INDOEX Logistic Bulletin: Local Transportation


There are just a few basic methods of transportation: Taxis - Male only; few in number; cost = USD1.00.

Dhonis, medium-large, wooden boats with diesel engines are the cheapest alternative to get from island to island. Dhonis are recommended only for distances up to 25 km, as anything further will take significant time to reach (25 km is about 1.25 hours). It takes approximately 15 minutes to go between Hulule to Male. Dhonis can be arranged for approximately $80.00 all day (8-10 hours, pending upon negotiation skills). The fee for the transfer between Male and Hulule varies between USD1.00 (day rate) to USD5 (night rate) and to USD50.00, depending on the time of day, weather conditions, etc.

Speed boats are the much faster but also more expensive alternative. In good weather they can cost nearly $400 for mostly all day to $120 for 15-minute ride, again depending on negotiating (but there is a limit to this imposed by high fuel costs for these boats). Generally it costs USD16 or more for one-way transport by speed boat between the resorts and Male.

Air taxis (sea planes) are becoming more popular and will hopefully become cheaper in the future. For example, a round-trip to Helengeli is regularly $150 (15 minute each way, 1.5 hour by speed boat, 4-5 hours by dhoni). Lower fares can be negotiated for regular shuttle transfers. Non-scheduled flights need to be booked well in advance.

In general, any transport between islands is awkward, lengthy and/or expensive. Negotiating should be done in all cases and repeated use of the same vehicle gets cheaper rates and better service.

Ferry Boat

INDOEX operations will most likely have its own, dedicated boats following a routine schedule during the intensive field phase; however, choices of pick up/drop-of locations will be limited. Details of this service will be announced once lodging details for the majority of Indoex participants are known.

Many people on Male use motor cycles or push bikes to get around. Bikes might be an interesting alternative for quick trips on the islands. We noticed a couple of bicycle shops selling new bikes for around USD225. We did not see any used-bike stores and were told that bike rentals are no longer available on the island.

Speed Boat


If you have questions or need clarification regarding information contained in these Bulletins, contact Ms. Diane Lask, JOSS, at (+1) 303-497-8684, lask@ucar.edu.


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Last modified: 17 August 1998