How I Got Around in the Maldives – My Personal Travel Story 🚤✈️⛵
Hey there! I’m Arif, and I recently had the chance to explore the Maldives—a place that feels like it’s been painted by an artist. The crystal-clear water, powdery white sand, and sunsets that could make anyone fall in love with life are exactly as magical as you’d imagine. But what I didn’t expect was that getting around the Maldives would be an adventure in itself.
Forget cars and buses—here, it’s all about speedboats, seaplanes, ferries, and even kayaks. Each ride wasn’t just a way to get from Point A to Point B; it was part of the experience, filled with small moments I’ll never forget. Let me take you through my journey, with all the little personal touches that made it unforgettable.
After landing at Velana International Airport in Malé, I was already feeling the excitement. But the real adventure started when I stepped onto a speedboat that would take me to my resort. The boat’s engine roared as we zoomed over the sparkling turquoise water, sending cool sprays of seawater into the air.
I chose to sit right at the front, holding onto the rails as the boat bounced over the waves. The wind was wild in my hair, and for a second, I felt like I was in an action movie—minus the dramatic background music. The most magical part? Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, a pod of dolphins appeared, racing alongside our boat, leaping gracefully out of the water.
It felt like nature’s own welcome party.
Tip: Always ask to sit in the front if you love a bit of thrill. And keep your camera ready—you never know when dolphins will decide to say hi!
For my next stop, I needed to travel farther, and that meant hopping on a seaplane. I’ve flown in planes before, but a seaplane? That was a first. We boarded from a floating platform, and the plane literally took off from the ocean.
As we ascended, I looked out the window and was completely blown away. The view was like something from a dream—tiny islands scattered across the endless blue, each surrounded by rings of vibrant turquoise. It felt like flying over a necklace of emeralds and sapphires.
What really made me smile? The pilot was flying barefoot! That’s the Maldives for you—relaxed, natural, and effortlessly cool.
Pro Tip: Book a window seat if you can. The views are out of this world, and you’ll thank yourself later when you look back at the photos.
While speedboats and seaplanes are common for tourists, I wanted to experience the Maldives like a local. So, I hopped on a local ferry, known as a dhoni. These traditional wooden boats move slowly, giving you time to soak in the scenery.
I sat next to a fisherman named Hassan, who was heading back to his home island. We started chatting (well, mostly smiling and nodding because of the language barrier), and he offered me some fresh coconut slices from his bag. The simple kindness of that gesture stuck with me.
As the boat gently rocked with the waves, I watched the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange, pink, and purple. It was peaceful, raw, and real.
Tip: Local ferries are super budget-friendly and give you a glimpse into everyday life in the Maldives. If you’re not in a hurry, it’s a must-try.
You probably don’t think of cars when you think of the Maldives, right? Me neither. But in Malé, the capital city, there are narrow streets packed with taxis, scooters, and people going about their daily lives.
I took a short taxi ride, and here’s the funny part—I was stuck in traffic for a few minutes. Yes, even in paradise, traffic jams exist! But it gave me a chance to chat with the driver, who told me about his favorite local food spots. Thanks to him, I later found the best mas huni (a traditional Maldivian breakfast) I’ve ever tasted.
Tip: In Malé, taxis are cheap and convenient. But if you’re feeling adventurous, just walk—you’ll discover hidden cafes, street markets, and friendly faces along the way.
One lazy afternoon, I decided to rent a kayak from my resort. No engine, no noise—just me, my paddle, and the endless blue. I glided over the calm lagoon, looking down to see colorful fish swimming beneath me. The water was so clear it felt like I was floating on glass.
At one point, I stopped paddling, leaned back, and let the kayak drift. There was nothing but the gentle sound of water and the occasional chirp of distant seabirds. That moment of absolute peace—just me and the ocean—is something I’ll carry with me forever.
Tip: Kayaking is often free at resorts. Go early in the morning when the water is calm, and the sun isn’t too harsh.
For a burst of excitement, I tried jet skiing. Imagine speeding across the open sea, the wind in your face, and waves splashing all around you. It was like controlling my own little rocket on water.
At one point, I stopped in the middle of the vast ocean, turned off the engine, and just floated. The silence was overwhelming—in a good way. No cars, no crowds, just the rhythmic sound of waves gently lapping against the jet ski. It was a rare, beautiful kind of quiet.
Pro Tip: Always wear a life jacket, and follow the guide’s safety instructions. The ocean is fun but powerful—respect it.
Getting around the Maldives isn’t just about transportation—it’s part of the adventure. Whether it’s the thrill of a speedboat, the breathtaking views from a seaplane, or the peaceful drift of a kayak, every ride felt like a story waiting to be told.
If you’re planning a trip to the Maldives, don’t just focus on the beaches and resorts. Embrace the journey itself. Every wave, every sunset, and every friendly smile along the way will become a part of your own story.
Have you been to the Maldives or had a memorable travel experience? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to hear it!
Safe travels,
Arif 🌊✈️🚤
1 thought on “How Do I Get Around In Maldives”
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