Mumbai, a city famous for its bustling streets, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture, also offers some fantastic ways to see it from the water. Whether you’re longing for a romantic sunset sail, a quick harbor adventure, or a private yacht experience, Mumbai’s waterways serve as a perfect backdrop. We particularly love the Mumbai Sky Line Private Sailing Excursion for its personalized touch and stunning skyline views, and the Explore Bombay For Cruise Traveller for its deep dive into the city’s lesser-known spots—both offer a chance to see Mumbai from a different perspective. For a quick, luxurious trip, the Elephanta Caves Tour by Private Speed Boat combines history with high-speed fun, making it a hit with those who want a memorable day on the water.
If you’re planning your water-based adventure, this guide compares the top options, highlighting what makes each unique, so you can choose the one that best fits your interests, budget, and schedule.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a mix of private sailing experiences, like the Mumbai Sky Line Private Sailing Excursion, which is perfect for small groups seeking intimate views of the skyline, and full-day city tours that combine water and land, such as the Mumbai Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships. For history lovers, the Elephanta Caves Tour by Private Speed Boat offers a quick trip to a UNESCO World Heritage site, while the Sailing Experience in Mumbai on Mid Size Yacht provides a more relaxed, customizable sailing adventure. Whether you prefer a short jaunt or a luxury multi-day tour, the options below cover a variety of interests and budgets.
1. Mumbai Sky Line Private Sailing Excursion for up to 5ppl
At number 1 on our list, this private sailing trip offers a scenic 2-hour cruise around Mumbai on a comfortable sailboat that accommodates up to five people. The trip includes a skipper, life jackets, and mineral water, ensuring safety and comfort. What makes this experience stand out is its exclusivity—it’s entirely tailored to your group, whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or taking family photos. You’ll set sail from near the Gateway of India and enjoy fantastic views of the Mumbai skyline, including historic lighthouses, naval stations, and a good chance to spot playful dolphins.
Guests praise the boat’s cleanliness and well-maintained condition, often mentioning how the experience feels like a peaceful escape from Mumbai’s busy streets. The sunset sail especially captures the city’s golden hues, perfect for photography. The four sailing times daily make it flexible, and the included transfer from Gateway of India adds convenience. This tour is ideal for small groups looking for a private, scenic adventure with a personal touch.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families, couples, or small groups wanting a personalized, relaxing sail with iconic city views.
2. Explore Bombay For Cruise Traveller by Trip Mumbai
Number 2 offers a half-day tailored city experience with a focus on discovering Mumbai’s hidden stories and landmarks. This tour combines on-land visits with a scenic boat ride, providing an authentic look at the city’s history and culture. It covers the Gateway of India, Bombay High Court, and Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum, along with a walk through Crawford Market. The guide’s expert narration adds depth to each stop, making this trip both educational and fun.
What makes this tour special is its emphasis on local experiences and personalized service. It’s priced reasonably at about $31.60 per person, and the itinerary is curated to maximize sightseeing within a few hours. Guests love the intimate group size and the opportunity to explore iconic sites with knowledgeable guides. The boat ride part offers a smooth, scenic crossing that complements the land-based sights.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a balanced mix of urban exploration and a bit of the sea, all with a personal touch.
3. Elephanta Caves Tour by Private Speed Boat
This is a top pick for those eager to combine luxury, speed, and history. The trip begins with hotel pickup and a quick, 20-minute high-speed boat ride across the harbor to Elephanta Island. The tour includes a guided exploration of the rock-cut temples and sculptures, some dating back over 1,500 years. The private speedboat cuts the traditional 3-hour journey down to just 20 minutes, saving time for more sightseeing or relaxing.
Guests consistently highlight the smooth, fast transfer and the rich cultural experience of the caves. The boat ride itself offers an exhilarating way to see the harbor, and the guide provides insight into the carvings and religious significance. After the tour, you return comfortably by speedboat, making this a convenient yet luxurious day trip.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history buffs or travelers with limited time who want a fast, comfortable journey to a UNESCO site.
