A review is underway to revise regulations enacted by the previous government that significantly changed fees and periods for issuing cruising permits to foreign tourist vessels.
The new rules for the operation and docking of foreign safari vessels, yachts and cruise liners in Maldivian waters were published on October 12. The government made significant changes to the fees that foreign vessels must pay to operate in Maldivian territory.
The Maldives Association of Yacht Agents (MAYA) expressed concern after the new rules prompted cruise liners to avoid the Maldives and divert to other countries.
Addressing the concerns, Tourism Minister Faisal Ibrahim said in a post on X on Saturday that efforts were underway to amend the cruise liner regulations made by the previous government. The difficulties faced at present would be resolved in the near future, the minister assured.
According to the rules enacted by the previous government, foreign vessels smaller than 20 meters could travel and dock in Maldivian territory for 90 days without a permit.
After the 90-day period, if the vessel is registered with the International Maritime Organization, the cruising permit period could be extended up to 275 days for a fee of USD 50 per day.
In contrast, cruising permits for vessels larger than 20 meters were to be issued upon payment of a USD 1,000 fee.
The permit would be valid for 90 days after inward clearance. A daily fee of USD 100 must be paid for the period that the vessel operates and docks in the country.
If the large vessel is registered with the International Maritime Organization, the cruising permit could be extended for one year for a fee of USD 3,500.
The fees for issuing a "charter license" were also revised under the regulations.
