Destination News

Goa Tourism plans to launch hot air balloons and amphibious vessels by April this year, for which it has roped in two agencies - Camping Retreats Pvt. Ltd., and US-based D'Souza Leisure Pvt. Ltd.- to provide hot air ballooning and amphibious vehicles respectively. "Both adventure services will focus on highlighting Goa's hinterlands and will give tourists an opportunity to explore the rich geography of the state via the sky and the waterways," said Chairman of Goa Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. (GTDC), Nilesh Cabral. As many as six amphibious vehicles will be introduced utilizing Goa's wide networking of ferry ramps. The vessels can operate on water and land and will be equipped with all facilities required for effective and smooth conduct of operations.

This venture is expected to facilitate the 'Hop On Hop Off' tours along Goa's inland waterways and chain of jetties and ferry ramps, birdwatching tours and eco-tourism tours. As many as 34 passengers can be accommodated per trip for duration of 30 minutes to an hour. These boats will be manufactured in Goa with US technology in collaboration with AGCL- Goa. The amphibious vehicles will be the first of its kind for use by civilians in the country. The Hot Air Ballooning Safaris will be designed by Camping Retreats Pvt. Ltd. and will induct two hot air balloons in the introductory phase. The initial plan is to introduce hot air balloon tours to Dudhsagar Waterfalls.
The Managing Director of GTDC Nikhil Desai said: "With the launch of the two new products Goa Tourism will have a solid portfolio to present to the world and India and increase footfalls further in the months to come."