic flight with a shorter speedboat ride. Our transfers guide compares the options, and our airports guide explains arrival at Velana.
Public ferries
The public ferry network is run by the state-owned Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) under the name Raajje Transport Link (RTL). Launched in 2022, it is being rolled out across the country. At the time of writing it serves most atolls, with more being added.
Ferries link local islands within and between atolls, and some routes connect islands with Malé. They are slower than speedboats. Timetables vary by route and by day, and some routes don't run on Fridays. MTCC publishes route and timetable information, including on its RTL customer portal.
Public speedboats
On busier routes, especially around Malé, privately run public speedboats offer faster trips between Malé and nearby local islands. Local operators run them, and departures and bookings are usually handled by the operator or through guesthouses on the island.
We don't list operators here, because services change often and there is no single official list.
Which option suits a resort stay?
- Getting to your resort. Use the transfer your resort arranges. It is timed to your flight, and the team meets you.
- A day in Malé. Ask your resort about trips to the capital; many resorts near Malé can arrange them.
- Local island visits. Resorts often run excursions to a nearby local island, which is usually simpler than combining public boats.
- Travelling independently. Public ferries and speedboats suit flexible travellers with time to spare, not tight connections.
If you do use public boats, check the timetable the day before, allow plenty of time and dress modestly on local islands. For flights, see our guide to flying to the Maldives.
Frequently asked questions
How does the speedboat transfer from the airport work?
Your resort arranges it. Its team meets you at Velana and takes you to the boat.
Can resort guests use public ferries?
Yes, but resort transfers are timed to your flight. Public ferries suit independent trips between local islands.
Who runs the public ferries?
MTCC operates the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry network, which is still expanding. Check its published timetables before you travel.
Do speedboats run at night?
Resort speedboats usually do. Public services vary by route, so check the timetable.
Is the speedboat ride rough?
Crossings near Malé are usually short, but they can be bumpy on windy days. If you're prone to seasickness, let the resort know.
