Majuro to Arno Atoll by Boat: Fares, Schedules & Tips

The main passenger service between Majuro and Arno Atoll is the Kirtake Taxi Boat. Despite occasionally being called a ferry, it is closer to a small, open-backed passenger boat than a large inter-island ferry.

The boat carries visitors alongside Arno residents, luggage and locally produced goods. It is an important connection for the community, transporting everything from personal bags to pandanus, bananas and sacks of copra between Arno and Majuro.

Seating is informal and space varies depending on how many passengers and how much cargo are travelling that day. On busier sailings, passengers may sit along the sides of the boat or wherever a suitable perch can be found.

Other boats can sometimes make the journey to Arno. Francis Reimers operates a larger fishing boat, while staff from Arno Beach Resort sometimes have access to private boats that may travel across when conditions allow.

Selected resorts on Majuro, like Bokanbotin Island Resort, can also organise private trips to Arno for their guests, often as part of a wider day-trip package. These are arranged in advance rather than operating as regular public transport.

Facilities Onboard the Kirtake Taxi Boat

The Kirtake Taxi Boat has very limited facilities. There is no canteen, air-conditioned lounge or formal passenger terminal experience, so bring your own drinking water, snacks and sun protection.

Your luggage travels onboard with the other cargo. Pack valuables and electronics in a waterproof bag, as spray and sudden rain showers are always possibilities on an open crossing.

The Kirtake Taxi Boat departs from the Shoreline Dock in Uliga, Majuro. The dock is tucked behind the Robert Reimers Enterprises Complex, also known as the RRE Complex.

In practical terms, head to the car park behind Hotel Robert Reimers and continue towards the waterfront.

Once you see the white boat (usually the largest one docked), simply talk to the skipper, Ronnie, or his staff and pay for your passage with cash.

Although you don't typically buy "tickets" in advance, if you want to inquire further, the Kirtake boat office is in the building behind Happy Hands Handicraft.

Walk through the covered area marked with a “Local Market” sign to reach the office and shoreline. The setup is fairly informal, so ask staff or nearby vendors if you are unsure where to go.

Where Do Private and Resort Boats to Arno Leave From?

Private trips arranged through island accommodation usually depart directly from the resort. For example, guests booking an Arno excursion through Bokanbotin Island Resort typically board from the property.

Some smaller local boats also use the wharf beside Majuro Bridge. However, this departure point is not always suitable when the seas are rough, which is common around this exposed part of the atoll.

The Majuro Bridge wharf is approximately 1.2 mi (2 km) west of Marshall Islands Resort and 5.3 mi (8.5 km) east of Amata Kabua International Airport.

It's best to confirm the exact departure point directly with the boat operator or accommodation before travelling, as private services may leave from different parts of Majuro depending on the weather and sea conditions.

Boat services between Majuro and Arno are limited and can change due to weather, sea conditions and passenger demand. Always confirm the latest sailing information before travelling, particularly if you need to return to Majuro on the same day.

Kirtake Taxi Boat Schedule

The Kirtake Taxi Boat usually operates on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, with one return journey per day.

Passengers should arrive at the Shoreline Dock by 8 am, although we recommend getting there earlier. Boats can fill with passengers, luggage and cargo, so arriving ahead of time gives you a better chance of securing a comfortable place onboard.

The boat travels from Majuro to Arno before returning the same day, once they have all the Arno passengers onboard. Therefore, Kirtake is not an appropriate option for a day trip.

Private and Resort Boat Schedules to Arno

Private boats arranged through accommodation, including trips departing from Bokanbotin, usually operate on demand rather than following a fixed timetable.

These excursions commonly leave in the morning, so you have enough time to explore Arno before returning later in the day. Confirm the departure time, return arrangements and what is included when making your booking.

Weather Changes and Boat Cancellations

Boat schedules are highly dependent on the weather. Rough seas may delay a departure, change the boarding point or cause the trip to be cancelled altogether.

Check with the operator again the day before travel and on the morning of departure. It is also wise to leave some flexibility in your itinerary, as the Pacific does not always consult your holiday plans.

Taking the public boat from Majuro to Arno Atoll is one of the most affordable ways to reach one of the Marshall Islands’ nearest outer atolls.

The fare is straightforward, with passengers paying in cash at the dock before departure. Compared with a private charter, it is a far more budget-friendly option, although you will be travelling alongside local passengers, luggage and cargo.

Kirtake Taxi Boat Fares

• Majuro to Arno - US$20 per person, one way
• Arno to Majuro - US$20 per person, one way

Check out more price lists in the Marshall Islands Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to the Marshall Islands Cost?

Private Boat Trips to Arno

Private and resort-organised trips are considerably more expensive than the public boat. A full-day private excursion can cost around US$1,200, depending on the departure point, group size and what is included. The price is to charter the whole boat, rather than per person. Charters often have other inclusions like lunch, fishing gear, snorkelling gear, etc., but always check if you want something specific.

Arno charters are not just limited to Bokanbotin. It's always worth inquiring with other charter operators, such as those listed in the 10 Best Boat Tours in Majuro & the Marshall Islands.

Still have questions about taking the boat from Majuro to Arno Atoll? Here are the answers to the most common things travellers want to know before setting off.

How Long Does the Boat from Majuro to Arno Take?

The Kirtake Taxi Boat takes approximately 1 hr 30 mins to travel from Majuro to Arno Atoll.

Journey times can vary depending on sea conditions, passenger loading and the exact landing point on Arno.

What Days Does the Boat to Arno Operate?

The Kirtake Taxi Boat usually operates on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, with one return journey per day.

Schedules can change because of weather or operational reasons, so confirm the sailing before travelling.

How Much Is the Boat from Majuro to Arno?

The Kirtake Taxi Boat costs US$20 per person, one way. Payment is made in cash at the Shoreline Dock before departure.

Where Does the Boat to Arno Leave From?

The Kirtake Taxi Boat departs from the Shoreline Dock in Uliga, behind the Robert Reimers Enterprises Complex and the car park of Hotel Robert Reimers.

What Time Should I Arrive for the Boat to Arno?

Passengers should arrive by 8 am, although getting there earlier is strongly recommended.

The boat can fill with passengers, luggage and cargo, so an early arrival gives you a better chance of securing a comfortable place onboard.

Can You Take Luggage on the Boat to Arno?

Yes, the Kirtake Taxi Boat carries passenger luggage alongside local cargo.

Pack valuables, electronics and important documents in waterproof bags, as the boat is open and sea spray or rain may reach your belongings.

Can You Visit Arno as a Day Trip from Majuro?

Yes, the public boat makes one return journey per operating day, making a day trip possible.

Confirm the return departure time with the crew when buying your ticket, as the schedule can change depending on loading and sea conditions.

Do You Need to Book the Boat to Arno in Advance?

Cash is usually handed over at The Shoreline before boarding rather than through an online booking system.

Arriving early is the best approach, particularly on busy sailing days when local passengers and cargo may take up much of the available space.

Are There Private Boats from Majuro to Arno?

Yes, some resorts and accommodation providers arrange private boat trips to Arno on demand.

These trips are much more expensive than the public boat but may include return transport, lunch and more flexibility over departure times.

Can the Boat to Arno Be Cancelled?

Yes, rough seas and poor weather can delay or cancel boat trips between Majuro and Arno.

Reconfirm the trip the day before departure and again on the morning of travel, then keep some flexibility in your itinerary.