4. Mumbai Private Sunrise/Sunset Sailing 8ppl Boat Tour
Number 4 offers a personalized sailing experience tailored for sunrise or sunset, accommodating up to eight people. The private boat departs from the Gateway of India and includes special touches like balloon decorations, music, soft drinks, and mineral water. The focus is on creating memorable moments against the backdrop of Mumbai’s iconic skyline.
Guests rave about the romantic atmosphere and the views of landmarks such as the Taj Mahal Palace and old lighthouses. The tour is flexible, with multiple time slots, making it ideal for couples or groups celebrating special occasions. The inclusive extras and private nature make this a great value for a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for couples or small groups seeking a memorable, romantic cruise during sunrise or sunset.
5. Mumbai Shore Excursion For Cruise Ships – Full day City Tour
For around $95, this full-day tour is designed specifically for cruise passengers wanting to see Mumbai in a nutshell. It includes a pick-up from the port, visits to the Gateway of India, St. Thomas Cathedral, and Flora Fountain, plus a walk through the vibrant Colaba Causeway. The tour balances cultural sites with some shopping, all while ensuring you’re back at the port on time.
Guests appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s stories to life. The tour provides a rundown of Mumbai’s highlights in about 6-7 hours, making it perfect for travelers with limited time.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cruise passengers who want a hassle-free, in-depth introduction to Mumbai’s sights.
6. Shared Group Mumbai Tour For Cruise traveler
Number 6 offers a small group experience exploring South Mumbai’s top attractions, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Dhobi Ghat, and Hanging Gardens. The tour runs 4-5 hours, with a maximum of 10 participants, ensuring personal attention and a relaxed pace.
Guests love the blend of landmarks and local markets and mention the friendly guides who share insights into Mumbai’s history and daily life. The tour’s affordability and small-group format are big pluses, especially for travelers who prefer an intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a small-group, guided tour that covers Mumbai’s highlights comfortably.
7. Discover Sailing at Iconic Gateway- Mumbai
This 1.5-hour sailing experience from Colaba offers a chance to watch the sunset over Mumbai Harbor aboard a Beneteau racing boat. You’ll meet at the exclusive sailing lounge and enjoy a relaxed ride that’s perfect for those interested in learning sailing basics or just enjoying the views.
Guests mention the friendly staff and the unique experience of sailing past naval ships, lighthouses, and the skyline. No prior sailing experience is necessary, which makes it accessible for most.
Bottom Line: A quick, high-quality sailing experience suitable for those wanting a taste of Mumbai’s waters with minimal fuss.
8. Taj Mahal Tour From Cruise Port, Mumbai, Cochin and Goa
Number 8 offers a luxury multi-day tour of the Taj Mahal, starting from Mumbai cruise ports. It includes private transfers, hotel stays, and guided visits to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and more. Although this is a longer trip, it’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive tour of India’s most famous monument.
Guests appreciate the seamless organization and the chance to see the Taj Mahal without worries. The tour’s high price reflects its luxury and depth, making it ideal for those seeking a premium experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a comfortable, all-inclusive journey to Agra and the Taj Mahal—definitely a splurge.
9. Sailing Experience in Mumbai on Mid Size Yacht
This mid-sized yacht cruise offers a customizable 2-hour sail past Mumbai’s major landmarks like the Gateway of India and the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. It’s a flexible experience that can be tailored to your schedule—whether you want a daytime cruise, sunset, or evening outing.
Guests enjoy the personalized approach, with the option to bring their own music and snacks. The boat’s friendly crew shares interesting facts about the city and the harbor’s maritime activity.
Bottom Line: A versatile option for those seeking personalized, scenic sailing with a relaxed vibe.
10. Private Sea Sailing at Gateway of India
This private 2-hour sea sailing experience is perfect for groups of up to six. Departing from Gateway of India, it offers a luxurious and intimate way to enjoy Mumbai’s waters. The tour includes safety gear and a professional crew, making it suitable for first-timers.
