Male to Hulhumale Ferry: Best Routes, Fares & Timings

The Male to Hulhumale Ferry is the cheap, easy ride between the capital and the new island. Ferries run many times a day as the trip takes about fifteen to twenty minutes. You can catch ferries at Male ferry terminal or Hulhumale ferry terminal. Many travelers who book Maldives honeymoon packages or Maldives tour packages often use this ferry to reach Hulhumale easily. This guide tells you when, how, and what to expect.

Why choose the Male to Hulhumale Ferry?

  • It is cheap.
  • It is safe.
  • It is fast. The trip takes about fifteen to twenty minutes. 
  • You see the sea and the city.

This makes the Male to Hulhumale Ferry best for short travel. 

Quick facts about Male to Hulhumale Ferry

Topic

Info

Route

Male ferry terminal ↔ Hulhumale ferry terminal.

Trip time

About 15–20 minutes. 

Service hours

Early morning to late night. Ferries run many times a day

Frequency

Often — every 15–20 minutes during the day on LINK route.

Cost

Very low. Local fare shown on ticket counters and apps. (See ticketing section.)

Operators

MTCC and public ferry links.

Where the Male to Hulhumale Ferry starts and ends

You use two main places:

Male Ferry Terminal

  • This is in the city of Male. You will find signs and jetties. Ferries leave from here to Hulhumale.

Hulhumale Ferry Terminal

  • This is on Hulhumale island. The terminal has a waiting area and ticket desks. You can get buses from here to the airport or to other parts of Hulhumale. 

How often do Ferries run?

During the day, LINK ferries run very often. You may not wait long. In busy hours, a ferry comes every fifteen to twenty minutes. Times can change. Check the official schedule before you travel with the Male to Hulhumale Ferry.

How long is the Male to Hulhumale Ferry trip?

From dock to dock, the trip is short. It is about fifteen to twenty minutes. If you add walking and queue time, think of twenty to thirty minutes total. For most travellers this is quick and easy.

Ticket Price and How to Buy

  • Many locals use cash at the desk.
  • Some apps and online portals sell tickets or show fares. Use official sites for correct info.

Tip: Keep small cash ready for ticket booths. Prices may be shown in Maldivian Rufiyaa at the counter.Some sites list day fares and late night fares. Check current fares before you travel on the Male to Ferry.

From the airport to Hulhumale Ferry

If you land at Velana International Airport:

  • You can take the airport shuttle or a public bus to Hulhumale ferry terminal as The bus runs often.
  • You can also catch a direct airport ferry to Male city and then a short ride to the Hulhumale ferry. Check times.

If you stay in Hulhumale, the ferry helps you go to Male for shops, food, or tours.

How to get from Male city to Male ferry terminal

Male is small. You can walk if your hotel is near the shore. For further places, use a short taxi ride. Ask hotel staff for best path to the Male ferry terminal. The jetty is at the water edge of the city.

What the Male to Hulhumale Ferry ride is like

  • The ferry is open inside and has seats.
  • It is simple and clean. Some ferries are air cooled.
  • You can stand near the windows and see Male skyline and planes at the airport island. Many travellers enjoy the view.

Luggage Rules

  • Small bags are fine.
  • If you have a big suitcase, ask staff before boarding. Some public ferries have space for luggage.
  • Keep your bag close when the ferry is full.

Safety tips

  • Wear life jacket if told by crew.
  • Keep kids close. The jetty is near water.
  • If the sea is rough, staff may delay the trip. Do not force travel in bad weather. 

Accessibility for Male to Hulhumale Ferry

  • Many jetties have steps. Some ferries have ramps.
  • If you need help, ask the terminal staff. They often help with boarding. If you travel with elderly family, plan extra time.

Best time to travel

  • Early morning and late evening are calm.
  • Midday can be busy as If you want fewer people, pick early or late.
  • For good light and views, travel at sunrise or just before dusk using the Male to Hulhumale Ferry.

If you miss a ferry

Do not worry. Ferries run many times a day on this route as You can catch the next one in a few minutes. Check the next ferry time at the desk or via the local schedule apps.

Alternatives to Male to Hulhumale Ferry

Option

Time

Cost

Best for

Public ferry (LINK)

15–20 min

Low

Budget travel, views.

Speedboat / private boat

5–10 min

High

Quick transfer, more comfort.

Taxi on sea (private)

10–15 min

High

Direct door to door.

If you are in a hurry or have heavy luggage, a private speedboat from the airport can be best as If you have a small budget and time, the Male to Hulhumale Ferry is great. 

Costs — what to expect 

Fares are small. Many travelers note a low fee for the short ride. There may be different fares at night or for special boats. Check the ticket desk or the RTL site for exact cost.

What if you have a connecting flight or hotel check-in?

  • If you have a flight soon, give extra time. The ferry is short but check-in lines and buses add time.
  • If your hotel is in Hulhumale, the ferry will take you close. But check the distance from the terminal to your hotel.

Short checklist before you board

  • Passport or ID if needed.
  • Small cash for ticket.
  • Light bag.
  • Water bottle.
  • Sunblock and cap.

Conclusion

The Male to Hulhumale Ferry is the simple, low-cost way to travel between Male and Hulhumale. The ride is short. The views are nice. Ferries run many times a day. For most travellers from India, this route is safe, quick, and easy to use. Many people who book Maldives honeymoon packages or Maldives tour packages use this ferry to reach Hulhumale comfortably. Check MTCC or RTL before you go to be sure of times and fares. Travel light, stay safe, and enjoy the short sea ride.

FAQ

Q: How long does the Male to Hulhumale Ferry take?
A: About fifteen to twenty minutes.

Q: How often do ferries run?
A: Many times a day. Often every fifteen to twenty minutes on LINK during the day. Check live times. 

Q: Is the ferry safe for kids and elders?
A: Yes. Staff help with boarding. Keep kids close on the dock.

Q: Can I take big bags?
A: Yes, but ask staff. Some ferries have limited space. Pack light if you can.

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