Maafushi tests overwater zipline, eyes Eid launch

The island of K. Maafushi has begun testing an overwater zipline – the first of its kind in a residential island in the Maldives.

A zipline is a recreational activity or transportation method consisting of a pulley suspended on an inclined stainless-steel cable. Riders or cargo glide from top to bottom propelled by gravity.

The activity is wildly popular in adventure tourism.

The zipline in Maafushi spans across the sea between the local tourism hotspot and the nearby island of Vahmaafushi.

Hassan Salah, the president of Maafushi Council, told Sun that the zipline is part of a larger project to develop Vahmaafushi as a high-energy, experience-led picnic island.

Salah said that the private contractor hired by the Maafushi Local Authority Company for the project has finished building the towers, wrapped up installation works, and is now testing the zipline.

They aim to open the zipline to the public for the upcoming Eid al-Adha, which is set to begin on May 27.

While the resort island of Soneva Fushi has zipline trials, the one in Maafushi is set to be the first one in a residential island in the Maldives.

Maafushi promises it will be “the world’s most beautiful zipline”, offering a stunning view of the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives.