
Roro ferries are a popular mode of transportation for vehicles and passengers, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to travel. They operate in various parts of the world, including Southeast Asia.
The Roro ferry network in Southeast Asia is extensive, with routes connecting major ports in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. One of the busiest routes is between Batam and Singapore.
The ferries can carry a large number of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and even buses, making them an ideal option for those who need to transport their vehicles.
Ferry Details
A roro ferry can carry a variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, buses, and even construction equipment.
The loading process typically begins with the ferry's stern ramp being lowered into the water, allowing vehicles to drive on and off the ship.
The ferry's cargo capacity can range from a few hundred to several thousand vehicles, depending on the size of the ship.
Roro ferries often have a dedicated area for passenger vehicles, with separate sections for cars and trucks.
Contentin
The Contentin is a versatile ro-ro passenger ferry that can transport cargo, vehicles, and passengers.
It has a length of 165 meters, making it a significant vessel on the water.
The ferry's width is 28.8 meters, providing ample space for cargo and vehicles.
Its draft is 6.3 meters, which is quite deep, indicating it's designed for open waters.
The Contentin also has air-conditioned cabins with bathrooms for passengers to stay comfortable during their journey.
The ship has multiple dimensions, with one of its lengths being 87.6 meters and another being 101 meters.
Its width can vary, with one measurement being 17.5 meters and another being 17 meters.
The Contentin's draft can also differ, with one measurement being 2.4 meters.
The ship's deadweight tonnage (DWT) is 850,000 kilograms, giving you an idea of its cargo capacity.
Shuttle 30
The Shuttle 30 RoRo ferry is a great solution for efficient transportation across inland waterways. It's constructed with durable steel and designed to connect people, cargo, and more.
This ferry is connected to STX ships, STX car ferries, and STX cruise ships. You can imagine it as a hub, linking various modes of transportation for a seamless experience.
The largest RoRo passenger ferry in the world is the MS Color Magic, which entered service in 2007. It's a 75,100 GT cruise ferry that's 223.70 m long and 35 m wide, and can carry 550 cars or 1,270 lane meters of cargo.
Here's a comparison of the largest RoRo passenger ferries:
The MS Ulysses, owned by Irish Ferries, is the RoRo passenger ferry with the greatest car-carrying capacity. It's a 50,938 GT ship that's 209.02 m long and 31.84 m wide, and can carry 1,342 cars or 4,101 lane meters of cargo.
Variations
Ferry vessels come in various forms, each designed to meet specific needs and requirements.
The ConRo vessel is a hybrid of a RORO and a container ship, with a below-deck area for vehicle storage and stacking of containerized freight on top decks.
ConRo ships, such as the G4 class of the Atlantic Container Line, can carry a combination of containers, heavy equipment, oversized cargo, and automobiles.
Some ConRo ships have separate internal ramp systems to segregate automobiles from other vehicles, Mafi roll trailers, and break-bulk cargo.
LMSR refers to several classes of Military Sealift Command (MSC) roll-on/roll-off type cargo ships, some of which are purpose-built to carry military cargo while others are converted.
RoLo vessels have ramps serving vehicle decks, but other cargo decks are only accessible when the tides change or by the use of a crane.
ROPAX vessels are RORO vessels built for freight vehicle transport along with passenger accommodation, often with facilities for more than 500 passengers.
Transportation
Transportation is a breeze on a RORO ferry, but you do need to be mindful of the size and weight of your vehicle. Some vehicles, like the Warchief Assault Tank, can be a bit too wide for the ramp, but it's possible to get them on the ship with some difficulty.
If you're planning to transport a large vehicle, be careful not to hit the cabin or building with the cannon, as this can throw the tank off the ferry. And if you're parking a vehicle, make sure it's not too close to the edge, or it might slide right off!
You can also use the ferry to transport smaller boats – just drive the ramp down and they'll bounce right onto the ferry. However, be aware that parked vehicles can sometimes freely slide around on the ferry, and if a heavy vehicle slides to one side, it can nearly capsize the ferry.
