There’s been so much buzz around the Mumbai to Goa cruise service that there was only one way to steady the ship: check it out IRL. And so we did. Docked at Mumbai’s Indira Docks is Angriya, India’s first domestic luxury cruise that’s only a few weeks away from making its maiden voyage. Is it nice, what’s the price and some general word of advice—our exclusive tour of the ship has it all covered. Hop on board!

When will the Mumbai to Goa cruise start sailing?

After several delays, the Mumbai-Goa cruise will finally set sail on 12 October 2018. The Angriya will begin its non-stop, 16-hour voyage from the Purple Gate of Mumbai’s Indira Docks at 5pm and arrive at Mormugao in South Goa the next day at 9am. ICYMI: you’ll be able to catch a sunset and a sunrise when you’re on board.

What’s the story behind the name—Angriya?

Angriya the cruise vessel is named after Kanhoji Angre, or Conajee Angria, the first Admiral of the Maratha Navy. The foreign troops called him a pirate but back at home, he was the ‘Shivaji Samudra’, or Shivaji of the Indian Ocean. Interestingly, Mumbai is also home to a naval establishment named after him, called INS Angre.

Just how large is the Mumbai to Goa cruise ship?

The Angriya features six decks, and is meant to ferry 399 passengers. The 20-year-old vessel was built in Japan, and once carried passengers from Tokyo to the islands of Ogaswara. Yes, there are some lovely Japanese elements left intact for you to spot!

How many rooms does the Goa cruise ship have?

There are 104 cabins across eight categories—from dorms and pods to family rooms and suites. Some come with a view, some don’t; all are fairly roomy but not all of them are the same size. If you’re booking a dorm or a pod, be prepared to share a bathroom (kitted out with a Japanese toilet seat with buttons et al).

What’s on the menu?

Your ticket entitles you to three meals on board: evening snacks, dinner and breakfast. Buffet meals are served at the two restaurants—expect Chinese, Continental and Konkani fare. Better still, there are six bars and a lounge to let your hair down, so you can start the party well before hitting the shores of Goa.

Are there any entertainment options?

Well, if the stunning views of the sea aren’t enough, there’s an infinity pool at the rear end of the ship. Plus, a well-equipped spa at the lowermost deck and express mani-pedi counters at the decks above. With pastel pink interiors, the reading room too is a cosy spot to park yourself at. And what about the kids? Sign them up for a fun tour of the ship—they’d love to see the engines at full throttle.

And finally, what’s the ticket price for the Mumbai to Goa cruise?

A one-way ticket for the cruise will approximately cost anywhere between Rs7,000 (for a bed in the dorm) to Rs11,000 (for a suite) per person. This includes cabin lodging and three meals: evening snacks, dinner and breakfast. You can book a trip through their website, which should be live soon.

Until then, follow more updates on Angriya’s Facebook and Instagram.

Here are some more photos from the ship: