Soaking in the unobstructed scenery, taking time to unwind, and savouring the sea breeze are some of the reasons why travellers love ferry rides. Here, we feature some of the most popular ferry rides in India. By Karan Kaushik
What also makes ferry rides a memorable affair is interacting with the locals on board and getting to learn a thing or two about the history and culture of the place. Ferry rides allow one to ditch traffic-clogged roads and relax amidst the open water. And then of course there are the stunning sunsets, flock of seagulls, and spotting marine species. Ferry rides are short, sweet, and budget-friendly. Going back and forth at a pleasant pace gives ferries an edge over conventional modes of commuting. Embarking on a ferry ride is also a great way to get a feel for the rhythms of a place. Allow us to take you through blissful ferry rides in India.
Ferry rides in India that promise a fun-filled time
Mumbai to Alibaug Ferry
View this post on Instagram
Perhaps the most popular ferry ride in India, the iconic Mumbai-Alibaug ferry is an experience that stays with you. The ferry takes you from the Gateway of India to Alibaug’s Mandwa. Riding a ferry is the easiest and fastest way to reach Alibaug. The most popular are the ones operated by M2M Ferries. The ferry connects Mumbai to Mandwa, cutting the travel time by four hours. Supported by the Maharashtra Maritime Board and the Mumbai Port Trust, the boat also ferries cars and bikes across Mandwa.
Hazira Ro-Ro Ferry
View this post on Instagram
Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2020, the Ghogha-Hazira Ro-Pax ferry service in Gujarat bridges the Gulf of Khambat. The ferry shortens the travel time between Bhavnagar and South Gujarat. The ride takes only four hours to reach from Ghogha in Bhavnagar to Hazira in Surat. No outside food is allowed on the ferry. They have a cafe area on the vessel. Could it get any better?
Ernakulum to Fort Kochi
View this post on Instagram
Enjoy the lucid backwaters of Lake Vembanad on the ferry ride from Ernakulum to Cochin port. Ernakulam has two jetties or ferry points. These are the Ernakanulam Jetty and the High Court Jetty. Trust floating seaweeds and flocks of seagulls to keep you enchanted throughout the ride. For the most delightful experience, take the night ferry.
Chilika Lake
View this post on Instagram
Chilika is home to an incredible avifaunal and marine biodiversity, including the elusive dolphins. Known as Asia’s largest brackish water lake, the tranquil water body is best explored on a peaceful ferry ride from Satapada to Janhikuda. Avid birdwatchers and nature lovers arrive here between November and February for flamingos and sea eagles. The highlight of the ferry ride over Chilika lake is the rare opportunity to see dolphins jump out of the water.
Mandovi Ferry
View this post on Instagram
Goa offers a plethora of ferries, river cruises, and boats for locals and tourists. Experience the Goan countryside and witness surreal orange-hued sunsets on a ferry ride over river Mandovi. You can also carry your rented bikes and scooters on the ferry for a nominal price. Let the stunning Portuguese houses in the Goan hinterland charm you as you sail past them. Panaji to Betim, Raia to Shiroda, Kerim to Tiracol, and Old Goa to Piedade are some of the most-loved ferry routes in Goa.
Hooghly River
View this post on Instagram
The ferry from Howrah to Babughat takes you through iconic spots in Kolkata, including Katgola Palace, Hazar Duari, and Howrah bridge. Riding a ferry on the Hooghly river is one of the best ways to get drenched in the rich culture of West Bengal. The ferry connects Howrah to major locales in Kolkata such as Belur Math, Kutighat, and Dakshninewar. Goes without saying that sunset is the best time to experience a ferry ride over the Hooghly river.
Jorhat-Majuli Ferry Service
View this post on Instagram
Next up on our list of ferry rides in India is the Jorhat to Majuli Island ferry service. Situated between the Brahmaputra river’s ever-shifting sandbanks, Majuli is India’s first riverine island. Matted with flourishing rice fields, ponds with blooming hyacinths, narrow roads lined with quaint little cottages on stilts, and bamboo trees, Majuli is an idyllic destination and makes for one of the most peaceful getaways in the country.
Port Blair-Havelock Ferry
View this post on Instagram
Taking a ferry ride is the only way to reach Havelock Island from Port Blair. You may either board a government ferry or try a private cruise. The ferry connects Port Blair harbour, aka Phoenix Bay Jetty to Havelock Island. It takes two to three hours to reach Havelock Island. If you wish to include Neil Island in your itinerary, it will take an hour more. Private ferries are a convenient option. They are faster, easier to book, and preferred by most tourists.
Related: Bucket-List Worthy: Goa’s Newest Tourist Attraction Is A Fascinating Shipwreck From The 60s
