Mumbai’s long-discussed plan to create a dedicated marina for private yachts near the Gateway of India has moved into an active execution phase, with the Mumbai Port Authority receiving bids from five infrastructure developers for the landmark waterfront project. The development follows central government clearance for the ₹887-crore marina initiative and signals renewed momentum for high-value maritime and tourism-led infrastructure along the eastern harbour.
The proposed marina, planned off Cross Island, is positioned as a strategic addition to Mumbai’s urban waterfront, aimed at formalising recreational boating while unlocking economic value from underutilised port land. Officials confirmed that the port authority will directly invest close to ₹470 crore in core marine infrastructure, while the selected private partner will develop and operate the remaining assets under a public–private partnership framework. To enhance commercial viability, the project scope has been expanded to include hospitality and tourism infrastructure alongside the marina. Plans now include a five-star hotel with over 300 rooms, a marina club, sailing and training facilities, and a public-facing tourism centre. Urban planners view this integrated approach as critical to ensuring year-round activity while supporting employment generation across hospitality, marine services and ancillary sectors.
According to officials familiar with the process, bids have been received from domestic engineering and infrastructure firms with experience across ports, transport corridors and complex coastal construction. Regulatory clearances, including approvals from coastal authorities, were secured prior to the enforcement of the municipal election code, allowing the bidding process to move ahead without procedural delays. The marina itself is intended to provide secure berthing, maintenance and weather-protected storage for private yachts—an infrastructure gap that has long constrained India’s marine leisure sector. Onshore facilities are planned on a multi-hectare parcel at Victoria Dock, including a multi-level parking structure, business facilities and a terminal building housing customs, immigration and security services, enabling the marina to support international maritime tourism.
From an urban development perspective, the project aligns with broader efforts to reimagine Mumbai’s eastern waterfront as a mixed-use economic zone rather than a closed industrial port estate. Experts note that while careful environmental oversight will remain essential, well-designed marine infrastructure can coexist with coastal protection measures when executed responsibly. The marina is also expected to support Mumbai’s ambition to diversify its tourism economy beyond land-based attractions, while strengthening the city’s position within regional maritime circuits. Improved access to structured marine services could further encourage private investment in boating, training and coastal recreation.
As the evaluation of bids progresses, attention will focus on environmental safeguards, public access provisions and long-term financial sustainability. For Mumbai, the project represents not just a new marina, but a test case for balancing heritage, ecology and modern waterfront-led urban growth.
Adani Group Competes in Bid Process for Waterfront Project
