How I sailed to the paradise islands on a night flight on a cargo fruit ferry, lying in an embrace with Bangladeshi migrant workers. Plus: Helpful information on where to find a cheap night ferry to Toddoo from Male.
From riches to rags: how we sailed on the fruit ferry to Todda
We flew beautifully to the Maldives! Emirates, a luxurious Boeing 777, impeccable service, a perfectly thought-out aircraft cabin, a cool multimedia system - in general, a beautiful flight to the paradise islands for a beautiful vacation. But Cinderella's happiness did not last long - only 1.5 hours. Only the clock hit the conditional 12 and the flight landed, our royal carriage turned into a terrible pumpkin.
Arriving at the closed capital market (smells, of course, appropriate), we found our battered boat - a cargo boat carrying fruit three times a week to the capital from the Toddoo island-garden. That's where we need it! The layout was simple: either you sail on a cargo boat, or you cuckoo for two days in the capital, since tomorrow is Friday (Muslim day off), and you won't have any boats or ferries until Saturday. So everything was decided for us. 20 green presidents in the hands of the cabin boy, and we are on board.
I outlined in advance for my companion the prospects of the upcoming voyage, somewhat thickening the colors - to hang out for twelve hours on the waves of the sea, rolling from side to side along with empty fruit crates. After such gloomy pictures, the reality could not fail to please. It only takes five hours to sail, and the entire upper deck is reserved for sleeping. For the needs of travelers, which, besides us, were a couple dozen more Maldivians and Bangladeshi guest workers, full-fledged sleeping places are provided. Let it be just worn-out mattresses and pillows thrown on the floor, and you need to sleep side by side with fellow travelers, laying out sprats around the entire perimeter of the upper deck. Why not a good old student list with friends?
Despite the level of comfort "minus 3 stars", we sailed excellently and even slept well after a hard day of bus transfers and flights. In fact, a night fruit boat ride is an interesting adventure, an entertaining experience and a real exotic. We liked!
Helpful information
The cost: $ 10 per person, bargaining is not possible (verified). They give out a bottle of water.
Departure from Male: Sunday, Monday and Thursday at 11:45 pm.
Departure from Toddoo Island: Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday at 11:50 pm.
Attention! The ferry schedule is subject to change, check with the owner of your hotel for the latest.
Travel time: around 4:30.
How to find the fruit ferry to Toddoo... From the airport we sail to Male for 10 rufiyaas by ferry that runs every 15-20 minutes. Arriving in Male, we go to the right (if you stand with your back to the sea). We go about 600-800 meters and get to the fruit market. It is next to him and you need to look for a fruit steam. Ask people where to find "fruit boat to Thoddoo" - they will show you.
The ferry will be fully loaded by passengers. To be guaranteed to get a bed, arrive at least an hour before departure.
