The Male international airport situated just 2 km northwest of the capital city is a modern facility geared to handle passenger flights from many destinations around the globe.
Since the Maldives consists of an archipelago of small islands scattered across a wide area of ocean, it is not surprising that sea transport methods are of great significance. A transport system has developed which ideally suits the requirements of local citizens as well as visitors from abroad.
A ferry service operates from the international airport throughout the day and the night hours, with a dhoni vessel leaving the airport every 15 minutes and every thirty minutes even after midnight. The dhoni is a robust and reliable hand built wooden vessel ideally suited for transport between the islands of the Maldives.
With increasing modernization and affluence motor boats have become a very popular option for transport between the islands. Top of the line speedboats are available, along with more modest affordable craft which will appeal to the economical traveller.
To reach a destination in the Maldives with maximum speed and minimum hassle, hiring a seaplane or helicopter is the transport option of choice. These craft with their versatile landing abilities facilitate the travel of those with no time to spare.
Since road networks exist on the larger islands, hiring a car or motorcycle is an attractive option for sightseeing within these islands.