Guests mention the tranquility of sailing past the city’s landmarks, with options for custom timings. It’s an excellent choice for a special celebration or just a peaceful day on the water.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups looking for a high-end, private sailing experience with flexible scheduling.
11. Small Group Mumbai Sightseeing Tour for Cruise Passengers
This 5-hour small-group tour combines landmarks and local markets, including Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and Hutatma Chowk. The group size of up to 15 ensures a comfortable experience, with air-conditioned transport and a knowledgeable guide.
Guests appreciate the careful itinerary and local insights. It’s especially suited for cruise passengers who want to maximize their limited time ashore.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting an efficient, guided overview of Mumbai with a personal touch.
12. Mumbai Bay Breeze Sail on a Compact Yacht Experience
Number 12 features a 2-hour sunset sail on a compact yacht, offering spectacular views of Mumbai Harbor. You’ll see landmarks like Oyster Rock and Middle Ground, all while enjoying the peaceful sea breeze. The tour also provides opportunities to spot ships at anchor and enjoy the maritime scenery.
Guests comment on the calm atmosphere and the opportunity for memorable photos. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a serene, scenic escape with minimal fuss.
Bottom Line: A relaxing, scenic sail ideal for couples or small groups seeking a tranquil experience.
13. Elephanta Caves Cruise Group Tour
This group tour combines a boat cruise to Elephanta Island with an exploration of its rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The trip lasts about 5 hours, with a focus on the island’s sculptures and architecture. It’s great for travelers interested in history and religious art.
Guests mention the smooth boat ride and the opportunity to learn about Hindu mythology firsthand. The group setting keeps costs reasonable while providing ample time to explore.
Bottom Line: A good fit for history and culture enthusiasts who want a guided, affordable trip.
14. Mumbai Tours for Cruise Travellers (Private & Group Options)
This flexible tour offers customizable private or group options for exploring Mumbai’s top landmarks like the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and Dhobi Ghat. It lasts about 4-5 hours, with the choice of private or small group.
Guests praise the personalized service and insightful guides who tailor the experience based on your interests. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, in-depth city tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a custom, guided experience that covers Mumbai’s must-see sights.
15. Mumbai City & Dharavi Slum Mumbai’s Cruise Combo Tour
Number 15 presents a unique blend of city sightseeing and an authentic visit to Dharavi, Asia’s largest slum. The tour is designed to provide a balanced view of Mumbai’s contrasts, with a focus on economic activities and local life.
Guests highlight the engaging guides and the authentic encounters that make this tour meaningful. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the diversity of Mumbai beyond the usual tourist spots.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous travelers interested in understanding Mumbai’s vibrant socio-economic fabric.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour or Cruise in Mumbai
Choosing the best water experience depends on your interests and schedule. If you prefer private, intimate sailing, the Mumbai Sky Line Private Sailing Excursion offers unmatched personalized views. For a quick cultural visit combined with a boat ride, the Explore Bombay For Cruise Traveller balances sightseeing with local flavor.
History lovers should consider the Elephanta Caves Tour by Speed Boat, while those seeking a luxurious, sunset experience can opt for the Sunrise/Sunset Sailing. Budget travelers might enjoy the Small Group Mumbai Tour, which covers key landmarks affordably.
Consider your time, budget, and what kind of experience you desire—whether it’s a relaxing sail, cultural exploration, or a combination of both.
Final Thoughts
Mumbai’s waters offer a broad spectrum of experiences, from private sails with panoramic skyline views to full-day explorations of historic sites like Elephanta Island. For different travelers, the options range from budget-friendly group tours to luxury private charters. Two standout picks are the Mumbai Sky Line Private Sailing Excursion for its exclusivity and scenic views, and the Elephanta Caves Tour by Speed Boat for a quick, comfortable cultural trip.
If you want to make the most of your time in Mumbai, booking early is wise—these tours tend to fill up, especially in peak season. Whatever your style, a boat tour in Mumbai promises a refreshing perspective on this lively city.