Under recent amendments, only Maldivian-owned companies, partnerships, or sole proprietorships will be permitted to serve as agents for tourist vessels entering Maldives.
New regulations have been introduced requiring yacht and cruise liner agents to be Maldivian companies.
Previously, foreign agencies were allowed to act as agents for yachts and cruise liners. However, under recent amendments, only Maldivian-owned companies, partnerships, or sole proprietorships will be permitted to serve as agents for tourist vessels entering Maldives.
The amendments also allow tourists arriving on yachts or cruise liners to join excursions led by licensed guides, in accordance with the Tour Guides Regulations.
If such a tourist vessel wishes to extend its stay in the Maldives, a fee of USD 100 per day will be charged. Additionally, vessels planning to accommodate more passengers must obtain a passenger license, which must be secured through the Maldivian agent representing the vessel.
Ministry of Tourism increased the cruise permit fee for large foreign vessels to USD 1,000 from the previous fee of USD 325 (MVR 5,000).
However, smaller vessels, measuring 20 meters or less, can dock free of charge for up to 90 days, with an option to extend the stay up to 275 days, after which a fee of USD 50 per day will be charged.
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