Mumbai's First Seven-Star Floating Hotel Nears Approval After Key Clearance

Mumbai’s first luxury offshore floating hotel project has taken a major step forward. The Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) has recommended it for final coastal regulation zone (CRZ) clearance. The development, part of a broader tourism initiative, includes an eight-storey marina terminal and a seven-star floating hotel. The project, named 'Inland Water Transport Terminal - Development of Marina', aims to enhance marine tourism, recreational boating, and water transport. Its origins date back to a 2017 proposal for a floating jetty and waiting area, which was initially rejected but later revived after legal disputes.

Rashmi Developments was chosen as the project developer in 2024 through a Swiss Challenge bidding process. The plan involves constructing the marina terminal on reclaimed land at Cuffe Parade, alongside a seven-star floating hotel off Nariman Point. The terminal will feature yacht club facilities, executive lounges, conference spaces, restaurants, retail outlets, an art gallery, a helipad, seaplane and eVTOL facilities, as well as luxury serviced apartments.

The project requires extensive work, including capital dredging of about 10.25 lakh cubic metres and sea reclamation of around 2.17 lakh cubic metres. MCZMA has determined that the integrated project falls under the Union environment ministry’s jurisdiction and recommended it to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) for final approval, subject to environmental safeguards.

The floating hotel marks the first phase of a larger tourism ecosystem. Future plans include seaplane services and coastal cruise services in the second phase. Additionally, an island wellness resort with 36 accommodation units, accessible by boat, is proposed as part of the broader network. The recommendation from MCZMA brings the project closer to reality. Once approved, it will introduce new luxury hospitality and transport options to Mumbai. The development is expected to reshape coastal tourism and infrastructure in the region.