Maldivian Slashes Surfboard Fees in Response to Resident’s Concerns

The Maldivian has announced a significant reduction in charges for the carriage of surfboards, following concerns raised by a resident regarding the high fees.

The decision, unveiled by the airline yesterday, follows a query posted on the Q&A platform ‘Raeesge Javaab’ by Ahmed Rasheed, a resident of GDh. Gadhdhoo, who highlighted the financial burden imposed on tourists visiting the island for surfing activities.

Rasheed underscored that tourists faced costs amounting to approximately USD 800, inclusive of round-trip airfare and surfboard charges, when journeying to Gadhdhoo, renowned for its prime surfing spots.

Responding to Rasheed’s concerns, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu pledged to address the issue by reducing the surfboard charges.

In line with this commitment, Maldivian announced overhaul of its surfboard categories, accompanied by significant price reductions.

Under the revised structure, charges for large surfboards measuring 86” x 24”, with a thickness or width ranging between six to 10 inches, have been slashed by 33 percent. 

Additionally, a new category has been introduced for small surfboards, featuring a width of up to five inches, with charges reduced by 66 percent from the original rates.

Gadhdhoo, situated in the southern region of the Maldives, boasts some of the country’s premier surf points, including the renowned Tiger Stripes surf point, rendering it a sought-after destination among surfing enthusiasts.