Overview
There are hundreds of rivers in the whole of India and a river cruise is one of the best ways to explore its magic. The small state of Goa also has about half a dozen rivers but one river which stands out is – the river Mandovi. The Mandovi River Cruise would not be wrong to assume that the best tourist destination will offer the best river cruise in all of India.
Mandovi River Cruise
The river Mandovi which is about 81km long is referred to as the lifeline of Goa. It starts from the western Ghats, flows through many Goan cities including its capital Panaji, and opens into the Arabian sea. Mandovi river connects important cities like Panaji to mainland Goa. Thus, cruising through this river will give a cultural experience too.
There are many cruises that are organized by tour companies but they mainly fall into the following main categories:
Group cruise on big boats:
The first kind of Mandovi river cruise comes in big boats that usually take about 50 to 100 people. These boats organize the following types of cruises:
Sunset cruise:
On the Sunset Mandovi river cruise, you will usually begin an hour before sunset. The boat takes you around the jetty and the river banks and when it is time you will be able to witness the sunset on the river Mandovi and the Arabian sea. It is indeed a pleasant sight.
The advantage of a larger boat is that they usually have a DJ room where you can dance and enjoy with your friends and family with loud music. Of course, another advantage is that the fee is only about ₹500.
Carnival cruise:
Carnival cruise also begins near dusk and sets sail for the river. The main attraction of this type of cruise is its theme. Goa is a concoction of Indo and Portuguese culture and it is due to this influence that carnivals are celebrated here. It is also reflected in the cruises to acquaint tourists with the festive celebrations. Thus, as part of the carnival, the boat is decorated so, and usually, a dance show is presented on the top deck of the boat or ship.
Private Yacht Cruise:
Another way to experience the Mandovi river cruise is to charter a yacht. Although this may be expensive it is an exclusive, private, and more peaceful way to cruise on the river Mandovi. The good thing about Goa is that yachts here come in every size and utilities. The usual way of trying a yacht cruise is by chartering a yacht whose rates apply by the hour. It is better to book yachts in advance to save money. Following are the main kinds of yacht cruises on the Mandovi river:
Breakfast Cruise:
As the name suggests, the breakfast cruise on the Mandovi river sets sail in the morning usually from 6-9 am. It is ideal for experiencing the early morning quietness and serenity of the river and its banks. There is minimum crowding at the river, yes, the river sometimes gets too many boats on it which can hinder the view. A breakfast cruise offers splendid views and on some occasions, you can also see dolphins closer to the harbor. Due to the unhindered view it offers, this cruise is best for both relaxing and photography. Thus, making it an ideal photoshoot location for a pre-wedding. The breakfast yacht cruise usually starts at ₹28,000
Sunset Cruise:
Again, as the name suggests, the sunset cruise is the Mandovi river cruise where you will head out on the river in your chartered yacht for sunset. When it’s time, you can behold the marvellous sunset upon the Arabian sea while relaxing with a glass of champagne in your hand or serenade your partner in this ultra-romantic setting. This cruise is also suitable for Valentine’s day dinners or birthday or anniversary celebrations. For such events, the prices are about ₹28,500.
Backwater Cruise
Another awesome daytime Mandovi river cruise option is backwater boat rides. Like Kerala, Goa too has backwaters. The backwaters of Mandovi take you to the never before seen areas of Goa. The boats will take you through Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary where you can spot crocodiles in the waters much to one’s surprise. You can also spot a wide variety of indigenous birds like Indian Pond Heron, Lapwing, egrets, weaver birds, parakeets, and a dozen others. If you are right on time you may even witness migratory birds near the Moira backwaters. These sights can be experienced in shikhara-type boat houses which come in small and big sizes to fit your pocket.
These backwater boat cruises cost around ₹2100 per person
Conclusion
Offering the best river cruise in India are the different cruises on the river Mandovi in Goa. If you happen to be in Goa and are done with the beaches then you must try cruising down Mandovi in boats and yachts for the ultimate experience.
