The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation has said preparations are underway to extend the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry service to an additional atoll next month, as part of ongoing efforts to expand nationwide sea transport connectivity.

According to the Ministry, RTL services are organised into six operational zones, with services currently active in four zones. The remaining zones yet to be covered are Zone 3 and Zone 4. Zone 3 includes Kaafu, Alifu Alifu, Alifu Dhaalu and Vaavu atolls, while Zone 4 comprises Meemu, Faafu, Dhaalu and Laamu atolls.

The Ministry stated that ferry services are expected to commence in another atoll in February, although the specific atoll has not yet been announced. Officials said work is ongoing to determine the locations and operational policies for the next phase of the rollout, with further details to be announced in due course.

The RTL ferry service has been contracted to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). MTCC has confirmed that preparations of ferries for the remaining atolls are ongoing, with services to begin once vessels are ready.

The most recent RTL service was launched in Thaa Atoll, bringing the total number of atolls currently served under the programme to 12. RTL was first introduced in 2022 as part of efforts to prioritise and strengthen the national transport sector.

During visits to the atolls in October 2025, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu stated that the Government aims to complete the rollout of RTL ferry services across all atolls by the end of March.

The RTL initiative is designed to provide a high-speed, cost-effective and reliable ferry network connecting islands across the Maldives, improving access to essential services and supporting economic and social connectivity nationwide.