The MV Ilala is the main passenger ship connecting the whole Lake Malawi, transporting goods and people from the south to the north of the country, including the islands. It is a essential lifeline for residents & businesses based in Chimuzulu & Likoma islands.
Experience the timeless voyage across Lake Malawi with the iconic MV Ilala! As the sole passenger ship connecting the south to the north of the country, including its beautiful islands, the Ilala plays a crucial role in transporting both people and goods across this stunning freshwater lake. Explore unparalleled scenic views and immerse yourself in local culture while aboard!
The ship
The MV Ilala was built in 1949, it has been operating on Lake Malawi since 1951. It is a 400 tonne ferry with the capacity to carry 450 passengers. It has for years provided passengers with spectacular views of the constantly changing scenery.
The Journey
The Ilala journey departs from Monkey bay every Friday at 08:00 to Chilumba where it arrives on Sunday evening 17:30. The return leg its departs Chilumba every Monday at 02:30 and arrive in Monkey bay on Wednesday at 02:00. It makes different stop-overs to drop people and freight in the following areas from Monkey bay it goes to Makanjira, senga bay, Nkhotakota, Likoma island, Chizumulu island, Nkhata bay, Usiya, Ruarwe, Tcharo, Mlowe to Chilumba.
The return leg is vice versa. For some of the areas, having no access to a tarmac road, the lake is the only way to travel and to be supplied with essential commodities.
Where to stay in the ship
On the Ilala, there are 4 categories which are:
- Cabin Class: Twin beds with a sink and a fan. The cabins are on the middle deck.
- 1st Class: Sleeping on a bench or the floor of the top deck under the stars.
- 2nd Class: Sleeping on the floor of the middle deck. There are some benches too.
- Economy Class: Sleeping on the floor, on sacks of sardines or sitting on a bench on the bottom deck.
The cabin
The cabins are clean and equipped with a fan, and one of them, the “owner’s cabin” has a sink inside. Shower with hot water and bathrooms are shared but only for those with higher class tickets (cabin or deck). To be able to sleep if you sensitive to noise the cabin is the best option. When the cabin becomes to hot, the best place to get some cool air is on the deck. The fan inside can be unless when its too hot
Food and beverages
The local food on board is affordable. There is a sit in restaurant thats sells freshly cooked food on the second floor, a bar on the top deck that sells soft drinks a alcohol, and a food kiosk on the bottom floor that sells drinks & snacks. You can bring your own cookes foods, snacks or fruits. The restaurant is very clean and can charge your gadgets. All food and beverages is paid using cash only.
Booking
For booking call this number +265883429884 or +2651587309.
Important notes
- The Ilala does not always sail to schedule, so be flexible.
- The Ilala is not a luxury cruise. There’s not a lot to do on the ferry so you might want to entertain yourself bring a book.
- If you have limited time, the ferry is not recommended. It’s not the fastest mode of transport or the easiest.
- The lake can get rough in high winds. If you’re prone to seasickness, take some tablets or wristbands with you.
- Bring more drinking water some times its sold out fast. Other beverages always available i.e sodas and beers.
- No cards or ATM machine on the ferry on cash is accepted.
- Do not rely on the ferry to meet all your needs. Bring your own food.
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