Starting from September 1, the long-awaited Ro Ro Ferry Mumbai to Konkan service is officially ready to welcome passengers. This ambitious project is set to transform travel between Mumbai and Maharashtra’s Konkan region by offering a faster, more convenient, and cost-effective sea route.
Instead of struggling with 10–12 hours of exhausting road travel, passengers can now reach Konkan in just 3 to 5.5 hours aboard the modern M2M Princess ferry. From carrying passengers to transporting vehicles of all sizes, this service promises to make coastal journeys smooth and enjoyable.
Why the Ro Ro Ferry is a Game-Changer
The Konkan belt, dotted with stunning beaches, hill forts, coconut groves, and temples, is one of Maharashtra’s most popular regions. During festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Holi, and Diwali, lakhs of people from Konkan working in Mumbai travel back home. Until now, traffic jams, poor highways, and unpredictable weather made the journey long and tiring.
With the new Ro Ro Ferry Mumbai to Konkan, the same distance can now be covered in a fraction of the time, giving locals and tourists alike a hassle-free option to experience coastal Maharashtra.
Routes and Travel Duration
At present, the ferry will operate on two important routes:
- Mumbai to Jaigarh (Ratnagiri district): Approx. 3 to 3.5 hours
- Mumbai to Vijaydurg (Sindhudurg district): Approx. 5 to 5.5 hours
The service will start from Bhau Cha Dhakka Terminal in Mumbai and eventually expand to more destinations like Shrivardhan and Mandwa. This expansion is expected to make Konkan even more accessible and attractive for domestic as well as international tourists.
Ferry Capacity and Vehicle Facilities
The highlight of the M2M Princess Ro Ro Ferry is that it can carry both passengers and vehicles. This eliminates the need to drive for long hours and ensures complete flexibility.
- Total Passengers: 656 at a time
- Vehicles Onboard: 50 cars and 30 two-wheelers
- Other Transport: From bicycles to large buses, all types of vehicles are permitted
This feature makes it extremely convenient for families, businesses, and groups traveling together.
Ticket Pricing for Ro Ro Ferry Mumbai to Konkan
The government and operators have designed a fare structure that is affordable and competitive with other modes of transport, including flights.
| Class / Vehicle Type | Fare (₹) |
|---|---|
| Economy Class | 2,500 |
| Premium Economy | 4,000 |
| Business Class | 7,500 |
| First Class | 9,000 |
| For Vehicles | |
| Car | 6,000 |
| Bike | 1,000 |
| Bicycle | 600 |
| Mini Bus | 13,000 |
| 30-Seater Bus | 14,500 |
| 45-Seater Bus | 17,000 |
| Large Bus | 21,000 |
Compared to road travel costs, tolls, fuel expenses, and the physical strain of driving, these ferry prices are not only reasonable but also practical.
Facilities Onboard the Ferry
Travelers can expect a world-class experience while sailing through the Arabian Sea. Some of the key facilities include:
- Comfortable seating across multiple classes
- Air-conditioned lounges and premium cabins
- Space to walk, relax, and enjoy sea views
- Onboard snacks and refreshments
- Modern restrooms and safety arrangements
- Secured space for vehicles during transport
These features make ferry travel not just quicker, but also far more enjoyable than sitting in traffic on highways.
A Perfect Gift During Festivals
Every year, Konkan residents working in Mumbai head back home for festivals. With the launch of the Ro Ro Ferry Mumbai to Konkan, people traveling for Ganesh Utsav and other occasions will now save hours on the road. Families can carry their own cars and even buses, which is particularly useful for large groups.
The ferry was initially planned to begin before Ganesh Chaturthi but was delayed due to rough monsoon weather. Now, with conditions improving, the official launch date is September 1 at 6:30 AM from Bhau Cha Dhakka terminal.
Return of Sea Travel After 30 Years
Interestingly, this is not the first time Konkan has witnessed sea connectivity. A similar ferry service existed nearly three decades ago, but it had to be discontinued due to lack of infrastructure and approvals.
The relaunch today is the result of 147 official clearances from authorities like the Directorate General of Shipping and the Mumbai Port Trust. The difference now is that modern technology, advanced ferries, and a stronger demand make the service far more sustainable.
Last-Mile Connectivity
To ensure smooth travel for passengers, the state government is arranging special buses from Jaigarh jetty (40 km from Ratnagiri city) to Ratnagiri town. In the coming years, plans are underway to extend the jetty directly into Ratnagiri terminal for even easier access.
This focus on connecting ferry jetties with cities shows that the project is part of a larger plan to strengthen Maharashtra’s transport infrastructure.
Benefits for Economy and Tourism
The Ro Ro Ferry Mumbai to Konkan is expected to benefit not just passengers but the entire coastal region:
- Tourism Boom: Quicker access will draw more visitors to Konkan’s beaches, temples, forts, and food culture.
- Employment Growth: Locals will find new job opportunities in hotels, transportation, and tourism services.
- Support for Local Industries: Mango farmers, fishermen, and handicraft sellers can now move goods faster.
- Fuel and Cost Savings: Reduced dependency on long road transport means lower fuel usage and less environmental pollution.
Future Expansion Plans
The government is planning to add more routes in the coming years. Besides Shrivardhan and Mandwa, other destinations in Konkan could also be linked. This will eventually create a network of sea routes connecting Mumbai to major Konkan ports, reducing road pressure and improving connectivity.
Travel Tips for Passengers
If you’re planning your first trip on the Ro Ro Ferry Mumbai to Konkan, keep these tips in mind:
- Book Early During Holidays: Demand will be highest around Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, and summer vacations.
- Arrive on Time: Vehicles need to be checked and loaded before departure.
- Carry Essentials: Keep basic medicines, water, and snacks handy.
- Enjoy the Journey: Don’t just see it as transport—take in the Arabian Sea views and make the journey part of your holiday.
Also read: RoRo Ferry Hazira to Ghogha: Complete Guide on Schedule, Ticket Prices, and Travel Experience
Conclusion
The relaunch of the Ro Ro Ferry Mumbai to Konkan is a landmark step in coastal transportation. With its affordable fares, reduced travel time, and comfort for both passengers and vehicles, the service is set to redefine how people connect between Mumbai and Konkan.
As it begins operations from September 1, excitement is already visible among Konkan residents, tourists, and business owners. This initiative is not just about transport—it is about reviving a cultural and economic lifeline that had been missing for three decades.
