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Quick facts
- Cheapest
- MTCC public ferry
- Fastest
- Shared speedboat
- Watch out
- Many ferries don't run on Fridays
- Late flight?
- Book a speedboat or stay in Hulhumalé
Your two options
The public ferry, run by MTCC, is the cheapest but slowest option, and it doesn't run every day. A shared speedboat is faster and leaves several times a day, often from near the airport or from Malé's jetties.
Side-by-side
| Public ferry | Shared speedboat | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Very low (a few dollars) | Much higher, usually a per-person tourist fare |
| Time | Roughly 1.5 hours or more | Typically under an hour |
| Departs from | Malé ferry terminal | Airport or Malé jetties (ask your guesthouse) |
| Frequency | Limited, not daily | Several times a day |
Arriving at the airport
If your flight lands late, you won't make the ferry. Either book a speedboat through your guesthouse or spend the night in Hulhumalé, close to the airport.
Where to stay · Booking.com
Hulhumalé stays near the airport
Handy for late arrivals and early departures.
See prices →Affiliate link · no extra cost
Next: Maafushi guide · Where to stay in Maafushi
Sources & further reading
- MTCC (public ferry operator)
- Visit Maldives (official tourism board)
- The Destinationer: Maldives on a budget (2026)
Last checked 16 October 2026. Prices and schedules in the Maldives change often, so always confirm with the operator before you travel.
