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Cruises in Goa

Quick Info:

• Duration: 1 hour
• Departure Point: Santa Monica Jetty, Panaji
• Price Range: Approx. INR 500–1500 per person
• Best Time: October to March, especially around sunset (5:30–6:30 PM), when the weather is pleasant and river views are most vivid.

The Mandovi River Cruise is one of the most recognisable evening activities in Goa. These one-hour cruises run along the calm waters of the Mandovi, starting from the Santa Monica Jetty in Panaji. Passengers are treated to folk dance performances like Dekhni and Fugdi on the lower decks. On the other hand, the upper deck gives uninterrupted views of Fort Aguada, Adil Shah Palace, the old colonial buildings, and the sunset, with city lights along Miramar Beach. 

After the folk shows, the music turns upbeat with a DJ, and guests are welcome to join the dancing. Open decks let you catch the breeze, while seating on the lower levels keeps things family-friendly. As one of the most iconic cruises in Goa, this is perfect for a relaxed evening filled with culture and views.

Cruise Types:

• Sunset Cruise: Ideal for families and couples, offering golden-hour views.
• Dinner Cruise: Includes buffet dinner, live DJ, and folk performances.
• Luxury Cruise: Private deck experience with curated dining and live entertainment.

Route & Landmarks:

Cruises glide past Adil Shah Palace, Aguada Fort, and Miramar Beach, offering views of Panaji’s illuminated skyline and the confluence of river and sea.

Food & Drink Options:

Buffet and à la carte menus featuring Goan and continental cuisines; select cruises offer full-service bars and tropical cocktails.

Top Highlights:

• Traditional Goan folk performances and live DJ sets
• Open-deck seating for panoramic views and photography
• Cultural narration about the Mandovi River and Panaji’s heritage

Quick Info:

• Duration: Around 2 hours (evening departures)
• Departure Point: Commonly from Santa Monica Jetty or Panjim Jetty
• Price Range: INR 1,200 – INR 2,500 per person (approx.)
• Best Time to Visit: October to April for clear skies and pleasant evenings

Dinner cruises combine food and views for a laid-back evening on the water. These 2-hour-long cruises depart in the evening and sail along the Mandovi River while guests enjoy a buffet dinner featuring Indian, Goan, and global dishes like seafood, biryanis and more. Onboard entertainment ranges from live bands and karaoke to cultural shows and dancing. 

The atmosphere is festive but not too loud, making it suitable for couples, families, or anyone looking for a unique dinner setting. Some dinner cruises even feature carnival-style themes with welcome dances and decorated interiors. With river breezes, music, and good food, the dinner cruise in Goa is a memorable way to end your day.

Route & Landmarks:

A dinner cruise in Goa usually sails along the Mandovi River, passing Panjim’s lit-up waterfront, Adil Shah Palace, and the distant glow of Miramar Beach, offering a charming view of Goa by night.

Popular Food & Drink Options:

• Buffet dinners with Goan seafood, biryanis, and vegetarian dishes
• Welcome drinks or cocktails (in select packages)
• Desserts and light snacks served on deck
• Bars onboard serving soft drinks, mocktails, and limited spirits

Top Highlights:

• Live bands, folk dance, and DJ music
• Candle-lit dining experience under open skies
• Family- and couple-friendly ambience
• City skyline and riverside views throughout the sail
• Optional themed nights or private table bookings

Popular Read: 20 Best Adventure Activities in Goa

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                    Dinner Cruise At Mandovi River In Goa

Quick Info:

• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Departure Point: Dona Paula, Miramar Beach, or Candolim (varies by operator)
• Price Range: Approx. INR 800–2000 per person
• Best Time to Go: October to April, especially evenings (5:30–7 PM) for calm waters and sunset views

A catamaran cruise lets you see Goa’s coastline from a fresh angle. These twin-hulled boats are wide and stable, ideal for sailing on the open sea or river mouths without the crowds. Most trips depart from beaches like Calangute, Benaulim or Colva and take you into the Arabian Sea for 1 to 2 hours. 

These cruises focus on leisure, combining short sails with time at anchor for swimming or snorkelling. The open deck design means you get clear views of the horizon, especially during sunset. Many catamaran cruises also include light snacks and soft drinks. The cruise in Goa using a catamaran is a good pick for small groups or couples wanting a calm yet scenic ride.

Cruise Types:

• Sunset Sail: Best for photography and peaceful evening rides
• Private Charter: Customisable for celebrations or gatherings
• Luxury Catamaran: Includes fine dining, drinks, and crew service
• Adventure Cruise: Combines sailing with light water sports

Route & Landmarks:

Sails along the Miramar-Aguada stretch or towards the Nerul River, passing lighthouses, coastal villages, and scenic waterfronts.

