Joanna James
The beautiful Maldivian archipelago made up of close to 2000 islands is a marvel to explore. Getting from one island to another across the Indian Ocean is quite the experience, as listed below.
All the best resorts in Maldives offer guests quick transfers via speed boat. The thrill of skimming across the ocean at high speeds is quite a thrilling start to your adventures on the archipelago. A private speed boat charter can be costly, and as most visitors to the Maldives know a luxury holiday there does not come cheap. Hence, prepare to splurge if you want to experience it all.
Public speedboats are available to remote islands, about the only mode of transport which offers connections to the really isolated corners of the Maldives; the public speed boats are well-maintained and cut travel time by leaps and bounds. A speedboat ride from the airport to Grand Park Kodhipparu, for instance is a mere 20 minutes.
Seaplane journeys are by far the most rewarding, as sights of the coral atolls clustered across the ocean are quite stunning, and serve as the perfect welcome for visitors. Have those cameras ready as you take flight and the archipelago spreads below, pilots fly at very low altitudes to treat passengers to the breath-taking views of sun-bleached white sand bars, and coral islands which seem to float on the ocean. Fares are quite steep but well worth for visitors with deep pockets. Private charters are available from most Maldives resorts, while Trans Maldivian Airways and Maldivian Air Taxis, offer quick connections to various sectors of the archipelago. Seaplanes can carry up to 15 passengers and will take a maximum of 90 minutes to reach the farthest corners of the archipelago; they do not operate at night.
Public ferry services are by the far the most popular mode of transport across the islands; used by locals the ferry is the cheapest mode of transport. Rates for a 15 hour journey are just as cheap as the cost of a 5 hour journey. Duration of journeys though are quite lengthy in comparison to a speedboat journey or a seaplane transfer. A ferry will not reach your private Maldives islands, instead you will have to get off at the nearest stop on the atoll, and request for a speedboat pickup from your Maldives hotel.
A dhoni is a traditional wooden craft which when offered by private resorts is equipped with all modern facilities for an ultra-luxurious experience. Hence, sunset dhoni cruises are quite popular and enjoyed by many guests staying at luxury Maldives resorts. Public dhoni's are ideal for island hopping, and can be hired from around the eastern edge of Boduthakurufaanu Magu located close to the airport ferry jetty.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
