Blanketed in beautiful landscapes and turquoise seas that mingle effortlessly with pristine beaches that are complete with tinges of lush greenery, the Maldives spells breathtaking with a capital ‘B.’ To the foreign national hoping to comb through this paradise, there will be several appealing forms of transportation that will complement varying whims and budgets. Provided is a guide on how you can cover the entirety of the Maldivian archipelago.
By seaplane
After you have booked your accommodation in the Maldives, you would feel like you have just killed two birds with one stone. This is attributed to the fact that during the course of finalising your period of stay, the resort or hotel of your choosing will also help you by reserving seats on a seaplane that will in turn, seamlessly connect you to your base from Velana International Airport. As the quickest mode of transport in this part of the world, seaplane journeys will have you feasting your eyes on the islands that stretch out from Male as you will only be flying at a low altitude. Although, noted for being costly affairs with average prices hovering between 3,500 – 7,000 MVR, riding in a seaplane can certainly be interpreted as the 1st leg of your holiday.
By speedboat
More often than not, the speedboat can be resorted to in instances where you suffer from phobias associated with flying or seek a means of reaching your desired location with the cool, ocean breeze acting as an added source of encouragement. Further, a speedboat will go where no public ferry dares venture to and hence, travellers like you will be able to avail of a greater level of flexibility to your itinerary. However, approach such a means of commuting with due consideration for the cost factor as fares are known to extend as far as 3,500 MVR. In the event you have selected one of the top resorts in Maldives the likes of Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi to reside at, then you can share your sentiments on utilising the above.
By ferry
Lengthier stays would entail having to move frequently from one island to the next and for this purpose, none would beat the dual elements of cost and convenience which underpin getting about by public ferry. The sole caveat is that the journey itself can be long and laborious with average trips lasting for as much as 5 hours. Pubic island ferries carry a price tag of between 30-45 MVR with a majority of these vessels known to function across a 12-hour roster, beginning at 6 am and concluding by 6 pm.
By bus
Yes! You did read that right! Buses are a thing in the Maldives but know that you are not likely to be seen hailing one on a private island. Managed by the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), the fleets operate on designated routes and are one of the more affordable forms of travelling in the island nation. The closest bus station to Velana International Airport is some 50 meters away with the cheapest fare starting at MVR 3 per person. In terms of advice, do avoid riding the bus if you happen to be carrying heavy luggage and one must stay well clear of the same during rainy days as the buses tend to crowd up during these instances.
By cycle
Picture yourself peddling off into the brilliant sunset bordered by rows of trees and private gardens well hidden from the eyes of the outside world. With a cycling tour, you can look forward to similar outings where time will be your own to uncover each fascinating facet of the island you find yourself living on. A handful of resort properties do offer ease of access to guided cycle tours but the highlight of such an experience will be to do it your way, either after you’ve polished off breakfast or when the setting sun beckons.