Water-based exploration in Mumbai is straightforward and rewarding. The city’s best boat tours focus on three main experiences: harbor cruises with skyline views, Elephanta Caves excursions, and sunset sailings along Marine Drive. We’re especially fond of the early morning harbor tours – they avoid the midday heat and offer the clearest views of landmarks like the Gateway of India and the Taj Palace Hotel.
Private sailing trips stand out for their flexibility, letting you customize stops and timing. For history buffs, the Elephanta Caves ferry combines transport with fascinating ancient Hindu art. Shore excursions efficiently connect cruise passengers with Mumbai’s must-sees, including the atmospheric Dhobi Ghat open-air laundry.
Let’s explore our favorite Mumbai boat tours and cruises.
Key Points
- Private sailing excursions offer exclusive experiences with stunning views of the Mumbai skyline, catering to groups of up to 5 people.
- Romantic and scenic boat tours, including candlelit dinner sailboat cruises and sunset/sunrise sailing, provide unique perspectives for couples and adventurous visitors.
- Guided tours to the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer a scenic boat ride and exploration of ancient rock-cut sculptures.
- Shore excursions for cruise travelers provide comprehensive tours of Mumbai’s iconic landmarks, including Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and Dhobi Ghat.
- Airport and cruise terminal transfers in air-conditioned vehicles are available, with wheelchair and stroller accessibility options.
Mumbai Sky Line Private Sailing Excursion for up to 5ppl
This private sailing excursion along the Mumbai skyline offers an intimate and exclusive experience for up to 5 people.
With 57 reviews and a 98% traveler recommendation, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a personalized sailing adventure.
The 4-hour tour provides stunning views of the Mumbai skyline, Gateway of India, old lighthouses, and naval stations, offering great photo opportunities.
Included in the experience are mineral water, a skipper/sailor, safety life jackets, and round-trip transfers.
While not wheelchair accessible, infants are welcome. However, the activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers due to the non-refundable policy upon cancellation.
Priced from $66.67 per group, this sailing excursion earns an impressive 4.9 overall rating.
Read our full review: Mumbai Sky Line Private Sailing Excursion for up to 5ppl Review
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Mumbai: Elephanta Caves Guided Tour With Boat Ride
Visitors to Mumbai can embark on an enchanting guided tour of the renowned Elephanta Caves, accessible via a scenic boat ride.
Priced from Kč 1,413 per person, this 4-5 hour excursion allows you to explore the ancient cave temples and witness their intricate rock-cut sculptures.
The tour includes ferry ride tickets, island and cave entrance fees, and a toy train ride to the caves, followed by a 120-step climb.
You’ll learn about the historical and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site, with an opportunity to savor a drink on the island before returning.
With a 5/5 rating based on a positive review, this tour promises an immersive and entertaining experience.
Read our full review: Mumbai: Elephanta Caves Guided Tour With Boat Ride Review
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Mumbai Tours for Cruise Travellers (Private & Group Options)
Cruise travelers to Mumbai can choose from an array of private and group tour options tailored to their preferences.
These tours offer a comprehensive exploration of the city’s major attractions, including the iconic Gateway of India, the Dhobhi Ghat, and the Oval Cricket Ground.
Travelers can also opt for an immersive visit to the Dharavi slum, made famous in the film “Slumdog Millionaire.”
The tours include convenient port pickup and drop-off, as well as a knowledgeable guide, bottled water, and transportation.
While food and drinks are available for purchase, gratuities aren’t included.
Reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of specific guides, though some travelers have noted issues with itinerary changes and guide performance.
Read our full review: Mumbai Tours for Cruise Travellers (Private & Group Options) Review
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Mumbai Private Sunrise/Sunset Sailing Boat Tour
For cruise travelers looking to experience Mumbai’s stunning coastline, the Mumbai Private Sunrise/Sunset Sailing Boat Tour offers a serene and intimate way to enjoy the city’s picturesque waterfront.
The tour includes a dingy transfer to and from the boat, as well as a range of amenities like balloon decoration, soft drinks, and a snack basket.
However, reviewers have noted some issues, such as the tour being affected by lack of wind and discrepancies in boat size and service quality.
While the overall rating is 4.5 out of 75 reviews, travelers are advised to manage their expectations and communicate clearly with the service provider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Read our full review: Mumbai Private Sunrise/Sunset Sailing Boat Tour Review
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Amidst the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, the Shared Group Tour for Cruise Traveler offers a convenient and comprehensive way for visitors to explore the city’s iconic landmarks.
Priced from $59 per person, this small-group tour is exclusively for cruise ship passengers. It includes pickup from the cruise terminal, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and guided visits to top attractions like the Gateway of India.
Along the way, travelers can enjoy complimentary bottled water, coffee, and tea. With a maximum of 10 participants, the tour provides an intimate experience and the flexibility to accommodate travelers’ needs, including stroller access and infant seating.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the tour’s ability to showcase the best of Mumbai.
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Private Sea Sailing at Gateway of India
Located right at the Gateway of India, the Private Sea Sailing experience offers cruisers and land-based travelers alike a chance to explore Mumbai’s iconic waterfront from a unique vantage point.
Operated by Avennue Sea Tourism, this private sailing tour provides a personalized and scenic journey along the Arabian Sea. With a 5.0 rating from 5 reviews, the tour includes a private yacht, bottled water, a crew, and safety equipment.
