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The Kochi Water Metro has decided to reduce the cost to hire its ferries to make cruising on the city's waterways more affordable and attract more private and corporate bookings. This change is part of the Water Metro's plan to increase its earnings beyond just passenger fares and help the service reach financial stability by mid-2026.
Chartering a Ferry Cost
Previously, chartering a ferry cost a flat ₹15,000 per hour, but under the new rates, the charge is now ₹9,500 per hour on weekdays and ₹12,500 per hour on weekends and holidays. This reduction is hoped to encourage more people and groups to book ferries for various events.
Private Bookings
At present, the Water Metro receives about eight private bookings each month. With the new, lower prices, the company expects this number to at least double. People can hire these electric-hybrid ferries for a wide range of purposes, such as birthday parties, wedding celebrations, family outings, corporate events, school or college trips, and even for photoshoots or other special occasions.
Night Services of Kochi Water Metro
Most charters happen during the day, but the Water Metro also allows bookings in the evening and at night if planned. Night services require additional arrangements, including a trained crew of three members for each trip. Passengers are allowed to bring food and snacks aboard, but alcohol is not permitted. The hiring group is also responsible for cleaning up once the event is over.
Meanwhile, the Water Metro is expanding its fleet. Out of the 23 ferries ordered from Cochin Shipyard, 20 have already been delivered, and plans are underway to order more vessels. Such fleet growth comes as passenger demand continues to rise, especially on weekends and holidays, when services run frequently on busy routes.
Moreover, the reduced charter rates aim to make boat trips on Kochi's waterways more attractive for private use while supporting the Water Metro's goal of becoming financially sustainable.
