The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation has announced that the Maldives’ nationwide high-speed ferry network, the Raajje Transport Link (RTL), will be launched in Baa Atoll on July 28, making it the 11th atoll to be integrated into the service.

The launch follows through on a pledge by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who committed to commencing RTL operations in Baa Atoll by July. With the timeline now met as scheduled, the service is expected to significantly enhance inter-island connectivity.

According to the Ministry, preparations are underway, including the recruitment and training of personnel to operate the service. Two high-speed ferries are being deployed to the atoll, with operations set to begin along two main routes. The service aims to significantly ease travel within the atoll and improve access to key urban centres.

To familiarise residents with the service, the first week will feature complimentary journeys with no fares charged. These ad-hoc trips will allocate limited seating for each inhabited island on the designated routes. Regular fare collection will begin on August 4, with route details and pricing available on the RTL app and website.

Ahead of the launch, information sessions have been conducted for local councils and community institutions across the atoll.

Baa Atoll, home to over 12,000 people across 13 inhabited islands, becomes the latest region to benefit from the government’s broader initiative to establish an integrated, high-speed ferry network. The RTL service is operated by the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) under a government mandate.