How to take the public Delft Island ferry?

Go to the Kurikadduwan (KKD) pier on Pungudutivu Island, which is near Jaffna, and then board the government-run passenger ferry that is free to use. It typically leaves at 8:00 AM. Try to arrive at least 45 minutes before, because locals are served first and the tourist passenger quota is strictly capped.

The trip over the shallow Palk Strait takes about one hour. It can feel very rough, depending on the winds. Expect basic seating on hard wooden benches, plus intense heat, since there is only modest ventilation beneath the deck.