Here's a quick rundown of the ticket prices for vehicles:
Vehicle Transportation
Transporting vehicles can be a bit tricky, especially if you're dealing with larger ones like the Warchief Assault Tank. These vehicles can be a bit too wide for the ramp, but with some difficulty, you can get them on the ship.
The ramp is strong enough to hold the tank, but it's essential to balance it carefully to avoid any accidents. If you're parking a tank, be careful not to hit the cabin or building with the cannon, as this can throw the tank off the ferry.
Parked vehicles can sometimes freely slide around on the ferry, which can be a bit comedic. If a heavy vehicle slides to one side, it can nearly capsize the ferry before the other vehicle finally falls overboard.
Heavier vehicles, or multiple vehicles, are very likely to lift the propellers out of water, if the vehicles are on the front end. To avoid this, it's wise to use retractor cables at the corners of the ferry to secure it to the dock or ground.
Here's a list of things to keep in mind when transporting vehicles:
- Be careful not to hit the cabin or building with the cannon when parking a tank.
- Parked vehicles can sometimes slide around on the ferry.
- Heavy vehicles can lift the propellers out of water if they're on the front end.
- Use retractor cables to secure the ferry to the dock or ground.
Ticket prices for vehicles vary depending on the type of vehicle and the route. For example, a car ticket costs Rs. 1200, while a bike ticket costs Rs. 99. A truck ticket costs Rs. 3,000, and a bus ticket costs Rs. 5,500.
Ropex Timetable
If you're planning to travel by the Ro-Ro | Ropax Ferry Service, it's essential to check the latest timetable. The Ghogha to Hazira ro-ro ferry timetable is available for your reference.
The ferry service operates two routes, The Voyage Express and Voyage Symphony. You can catch The Voyage Express from Ghogha at 5:00 AM or from Hazira at 9:00 AM.
The Voyage Symphony, on the other hand, departs from Ghogha at 8:00 AM and from Hazira at 4:00 PM. This information is crucial for planning your journey accordingly.
Gsrtc Bus from Ghogha to Hazira
If you're planning to travel from Ghogha to Hazira, you can take the GSRTC bus service that connects to the RO-RO ferry terminal.
The bus service is available from both Bhavnagar Bus Station and Adajan Bus Station, with different departure and arrival times.
To get to Ghogha from Bhavnagar, you can take the bus from Bhavnagar Bus Station to Ghogha Terminal, which departs at 6:25 AM in the morning and 2:45 PM in the evening.
Alternatively, you can take the bus from Adajan Bus Station to Hazira Terminal, which departs at 6:00 AM in the morning and 2:00 PM in the evening.
Here's a summary of the bus service from both bus stations to the RO-RO ferry terminal:
The return journey from Ghogha to Bhavnagar can be taken from the Ghogha Terminal, which departs at 12:30 PM in the afternoon and 9:35 PM in the evening.
Similarly, the return journey from Hazira to Adajan can be taken from the Hazira Terminal, which departs at 2:00 PM in the afternoon and 8:30 PM in the evening.
Remember to check the departure and arrival times carefully to plan your journey accordingly.
Onboard Experience
The onboard experience of a roro ferry is surprisingly comfortable. Roro ferries are designed to carry both passengers and vehicles, with amenities like food and drink options, comfortable seating areas, and even entertainment facilities.
You can expect to find a variety of food and drink options on board, including cafes, restaurants, and snack bars. These options cater to different tastes and dietary requirements.
The ferry's layout is designed to facilitate easy movement between decks and vehicles. This means you can easily access the amenities and services you need.
Appearance

As you step onboard, you'll notice the ferry's unique oval shape, which provides ample space for vehicles to transport.
The vehicle transport deck runs the entire length of the ferry, with ramps at both ends that can be controlled by the driver. When lowered, these ramps fold into a single ramp at about 30 degrees, allowing for easy loading and unloading.
The cabin and equipment area is situated on the right side, in an asymmetric building that's similar to an aircraft carrier. This design choice likely provides a more efficient use of space.
The ferry is equipped with two rudders and two propellers, which work together to navigate through the water.
