How To Get To Male City Maldives from Male International Airport Using the Public Ferry

This article enumerates the steps on how to get from Male International Airport to to Male City using the public ferry.


Thinking of going to the Maldives? We can’t blame you! Maldives is one of the most beautiful island nations we have EVER visited.  

Even the location of its airport is quite impressive. Maldives’ very own Male International Airport (also known as Velana International Airport) sits on a small piece of land called Hulhule Island, which is part of the North Male Atoll.

Because of its ideal location, Male International Airport is arguably one of the most picturesque airports to land at as the whole island is surrounded by crystal clear water.

Maldives from the sky

Formerly known as Nasir Ibrahim Airport, Male International Airport is well-connected to many international airports all over the world. It is the main gateway for tourists wanting to visit the Maldives.

From Male International Airport on Hulhule Island,  you will need a boat transfer to get to the capital Male.  Some tourists arrange for private pickup from the airport to their hotels, which are usually located on remorts resort islands.

The good news is you don’t have to spend (and break the bank) on a  private speedboat transfer to Male. You can simply use the public ferry from the Male International Airport to Male city at a fraction of the price!

Here are the steps on how to get from Male International Airport to Male using the public ferry service.

Step 1. Walk past the number of commercial booths located at the departure area after clearing customs and immigration. These booths all offer speedboat transfer and tours.

Unless you’re interested, don’t get distracted and just walk straight to the public ferry counter, which is actually located outside the airport terminal, close to the water.

As usual once you arrive at the airport, proceed through immigration and customs
Don’t be overwhelmed by the large array of booths at the airport

Step 2. Buy your ticket and inquire about the departure time for the next ferry going to Male.

A one-way ferry ticket from the airport to Male is about 10 MVR (Maldivian Rufiyaa). This is less than 1 USD.  That’s what we call value!

Proceed to the ferry ticket counter outside the airport
About 30 meters from the ticket counter you will find the ferry heading to Male

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Step 3. Carry your luggage onto the ferry.

You are pretty much responsible for loading it. Large suitcases or bags can be placed in the middle of the ferry so it isn’t in the way of other passengers.

Important Travel Tip:  If you plan to use the public ferry, it is better to pack lightly.

Load your luggage in the middle of the ferry and you are on your way

Step 4. Enjoy your first boat ride in the Maldives.

This ride will not be too long as the distance between Hulhule Island and Male is not very far. Overall the ride should only take about 15 minutes.

Step 5. Get off the Hulhumale Ferry Terminal, which is located in the northeast section of Male Island.

Depending on the distance of your hotel in Male to the ferry terminal, you may be able to walk to it from the terminal. Male Island is only about two kilometers long. However, you always have the choice to take a taxi directly to your hotel for the ease and convenience.  

This is where you will get off of the ferry once you arrive at Male

So these are the steps on how to get from Male International Airport to Male City using the public ferry. This is definitely the cheapest way for this route!

But there’s always a privately run speedboat on standby at the airport just in case you are willing to pay more for such convenience.


Ready to book your hotel in the Maldives?

Check out the best selection of hotels in the Maldives on reputable sites like www.booking.com and www.agoda.com

Want to browse hotels across multiple hotel provider platforms, check out www.hotelscombined.com.

Please feel free to comment or ask questions down below especially if you are visiting the Maldives anytime soon!

Chase. Experience. Inspire. 

Read All Travel Posts on the Maldives

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