Male

Male is the capital of the Maldives and one of the most densely populated cities in the world — a colourful, low-rise island packed with markets, cafés, mosques and a constant hum of motorbikes. Almost every traveller heading to the southern atolls passes through here at some point, either to catch a connecting ferry, do some shopping, or spend a night before moving on.

Our ferries and private hire speedboats depart from the main Male jetties, heading out to local islands in Alif Dhaal, Vaavu and beyond. From Male you're a quick ride to the colourful Fish Market, the Old Friday Mosque, Sultan Park and Republic Square — a good few hours of sightseeing if you're transiting between flights or atolls.