Three inflatable liferafts are mounted on the ferry, but they appear to be unusable.
Onboard
As you step onboard the Ro-Ro ferry, you'll find a designated area for pets, so you can bring your furry friends along for the ride.
You can store your luggage in your vehicle, or stash one suitcase in the baggage compartment of the ferry. Any extra luggage will incur additional charges.
The ferry has a variety of seating options, including upper deck outdoor seating with breathtaking views. You can also grab a drink at the Starboard Bar.
If you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, there's open plan seating and sofa and bar style seating available.
Technical Specifications
The ro-ro ferry is a versatile vessel designed for efficient transportation of both passengers and vehicles. Its length can range from 31 to 32 meters.
The width of a ro-ro ferry is typically between 8 and 11.4 meters, with some vessels having a narrower width of 8 meters. A draft of 1.2 meters is also a common measurement.
These ferries are designed for speed, with some vessels reaching speeds of up to 17 knots.
32M
The 32M Ro-Ro passenger ferry is a relatively small vessel, measuring just 32 meters in length. It's a compact design that still manages to pack a lot of features.
One of the notable specs of this ferry is its speed, which tops out at 17 knots. That's quick enough to get you where you need to go without breaking a sweat.
The 32M ferry was built in 2004, a relatively recent construction date. This means it's likely to be equipped with modern technology and safety features.
The ferry's electrical system is powered by two Guascor generators, which provide a reliable source of energy. The system also includes a 400V/230V AC, 3 phase, 50Hz 24V network for added flexibility.
The 32M ferry is equipped with a range of navigation and communication tools, including a Simrad RA 44 radar system and a JRC JMA 2343 radar system.
Performance
This ferry is a significant improvement over its predecessor, with a top speed of 38 knots or 70.4 km/h.
The speed is impressive, especially considering it can reach 25 knots in reverse, which translates to 46 km/h.
One thing to keep in mind is that the ferry can't move when the propellers are out of water, which can happen when driven backwards onto a beach or when heavy loose cargo has lifted the rear end out of water.
Ro-Pex Seating Capacity
The Ro-Pex ferry has a total seating capacity that's impressive, to say the least. The Executive Class can accommodate 180 passengers.

The Business Class has a slightly lower capacity, with room for 115 passengers. I can imagine this class being a great option for those who want to travel in style without breaking the bank.
The Sleeper Class is designed for those who want to get some rest during their journey, and it can fit 80 passengers. I've heard that this class is a popular choice for families or groups of friends.
The VIP Lounge Class is the ultimate luxury experience, with seating for just 22 passengers. It's like having your own private lounge on the ferry!
Here's a breakdown of the seating capacity for each class:
Seaworthiness
The seagoing RORO car ferry design has a reputation for being high-risk, with a risk of capsizing due to free surface water on the vehicle deck, as seen in the 1968 capsize of the TEV Wahine in New Zealand.
The free surface effect can cause a ship to become unstable and capsize, but the high freeboard on these vessels helps to mitigate this risk. For example, the car carrier MV Cougar Ace listed 60 degrees to its port side in 2006 without sinking, thanks to its high enclosed sides.
An improperly secured loading door can cause a ship to take on water and sink, as happened in 1987 with MS Herald of Free Enterprise.
The high freeboard on RORO car ferries raises their seaworthiness, making them less prone to sinking even in adverse conditions. The MV Modern Express, for instance, was listing off France in 2016 after cargo shifted on the ship, but it was successfully secured and hauled into port in Bilbao, Spain.
Booking and Pricing
The Mumbai-Alibaug Ro-Ro car ferry can take up to 120 vehicles and 780 passengers. Tickets are priced as follows:
- Rs420 onwards per passenger
- Rs310 onwards per pet
- Rs1,020 onwards per four-wheeler
- Rs210 onwards per motorcycle (e-scooters not allowed)
- Rs110 onwards per bicycle
- Rs4,500 onwards per bus
Ticket prices for vehicles vary depending on the type of vehicle. For example, a car ticket costs Rs. 1,020, while a bicycle ticket costs Rs. 110.
