Kochi Water Metro Makes Backwater Cruises More Affordable for Events
Kochi's scenic waterways are now a more budget-friendly option for celebrations and gatherings. The Kochi Water Metro has introduced substantial reductions in charter charges for its electric-hybrid ferries. This move targets positioning the city's famous backwaters as a vibrant hub for private and corporate events, including evening and night-time excursions.
Revised Tariffs Aim to Boost Revenue and Bookings
The new pricing structure is a strategic effort to increase non-fare revenue. It supports the Water Metro's objective of achieving financial break-even by mid-2026. Previously, chartering a ferry cost a flat rate of Rs 15,000 per hour. Under the revised tariffs, clients can now hire ferries for Rs 9,500 per hour on weekdays. Weekend and holiday rates are set at Rs 12,500 per hour.
Sajan P John, CEO of Kochi Water Metro Ltd (KWML), explained the rationale behind the cuts. He stated that steps have been initiated to shore up non-fare box revenue, which remains modest at present. The charter rates have been slashed specifically to attract more clients. The company anticipates monthly bookings to double as a result of this initiative.
Currently, the service averages around eight charter bookings per month. KWML offers its vessels for a variety of private hire purposes. These include 'save-the-date' photo shoots, birthday celebrations, family tours, business meetings, and educational trips for schools or colleges.
Flexible Timing and Operational Details
While most boat hires occur during daytime hours, authorities confirm that vessels are available for evening and night services as well. However, night operations require special planning and crew deployment. Each trip necessitates three trained crew members, including the boat master. Since crews work in shifts, such services must be scheduled well in advance.
Passengers are allowed to bring snacks and cakes on board for their events. Consumption of liquor, however, is strictly prohibited. Food items are permissible, provided the hiring party agrees to arrange for cleaning afterward.
Fleet Expansion and Future Plans
KWML is concurrently expanding its fleet to meet growing demands. Out of an order for 23 ferries from Cochin Shipyard, 20 vessels have already been delivered. An official highlighted the need to deploy most vessels for regular passenger services, especially on weekends and holidays when passenger demand peaks. On busy routes like High Court-Fort Kochi, services are forced to operate at intervals of below 10 minutes.
Plans to procure an additional 15 boats are being reworked. Earlier tenders failed due to high costs. Fresh tenders are expected to be floated next month, indicating ongoing efforts to enhance service capacity.
