Public Ferry from Malé
The public ferry is the most affordable way to reach Maafushi from Malé. The ferry departs from the Villingili Ferry Terminal on the western side of Malé and makes several stops at islands in South Kaafu Atoll before reaching Maafushi. The journey takes approximately 90 minutes to two hours depending on the number of stops. Ferries typically run daily except Fridays, which is the weekly holiday in the Maldives. The departure time from Malé is usually in the afternoon, with the return ferry from Maafushi departing in the early morning the following day. The fare is very low, usually around 22 to 48 Rufiyaa, making it the budget traveller's preferred option. The ferries are basic but comfortable, with covered seating and open-air deck areas.
Speedboat Transfers
For those wanting a faster and more flexible journey, speedboat transfers from Malé or the airport to Maafushi take approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Several operators run scheduled speedboat services, and many guesthouses on Maafushi can arrange transfers for their guests. The cost is significantly higher than the public ferry, typically ranging from 25 to 35 US dollars per person each way. However, the convenience of speedboats is considerable: they run more frequently, depart at various times throughout the day, and can pick you up directly from the airport area rather than requiring you to first travel to Malé. For travellers arriving late in the day or wanting to reach Maafushi without an overnight stay in Malé, the speedboat is the way to go.
From the Airport
Velana International Airport is located on Hulhulé island, just across the water from Malé. If you are heading to Maafushi directly from the airport, you have two main options. The first is to take the airport ferry or bridge taxi to Malé and then catch the public ferry to Maafushi. This is the cheapest route but requires some coordination with ferry schedules. The second option is to arrange a speedboat transfer directly from the airport jetty, which is quicker and eliminates the need to navigate Malé. Most guesthouses on Maafushi offer airport pickup services and can send a speedboat to collect you upon arrival. It is wise to arrange this before you arrive, especially if your flight lands after the public ferry has departed.
Ferry Schedule Tips
The public ferry schedule can change, so it is always best to confirm current times before planning your trip. Your guesthouse in Maafushi will know the latest schedule and can advise on the best departure time. Keep in mind that ferries do not run on Fridays, and during public holidays or bad weather the schedule may be disrupted. The ferry can get busy, especially during peak tourist season and local holiday periods, so arrive at the terminal early to secure a good seat. There is no advance booking for the public ferry; you simply buy your ticket at the terminal before departure. If the ferry schedule does not suit your arrival time, the speedboat option provides much more flexibility.
Travelling Between Maafushi and Other Islands
Once you are on Maafushi, it is easy to visit neighbouring islands. Short speedboat rides connect Maafushi to Gulhi, which is just a few kilometres away and makes for an excellent day trip. Other islands in South Kaafu Atoll are also accessible, and the public ferry network connects various islands on its route. Excursion operators on Maafushi offer island-hopping trips that combine visits to multiple islands in a single day. If you plan to visit several local islands during your trip, Maafushi serves as an excellent hub thanks to its transport connections and central location in the atoll.