Here's a breakdown of the ticket prices for different types of vehicles:
Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the specific route and ferry service you choose.
Capacity and Routes
Roro ferries have a significant capacity to transport a large number of vehicles and passengers. They can carry up to 5,000 passengers and 1,000 cars on a single voyage.
The routes of roro ferries vary depending on the operator and the destination. For example, the North Sea route connects the UK to Norway and Denmark.
Roro ferries typically operate on fixed routes, with regular schedules to ensure timely arrivals and departures.
Return
As you're planning your return journey, you might be wondering what kind of ships you'll be traveling on. The Ro-Ro passenger ferry PIASS is a good example, measuring 44 meters in length and 7 meters in width, with a draft of 1.8 meters.
You'll likely be on a passenger ferry, cargo ship, or even a car ferry, as these types of vessels are commonly used for Ro-Ro operations.
The Ro-Ro passenger ferry PIASS is a versatile vessel, capable of carrying a variety of cargo, including cars, trucks, and even offshore support equipment.
Here's a list of some of the types of vessels you might encounter on your return journey:
- Passenger ferries
- Cargo ships
- Car ferries
- Commercial fishing vessels
Keep in mind that the type of vessel you'll be on will depend on the specific route and mode of transportation you've chosen.
Mumbai to Alibaug Schedule for April
The Mumbai to Alibaug schedule for April is quite packed, with multiple ferry services operating daily.
The first ferry from Mumbai to Alibaug usually departs at 8:00 AM from Gateway of India.
You can expect a 1-hour journey to Alibaug, depending on the ferry service and weather conditions.
The last ferry from Mumbai to Alibaug typically departs at 6:00 PM.
There are two ferry services that operate from Mumbai to Alibaug: Ekdanta and Katraj Ghat.
Capacity of
The Ro-Pex Ferry and RoRo Ropax Voyage both offer a range of seating options for passengers.
The Ro-Pex Ferry Voyage Express has a total seating capacity of 407 passengers, making it a popular choice for those traveling in style.
Executive Class on the Ro-Pex Ferry Voyage Express can accommodate up to 180 passengers, while Business Class has a seating capacity of 115 passengers.
Sleeper Class on the Ro-Pex Ferry Voyage Express is a great option for those who want to get some rest during their journey, with a seating capacity of 80 passengers.
VIP Lounge Class on the Ro-Pex Ferry Voyage Express is the ultimate luxury experience, with seating for just 22 passengers.
The RoRo Ropax Voyage Symphony also offers a range of seating options, with Executive Class accommodating up to 316 passengers.
Business Class on the RoRo Ropax Voyage Symphony has a seating capacity of 78 passengers, while VIP Lounge Class can accommodate up to 14 passengers.
Here's a comparison of the seating capacities for each class on both vessels:
The Cabin22 class on the Ro-Pex Ferry Voyage Express offers 11 rooms, each accommodating 4 passengers, for a total of 44 passengers.
Travel Information
Traveling by RORO ferry is a great option for those looking to save time and money. The travel time from Mumbai to Alibaug on the Ro-Ro ferry is only 60 minutes.
You can also travel from Ghogha to Hazira on the Ropex Ferry, which takes 4 hours by sea compared to 12 hours by road. The ferry operates twice daily, with departures at 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
Here are the Ropax Ferry Timings for your reference:
Mumbai to Alibaug Travel Time
Traveling from Mumbai to Alibaug can be a breeze, especially when you consider the travel time options. The Ro-Ro ferry is a game-changer, taking only 60 minutes to reach your destination.
This is significantly faster than driving from South or Central Mumbai to Alibaug, which can take a whopping three-plus hours.
Places to Visit
If you're looking for a unique travel experience, consider using a Ropax Ferry Service to visit some of the famous places on your bucket list.
The Ropax Ferry Service allows you to travel to various destinations, making it a convenient option for tourists.
Some of the famous places you can visit with the help of the Ropax Ferry Service include the ones listed here.
