India, Maharashtra, Mumbai, Pune

Mumbai/Pune to Goa to Lakshadweep

This journey is not just about a long drive; it is about elevating the very idea of travel. What begins on familiar highways soon transforms into something far more thrilling, as the road gently gives way to the rhythm of the sea. In this piece, I’m letting you in on a hidden gem- surprisingly economical yet indulgently luxurious cruises that many travellers are still unaware of. These voyages don’t just take you to a destination; they carry you, in style, to the pristine white-sand shores of Lakshadweep, seamlessly extending your road trip from Goa into an unforgettable maritime escape.

I first stumbled upon this idea quite unexpectedly while I was in Nashik, and what followed was a discovery worth sharing. Crafted with European finesse and designed for comfort, Cordelia Cruises brings to life a magnificent, multi-deck floating world, nearly ten floors of elegance, entertainment, and experiences that redefine luxury at sea. And the best part? It is far more accessible than one would imagine. Perhaps it’s time to set aside the usual flight bookings and embrace a journey that sails you into your destination, rather than rushing you there.

As you read on, you’ll uncover how this cruise is not just transport, but a self-contained, all-encompassing experience, where your stay, dining, entertainment, and destination blend effortlessly into one seamless adventure.

So this time, my journey takes you from the vibrant city lights of Mumbai / Pune, onto the ever-loved coastal roads to Goa, and then beyond, into the vast, mesmerising expanse of the Arabian Sea, sailing towards Lakshadweep. A little or a longer extension to a long weekend is ample to make this trip a reality.

Expect a journey that blends romance with adventure, golden sunsets over the sea, the thrill of onboard experiences, the rare joy of spotting marine life, and the quiet luxury of unwinding on untouched beaches. And somewhere between the drive, the deck, and the destination… you’ll find yourself wondering why you didn’t do this sooner.

The Arabian Sea waves alongside the Incredible India

Before You Read Further, Here’s What You Need To Know

Mumbai/Pune to Goa distance:
• Mumbai to Goa: ~590 km
• Pune to Goa: ~450 km

Travel time by car:
• Mumbai: ~10–12 hours
• Pune: ~8–9 hours

Best time of the day to travel:
Start early morning or late night to avoid traffic and enjoy smooth highways.

Best time of the year:
October to March for pleasant weather. Monsoons are scenic, but roads can be tricky.

One-Way Car Rentals – The Smart Travel Hack 🚗

Since your cruise returns to Mumbai (Alexandra Dock), one-way rentals make perfect sense.

From Mumbai / Pune to Goa

  • Zoomcar – Self-drive, flexible
  • Revv – One-way options available
  • Savaari – Chauffeur-driven intercity rides

Return for Pune Travellers

After returning to Mumbai, Pune travellers can:

  • Book a self-drive again via Zoomcar/Revv
  • Or take a quick cab via Savaari

The Road to Goa- ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ Nostalgia

More than words, every Indian heart would relate to this image in mind when on a road trip to Goa. You can create your own picture the way you want.

The drive to Goa, is one of those classic Indian road trips, long highways, changing landscapes, roadside food stops, and that growing excitement as the air slowly begins to feel coastal.

Reaching a day before the cruise is ideal, giving you time to unwind and soak in Goa’s charm. You have to reach and stay near Vasco Da Gama beach to board the ship the next day morning or as per your itinerary.

Accommodations or stays:
You only need accomodation in Goa for as many nights as you are spending these before the cruise departure. Close to Vasco Da Gama or Bogmalo Beaches there are plenty of stays. I have picked some for you:

Luxury near Vasco Da Gama

Taj Cidade De Goa Heritage, Goa

A refined coastal luxury experience slightly away from Vasco but well worth it.

Why choose this:
• Beachfront property with stunning sea views
• Premium rooms, pools, spa, and fine dining
• Perfect if you want to begin your cruise journey in style

👉 Known for its serene beach access and upscale hospitality, making it a top luxury pick near Vasco.

Economical near Vasco DaGama

La-Paz Gardens Beacon, Vasco da Gama, Goa

A practical and comfortable stay right in Vasco.

Why choose this:
• Close to railway station, airport, and port
• Decent rooms with all essential amenities
• Ideal for a short pre-cruise stay

👉 Centrally located and well-connected, making it a convenient base for travelers.

Luxury Bogmalo Beachfront Stay

Bogmallo Beach Resort

The most iconic stay right on Bogmalo Beach.

Why choose this:
• Direct beach access with stunning sea views
• Pool, bar, and resort-style experience
• Perfect for sunset lovers and relaxed evenings

👉 One of the few proper beachfront resorts in this area, offering a complete vacation vibe.

Budget-friendly Cozy Bogmalo Stay

Joet’s Guest House

A charming, no-fuss stay right by the beach.

Why choose this:
• Located directly on Bogmalo Beach
• Cozy rooms with a homely vibe
• Great café/restaurant with sea views

👉 Ideal for travelers who want location and vibe over luxury.

Attractions and activities

Bogmalo Beach, Goa, The Love Affair

I reached Goa by afternoon, settled into my stay, and gave myself a little time to unwind. The evening, however, was meant to be savoured. I headed out to the nearest escape, the serene and charming Bogmalo Beach.

Lined with quaint souvenir shops and a handful of cozy eateries, the beach carries a quiet charisma of its own. As I walked along the shore, I was greeted by one of the most stunning sunsets, a golden sky melting into shimmering waters, painting the entire horizon in hues that felt almost surreal. A few brides had chosen this very setting for their photoshoots, adding a touch of elegance and celebration to the already picturesque scene.

