RTL Ferry Services has announced fees to be charged for ferry services in Laamu Atoll from tomorrow onwards.
RTL Ferry services were first introduced in Laamu Atoll on April 1st. Similar to other atolls, the first week of services were provided without charge to gain experience. In addition to scoping out the routes, the trial run was carried out to collect public opinion and facilitate any necessary changes in an early stage.
The fees to be charged are determined and announced by the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, according to the route and length of the journey. Trips to the nearest locations will be charged USD 2.26 and farthest USD 8.08 for one way, with two-way tickets made cheaper. Tickets can be purchased via the RTL application. It also displays all possible routes and the charges for each.
Two speed boats are currently in use in Laamu Atoll. Built with assistance from India, these speed boats have a capacity of 48 passengers with 4 designed for those with disabilities or requiring special assistance.
The government is working to expand RTL Ferry services throughout the country, particularly to areas without such services to date. At present, RTL Ferry services are being carried out in 15 atolls, connecting 145 islands with modern, high-speed ferries.
This service would provide ease for residents travelling between islands for medical reasons or other purposes, particularly because of the affordable pricing.
The three atolls without RTL Ferry services are Kaafu Atoll, Alif Alif Atoll, Alif Dhaalu Atoll and Vaavu Atoll. The government aims to establish these services in all atolls by mid-2026.