A view of the city's skyline from a sailboat (Jack & Hill Adventures)
Sailboat trips at reasonable prices offer Mumbaikars an experience to see the city skyline while being on a sailboat
In the last few months, Mumbai has had a number of outdoor activities that have garnered a lot of interest.
In the last few months, Mumbai has had a number of outdoor activities that have garnered a lot of interest. From running events and overnight cycle tours to heritage walks and even sailing adventures, there is always something to do. Sailing in Mumbai has now become an activity that everyone can afford, thanks to Jack and Hill adventures, a start-up founded by Borivali resident Johann Daniels.
How it all began
Johann began sailing when he was 21 and was hooked to sailing from his first trip. “I realised that it’s a great way to see the city from the sea. You’re outside the city, but still a part of it, which is what makes the experience wonderful. I had always wanted to start an adventure sport company, but at that moment I also wanted to add sailing into the list of activities I could offer clients,” he said.
The sailing trips began two months ago and take place every weekend. There are three slots during the day—the first one from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., the second one from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and the last one from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. “The final slot is the most popular one because we get to see the Mumbai sunset. It’s a lovely sight, especially when you have the silhouette of the city in the backdrop. It’s an experience worth having,” says Johann.
Is sailing only for the elite?
However, the team would always get a common query: Sailing is considered an elite activity and we wonder how expensive the trip would be. Johann clarifies that a sailboat ride costs anything between Rs. 1,500 toRs. 2,000 per person. “This includes a trip from the Gateway of India (the start point) on a group boat to the sail boat. Passengers are given life jackets and other safety devices to ensure that they enjoy the trip a lot more. Fortunately, everyone who has travelled with us has said that the trip is an experience worth having,” says Johann.
Safety is paramount
The best bit is that you need not have sailboat experience or be able to swim if you want to experience this adventure. Individuals are equipped with safety jackets and there are experts to ensure your safety during the ride. “We don’t compromise anyone’s safety. Children, too, can be a part of the adventure as we have designed our activities this way,” says Johann.
Bandra resident Zein Fezi, who has sailed in Mumbai waters said that he had originally expected going around in a boat. “My experience, however, was the complete opposite. The feel of the wind on my face and the water drops hitting my skin was a breathtaking experience and I look forward to doing something like this again,” he said.
Dadar resident Julianna Solomonova agrees with Zein and says that it's an experience worth having. "We are first given a brief on safety following which we set sail. Sailing allows you to experience Mumbai from a different point of view. We took the sunset sail, and would recommend it to everyone," she said.
jayadev.calamur@dnaindia.net