You can use the Ropax Ferry Service to visit these places, which are mentioned in the article.
Plan Your Trip to Somnath
To get to Somnath, you'll want to take a RoRo Ropax ferry from Ghogha Ropax Ferry Terminal. The ferry provides beautiful surroundings and amazing views of the Arabian Sea and villages.
The distance from Ghogha Ropax Ferry Terminal to Somnath Temple is 260 km. You can take the general route by road via Bhavnagar, Talaja, Mahuva, Una, and Diu.
The ferry terminal is a great place to start your journey, and you can enjoy the views of the former Ghogha port.
Plan Your Trip to Dwarka
Traveling to Dwarka can be an exciting adventure, but it's essential to plan your trip carefully. If you're coming from Surat, the Ropex Ferry Hazira to Ghogha is a great option to reach Dwarka in a short time.
First, you need to reach the Hazira Ropax terminal to book a ticket for Ghogha. After reaching Ghogha, you'll have excellent road connectivity to Dwarka.
To get to Dwarka from Ghogha, follow the route NH 27, which flows west via Rajkot and continues to Dwarka.
Plan Your Trip to Palitana
Planning a trip to Palitana is a great idea. The distance between Ghogha Ropax Ferry Terminal and Palitana is 70 km.
You can reach Palitana by taking a RoRo Ropax ferry. Water transport is a highly recommended mode of transport and is being actively developed all across India.
Palitana is home to a stunning cluster of Jain temples on Shatrunjaya Hill.
Refunds Policy

If you need to cancel your ferry service, you can expect a refund, but the amount will depend on the timing of the cancellation.
If you cancel 30 days or more before the date of the journey, you'll get 90% of your ticket price back.
For cancellations made between 2 and 30 days before the journey, you'll receive 80% of your ticket price as a refund.
Cancellation charges are subject to an additional 18% GST (Goods and Services Tax).
If you cancel just one day before the journey, unfortunately, you won't get a refund.
In the event of bad weather conditions, Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) orders or notices, or technical issues, the ferry service may be cancelled, and you'll receive a refund, minus taxes and processing charges.
Refunds will be processed within 10-15 working days after the date of cancellation.
Here's a summary of the refund policy:
Advantages and Features
Travelling through RoRo ferry service has its perks, and I'm excited to share them with you.
One of the biggest advantages is the reduction in rail and road traffic.
This results in less road congestion and fewer accidents, making our roads safer.
By using RoRo ferry, you can save a significant amount of fuel, with daily savings of 9,000 litres.
This also leads to a reduction of 14,000 MT crude imports per year, which is a huge win for the environment.
Not only that, but RoRo ferry also reduces carbon emissions, with a daily reduction of 24 MT.
This collective time-saving is a huge plus, with passengers enjoying a pleasant journey.
History and Development
The history of roll-on/roll-off (roro) ferries dates back to 1833 when the Monkland and Kirkintilloch Railway started a train ferry on the Forth and Clyde Canal in Scotland.
This early service was a wagon ferry that carried vehicles across the canal, marking the beginning of a new era in transportation. The train ferry was a game-changer, allowing vehicles to be transported efficiently and safely.
In the 1982 Falklands War, the SS Atlantic Conveyor was used as an emergency aircraft and helicopter transport, showcasing the versatility of roro ferries in times of crisis. One Harrier was kept fueled, armed, and ready to launch for emergency air protection.
The first purpose-built roro vessel was Searoad of Hyannis, which began operation in 1956, transporting three semi trailers between Hyannis and Nantucket Island. This vessel was a significant development in roro technology, allowing for the transportation of loaded semi trucks in ice conditions.
The USNS Comet, built in 1957, had a stern ramp and interior ramps, greatly speeding up loading and unloading times. It also featured an adjustable chocking system and ventilation system to remove exhaust gases.
The concept of the shipborne containerized air-defense system (SCADS) was proposed after the war, allowing a roro ship to be quickly converted into an emergency aircraft carrier. This system could be installed in about 48 hours and removed when no longer needed.
