Soon You Could Enjoy A Kerala Backwaters-Like Houseboat Ride In Mumbai

Taking a leaf out of Kerala tourism, Maharashtra will soon start operating houseboats between the waters of Marve-Manori and Gorai.

Gorai Machchimar Sahakari Sanstha has sought permission from Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) to operate houseboats in the creeks along Mumbai's coast.

MMB has received a total of 11 proposals from coastal districts to set up houseboats.

"Like in Kerala, we want to promote houseboats in the backwaters of Maharashtra too. Houseboats already operate at Tarkarli in Sindhudurg district and are a big hit with tourists."

A houseboat can accommodate two families at a time.

BCCL/Representational Image

"We will levy a 10% charge on what the operator charges each tourist. Besides, there will be a security deposit. The details will be worked out over the next couple of weeks," said the officials.

Neville D'Souza, secretary, Gorai Machchimar Sahakari Sanstha, said the state has proposed several schemes to promote tourism in the area. "We decided to implement the scheme ourselves instead of letting outsiders benefit from it. Also, we will ensure the scheme is implemented in an environmentally friendly way. We will take tourists through the creeks and show them mangroves."

BCCL/Representational Image

Along with houseboats, MMB will also launch water sports facilities in the next few months at Juhu, Versova, Aksa, Marve, Manori, Gorai, Ghodbunder, Bhayandar and Vasai. This is the first time that these facilities are being introduced in Mumbai suburbs and Thane.

BCCL/Representational Image

"This year, we have received 65 applications from six districts," said the official. The facilities include kayaking, banana rides, water scooters and speed boats. The operator will be charged Rs 10,000 per boat a year and a security deposit of similar amount.