Food & Drink Options:

Light snacks, seafood appetisers, and tropical mocktails; select cruises include onboard BBQ or premium bar setups.

Top Highlights:

• Dolphin spotting and light water activities like snorkelling or kayaking (available on select cruises)
• Open-deck lounging and sunset views over the Arabian Sea
• Private charters and music on demand are available for special occasions
• Stable ride ideal for those prone to seasickness

Recommended Read: 25 Best Beach Resorts in Goa

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                    Things To Do In Goa

• Duration: 24-hour access
• Price Range: INR 2,000– INR 4,000, depending on the package (includes entry, buffet & play chips)
• Best Time to Visit: Evenings (after 7 PM) for live shows and night views

• Multi-cuisine dining with premium beverages
• Open-air deck with panoramic Mandovi River views
• VIP and High Roller sections for exclusive experiences
• Kids’ zone with entertainment and supervision

• India’s largest and most premium offshore casino
• 5-deck luxury vessel offering round-the-clock entertainment
• Themed nights, live acts, and curated cocktails
• Ideal for nightlife lovers seeking a glamorous experience on water

Quick Info:

• Duration: 4-6 hours (day cruise) or overnight options
• Departure Point: Chapora River, Siolim, or Cavelossim
• Price Range: Approx. INR 2500–8000 per person
• Best Time to Go: November to March for calm waters and pleasant weather

Inspired by Kerala’s backwaters, houseboat cruises in Goa offer overnight stays on rivers like Chapora and Mandovi. These boats are fully equipped with cabins, bedrooms, bathrooms, sundecks, kitchens and dining areas. You will pass fishing villages, churches, and small riverside temples. Meals include authentic Goan dishes prepared fresh onboard. 

Birdwatching, fishing, and sunset viewing are part of the itinerary. A houseboat cruise in Goa is ideal for travellers who prefer calm, nature-based experiences. Many packages include tea on deck at dawn, and candlelit dinners at night. The quiet waters and rich greenery create a tranquil setting for a true slow travel experience.

Cruise Types:

• Day Cruise: 4–5 hour scenic ride with lunch onboard
• Overnight Cruise: Includes dinner, breakfast, and a stay in air-conditioned cabins
• Private Cruise: Ideal for couples or small groups with personalised service

Route & Landmarks:

Typical routes include the Chapora and Mandovi backwaters, with glimpses of Chorao Island, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, and traditional riverbank homes.

Food & Drink Options:

Authentic Goan and coastal cuisine with seafood curries, rice, and local sweets and some cruises also offer BBQ dinners or vegetarian menus on request.

Top Highlights:

• Peaceful backwater sailing with sunset views
• Birdwatching and village life glimpses from the deck
• Comfortable cabins and open lounge areas for relaxation
• Perfect for couples and families seeking slow-paced experiences

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Quick Info:

• Duration: 24-hour access
• Price Range: INR 2,000– INR 3,000, depending on the package (includes entry, buffet & play chips)
• Best Time to Visit: Evenings (6 PM–12 AM) for live performances and gaming buzz

Casino Pride offers a lively mix of Indian and international gaming in a more casual setting. The cruise is especially popular with Indian tourists, thanks to its accessible price points and festive environment. It has over 40 gaming tables spread across three decks, with a weather deck offering views of Panaji and the Mandovi River. 

You can enjoy games like Teen Patti, Andar Bahar, Blackjack, Roulette and Poker here, along with slot machines and live Bollywood acts. The cruise includes buffet meals, drinks, and live dance shows. A kids' zone is also available, making it one of the few casino cruises in Goa that welcomes families without compromising on entertainment for adults.

What to Expect:

• Mix of classic and modern casino games like Roulette, Blackjack, and Teen Patti
• Energetic atmosphere with live DJs and Bollywood dance shows
• Friendly staff assisting beginners with table games
• Family-friendly lounge with food and entertainment

Onboard Experience:

• Lavish buffet with Indian, Goan, and continental dishes
• Dedicated bar serving cocktails and mocktails
• Spacious gaming floors with river views
• Comfortable seating and climate-controlled interiors

Top Highlights:

• One of Goa’s most popular floating casinos with a lively vibe
• Perfect for casual gamers and first-time visitors
• Blend of entertainment, dining, and gaming under one roof
• Great value for money with inclusive packages and offers

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                    Disney cruise packages

Quick Info:

• Duration: 2-3 hours (half-day options also available)
• Departure Points: Usually from Chapora, Cortalim, or Panjim Jetty
• Price Range: INR 800 - INR 1,800 per person
• Best Time to Visit: November to March for clear skies and pleasant weather

Backwater cruises take you deep into Goa’s quiet inland rivers, away from crowded tourist hubs. These 5-hour trips explore Chorao and Divar islands, the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, and remote mangrove belts. You might spot crocodiles, kingfishers, herons or fishermen at work as you float past. Some trips include a stop at a spice plantation, where you can learn about local herbs and condiments. 

