×
Get latest travel news
Maharashtra is embarking on a revolutionary journey into underwater exploration with the introduction of India’s first integrated submarine tourism initiative off the scenic coast of Sindhudurg. This project, spearheaded by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), heralds a commitment to sustainable marine tourism, positioning it as a landmark eco-tourism project. The centerpiece of this initiative is the ex-INS Guldar, a decommissioned warship now being transformed into an underwater museum and artificial reef.
As part of this venture, a state-of-the-art Triton Deep View 24 tourist submarine is being constructed in the USA. Capable of carrying 24 passengers plus 2 crew members, this submarine will plunge to depths of 22 meters, offering a unique glimpse into the marine world. Designed with eco-conscious travelers in mind, this project aims to attract global visitors who appreciate the beauty and significance of underwater ecosystems.
Advertisement
Advertisement
While the construction of the submarine is underway, adventure seekers can indulge their curiosity through guided scuba diving sessions operated from the state’s scuba diving institute located at Tarkarli. This offers a responsible way to experience the underwater shipwreck up to depths of 12 meters, ensuring low-impact access to the rich marine habitats. Upon the submarine’s completion, visitors will be ferried to the dive site via high-speed passenger boats, transitioning seamlessly into the submarine for deeper explorations. This phased approach underscores the commitment to sustainable marine tourism and careful visitor management.
The ex-INS Guldar, a Kumbhir-class vessel originally commissioned in 1985 and decommissioned in 2024, will serve as both an underwater heritage museum and an artificial reef. Comprehensive scientific evaluations conducted in collaboration with the Maharashtra Maritime Board and the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) have confirmed that this innovative deployment will bolster marine biodiversity, fostering habitats for diverse species of fish, coral, and microorganisms over the years.
This eco-friendly initiative not only encourages sustainable tourism but also promotes educational opportunities, granting visitors insights into coastal ecosystems and biodiversity conservation practices. It serves as a fascinating intersection between adventure activities and cultural heritage preservation.
The submarine tourism project is anticipated to significantly invigorate the tourism and hospitality sectors along the Konkan coast, particularly in Sindhudurg district. An increase in arrivals is expected to stimulate demand for a wide range of services, including hotels, restaurants, local transportation, and adventure tourism offerings. This will not only enhance community participation but also create ample employment opportunities. Integrating environmental responsibility with tourism development, the initiative showcases how sustainable tourism can contribute to regional economic progress without harming ecological health.
Beyond submarine tours, this new venture encompasses a variety of marine experiences designed for all ages and interests, including:
This multi-faceted approach aims to draw a diverse audience, welcoming families, adventure enthusiasts, researchers, and eco-tourists alike, while fostering longer stays, increased visitor expenditure, and repeat visits, all within a framework of minimal environmental impact.
The project has garnered substantial support under the Central Government’s Special Assistance for Capital Investment, receiving ₹46.91 crore for 2024 and another ₹222.46 crore approved by Maharashtra in 2025. The Triton Deep View 24 submarine, valued at ₹112 crore, underscores a strategic investment in creating high-value, sustainable tourism infrastructure.
This initiative aligns seamlessly with national and state objectives to broaden tourism prospects beyond traditional beach and heritage circuits, branding Maharashtra as an emerging global center for marine tourism while advocating eco-friendly travel practices.
Tourism officials are optimistic that this project will pave the way for sustained tourism growth along the Konkan coast, attracting both domestic and international visitors. By integrating adventure tourism with marine conservation and cultural heritage programs, the initiative seeks to encourage:
The Sindhudurg submarine destination exemplifies a forward-thinking tourism model, harmonizing high-value travel with environmental stewardship and economic growth. By entwining marine ecology, cultural preservation, and responsible adventure tourism, Maharashtra sets a high standard for eco-conscious tourism development in India.
Indeed, initiatives like the Geopark Run Series alongside the Triton Deep View 24 submarine project represent critical steps toward ensuring the sustainability of the tourism industry in Maharashtra. As this project unfolds, the Sindhudurg coast is poised to become a premier global destination for sustainable marine tourism.
Source: The post Maharashtra Launches First Submarine Tourism Off Sindhudurg with ex-INS Guldar, Advancing Sustainable Marine Tourism, Underwater Heritage and Regional Growth in India first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
