How to travel around Maldives on your vacation - Your Ultimate Guide to Traveling Responsibly and Respectfully.

The Maldives is a stunning archipelago in the Indian Ocean that boasts crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and an abundance of marine life. With over 1,000 islands to explore, getting around can be a challenge, but with the right information, it's easy to travel around and experience all that the Maldives has to offer. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to travel around the Maldives on your vacation.

Speedboat | img via pxfuel

By Speedboat

One of the most popular ways to get around the Maldives is by speedboat. Most resorts and hotels offer this service, and it's a great way to get to your destination quickly and efficiently. Speedboats are available 24 hours a day, and the cost varies depending on the distance and the type of boat. For example, a transfer from Male Airport to a resort in North Male Atoll would take around 20-30 minutes and cost approximately $150-$200. If you are planning your stay at a luxury hotel in Maldives the likes of Baros Maldives, you can also reach out to the resort’s front desk and book a speed boat directly from your resort - which will more convenient and easily accessible.

By Seaplane

If you're looking for a more scenic way to travel around the Maldives, then a seaplane is the perfect option. Seaplanes are available for transfers from Male Airport to most of the popular resort islands, and they offer stunning views of the Maldives' turquoise waters and atolls. However, seaplanes are more expensive than speedboats, and the cost can vary depending on the distance and the type of plane. A transfer from Male Airport to a resort in Baa Atoll, for example, would take approximately 45 minutes and cost around $500-$600.

By Public Ferry

If you're on a budget or looking for a more authentic experience, then travelling by public ferry is a great option. Public ferries run between the islands and are a popular mode of transportation for locals. The cost of a ferry ticket is usually very cheap, and it's a great way to see more of the Maldives and experience local life. However, public ferries can be slow, and the schedules can be unpredictable, so it's important to plan ahead and check the schedules in advance.

By Private Yacht

For those looking for a luxury experience, travelling around the Maldives by private yacht is the ultimate way to explore the archipelago. Private yachts are available for charter and offer a personalized and exclusive experience. You can choose your itinerary, and the yacht will take you to some of the most beautiful and secluded islands in the Maldives. However, this is the most expensive option, and the cost can vary depending on the size of the yacht and the duration of the trip.

Additional Tips and things to know

• Pack light: When travelling around the Maldives, it's important to pack light, as most transfers are by speedboat or seaplane, which have luggage restrictions.
• Book in advance: It's important to book your transfers in advance, especially if you're travelling during peak season, as availability can be limited.
• Check weather conditions: The Maldives can be affected by monsoons, so it's important to check the weather conditions before you travel and plan your itinerary accordingly.
• Respect local customs: The Maldives is a Muslim country, and it's important to respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting local islands.
• Dress appropriately: While the Maldives is a tropical paradise, it is also a Muslim country, so it's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting local islands. This means avoiding revealing clothing, such as shorts and sleeveless tops, and instead opting for lightweight, breathable fabrics that cover your shoulders and knees.
• Respect local customs: The Maldives has a rich cultural heritage, and it's important to respect local customs and traditions. For example, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering a mosque or someone's home, and it is considered rude to point your feet towards someone.
• Try the local cuisine: The Maldives has a unique culinary tradition that is heavily influenced by Indian and Sri Lankan cuisine. Don't be afraid to try local dishes such as mas huni (smoked tuna salad), rihaakuru (fish paste), and garudhiya (fish soup).
• Practice responsible tourism: The Maldives is a fragile ecosystem, and it's important to minimize your impact on the environment. This means avoiding single-use plastics, not disturbing the coral reefs, and supporting sustainable tourism initiatives.

Whether you're looking for a luxury experience or a budget-friendly option, there's a mode of transportation that will suit your needs and preferences.