‘Kayak users today, yacht-owners tomorrow’

Has the number of boat owners risen over the years in Mumbai?

Has the number of boat owners risen over the years in Mumbai?
Yes it has. The terror attack was a setback for the industry — with security on the seas getting much tighter now, and boats allowed out only at certain times — but the interest in boating is definitely growing.

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What’s the price range of these boats?
The range starts from around Rs one lakh, and can go all the way from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 40 crore for the upper-end super luxury boats.

How educated is the Mumbaiite about yachts and sailing?
Not very, but we’ve take it upon ourselves to educate buyers about navigating and using the boats.

Several adventure groups have started during the last few years. Have they helped promote boating?
Yes they have, although I wouldn’t say all of them are qualified to educate people about boating. But today’s kayak users could well be tomorrow’s yacht owners, so it’s a great way to get your feet wet.

Is this a good time to sail?
Yes, this is the perfect time. The weather is calm and this will last till the monsoon gets here.

Your advice to the first-time buyer.
Don’t just go out and buy a boat. Charter a boat, try it out, enjoy it, only then make your choice. It’s not a decision you want to make in haste.