Candela P-12: Mumbai To Get Futuristic Electric ‘Flying Boats’ Between Gateway, Alibaug And Navi Mumbai Airport
Candela P-12: Mumbai To Get Futuristic Electric ‘Flying Boats’ Between Gateway, Alibaug And Navi Mumbai Airport
Swedish hydrofoil company Candela is bringing its futuristic electric flying boats to Mumbai, promising a faster, quieter and premium travel experience between Gateway of India, Alibaug, Elephanta and the upcoming Navi Mumbai airport.
Mumbai’s often noisy and rough sea commute may soon witness a major transformation with the arrival of the world’s first electric hydrofoil passenger boat, Candela P-12 Business. The advanced electric vessel, developed by Swedish company Candela, is expected to operate on routes connecting Gateway of India with Alibaug, Elephanta and Navi Mumbai airport.
The company recently commissioned its first Candela P-12 Business vessel in Stockholm, Sweden, before shipping it to Mumbai for operations under Indian operator JalVimana.
Unlike traditional ferries or speedboats that cut through waves, the Candela P-12 uses advanced hydrofoil technology with underwater wings that lift the boat above the water surface while moving. This significantly reduces vibrations, noise and wave impact, creating what the company describes as a “lounge-like” passenger experience.
The electric vessel can carry 16 passengers, with some configurations allowing up to 20 people onboard. The interior has been designed like a premium business-class cabin with sound-proofing, thick carpets, comfortable seating, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, USB-C charging ports and even a coffee bar.
Important Highlights Of Candela P-12 Business:
- Mumbai will soon get electric hydrofoil ‘flying boats’ for premium water transport.
- Routes planned include Gateway of India–Alibaug, Elephanta and Navi Mumbai airport.
- The vessel uses hydrofoil technology that lifts the boat above waves for smoother travel.
- Candela P-12 offers a silent, vibration-free and lounge-style commuting experience.
- The electric boat can carry 16 to 20 passengers.
- Features include Wi-Fi, coffee bar, premium seats, AC, USB charging ports and panoramic views.
- The vessel cruises at 25 knots with a range of 40 nautical miles.
- It reportedly uses up to 80% less energy than conventional boats.
- The boat generates minimal wake and lower underwater noise, reducing environmental impact.
- Wheelchair users and passengers with strollers can board through a stabilised adjustable ramp.
According to reports, the vessel’s premium interior has been specially designed to reduce motion sickness and travel fatigue, which are common during traditional speedboat journeys between Mumbai and Alibaug.
The hydrofoil system is controlled digitally and allows the boat to glide above rough waters with minimal disturbance. Candela claims this technology makes the P-12 the fastest and longest-range electric passenger vessel currently in serial production.
The vessel also focuses heavily on sustainability. When operating in hydrofoil mode, it reportedly consumes up to 80 per cent less energy compared to conventional diesel-powered ferries. It also creates almost no wake, helping reduce shoreline erosion and protecting sensitive marine ecosystems.
Apart from Mumbai, the first batch of Candela P-12 Business vessels will also operate in destinations such as the Maldives and Saudi Arabia.
The upcoming launch is expected to modernise Mumbai’s coastal transport network and offer passengers a quieter, cleaner and more luxurious alternative to existing ferry services
