Mumbai to Navi Mumbai Airport Gets a Sea Route Shortcut -E-Water Taxis Set Sail

In a major boost to eco-friendly urban mobility and tourism connectivity, Mumbai's eastern waterfront is set to undergo a sea change with the launch of electric water taxis and the Gateway of India–Radio Club Marina project. Together, these initiatives promise to cut travel time to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport to just 40 minutes — over 30 minutes faster than current road routes via MTHL.

The Rs 190-crore marina project, already underway, will ease congestion on existing jetties and cater to the rising demand from passengers heading to Elephanta Caves, Alibaug, and Navi Mumbai. Complementing this is the Rs 330-crore e-water taxi project, spearheaded by the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), which will operate 15 high-tech electric boats along key routes including Gateway–Elephanta–Alibaug.

Highlights of the Project:

• E-Water Taxis:

  • Operated by MMB; 15 boats planned

  • Initial rollout by end of monsoon with 2 vessels

  • Each boat accommodates 30 passengers

  • Designed by Sweden’s Candella using hydrofoil tech

  • Glides at 18–30 knots with low energy consumption

• Marina Infrastructure:

  • Two marinas under development: Gateway of India & Radio Club

  • Built to handle 2.5 lakh+ passengers annually

  • Facilities include: 150-car parking, waiting areas, luggage systems, e-golf carts, and an open-air amphitheatre

Why It Matters:

• Time Saver: South Mumbai to Navi Mumbai Airport in just 40 minutes

• Eco-Friendly: Electric boats mean lower emissions and cleaner air

• Traffic Relief: Eases pressure on roads and railways

• Tourism Boost: Scenic journey across iconic spots like Gateway, Elephanta & flamingo-filled creeks

• Target Completion: 2027

This new maritime infrastructure not only promises a faster and greener commute but is also poised to become a major tourism attraction — showcasing Mumbai’s harbour in a whole new light.