How to Get to Maafushi from Malé Airport
Two options, very different prices. Here is everything you need to know to get from Velana International Airport to Maafushi island — step by step.
Step-by-Step: Airport to Maafushi
Land at Velana International Airport (MLE)
This is the main airport serving the Maldives, located on Hulhulé island adjacent to Malé.
Take the Airport Ferry to Malé
A regular passenger ferry connects the airport island to Malé in about 10 minutes. Cost is around $1. Alternatively, a water taxi takes 5 minutes for ~$10.
Head to Male Ferry Terminal
Walk or take a short taxi (5 mins, ~$3) to the Male Ferry Terminal near the fish market in central Malé.
Board the Maafushi Ferry or Speedboat
Take the public ferry (1.5 hrs, ~$2) or a speedboat transfer (45-60 mins, $25–40) to Maafushi island.
Arrive at Maafushi Jetty
KUE Hotels is a short walk from the jetty. If you have heavy luggage, a tuk-tuk can take you to the hotel for $1–2.
Ferry vs Speedboat — Which Should You Choose?
Public Ferry (Recommended)
~1.5 hours
Duration
$1–2 USD
Price
Multiple daily departures
Schedule
The public ferry from Male Ferry Terminal (near the fish market) to Maafushi is the most popular way to get there. Ferries run several times daily on most days. The journey takes around 1.5 hours. Book tickets at the terminal or through your hotel. The ferry dock on Maafushi is a short walk from most guesthouses.
✓Cheapest option
✓Scenic journey
✓Runs daily
–Fixed schedule — check times in advance
–Less frequent on Fridays
Speedboat Transfer
45–60 minutes
Duration
$25–40 USD per person
Price
On demand / scheduled
Schedule
Speedboat transfers can be arranged through your hotel or a local transfer company. The journey takes 45–60 minutes depending on sea conditions. Many hotels including KUE can arrange a private or shared speedboat from the airport — ask when booking.
✓Faster journey
✓Flexible departure times
✓More comfort
–Significantly more expensive
–Can be rough in bad weather
Want Us to Arrange Your Transfer?
KUE Hotels can coordinate your speedboat from Malé Airport straight to Maafushi. Just let us know your flight details when booking.
Book & Request TransferFAQs: Getting to Maafushi
Can I get to Maafushi directly from the airport?
You need to take a short taxi or water taxi from Velana International Airport to Male Ferry Terminal first (about 10 minutes and $5–10). From there, take the public ferry or arrange a speedboat transfer to Maafushi.
What time does the ferry from Malé to Maafushi leave?
Ferry times vary seasonally. Generally there are departures in the morning and early afternoon from Male Ferry Terminal. Check the current schedule with your hotel or at the terminal on arrival. Avoid planning a tight connection.
How long is the journey from Malé to Maafushi?
By public ferry it takes approximately 1.5 hours. By speedboat the journey is 45–60 minutes.
Can KUE Hotels arrange my transfer?
Yes. KUE Hotels can arrange speedboat transfers from Malé Airport to Maafushi for arriving guests. Contact us when booking and we will coordinate your arrival.