July 2, 2023, Today, Ahmedabad reached a new milestone in its riverfront development project with the successful launch of Asia’s largest floating restaurant cruise on the Sabarmati River. The much-anticipated inauguration ceremony, conducted virtually by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, marked the beginning of an exciting dining experience for the residents of Ahmedabad.
The idea of introducing a floating restaurant cruise on the Sabarmati River has been nurtured since Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated the riverfront development project. The vision was to create a leisure and entertainment option within the city, eliminating the need for residents to travel elsewhere. Through a public-private partnership, Sabarmati Riverfront Development Project Limited collaborated with a private company to bring this unique attraction to life.
The floating restaurant cruise offers two distinct dining areas, providing guests with a choice of experiences. The lower deck, fully enclosed with glass and equipped with central air conditioning, ensures a comfortable ambiance. It boasts amenities such as TV, projector, lighting, DJ sound system, and life-saving equipment. From both sides of the ship, guests can enjoy their meals while overlooking the breathtaking views of the Sabarmati River.
On the upper deck, guests can savor their meals while immersing themselves in the open-air environment. Even during the monsoon season, a roof covering has been provided to shield guests from rain, allowing them to appreciate the scenic beauty of the Sabarmati River. The kitchen, located at the back of the cruise, serves freshly prepared food brought in from off-site. Only items that require on-site preparation will be cooked on board, ensuring the highest quality dining experience.
The construction of this floating restaurant cruise, undertaken by Sabarmati Riverfront Development Limited (SRFDCL), required an investment of approximately Rs 10 crore. Additionally, an annual license fee of 45 lakhs was paid to the SRFDCL. After being transported from Umargam in Valsad, the cruise underwent three months of construction and rigorous testing. Today, it officially begins its operation, promising delightful dining experiences for the people of Ahmedabad.
Key Features of the Floating Restaurant Cruise:
1. Two-story cruise-cum-floating restaurant.
2. AC cabins on the first floor and open space on the upper deck.
3. Capacity to accommodate 125 to 150 people simultaneously.
4. Entertainment facilities including live shows, music parties, birthday parties, and office meetings.
5. One-and-a-half-hour round trip from Sardar Bridge to Gandhi Bridge.
6. Construction of a jetty between Sardar Bridge and Atal Bridge.
7. Project undertaken by Akshar Travels.
The launch of Asia’s largest floating restaurant cruise not only adds to the charm and attractiveness of the Sabarmati River but also provides a new and exciting form of entertainment for Ahmedabad’s residents. As locals and tourists alike embark on this culinary journey, they can look forward to a delightful experience with scenic views and a wide array of culinary delights.