Tourists may soon have the opportunity to experience the wonders of the underwater world without the need for scuba gear. As part of an ambitious project centered around the decommissioned Indian Navy warship INS Guldar, the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) is planning to introduce a state-of-the-art submersible, allowing non-divers to explore the mesmerizing marine ecosystem near Malvan’s Nivati Rocks.
This initiative aims to boost marine tourism in Maharashtra, offering visitors a unique chance to witness vibrant coral reefs, diverse aquatic life, and the remains of the historic warship up close.

INS GULDAR
Warship to wonderland:
*The decommissioned INS Guldar will be submerged within the next 15 days near Nivati Rocks, about 10 nautical miles from Sindhudurg Fort.
*Post-cleaning of harmful materials like oil and asbestos, the ship will be submerged without explosives.
*Its underwater doors will be opened, allowing it to fill with water and settle 50 metres below, creating an artificial reef.
*Once submerged, INS Guldar is expected to transform into a thriving marine habitat, supporting fish populations and helping restore damaged reefs.

PROJECT COST-Rs 97 crore
Rs 47 crore Ship’s preparation and scuttling.
Rs 50 crore Cost of submersible, complete with mothership.

EXPLORING THE SHIP
A 22-seater submersible with space for two crew members will take tourists underwater to view the sunken ship and its developing marine ecosystem.
Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) will float international tenders within three months, prioritizing Mazagon Dock Ltd. The submersible is expected to be operational within seven to eight months.
THE TOUR
Starting from Malvan, the mothership will ferry tourists close to the dive site, where they will transfer to a state-of-the-art, 22-seat submersible for an unforgettable underwater adventure. As the vessel descends beneath the surface, passengers will enjoy a panoramic view of the breathtaking marine ecosystem.