What I loved most was its simplicity, clean, peaceful, and free from the usual chaos of beach activities. It felt like a gentle pause before the excitement that awaited at sea.

As the sun slowly disappeared into the horizon, I found my spot at Full Moon Restaurant, right by the shore. The place may not boast extravagant interiors, but it delivers exactly what you come for- delicious, soul-satisfying food by the beach. Authentic Goan curries, the sound of waves, and warm hospitality made it the perfect end to a beautifully calm evening.

Trivia: Buy the famous shell jewellery from the Bogmalo market for your journey ahead and create a new look for yourself.

Tip: Goa beaches will always serve you coconut water. Hydrate yourself with it and feel good.

Vasco Da Gama- Mormugao Port

The boarding point for Cordelia Cruise is Mormugao Port, located near Vasco da Gama. We hired a cab to reach here. Usually, the boarding starts at around 10 AM and continues till noon. Security checks, verifications, welcome water bottle distributions, and welcome photographs all happen at the port. For one individual or family, it does not take more than 30 minutes overall from the entry point at the port to the final entry on the Cruise- The Empress. Scroll down as I take you aboard Cordelia Cruises and give you a glimpse of the unforgettable experience that awaits you.

The Empress- Cordelia Cruises

Cordelia Cruise is a massive multi-deck (10+ floors) cruise structure. This ship is not about transporting you to Lakshadweep, but, is a destination in itself. Efficiently engineered and highly stable, this cruise keeps you guarded from motion and sea sickness. It offers luxury in numerous ways, from beautiful interiors to grand setups, activities ranging from Rock Climbing to Theatre Acts, royalties like the Casino and Live Music setup, retreats like Jacuzzi to fine dining, toddler play area and more.

Interestingly, these cruises aren’t as expensive as you would imagine! Consider your flight tickets stay, food etc. and your budget falls close to what Cordelia Cruises charge offering much more.

👉 Most packages fall around or under ₹1 lakh per person, covering:
• Stay in premium cabins
• Unlimited meals
• Live entertainment & shows
• Access to multiple decks & activities
• Destination visit (Lakshadweep)

Everything that you need for a vacation, they’ve got you covered.

Source: Cordelia Cruises Website

Trivia: All activities and shows display on your room TV and schedule card. Frequent announcements are also made on the next activity scheduled to begin on speakers. While on the cruise you may experience phone network issues.

Tip: There are ample activities and games, gym and yoga on the cruise. My tip is, don’t run after the schedule, select the most interesting ones for you and spend your time as you like for a relaxed, carefree holiday.

Lakshadweep – Agatti Island 🌴

After spending one night in the middle of the majestic Arabian Sea, the Empress cruises towards the Agatti Island in the morning. You will get time to eat your breakfast and line up for the ferry, which takes you to the Island while the ship docks nearby. The Island gives you a raw, village-like look at first, but opens up to a magical white sand beach. The untouched beauty of Agatti Beach makes it extremely exotic. You are greeted with welcome drinks and cultural performances at the island, the bamboo dance, which you must participate in. The clear turquoise water is ideal for spotting marine life via Skuba Diving. Children can carry their beach toys to build castles of their imagination. The island caters plenty of shower and changing rooms.

You can engage in activities, eat some banana chips or noodles and other snacks available, spend around 3-4 hours and then come back to the cruise by the evening. Maximum stay at the island is until 4 or 5 pm.

The water is unbelievably clear, the sand almost unreal, and the calmness, something you rarely find. It’s not about doing too much, but about soaking in the beauty of where you are.

Trivia: Some tourists like to stay on the cruise or come back and eat lunch on the cruise. You can pick your itinerary. Ferries keep going back and forth the island. Seating arrangements and beach chairs are laid out for you to spend some quiet time.

Tip: Carry sunblock. I went to the island in October, the weather was pleasant, but sun tans are your souvenir.

Evenings on the Cruise, Entertainment Never Stops

Back on the cruise, the nights are vibrant.

• Live performances
• Music and dance
• Open decks and Bollywood DJ under the stars
• Fine dining experiences

It’s the perfect blend of celebration and relaxation.

Back to Mumbai – Completing the Circle

After a great sail, the cruise docks back at Mumbai– bringing you full circle. The port is named Alexandra Dock or now better known as Indira Dock and commute options from here mentioned in the top section. Return is in the morning around 10 am. If you are neither from Mumbai or Pune and arriving Mumbai for the first time, here’s another awesome destination for you to explore. One of my long drives for a short trip to Mumbai will reveal the best moments to gather here, lookout for the article.

For Pune travellers, it’s easy to:
• Book a self-drive via Zoomcar/Revv
• Or take a comfortable cab back

A Small Tip From My Experience

Cordelia Cruises keeps floating offers from time to time. If you do not see any on the site, ask the agents personally; you might receive unexpected discounts.

This is the perfect long weekend getaway, combining:
• A scenic road trip
• A luxurious cruise
• A rare island destination

Pack light, plan your drive smartly, and let the journey unfold.

From highways to waves, from sunsets in Goa to sunrises over the Arabian Sea, this trip is not just about places, but transitions.

It’s about driving with freedom, sailing in luxury, and standing on an island that feels untouched by time.

And somewhere between the road, the cruise, and the sea, you realise this isn’t just a trip.

It’s an experience you didn’t know you needed. This short trip ends here only to plan the next awesome experience 🤟.

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iTravel

Professionally an IT Engineer, with a new found love of writing.

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