First vessel under the high-speed ferry network project in testing

Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has announced that test trials of the first vessel to be used for the high-speed ferry network as part of the first phase of the Integrated National Public Ferry Network project are currently ongoing.

Integrated National Public Ferry Network classifies six central regions, as identified in the National Spatial Plan (2020-2040), and would provide two separate networks for passenger transit and movement of cargo ferries within and in between the regions, effectively linking maritime transport with land and air transport. 

The first phase of the project aims to link the 41 islands in the atolls; Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu and Shaviyani - referred to as Zone 1. 

Test trials of the first vessel of Integrated National Public Ferry Network is ongoing. Thanks to @MoNPHImv for your guidance during this process & Thanks to @gulfcraft Maldives for the dedicated commitment & assistance for MTCC to make this project a success. #MTCCSpeedFerry pic.twitter.com/HsPQ3IrgyB

— MTCC Plc (@MTCCPlc) October 3, 2021

MTCC launched the first high-speed ferry under the Integrated National Public Ferry Network project in September.

To provide services for Zone 1 – MTCC will be utilizing speedboats measuring up to 47-feet that can accommodate up to 40 to 50 people at a time. 14 speedboats would be used daily for the operations with three more in back-up.

The main objectives of the ferry network include facilitating inclusive regional development by connecting people and services, accelerating social and economic growth, improving efficiency in the delivery of public services and improving mobility and accessibility for all citizens in all areas of the nation.