India’s Maritime Tourism to Flourish with New Mumbai Marina Project

Published on December 19, 2025

The Union government has approved the development of a “world-class” marina in Mumbai Harbour for an expected investment of ₹887 crores. This is expected to transform the coastal shipping and maritime tourism activities in Mumbai and is expected to change the waterfront development in Mumbai. The project is in tune with MODI’s vision to develop maritime activities in Mumbai and to position Mumbai as a key destination for international maritime tourism.

A Landmark Development for Coastal Shipping and Tourism

Union Minister for Ports and Shipping, Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized that the approval of the “Viksit Bharat Mumbai Marina” is a crucial milestone in strengthening India’s coastal shipping and maritime tourism sectors. He noted that the project would not only create world-class infrastructure but also promote public access to the waterfront, stimulate private investment, and generate significant employment opportunities. Furthermore, the development will contribute to the country’s broader blue economy goals, which include fostering sustainable growth in the maritime and coastal sectors.

According to the government’s statement, the marina will play a key role in making Mumbai a major global hub for maritime tourism, providing a boost to the city’s economy while also supporting the growth of the blue economy. This project is part of the ongoing efforts to promote the development of India’s coastal regions and improve the country’s maritime infrastructure.

Details of the Marina Development

Spanning nearly 12 hectares of water area, the Viksit Bharat Mumbai Marina will accommodate 424 yachts, each up to 30 meters in length. The marina will be equipped with top-notch facilities designed to cater to both domestic and international tourists. Onshore, a private operator will build a range of facilities including a terminal building, a sailing school, a maritime tourism center, hotel and clubhouse amenities, a skill development center, and infrastructure for yacht maintenance and repairs.

The development will be executed through a hybrid model, with the Mumbai Port Authority investing around ₹470 crore to establish the core marina infrastructure, which will be built on an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) basis. Meanwhile, a private operator will invest approximately ₹417 crore to develop the onshore facilities. This public-private partnership is expected to bring both government support and private sector expertise to the project.

Private Investment and Job Creation

The approval also includes the floating of tenders for the construction and operation of the marina, with bids closing on December 29. The project is poised to attract substantial private investment and is expected to generate over 2,000 jobs across various sectors related to the marina and maritime tourism. These jobs will range from hospitality and service roles to positions in yacht management, maintenance, and skill development.

Additionally, the development is expected to open up numerous opportunities in the coastal and blue economy sectors, contributing to the growth of sustainable tourism and maritime commerce in the region. By establishing Mumbai as a key player in global maritime tourism, the marina will foster new business prospects, increase local economic activity, and enhance the city’s reputation on the international stage.

Maharashtra’s Vision for Eastern Seafront Development

The marina project is also a key part of the Maharashtra government’s broader vision for the eastern seafront of Mumbai. Currently, much of the eastern seafront, particularly the land around the Mumbai Port, remains underutilized. By transforming this idle land into a thriving hub for maritime tourism, the state government aims to create a new attraction for both locals and tourists. The marina, alongside other proposed developments for the eastern waterfront, will serve as a major driver of economic growth and urban renewal in the area.

The project aligns with the state’s goal of revitalizing Mumbai’s waterfront, making it a focal point for cultural, recreational, and commercial activities. The marina is expected to be a catalyst for further development in the region, attracting more investments and enhancing the city’s overall appeal.

Conclusion

The approved construction of Viksit Bharat Mumbai Marina is a big step towards making Mumbai a global maritime tourism destination. It will more than likely open many economic prospects and jobs due to the investments coming in from the public and private sectors. The facility will contribute to the developing blue economy of India, supporting its growth. The Marina, as part of the new initiatives to improve Mumbai’s eastern sea front, will also act as a world class facility, and as a sustainable development model for waterfronts in India.
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