However, snacks, meals, and personal expenses are excluded. While the experience isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or accessibility needs, it’s an ideal way for adventurous visitors to discover Mumbai’s picturesque coastline.
Read our full review: Private Sea Sailing at Gateway of India Review
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Mumbai Romantic Candlelit Dinner Sailboat Cruise
Although Mumbai is renowned for its bustling cityscape, the Mumbai Romantic Candlelit Dinner Sailboat Cruise offers couples a chance to escape the hustle and bask in the serene beauty of the Arabian Sea.
This private sailing experience includes a welcome drink, a three-course meal catered by Café Royal, and a romantic setup with rose bouquets, balloon decorations, and music.
Couples can sail across the sea, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Mumbai skyline. The cruise lasts for 2 hours and includes a dingi transfer from the Gateway of India.
While the menu can be customized, it features starters like hummus and Hunan chicken, mains like pizza and fried rice, and a chocolate brownie dessert.
Read our full review: Mumbai Romantic Candlelit Dinner Sailboat Cruise Review
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Mumbai Full Day Shore Excursion With Boat Ride
This full-day shore excursion in Mumbai offers cruise passengers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and a relaxing boat ride along the Arabian Sea.
Guests will be picked up from their hotels, ports, or other convenient locations and transported in an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour includes bottled water, lunch, and all necessary fees, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Participants will visit key attractions like the Gateway of India, Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, and the bustling Dhobi Ghat. The boat ride provides a unique perspective of Mumbai’s coastline.
With 7 reviews and a 4.3 rating, this shore excursion is a popular choice for those seeking an immersive introduction to the vibrant city of Mumbai.
Read our full review: Mumbai Full Day Shore Excursion With Boat Ride Review
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Mumbai Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships – Full Day City Tour
For cruise ship passengers seeking a comprehensive exploration of Mumbai’s iconic landmarks and coastline, the Mumbai Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships – Full Day City Tour offers an immersive experience.
This full-day tour, with a maximum group size of 25, takes visitors to key attractions like the Gandhi Museum and provides an authentic Indian Thali lunch.
Guests appreciate the knowledgeable guide, air-conditioned transportation, and seamless logistics, with pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal.
Reviewers highlight the professionalism of the tour and the thorough explanations provided throughout the day.
Priced from $110 per person, this shore excursion is an excellent way for cruisers to discover the vibrant culture and history of Mumbai.
Read our full review: Mumbai Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships – Full Day City Tour Review
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Shore Excursions For Cruise Passengers In Mumbai
Cruise passengers arriving in Mumbai have a wealth of shore excursion options to choose from, allowing them to explore the bustling city’s iconic landmarks and vibrant culture.
Private tours offer a personalized experience, with prices starting from $321.65 for a group of up to 13 people. These excursions include transportation, entrance fees, and a provided lunch, making it a convenient and all-inclusive way to experience the city.
Accessibility is also a consideration, as the tours are suitable for most travelers and accommodate strollers and wheelchairs. Participants are advised to have cash on hand for any additional expenses not covered in the tour pricing.
Read our full review: Shore Excursions For Cruise Passengers In Mumbai Review
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Private Sailing in Mumbai Harbor During Weekdays
Exploring Mumbai’s harbor by private sailing is an exhilarating way for cruise passengers to experience the city’s nautical offerings.
This private tour offers a 90-minute sailing experience starting from $369 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation. The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, safety equipment, water, and sunscreen.
Participants must be at least 7 years old, and those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions are advised against joining. Comfortable attire and appropriate footwear are recommended.
The private tour ensures that only your group will participate, with an instructor guiding you through the sports experience.
Read our full review: Private Sailing in Mumbai Harbor During Weekdays Review
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3 Days and 2 Nights Taj Mahal From Cruise to Shore Excursions
This 3-day, 2-night tour from Mumbai’s cruise port offers travelers a comprehensive experience exploring the iconic Taj Mahal.
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, all fees and taxes, monument entry fees, 2 breakfasts, and lunch.
Pickup is from the Mumbai port, with representatives holding a paging board.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions. A moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Priced at $1,250 per person, this private tour guarantees the lowest price and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: 3 Days and 2 Nights Taj Mahal From Cruise to Shore Excursions Review
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Transfer to & Fro Airports,Cruise Terminal,Hotels or Any Whichway, One Way/Time
Looking to make the most of your time in Mumbai? Consider the convenient transfer services available.
With air-conditioned vehicles, travelers can get to and from airports, cruise terminals, hotels, and more. Pricing includes all fees and taxes, so there are no hidden costs.
While meals and drinks aren’t included, alcoholic beverages can be arranged. Booking is straightforward, with confirmation within 48 hours, though it’s non-refundable.
Pickup and drop-off points are flexible, and services are available until 2025. Accessibility features like wheelchair and stroller access make this an inclusive option.
Past travelers have praised the punctual and professional service, so you can expect a smooth experience.
Read our full review: Transfer to & Fro Airports,Cruise Terminal,Hotels or Any Whichway, One Way/Time Review
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Recap
Mumbai offers a variety of cruise and boat tour options for visitors, from private sailing excursions and guided tours of the Elephanta Caves to shared group tours and shore excursions for cruise passengers. Travelers can also take advantage of transfer services to and from airports, cruise terminals, and hotels. Whether you’re looking for a scenic skyline tour or a multi-day Taj Mahal trip, Mumbai has plenty of options to explore the city by water.