Here are some key developments in the history and development of roro ferries:
- 1833: Monkland and Kirkintilloch Railway starts a train ferry on the Forth and Clyde Canal in Scotland.
- 1956: Searoad of Hyannis begins operation, transporting three semi trailers between Hyannis and Nantucket Island.
- 1957: USNS Comet is built, featuring a stern ramp, interior ramps, and an adjustable chocking system.
- 1982: SS Atlantic Conveyor is used as an emergency aircraft and helicopter transport during the Falklands War.
Biokovo

Biokovo is a Ro-Ro passenger ferry designed for equal navigation in both directions, making it a double-ended vessel.
It's used for transportation of passengers and vehicles on short routes.
History
The history of roll-on/roll-off services is a fascinating story. It all started with the treatment of wheeled vehicles carried on oceangoing ships, which were initially treated like any other cargo.
Automobiles were emptied of fuel and had their batteries disconnected before being hoisted into the ship's hold, where they were chocked and secured. This process was tedious and difficult, and vehicles were subject to damage.
An early example of a roll-on/roll-off service was the train ferry started in 1833 by the Monkland and Kirkintilloch Railway, which operated a wagon ferry on the Forth and Clyde Canal in Scotland.
The 1982 Falklands War saw the SS Atlantic Conveyor requisitioned as an emergency aircraft and helicopter transport for British Hawker Siddeley Harrier STOVL fighter planes.
Expansion

Expansion was key to the success of train-ferry services during World War I. Three train-ferries were built to transport up to 54 railway wagons, with four sets of railway line on the main deck.
These train-ferries were used to ship railway rolling stock, artillery, and supplies to France from the "secret port" of Richborough, near Sandwich on the South Coast of England. From 10 February 1918, high volumes of goods were shipped across the Channel.
In the first month of operations at Richborough, 5,000 tons were transported across the Channel. By the end of 1918, it was nearly 261,000 tons.
The use of train-ferries greatly reduced the time and labor required to transport heavy artillery and tanks. Manufacturers could load these items directly onto railway wagons, which could then be shunted onto a train-ferry in England and directly onto the French Railway Network.
This efficiency was crucial, as the British Railway companies were experiencing a severe shortage of labor by 1918.
Further Developments

The 1950s saw significant advancements in roll-on/roll-off technology. The first purpose-built vessel for transporting loaded semi-trucks, Searoad of Hyannis, began operation in 1956.
In 1957, the US military commissioned a new type of motorized vehicle carrier, the USNS Comet, which featured a stern ramp and interior ramps for faster loading and unloading. This design improvement greatly sped up the process.
The USNS Comet also had an adjustable chocking system for securing cars on the decks and a ventilation system to remove exhaust gases that accumulate during vehicle loading. This attention to detail made the process safer and more efficient.
The development of the USNS Comet marked a significant milestone in the evolution of roll-on/roll-off technology. Its innovative features paved the way for future improvements.
The shipborne containerized air-defense system (SCADS) was another notable concept that proposed a modular system to quickly convert a large RORO into an emergency aircraft carrier. This system could be installed and removed in just 48 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a ferry and a RoRo?
Ferries and RoRos are both types of ships that transport vehicles, but RoRos are typically large seagoing vessels with ramps and doors, while ferries can be smaller and have built-in ramps. The key difference lies in their size and design, with RoRos often serving longer ocean routes.
What is the difference between a car carrier and a RoRo?
A car carrier is specifically designed to transport vehicles, while a RoRo ship can carry a mix of vehicles and freight, offering greater cargo flexibility. This difference in design affects their cargo capacity and operational capabilities.
Sources
- https://www.nauticexpo.com/boat-manufacturer/ro-ro-passenger-ferry-44157.html
- https://justcause.fandom.com/wiki/Barco_Roro_Ferry
- https://www.cntraveller.in/story/mumbai-to-alibaug-mandwa-ro-ro-car-ferry-tickets-price-time-bhaucha-dhakka-march-2020/
- https://blog.yatradham.org/ro-ro-ropax-service-from-ghogha-to-hazira/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roll-on/roll-off
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