Others include stops at age-old local temples. These cruises are more about observation and immersion than loud entertainment. Boats are smaller, with shaded seating and windows for birdwatching or photography. If you are looking to explore Goa beyond its beaches and parties, a backwater cruise in Goa offers a quiet, eco-friendly day out.

Route & Landmarks:

Cruises glide through the Mandovi, Zuari, or Sal rivers, passing mangroves, fishing hamlets, and river islands with glimpses of Portuguese-era homes and old bridges.

Wildlife to Spot:

• Crocodiles resting along the riverbanks
• White-throated and pied kingfishers
• Purple herons and egrets
• Brahminy kites and cormorants
• Mudskippers and crabs in mangroves

Top Highlights:

• Peaceful sail through Goa’s scenic backwaters and mangrove channels
• Ideal for birdwatching, photography, and nature walks along village stops
• An authentic glimpse into local riverine life and traditional fishing
• Options for private or shared cruises, including meal and sunset variants
• Perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a quiet escape

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• Duration: 24-hour access
• Price Range: Approx. INR 2000–5000 per person (includes entry, buffet, and gaming chips)
• Best Time to Visit: Evenings and weekends for live entertainment and a lively crowd

• 300+ gaming positions, including Roulette, Poker, Blackjack, and Teen Patti
• Lavish buffet spreads with Indian, Goan, and Asian cuisines
• Full-service bar and lounge with river views
• Live music, comedy acts, and themed entertainment nights
• Kids’ zone with supervised activities for families

• Diverse gaming options for beginners and pros
• Scenic Mandovi River backdrop from open decks
• Complimentary buffet and welcome drinks
• Separate VIP area for high-stakes players
• Ideal for both casual gamers and nightlife seekers

• Duration: 24-hour access
• Price Range: INR 4000–6000 per person, depending on the package (includes entry, buffet, and gaming chips) 
• Best Time to Visit: After 8:00 PM for live events, DJs, and vibrant night ambience

• India’s largest offshore casino with luxury gaming floors across multiple decks
• 100+ live gaming tables including Baccarat, Andar Bahar, Poker, and Roulette
• Private salons and high-roller suites for premium experiences
• Multi-cuisine fine dining with curated menus and premium drinks
• Onboard events featuring DJs, live bands, and celebrity performances
• Family lounge and dedicated kids’ area for non-gaming guests

• Panoramic Mandovi River views from upper decks
• Opulent interiors with LED-lit lounges and VIP gaming zones
• Regular live entertainment and theme-based nights
• Complimentary buffet meals and beverages
• One of Goa’s most luxurious nightlife experiences

• Duration: 2-4 hours (customisable)
• Departure Point: Usually Britona Jetty or Panaji Jetty (varies by operator)
• Price Range: Approx. INR 15,000–60,000 (depending on yacht size, duration, and services)
• Best Time to Go: Evenings (5 PM–10 PM) for sunset views and party ambience

• Fully private charter for birthdays, pre-wedding events, and corporate gatherings
• Choice of luxury yachts, catamarans, and speedboats with custom décor
• Personalised music, lighting, and food menus curated to your event
• Onboard staff assistance and safety measures for all guests
• Breathtaking sunset and night skyline views perfect for group photos

• Theme décor (neon, floral, beach, or Bollywood)
• Live DJ or curated music playlists
• Cake cutting setup and catering coordination
• Drone videography or professional photography
• Fireworks display or floating lantern release (as per operator policy)

• Duration: 2–8 hours (customisable)
• Departure Point: Britona Jetty / Panjim / Chapora
• Price Range: Approx. INR 15,000–80,000 (varies by yacht size and inclusions)
• Best Time to Go: October to April for calm seas and clear skies

• Private luxury sailing with flexible routes and timings
• Perfect for romantic dinners, birthdays, or corporate get-togethers
• Spacious decks with sun lounges and shaded seating
• Crew-assisted service with beverages and light snacks
• Option to anchor mid-river for swimming or sunset views

• Flower décor and theme lighting for events
• DJ setup or live music entertainment
• Gourmet dining or seafood platters on request
• Drone photography and videography services
• Pick-up and drop-off transfers to jetty
• Onboard hostess or event coordinator

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Departure Point: Panjim Jetty / Britona Jetty
• Price Range: Approx. INR 1,200–2,500 per person
• Best Time to Go: November to March, especially weekends and festive evenings

• Buffet dinner with Goan, Indian, and continental dishes
• Open-air decks with scenic river views
• Dedicated dance floor and live DJ music
• Welcome drink with optional bar service
• Energetic ambience ideal for parties and group celebrations