Mumbai to Navi Mumbai Airport in Just 40 Minutes? New E-Water Taxis May Soon Make It Possible

In a significant move to enhance transport connectivity in Mumbai, the state government has kickstarted work on the much-anticipated Gateway of India–Radio Club marina project, valued at ₹190 crore. With the introduction of electric water taxis also on the horizon, authorities are aiming to revolutionise travel across the city’s eastern waterfront — especially for those heading to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport.

The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), in collaboration with Swedish firm Candela, is planning to launch an electric water taxi service connecting the Gateway of India with Elephanta Caves and Alibaug. This ₹330 crore initiative will deploy 15 advanced electric boats, each costing approximately ₹22 crore. These boats, designed using hydrofoil technology, will offer a quicker, eco-friendly and scenic travel experience, as per a report by TOI.

Initially, two boats with a capacity of 30 passengers each are expected to begin service by the end of the monsoon. The plan, designed by Kochi Water Metro – the project consultant – has already been submitted to MMB.

The hydrofoil boats feature computer-guided underwater wings that lift the vessel’s hull above water, reducing drag and giving the impression of gliding or flying. Operating at speeds of 18 to 30 knots, these boats are far more energy-efficient compared to traditional ferries.

At present, around 30 to 35 lakh passengers use ferries from the Gateway of India to reach Elephanta, Alibaug and parts of Navi Mumbai. Given the increasing demand, the MMB has awarded contracts to build marinas at both the Gateway and Radio Club. These are expected to handle over 2.5 lakh passengers every year more efficiently.

The marina infrastructure is scheduled for completion by 2027. It will feature a parking area for 150 vehicles, spacious terminal waiting rooms, a luggage handling facility, an open-air amphitheatre, and electric golf carts for internal transport.

Together, these projects are expected to change the face of Mumbai’s coastal transport and provide a world-class alternative for daily commuters and airport-bound passengers alike.