Authorities permit 78 tourist safaris for operations in Maldives

Authorities have permitted eight more safaris to operate in the Maldives. 

The country officially reopened its borders on July 15 after nearly four months in lockdown due to COVID-19. Tourist establishments such as resorts and safaris were permitted to operate under stringent safety measures.

So far, the Maldives Boating Association had permitted the operation of 70 safaris. With the new permits, a total of 78 safaris are now operational. 

The Boating Association has cautioned safari operators against allowing the movement of people between islands and safari boats.  

Tourists on safari vessels are also not permitted to disembark to islands for PCR testing for the virus. 

A designated station has been established at Hulhumale’ for tourists on safari vessels to be tested for the virus. Pre-bookings can be made for testing at the station, according to NBAM.