On Tuesday, a new water taxi service was launched between Mazgaon’s domestic ferry terminal and Mandwa jetty near Alibag in Raigad district. According to a company spokesperson, the facility, launched by Nayantara Shipping Pvt Ltd, will use a new catamaran ‘NAYAN XI,’ which has a seating capacity of 140 on the lower deck and 60 on the upper business class deck.
The launch was attended by Mumbai Port Trust (MbPT) chairman Rajiv Jalota and other officials. Passengers using this service can reach Mandwa in 35 to 40 minutes from the domestic cruise terminal for Rs 400 for the lower deck and Rs 450 for the upper deck for a one-way journey, he said.
Trials were conducted for a smooth sailing experience between the domestic cruise terminal and Mandwa prior to the actual launch of the service on October 12, according to a company release.
The catamaran has a top speed of 22 knots and is powered by two 750 HP Volvo Penta high-speed engines. However, it was stated that it will sail at a speed of 15 knots.
According to the company, the catamaran is luxurious and completely air-conditioned, with two washrooms on the upper deck and four on the lower deck. According to the release, the service from the domestic cruise terminal to Mandwa will be available at 10.30 a.m., 12.50 p.m., and 3.10 p.m., and from Mandwa to the terminal will be available at 11.40 a.m., 2 p.m., and 4.20 p.m.
Passengers can purchase tickets at the terminals or online at MyBoatRide.com, according to the spokesperson.
