On 1st September 2025, the long-awaited RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) ferry service between Mumbai and Sindhudurg set sail. For the first time in decades, travelers can take themselves and their vehicles directly to the Konkan coast by sea.
This service has already changed how people plan Konkan holidays. What used to be a tiring 10–12 hour drive on NH66 can now be covered in about 5–5.5 hours by ferry. The response so far has been strong, with families, weekend travelers, and festive commuters welcoming the convenience.
This blog is your complete guide to the RoRo to Sindhudurg: how it works, what it costs, and how you can plan your trip around it to explore the region’s history, food, and culture.
How the RoRo to Sindhudurg Works
- Operator: M2M Ferries
- Route: Mumbai (Bhaucha Dhakka) → Jaigad (Ratnagiri) → Vijaydurg (Sindhudurg)
- Travel Time: ~3 hours (Jaigad), ~5–5.5 hours (Vijaydurg)
- Frequency: Once daily each way (expected to increase during festivals and holiday season)
- Vessel: M2M Princess (capacity: 656 passengers, 50 cars, 30 two-wheelers)
Boarding: Vehicles and passengers check in separately at Bhaucha Dhakka. Cars and bikes drive directly onto the deck, while foot passengers board via dedicated gates.
Arrival: Disembark at either Jaigad or Vijaydurg. From there, you are well-placed to explore Ratnagiri or Sindhudurg.
Fares and Booking (Indicative as of September 2025)
| Category | Fare (One-way) | Notes |
| Economy Seat | ₹2,500 onwards | Standard seating |
| Premium / Business / First Class | ₹4,500 – ₹9,000 | AC lounges, wider seats |
| Two-Wheeler | ~₹1,500 | Rider pays separately |
| Car | ~₹6,000 | Driver fare separate |
Booking Options:
- Online: Through the M2M Ferries website
- Offline: At Bhaucha Dhakka counters
- Check-in: 90 minutes prior to departure if traveling with a vehicle
Why Choose the Ferry Over Road or Rail?
| Factor | Ferry | Road (NH66) | Train |
| Travel Time | 5–5.5 hrs | 10–12 hrs | 8–9 hrs + transfers |
| Comfort | Lounges, decks, sea journey | Long drive, traffic | Variable, delays possible |
| Vehicle Option | Yes (cars, bikes) | Yes | No |
| Cost (2 adults + car) | ~₹11,000 | ~₹8,000 (fuel/tolls) | ~₹4,000 + cabs |
Sindhudurg: What to See and Do
The ferry makes weekend or short trips realistic. Here’s why Sindhudurg is worth exploring:
1. History & Heritage
- Sindhudurg Fort: Built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century, this sea fort remains one of the region’s biggest draws.
- Vijaydurg Fort: Another coastal stronghold, known for its triple-line fortifications and historic naval battles.
- Sawantwadi Palace: A blend of colonial and Maratha architecture, still home to Sawantwadi’s royal family.
2. Beaches & Adventure
- Tarkarli Beach: Famous for scuba diving, snorkeling, and water sports.
- Malvan Beach: Livelier, with seafood stalls and boating.
- Devbag Beach: Quieter, perfect for relaxation and dolphin spotting.
3. Food: Malvani Cuisine
Sindhudurg is synonymous with Malvani food, a cuisine known for bold spices, coconut-based curries, and fresh seafood.
- Seafood Thalis: Pomfret, surmai, crab, prawns, and shellfish dominate menus.
- Vegetarian Specialties: Solkadhi (kokum and coconut drink), bharli vangi (stuffed brinjal), and rice bhakris.
- Local Touch: Meals are often served on banana leaves.
4. Culture & Crafts
- Sawantwadi Ganjifa Cards: Hand-painted playing cards with centuries-old traditions.
- Wooden Toys & Lacquerware: Sawantwadi artisans are known for their craftwork.
- Dasavatar Folk Performances: Traditional theatre showcasing mythological stories.
How to Plan Your Trip with the Ferry
Day 1 – Board morning ferry at Mumbai, reach Vijaydurg by afternoon. Explore Vijaydurg Fort, check in at your stay.
Day 2 – Visit Sindhudurg Fort, Tarkarli for water sports, enjoy Malvani cuisine.
Day 3 – Shop for Sawantwadi crafts, return by ferry in the evening.
Tip: Festival seasons (Ganeshotsav, Diwali) are busy, so book tickets well in advance.
Speaking about the launch, Devendra Parulekar, Founder of SaffronStays, said:
“The RoRo service is a milestone for the Konkan region. It not only makes Sindhudurg more accessible but also encourages travelers to look beyond familiar weekend spots and discover the rich history, food, and culture of the coast. For us, it means more guests can experience our homes in Sindhudurg with ease and comfort.”
FAQs
Is the RoRo to Sindhudurg running now?
Yes, it launched on 1st September 2025 and is operational.
Can I take my car or bike?
Yes. Cars, two-wheelers, and larger vehicles are permitted.
How do I book?
Tickets are available online (M2M Ferries) and at Bhaucha Dhakka counters.
What if the weather is rough?
Sailings may be canceled or delayed. Always check operator updates before travel.
Is Sindhudurg good for a weekend trip?
Yes. The ferry makes 3-day trips from Mumbai practical.
The RoRo to Sindhudurg is more than just a transport link. It is a gateway to history, beaches, food, and culture. With this service, Sindhudurg has never been closer to Mumbai.
From exploring forts and palaces, enjoying Malvani cuisine, diving at Tarkarli, to experiencing folk arts and crafts, the ferry makes it all accessible in one seamless journey. For anyone planning a Konkan holiday, the RoRo is now the smartest way to start the Sindhudurg experience.
