Gateway of India → Elephanta Island
Mumbai to Elephanta by speedboat
The public ferry takes an hour each way and leaves when it is full. A private speedboat does the crossing in about twenty-five minutes, waits for you at the island, and brings you back when you are ready — which turns a full-day expedition into a comfortable half day.
Pricing
What it costs
Prices are for the whole boat, not per person — up to 6 guests travel for the same rate. Fuel, skipper and safety equipment are included.
One way
₹9,000
Gateway of India to Elephanta Island
Same-day return
Better value₹25,000
Includes waiting time
Indicative rates. Final pricing depends on date, timing and boat availability — confirmed in writing before any deposit.
What is included
- Private boat — no sharing with other groups
- Licensed skipper and crew
- Life jackets for every guest, child sizes available
- Fuel for the standard route
- Waiting time at the island on a return charter
Good to know
- · Elephanta Caves are closed on Mondays — check before you book.
- · There is a steep flight of around 120 steps from the jetty up to the caves.
- · Return charters typically allow a three-hour stay; longer is quoted per hour.
- · Carry water, sun protection and a hat — there is very little shade on the climb.
- · Entry tickets to the caves are paid separately at the island.
Questions
Frequently asked
How long does the speedboat take from Mumbai to Elephanta?
About twenty-five minutes from the Gateway of India, against roughly an hour on the public ferry. Sea conditions can add a few minutes but rarely more.
How much does a private speedboat to Elephanta cost?
A return charter with waiting time at the island is around ₹25,000 for the boat, carrying up to six guests. One-way transfers are quoted separately. The price is per boat, not per person.
Is Elephanta open every day?
No — the caves are closed on Mondays. The island itself and the boat crossing still run, but there is little point going on a Monday.
Can we take children on the speedboat?
Yes. Child-size life jackets are carried and the crossing is short. Bear in mind the climb from the jetty to the caves is around 120 steps, which is a lot for very small children in the heat.
What happens if the sea is rough?
The captain will either delay departure or, if the coast guard restricts sailing, reschedule your charter at no cost. We do not run the crossing in unsafe conditions.
Book this transfer
Mumbai to Elephanta, on your schedule.
Tell us when, where and how many. We come back with options and a firm price, usually within the hour.