For boats
This northernmost island of the Maldives has become a popular stopover for yachts en route from Asia or Sri Lanka to the Red Sea.
Clearance is now possible here and the authorities are very welcoming. Arriving yachts should call Customs on VHF 16.
For visiting yachts who wish to purchase fuel, water, provisions or repairs etc. and who are not carrying any passengers, the charges for a short stay are very reasonable.
To visit any other island, or any other atoll, you must obtain an Inter-Atoll Cruising Permit. You will need to engage an Male agent for this and it takes a few days to arrange, through the local agent and is quite expensive (all fees could be more than 1000 USD).
There are strict restrictions on visiting ashore: visitors may not go ashore between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., no alcohol may be taken ashore, women must be properly dressed, and no islanders may board a boat.
Anchor in 5-10 m in clear sand just NW of a new harbor breakwater on the west side of the island, or further off in greater depths. If the wind is coming from the NW you should anchor off the south east side of the island. The harbor is for citizens only, but You can leave dingy there.
For crews
Local people are very friendly. If You need any help like fuel, water, food - don't worry, go to the village and find Sailors Shop. The owner (with help of young boys) will arrange everything.
Shower and laundry in agent's house (agent mean shop owner)
You can visit the biggest island (and city) of the atol - Ihavadhoo. Take a local ferry (once a day) - it's really nice one day trip.
Fees
- anchoring $4 up to 15 days
- no agent is required for stays up to 72 hours
- 3 - 15 days stop - the agent's fee is $20
- fuel - 1.5 USD (2011)
- food is expensive