Is India’s Water Taxi Market Ready for a Splash?

Why are Water Taxis Gaining Momentum in India?

Urban congestion in coastal cities continues to challenge daily commuters. Water taxis present an eco-friendly alternative that utilizes existing waterways. In 2024 and 2025, state governments have accelerated feasibility studies and infrastructure planning, drawing directly from proven models.

Kochi Metro Rail Limited serves as the technical backbone for multiple initiatives. This expertise transfer signals growing confidence in water-based mass transit systems.

How s Goa Preparing for Water Taxi Launch?

Goa initiated a detailed survey across 28 locations to evaluate routes and demand for a mass water transit system. Kochi Metro Rail Limited began this study in late 2024, appointed by the Government of India as the nodal agency.

The River Navigation Department coordinates on-ground efforts. Findings will guide the Inland Waterways Authority of India and Goa government on implementation.

Goa possesses over 90 kilometers of navigable inland waterways, including isolated islands. Inspiration stems from Kerala’s successful water metro project, discussed during ministerial visits in August 2024.

What Routes and Infrastructure Does Mumbai Plan?

Mumbai Metropolitan Region targets eight water taxi routes and 15 new jetties in phase one. The Maharashtra Maritime Board leads implementation with a 50:50 equity joint venture involving the central government.

A recent Kochi Water Metro delegation delivered a feasibility report, shifting planning to execution. Travel times could drop significantly—for instance, South Mumbai to Vasai from over two hours by road to 40-50 minutes by water.

Selected Routes Include:

• Narangi-Khar Wadeshwari

• Vasai-Mira Bhayander-Fountain Jetty-Gaimukh-Nagale

• Kalyan-Mumbra-Mulund-Airoli-Vashi-DTC-Gateway of India

• Belapur-Gateway-Mandwa

Phase two introduces roll-on/roll-off services and water ambulances.

How do these Projects Impact the Water Taxi Market? The NMSC Viewpoint

As a market research firm, NMSC observes that Goa and Mumbai initiatives validate demand for integrated water mobility solutions. Kochi Metro Rail Limited’s dual role in survey and technical support creates a replicable framework, lowering entry barriers for operators.

The emphasis on electric-powered, eco-friendly vessels aligns with national sustainability goals. This positions the water taxi segment for 15-20% annual capacity growth in coastal urban clusters through 2027, driven by public-private partnerships.

Infrastructure commitments - 28 survey points in Goa and 15 jetties in Mumbai - signal committed capital expenditure. Private operators gain clearer revenue models from reduced travel times and passenger volume projections.

Market Impact Highlights:

• Standardization: Kochi expertise ensures uniform safety and efficiency standards.

• Investment Signal: Government equity invites fleet manufacturers and technology providers.

• Scalability: Successful pilots encourage replication in cities like Kolkata and Chennai.

These developments elevate water taxis from niche to mainstream urban transport, expanding the addressable market beyond tourism.

Key Companies in the Water Taxi Sector Worldwide

Key players in the water taxi industry are accelerating growth through zero-emission vessel innovations, strategic international funding, and forward-looking fleet partnerships.

Few Major Players Include:

• Alumaxboats.nl

• Munson Boats

• Metal Shark Boats 

• Streamline Fibreglass

• Qingdao Bestyear Hardware & Machinery Co., Ltd.

• Shandong Seaking Boat Technology Co., Ltd.

• Seaboats

• Fassmer

Next Steps: Actionable Takeaways for Stakeholders

1. Monitor Feasibility Outcomes: Track Kochi Metro Rail Limited reports to IWAI for route finalization timelines.

2. Evaluate Partnership Models: Assess 50:50 equity structures for private entry in similar projects.

3. Invest in Electric Fleet Tech: Prioritize vessels matching Kochi’s proven low-emission standards.

4. Conduct Local Demand Studies: Use Goa’s 28-location survey as a template for untapped waterways.

5. Plan Integrated Ticketing: Develop seamless land-water transfer systems to maximize ridership