First Foreign Flagged Yacht Ported At Uligan in Haa Alifu Atoll After Border Re-opening
The closing of Maldivian borders did not just restrict travel by air into the country; travel restrictions were also imposed on sea vessels, both local and foreign which were specifically operating as a tourist facility. The borders were re-opened in July, with restrictions set in motion.
Director of Asia Pacific Superyachts, Mr. Mohamed Hameed confirmed this week that the government has opened the seas of Maldives to foreign-flagged vessels. He noted that M/Y Ebony Shine and M/Y Blue Shadow were already cruising in Maldives at the time of the announcement.
It was reported that the first foreign flagged yacht ported at Uligan situated at Haa Alifu Atoll, since the borders were reopened, today. Secretariat of Uligan Council stated that the yacht was registered to People's Republic of China and that it was a Chinese national boarding the vessel.
It was just yesterday that the Ministry of Tourism has announced invitation to submit bids by eligible and interested parties to develop, operate and manage a tourist hotel with a yacht marina in a plot of 36 hectares of land allocated in the island. Uligan Council stated that the island was a popular destination for yachts to port at, with an average of 5 to 6 yacht almost every day. Fees charged from vessels porting at Uligan has been decreased by 75% as recommended by the People’s Majilis.
Uligan Constituency Parliament Member Mr. Ahmed Saleem commemorate the occasion via a tweet as a promising start towards increasing the number of vessels porting at the island.
Cruising within the waters of Maldives is quite hassle free, making it an ideal choice for a tranquil vacation.