MV Ilala Ferry
MV Ilala
An old lake steamer launched in 1951 that sails north from Monkey Bay once a week, traversing the length of Lake Malawi. It is a legendary route for experiencing life on the lake.
The MV Ilala was built in Britain, assembled on the lakeshore, and has been in service since 1951. It usually departs Monkey Bay around Friday each week and sails north, calling at Nkhotakota, Likoma Island, Nkhata Bay and finally Chilumba. The one-way trip takes about three days. Along the way, small boats ferry passengers to and from villages without proper piers, and the scene is lively and colourful. The ship offers several classes, including first class and deck passage, and you can ride just one leg of the journey. Sailings are often cancelled or delayed for maintenance, so confirm the schedule with the Malawi shipping company before you travel.
Opening hours
Usually departs from Monkey Bay on Fridays (subject to operator announcements)
Nearby sights
- Monkey Bay
- Lake Malawi National Park
- Chembe Beach, Cape Maclear
- Livingstonia Mission Graves
- Otter Point
- Thumbi Island West
- Domwe Island
- Mumbo Island