Goa Launches First Ro-Ro Ferry On Mandovi, Here Are All The Deets

Goa is truly a stunning destination in India. It offers serene beaches in South Goa and vibrant nightlife in North Goa, catering to all tastes. And now, to enhance travel for both locals and tourists, the Goa government introduced the first Roll on-Roll off (Ro-Ro) service on the Mandovi River on July 14, 2025. This RoRo service will link Chorao Island to the capital city of Panaji. This new service cuts the travel time between these two points to just 12 minutes, down from the 30 minutes it takes with traditional ferries.

The RoRo service is designed to ease road congestion and provide residents of Chorao Island with a more convenient commuting option. It also aims to boost tourism in the region.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant recently inaugurated a new service featuring two Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) ferries. These innovative vessels allow vehicles to simply drive on from one side and drive off from the other, making travel more convenient. To enhance the boarding experience, the ferry ramp on the Ribandar side has been upgraded with two lanes designated for four-wheelers and an additional lane for two-wheelers. Each ferry terminal can accommodate around 30 to 40 vehicles, depending on the type of vehicles being transported.

Ro-Ro Ferry Services In Goa To Be Free For Passengers

The two ferries, named Dwarka and Gangotri, were built by Goa-based Vijai Marines Shipyards. They will operate under a Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model. Each ferry can carry up to 40 two-wheelers, 15 four-wheelers, and hold 100 passengers during a single journey. The capacity can be adjusted dynamically based on real-time needs.

In emergencies, the ferries can rotate 360 degrees, ensuring safety. They are stocked with life jackets and feature an air-conditioned passenger area with seating for 50. An added benefit is that the government is offering free rides for passengers and two-wheelers. And cars will incur a nominal fee of ₹15.