A Guide to Boat Transfers & Charters in the Marshall Islands

Scattered across Majuro Lagoon are small islands and islets commonly known as the “picnic islands”. Reaching them usually involves arranging either a return boat transfer to one destination or a private charter for island-hopping.

Boat Transfers to the Majuro Lagoon Islands

A boat transfer is the simplest option when you already know which island you want to visit. The operator drops you off, leaves you to enjoy the island and returns at an agreed time.

Transfers to Eneko Island can be arranged through Hotel Robert Reimers, while Salty Services offers private drop-offs to small islands around the lagoon. Both depart from the Shoreline Dock, just behind the RRE car park (next to Hotel Robert Reimers).

Bokanbotin Island Resort also offers day trips by boat to the private island resort to enjoy their marine conservation area and deck picnic areas. Pick-up points from the mainland can be negotiated.

For Ejit Island, local boats depart from the dock at the end of the road opposite Retty Julian Reimers Store in Rita. The short crossing is arranged informally, so agree on the fare and return journey before boarding.

© MarshallIslandsPocketGuide.com

Private Boat Charters and Island-Hopping

A private charter is better suited to travellers who want to visit several islands, stop for snorkelling or shape the day around their own interests.

Salty Services and Hang Loose both offer private charters around Majuro Lagoon. Trips can include island-hopping, swimming, snorkelling, fishing or time relaxing on a beach.

Confirm what is included before booking, as you may need to bring your own food, drinking water, snorkelling gear and sun protection.

For more details on boat tours and island-hopping, check out the 10 Island Day Trips & Island-Hopping Tours in the Marshall Islands.

How Much Do Majuro Lagoon Boat Transfers and Charters Cost?

Boat prices around Majuro Lagoon vary depending on the distance travelled, trip length, fuel costs, group size and whether island access fees are included.

As a general guide, expect the following:

• Return boat transfer to Eneko Island - around US$45 per person, including the boat and island-use fee
• Private one-way island drop-off - up to approximately US$400 per boat, depending on distance
• Full-day island-hopping charter - approximately US$600 per boat
• Premium full-day private charter - up to approximately US$1,250 per boat, depending on the vessel and activities

Ask whether island access fees, snorkelling equipment, food, drinks and permission arrangements are included in the quote. Fuel prices can also affect charter rates, so confirm the final cost shortly before your trip.

For more advice on budgeting for your trip, check out Marshall Islands Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to the Marshall Islands Cost?

Get Permission Before Visiting a Picnic Island

Do not assume that an empty-looking island is open to visitors. All islands and islets around Majuro Lagoon are privately owned, and landing may require permission and an access fee.

This is particularly important for places such as Enemanit Island or other islets away from the usual visitor routes. Obtaining permission can involve contacting the customary custodians, so it is best arranged through your boat operator before departure.

See the Marshallese Etiquette: the Marshall Islands Customs & Traditions for more on this topic.

Travelling from Majuro to Arno Atoll requires a little planning, but it is one of the easiest ways to experience life beyond the capital atoll. We have a full guide on the subject: Majuro to Arno Atoll by Boat: Fares, Schedules & Tips.

The main public service is the Kirtake Taxi Boat, a small open-backed passenger boat carrying local travellers, luggage and island produce. The crossing takes approximately 1 hr 30 mins, although journey times depend on sea conditions and the landing point on Arno.

How to Take the Kirtake Taxi Boat to Arno

The boat usually operates on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, with one return journey per sailing day.

Departures are from the Shoreline Dock in Uliga, behind the RRE Complex and the car park of Hotel Robert Reimers. Look for the waterfront behind the complex or ask nearby vendors to point you towards the boat.

Passengers should arrive by 8 am, but getting there earlier is strongly recommended. The boat can fill with passengers, bags and cargo, so an early arrival gives you a better chance of securing a comfortable perch.

© MarshallIslandsPocketGuide.com

How Much Does the Boat to Arno Cost?

The Kirtake Taxi Boat costs US$20 per person, one way. Payment is made in cash at the dock, so bring smaller US dollar notes where possible.

Luggage can be carried onboard, although valuables and electronics should be packed in a waterproof bag. There are no passenger facilities, so bring your own water, snacks and sun protection.

Returning from Arno to Majuro

The boat returns to Majuro after collecting its passengers and cargo on Arno. It does not wait while visitors explore the atoll, making the public service unsuitable for a conventional day trip.

Confirm the return arrangements with the crew before travelling, particularly if you plan to stay overnight or connect with accommodation on Arno.

Private Boat Charters to Arno

Private trips can be arranged through selected resorts and charter operators, including Bokanbotin Island Resort. These services usually operate on demand and can be organised as full-day excursions with a morning departure and an afternoon return.

Private charters cost considerably more than the public boat but offer greater flexibility. Always confirm the itinerary, landing arrangements, inclusions and weather policy before booking.

Both public and private crossings depend heavily on sea conditions. Reconfirm the trip shortly before departure and keep some flexibility in your plans, as rough weather may delay or cancel the journey.

Check out Majuro to Arno Atoll by Boat: Fares, Schedules & Tips for more options.