UberBOAT comes to Mumbai: Services to start from Feb 1, connect 3 popular sea routes
Once launched, Mumbaikars will be able to book an UberBOAT (6-8 passengers at Rs 5,700) or UberBOAT XL (10+ passengers at Rs 9,500) to travel to Gateway of India, Elephanta Islands, and Mandwa Jetty (Representational Image, Courtesy: Wamda)
Global ride-sharing giant Uber on Wednesday announced the launch of ‘UberBOAT’ service in Mumbai. The service, launched in partnership with Maharashtra Maritime Board, will start from February 1.
The service is being launched on a pilot basis in the maximum city, signifying yet another first for the cab-aggregator in the country.
The on-demand service will use speedboats to provide transportation from three of the city’s popular coastal routes – Gateway of India, Elephanta Islands, and Mandwa Jetty. Compared to existing modes, the speedboats are expected to cut travel time by half.
From February 1, riders will have the option of booking an UberBOAT for 6-8 passengers or UberBOAT XL for 10 plus passengers.
The rides, which can be booked around 15 minutes before travel time, will cost Rs 5,700 for UberBOAT (carrying 6-8 passengers) and Rs 9,500 for UberBOAT XL (carrying over 10 passengers) across all routes.
The company has not confirmed if the rides could attract dynamic or ‘surge’ pricing at a later date.
As far as safety is concerned, all boats will be equipped with best in class features including lifejackets, emergency contact details and printed collaterals along with a manual that highlights safety instructions.
The launch is in line with Uber’s vision to transform into a multi-transport platform in India. In keeping with the vision, riders will see an option of booking an UberBOAT from their existing, albeit updated, Uber app.
“We are excited to launch UberBOAT in Mumbai in partnership with Maharashtra Maritime Board. As pioneers in the organised on-demand transport system, Uber’s vision is to create a multi-modal platform to better serve riders and the cities we operate in,” said Prabhjeet Singh, Head of Cities, Uber India & South Asia.
The company is also aiming at making waterway commute more efficient and convenient for Mumbaikars with UberBOAT.
“With UberBOAT, we will tap the vast potential of the city’s waterways transport system. We aim to provide efficient and easily accessible services to riders who are looking at navigating through these specific routes,” Singh added.
With this service, boat operators will be able to gain access to Uber’s highly engaged rider base and enhance their earning opportunity, Singh stated.
If the pilot project is successful, the service could be extended to cover additional routes like Navi Mumbai – which will be a boon for lakhs of commuters who travel between the two cities every day.
