Paradise Cruise, Goa

A pleasant way to spend a thoroughly enjoyable evening in Goa is to take the ‘EXCITING EVENING ONE HOUR CRUISE” from the Tourism Jetty, below the Mandovi Bridge, Panaji Goa.

A tastefully decorated cruiser named the “PARADISE”, Goa' only triple deck cruiser, takes you for a lovely ride down the river Mandovi past Adil Shah’s Summer Palace towards the Arabian Sea at Reis Magos Fort from where you get a panoramic view of the Grand Fort Aguada, majestic CABO – the Governors Palace, the sprawling Miramar Beach and the glorious sun setting over the vast Indian Ocean for the sunset cruise.

The atmosphere on the river boat is festive. You are welcomed on board by the friendly compere who from time to time fills you in with details of well known landmarks on the shore while advising you to let your hair down, have a drink and get yourselves into a mood for the program ahead that is “Fun for Everyone” -fun for the young and fun for the young at heart.

The live band now takes over starting with the welcome song. This is followed by the welcome dance – the dekni – the immortal saga of a girl’s endearments and the romantic boatman’s reluctance, which is so captivating.

This dance is followed by a medley of songs in Hindi and English which has everybody clapping, singing and the more enthusiastic even dance on the small dance floor in front of the band.

Soon it is time for the second dance – the harvest dance or kunbi dance which depicts the process of farming – sowing, growing, the bountiful harvest and the celebrations of the same. Colorfully dressed farmers in their traditional kunbi clothes – dance their graceful way into your hearts.

The band now takes a breather and lively recorded music is played giving everybody a chance to refresh themselves, recharge or cuddle up taking in Goa by night on the river.

The band is soon back with a colorful exciting Portuguese dance – the corredinho that is performed in colorful costumes and to the beat of the triple clap that has everybody clapping.

The band now wraps up the show with fast racy party songs that are easy to sing along with and easy to dance to. All too soon the cruiser heads towards the historic Mandovi bridge where it gently re-docks.

What makes the trip really enjoyable is not only the programme but the attitude and the services offered by the Paradise Cruises staff who are always around, helpful, friendly, courteous and full of bon-vivant.