Maafushi: Private Sunset Fishing Tour & BBQ Dinner

Summary

Sunset fishing in Maafushi with fresh BBQ dinner & island stories

You’ll feel the slow pulse of Maafushi as you fish at sunset with a local guide, try your luck at handline fishing, then share a BBQ dinner made from your own catch. With hotel pickup included and stories shared over smoky rice and salad, it’s an evening that lingers long after you return.

What’s the experience like?

So, we were late — classic us. The sun was already dipping lower than I’d planned when we met our guide, Hassan, who just grinned and said, “No rush, it’s Maldivian time.” I liked him instantly. The air smelled like salt and grilled coconut from a nearby stall, and honestly, I was sweating before we even got on the boat. But once we pushed off from Maafushi’s little harbor, the breeze felt like a reward.

I’d never tried handline fishing before this tour in Maafushi. It’s just you, a spool of line, and the ocean — no fancy rods. Hassan showed me how to loop the line around my finger (I nearly tangled myself). He told stories about his dad teaching him to fish at this same reef. The water went orange as the sun dropped; I kept missing bites because I was distracted by the way light shimmered on everyone’s faces. Someone caught a snapper and cheered so loud that another boat waved back.

Afterwards, we docked on a patch of sand where Hassan set up the BBQ. The fish tasted smoky and sweet — maybe it was just hunger or maybe it’s something about eating what you caught right there. Rice, salad, simple stuff but perfect after being out on the water. At some point I realized my hands still smelled like salt and charcoal. We talked about island life until it got dark enough that you couldn’t see much except for phone screens lighting up faces here and there.

The ride back was quiet — not awkward quiet, more like everyone was full (of food or maybe just the whole evening). Sometimes I get restless on tours but this one slowed me down in a good way. I still think about that last bit of sun over Maafushi’s rooftops as we pulled in.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset fishing and BBQ dinner

• Meet guide at Maafushi center or hotel
• Travel 30 minutes by private vehicle
• Handline fishing for dinner
• Enjoy BBQ fish with rice and salads
• Return 30 minutes by private vehicle

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Maafushi sunset fishing tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at city center or hotels is included.

How long does the private sunset fishing tour last?

The experience is half-day, including time for fishing and dinner.

What kind of fishing technique is used?

The tour uses traditional handline fishing at deep reef spots.

Is dinner provided after fishing?

Yes, your catch is barbecued and served with rice and salads for dinner.

Are guides local to Maafushi Island?

Yes, professional local guides lead the experience.

Is transportation air-conditioned?

Yes, private transportation is modern and air-conditioned.

Are specialized infant seats available?

Yes, infant seats can be arranged if needed.

Is this sunset fishing tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What’s included

Your evening includes pickup from your hotel or city center in Maafushi by private air-conditioned vehicle, guidance from a local expert throughout your sunset handline fishing adventure, plus all equipment needed. Afterward enjoy a barbecue dinner of your own catch with rice and salads before returning comfortably to your accommodation.