Private speedboat from Malé to South Ari Atoll
Mahibadhoo · Dhangethi · Dhigurah · Maamigili · Whale shark days
How do you get from Malé to South Ari by private speedboat?
The Saxdor 400 GTC runs private charters from Hulhumalé to South Ari Atoll, including Mahibadhoo, Dhangethi, Dhigurah and Maamigili. The crossing takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on sea conditions. Book it as a one-way or return transfer, or as a full whale shark day with snorkelling.
Leave when you want, not when the shared speedboat does
Choose your South Ari trip.
One-Way Transfer
- Hulhumalé or airport to your island
- Your departure time
- Luggage space confirmed in advance
Return Transfer
- Out and back in one booking
- Split across different dates
- Timed around your flights
Whale Shark Day
- Early departure for calm seas
- Time in the whale shark area
- Reef or sandbank stop
Islands we run to
Mahibadhoo is the capital of South Ari Atoll (Alif Dhaalu) and a common stop for residents and visitors alike. Dhigurah and Dhangethi are popular guesthouse islands close to the whale shark area, and Maamigili has the atoll's domestic airport. We also run to South Ari resorts and other islands in the atoll on request.
Private charter or shared speedboat?
| Private Saxdor charter | Shared scheduled speedboat | |
|---|---|---|
| Departure | When you choose | Fixed timetable, often once or twice a day |
| Stops | Direct to your island | Several islands on the way |
| Comfort | Air-conditioned cabin and toilet | Varies by operator |
| Extras | Add a whale shark stop or sandbank | Transfer only |
| Price | Per boat, split across your group | Per person |
For a group of four or more, a private boat is often closer in cost than people expect, because the price is per boat, not per person.
Whale sharks, honestly
South Ari's whale sharks are present year-round, but no ethical operator can guarantee a sighting. We follow the local code of conduct: keep a respectful distance, don't touch, no flash photography and limited time in the water. If the whale sharks don't appear, we switch to a reef or a sandbank so the day is still worth it.
Sea conditions
The crossing is in open water. From May to November the south-west monsoon can bring bigger swells, and your captain may adjust the departure time or reschedule for safety. From December to April the seas are usually calmer.
Your boat: the Saxdor 400 GTC
Day Charter Maldives offers private charters aboard a Saxdor 400 GTC, a 12.5-metre Scandinavian-designed sports yacht carrying up to 12 guests at up to 40 knots, with an enclosed air-conditioned cabin, a toilet, bow sunpads and a wide swim platform. It departs Hulhumalé, 10 minutes from Malé airport.
Prices & what's included.
| Option | Duration | From (per group) |
|---|---|---|
| One-way transfer | About 1.5 to 2 h | 💬 WhatsApp for price |
| Return transfer | Same day or split dates | 💬 WhatsApp for price |
| Whale shark day | Full day | 💬 WhatsApp for price |
Included
- ✓ Private Saxdor 400 GTC
- ✓ Captain & crew
- ✓ Fuel for the planned route
- ✓ Water & soft drinks
- ✓ Snorkel gear (whale shark day)
On request
- + Airport pickup
- + Lunch or catering
- + Resort jetty fees (at cost)
- + Underwater photography
Everything you need to know.
Roughly 1.5 to 2 hours each way on the Saxdor, depending on sea conditions and the island you're heading to.
Yes. Hulhumalé is 10 minutes from Velana International Airport, and we time the departure around your flight.
Tell us the number and size of your bags when you enquire, and we'll confirm the space for your group before you book.
Yes. A transfer can include time in the whale shark area and a reef stop, which makes a long crossing part of your holiday.
Yes. We collect from the island harbour at an agreed time and bring you back to Hulhumalé or the airport.
Your captain makes the safety call. We may move the departure time, or reschedule the trip free of charge.
Check availability for your dates
Tell us your date, group size and what you have in mind. We reply with the right options and a transparent price, with no obligation.
