Goa's new RORO ferry service set to boost tourism appeal

Come July 14, the scenic Ribandar–Chorao ferry crossing in Goa will get a major upgrade with the introduction of the state’s first Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) ferry service. This development promises not just to ease the daily commute for Chorao islanders but also add a new dimension to Goa’s tourism experience.

The new modern RORO ferries, a first-of-its-kind in the state, built and operated by Vijay Marine Services, based in Loutolim, will ply this busy route, known for its bottlenecks during peak hours, with significantly improved capacity and speed.

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Each ferry can carry 16 four-wheelers, 40 two-wheelers, and up to 100 passengers, though the configuration can be adjusted depending on the mix of vehicles onboard.

"The idea is to maximise efficiency. The boats are modern, fast and safe, and they drastically cut down wait times," said River Navigation Department Director Vikramsinh Rajebhosale.

In comparison to the six conventional ferriescurrently serving the route, only two RORO vessels will now operate, offering a more sustainable and faster alternative.

In comparison to the six conventional ferries currently serving the route, only two RORO vessels will now operate, offering a more sustainable and faster alternative.

While final trials and training are currently ongoing, the official launch is tentatively scheduled for July 14, pending final approval from the Chief Minister’s office. On Wednesday, July 9, Rajebhosale informed, “We will confirm the launch by this afternoon once the CM signs the file.”

A NEW EXPERIENCE FOR CHORAO ISLANDERS

For residents of Chorao, the ferry isn’t just a convenience, but it’s a lifeline. Many islanders rely on the Ribandar crossing to reach Panjim for work, school, and medical services.

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With the RORO service, delays due to limited vehicle space or breakdowns are expected to reduce significantly.

The jetties at Chorao and Ribandar have also been upgraded to support the new vessels, with ramp extensions from 10m to 25m, ensuring safer and smoother boarding. "This is going to change our mornings," said one Chorao local. “The long queues, especially for cars, might finally be a thing of the past.”

With the RORO service, delays due to limited vehicle space or breakdowns are expected to reduce significantly.

TAPPING TOURISM POTENTIAL

Interestingly, the RORO service is not just about daily travel. It’s poised to become an added attraction for tourists exploring Goa's backwaters and islands.

“The ferry route lies close to Panjim and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, so naturally it has tourism potential,” Rajebhosale noted. Already, around 25 per cent of ferry traffic on nearby routes like Divar is attributed to tourists. The new service is expected to enhance that figure.

Vikramsinh Rajebhosale, Director of River Navigation Department The ferry route lies close to Panjim and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, so naturally it has tourism potential

To cater to visitors, the fare has been set at Rs 50 per tourist, while two-wheelers and pedestrians can continue to travel free of cost. Additionally, a digital ticketing system has been introduced in partnership with Paytm, and a River Navigation app is set to launch before the service goes live, allowing commuters and tourists alike to book tickets or monthly passes online.

A River Navigation app is set to launch before the service goes live, allowing commuters and tourists alike to book tickets or monthly passes online.

ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS STEP

The RORO service also aligns with Goa’s broader sustainability goals. By replacing six conventional ferries with just two RORO boats, the state expects to reduce fuel consumption and river traffic.

"The vessels are equipped with mandatory safety and fire-fighting equipment, have been certified by the Captain of Ports, and will undergo annual surveys for seaworthiness," Rajebhosale informed.

Vikramsinh Rajebhosale, Director of River Navigation Department The vessels are equipped with mandatory safety and fire-fighting equipment, have been certified by the Captain of Ports, and will undergo annual surveys for seaworthiness

Looking ahead, a second RORO route has been proposed between Sao Pedro and Divar, responding to strong local demand and continuing the push towards efficient, modern water transport.

In the first few months, the new RORO service promises Goans a fresh lens through which to experience their islands. What was once a routine commute may now feel like a scenic journey, allowing locals and tourists alike to soak in the beauty of Goa’s waterways and riverine landscapes with renewed appreciation.