Being distinctively located, the Maldives cannot survive without sea transport and one can expect plenty of boats around along with sea plane transfers within the many islands.

The traditional and ubiquitous dhoni stands out amongst the other mode of sea transfers. Each traditional dhoni is a unique vessel hand-built by a master craftsman even though a mass-produced fiberglass version has recently been introduced. Built of strong wooden planks, shaped round a strong wooden frame, the dhoni is built to sail in all seas. They are used as fishing vessels and as inter-island ferries throughout the Maldives. Traditionally sporting a versatile lateen sail, the dhoni has also married well with the marine diesel engine and has become an integral element of the tourism industry.

Amongst other methods, one could find powerboats. In a country where the international airport is on an island all by itself (Male), the entire tourist attractions and resorts are on separate picturous islands, the speedboat reigns very effective and also performs well in recreation activities.

Getting around in the Maldives is not restricted to a boat though. Sea planes offer a faster and a scenic alternative. On some of the bigger islands, especially on the capital island of Male the latest sports cars compete with motorcycles, scooters and the sedate taxi. And it is quite probable that the world record for bicycle = per-capital is held by the Maldivians!