Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry services will commence operations in Faafu and Dhaalu atolls next week, expanding the national ferry network to cover additional regions under the inter-island transport programme.

The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation said the services will officially begin on 25 February, with operations to be carried out by Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). A total of two ferries will be deployed to operate four routes across the two atolls.

According to the Ministry, the new network will include two ferry routes within Dhaalu Atoll, one route within Faafu Atoll, and one inter-atoll route connecting Faafu and Dhaalu atolls. The inter-atoll service will operate between Faafu Nilandhoo and Dhaalu Meedhoo, providing a direct sea transport link between the two atolls.

Ahead of the full launch, trial services will begin on Tuesday next week and will operate for a one-week period. The trial phase will be offered free of charge to allow residents to familiarise themselves with the service and routes before regular fares are introduced.

MTCC is currently conducting public awareness sessions in both Faafu and Dhaalu atolls to brief residents on route information, service schedules, fares, and safety guidelines. The sessions are aimed at ensuring the public is informed on how to access and use the ferry services once operations commence.

The RTL ferry system, launched in 2022, is intended to provide affordable and reliable sea transport between islands. The services are divided into six operational zones, with services already active in four zones. The remaining Zone 3, Kaafu, Alifu Alifu, Alifu Dhaalu, Vaavu, and Zone 4 Meemu, Faafu, Dhaalu, Laamu, are scheduled to be covered within the next six months, completing the nationwide ferry network.