Get a Different Perspective of Mumbai Aboard a Boat

If you want to see Mumbai from a different perspective, one of the most memorable activities is to enjoy a Mumbai boat trip. For budget-conscious travelers, taking the ferry to the Elephanta Caves or Alibaug presents great options.

However, if you don’t mind splurging a bit, you can charter a luxury yacht tailored to your preferences. Both day and overnight trips are available, as well as enchanting sunset cruises around the coast of Mumbai.

When to Go

The boating season typically runs from October to May. Please note that boating operations are suspended during the monsoon, which lasts from June until the end of September.

My Experience

Fortunately, a friend decided to charter a boat for his birthday celebration. We boarded a clean, attractive yacht that comfortably accommodated up to 10 guests. The boat was equipped with sleeping quarters, a toilet, a basin, and even a stereo system.

We were picked up from the Gateway of India late in the morning and set off for a picnic lunch at the serene Awas Beach in Alibaug. We brought our own food and wine and enjoyed a blissful day away from the city’s hustle and bustle. As the sun began to set, we cruised around Mumbai Harbor, finally docking back at the Gateway of India just in time to watch as the Gateway and the Taj Palace hotel lit up the evening sky. It was undoubtedly one of the most magical experiences I’ve had in Mumbai.

Itinerary and Package Options

Many boat hire companies offer a flexible range of packages and destinations. Other alternatives to Alibaug include:

• Marine Drive to admire the Mumbai skyline, especially beautiful at night with the sparkling lights resembling “the Queen’s necklace.”
• Bandra-Worli Sea Link.
• Charming northern beaches like Madh Island and Gorai.
• Fishing excursions in the open waters heading west.

Package options may include:

• An evening cruise with dinner and overnight stay in Mumbai Harbor.
• A full day on board the yacht.
• A day filled with water sports at Mandwa beach near Alibaug.
• A weekend getaway featuring a series of beach hops around Alibaug.
• Photography tours along the picturesque Konkan coastline.

Boats: What to Consider

Initially, you need to decide what type of experience you desire—whether it’s a speedy motorboat or a leisurely sailboat. Moreover, consider your sailing skills and those of your crew, as operating larger yachts can be more challenging. The intended destination will greatly influence the size of the yacht you choose. Additionally, think about how many guests will join you and what services you prefer. Do you plan to provide your own food and beverages, or would you prefer these amenities included?

Cost

Typically, yachts are rented on an hourly basis. Rates start at around 5,000 rupees for two hours for smaller boats accommodating four to six people. For larger groups of eight to ten people, expect to pay approximately 10,000 rupees for two hours, with costs increasing to around 15,000 rupees for boats that can accommodate up to 15 guests.

Recommended Boat Companies

It’s beneficial to reach out to several companies to compare their prices and offerings. Boat Booking India is a well-known option, featuring a wide range of motorboats, sailboats, and party boats. Another popular choice is Yacht Tours Mumbai, offering various packages such as beach picnics, sunset cruises, and day trips. Other reputable companies include Yacht Charters India, Blue Bay Marine, West Coast Marine, and Ocean Blue.

Additionally, businesses like BookMyCharters.com and Accretion Aviation now provide aggregator services at competitive rates.

UberBOAT Speedboats

If you wish to travel from Mumbai to Alibaug (Mandawa jetty) or the Elephanta Caves, Uber introduced its speedboat service in January 2019. You can easily hire a speedboat via the Uber app to travel to these destinations. There are two options available:

• UberBOAT — priced at 5,700 rupees for six to eight passengers.
• UberBOAT XL — larger speedboats accommodating more than ten passengers, costing 9,500 rupees one way.

The service operates daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with bookings needing to be made at least 15 minutes in advance. The travel time from Mumbai to Alibaug by speedboat is approximately 20 minutes.