Embarking on a unique travel experience, the Ghulatis On The Go family undertook a multi-modal journey from Surat to Ahmedabad, combining a scenic Ro-Ro ferry ride across the Gulf of Khambhat with a drive on the newly operational Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway. This trip offered a blend of sea travel and modern highway driving, providing insights into the efficiency and amenities of both transportation modes.
The adventure began in Surat, with the family heading towards Hazira Port to board the Ro-Ro ferry. This innovative service allows passengers to transport their vehicles by sea, significantly cutting down travel time compared to traditional road routes. The journey aimed to showcase the convenience and enjoyment of this alternative travel option, highlighting the facilities available onboard and the overall experience of traveling with a car on a ferry.
Departure from Surat and Hazira Port
The day started early at 7:30 AM as the family departed from Surat, making their way to Hazira Port. The drive to the port took approximately 45 minutes, navigating through heavy industrial areas before reaching the coastal terminal. The port area was bustling with activity, indicating the popularity of the Ro-Ro ferry service for both passenger and cargo transport.
Upon arrival at Hazira Port, the family completed the necessary check-in procedures. They had pre-booked their tickets online through the DG Sea Connect website, securing business class tickets for themselves and a slip for their car. The process involved ticket verification and receiving wristbands for passengers, ensuring a smooth boarding experience. The ferry was scheduled to depart at 9:00 AM, with passengers advised to check in by 8:15 AM to allow ample time for vehicle loading and cabin allocation.
The Ro-Ro Ferry Experience
The Ro-Ro ferry, named 'Voyage Express', was a substantial vessel designed to accommodate various vehicles, including cars and loaded trucks, alongside passengers. The family observed several trucks backing into the ship's cargo hold before it was their turn to drive their car onto the ferry. Once inside, they were directed up a ramp to an upper deck designated for cars, while trucks occupied the lower levels.
The ferry offered a cruise-like experience with multiple amenities for passengers. On the first floor, there was a playing zone with arcade games like 'Jurassic Park', a souvenir shop, and a small cafeteria. These facilities provided entertainment and convenience, especially for families traveling with children. The family noted the availability of business class, economy class, and sleeper class options for booking, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Onboard Amenities and Sea Views
The business class cabin was air-conditioned and featured comfortable seating, a television, and windows offering views of the sea. As the ferry set sail at 9:00 AM, passengers gathered on the open deck to witness the departure and enjoy the vast expanse of the ocean. The journey across the Gulf of Khambhat was expected to take approximately four hours, with an estimated arrival time of 1:30 PM at Ghogha Port in Bhavnagar.
During the sea voyage, the family explored the ferry's offerings, including a dedicated restaurant with reasonable prices. The ship also displayed a route map of the 'Voyage Express', illustrating the sea route from Hazira to Ghogha and the connecting road distances to various cities. This visual aid helped passengers understand the significant time savings achieved by using the ferry service compared to driving around the gulf, which would typically take 8-8.5 hours.
Arrival at Ghogha Port and Drive to Dholera Expressway
The ferry arrived punctually at Ghogha Port in Bhavnagar at 1:00 PM, slightly ahead of schedule. Passengers disembarked, and vehicles were systematically offloaded. A pilot ship was observed assisting the Ro-Ro ferry with docking and departure procedures, ensuring safe navigation. After retrieving their car, the family drove off the ferry and onto the connecting road from Ghogha Port.
The initial stretch of road from Ghogha Port was a single-lane highway, leading towards the Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway. This road was relatively barren, with sparse vegetation and limited roadside amenities. The family noted the presence of several trucks, many of which had also traveled on the ferry, indicating the route's importance for commercial transport. They bypassed Bhavnagar city, as their destination was Ahmedabad via the new expressway.
Experiencing the Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway
The drive continued towards the Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway, a modern four-lane highway designed for high-speed travel. The family merged onto State Highway 36 (SH 36) before reaching the expressway. The expressway itself was well-maintained with clear markings and streetlights, offering a smooth driving experience. The surrounding landscape was largely undeveloped, with ongoing construction visible in the distance, hinting at the future growth of Dholera Smart City.
A notable feature of the expressway was the presence of vast salt pans on both sides of the road, creating a unique white landscape reminiscent of snow-covered terrain. The family observed large piles of processed salt, indicating active salt production in the region. The expressway also featured speed tracking cameras and clear signage, including warnings about maintaining distance between vehicles using chevrons. The speed limit on the expressway was 120 km/h, allowing for efficient travel.
Arrival in Ahmedabad
As the family approached Ahmedabad, the city's skyline became visible, with high-rise buildings marking their return to urban civilization. The Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway seamlessly connected to the city's SP Ring Road, facilitating easy access to various parts of Ahmedabad. The journey concluded at 4:15 PM, marking a successful and enjoyable multi-modal travel experience.
Practical Takeaways
The journey provided several practical insights for future travelers. The Hazira-Ghogha Ro-Ro ferry offers a convenient and time-saving alternative to road travel between Surat and Bhavnagar, especially for those transporting vehicles. Online booking is recommended for a hassle-free experience. The ferry provides a comfortable environment with various amenities, making the sea crossing enjoyable. The Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway, while still under development in some areas, offers a high-speed and efficient route to Ahmedabad, with good road conditions and clear signage. Travelers should be aware of the speed limits and the presence of speed tracking systems on the expressway.
Watch the Original Journey
This article is connected to the original Ghulatis On The Go video below. Watch it for the complete visual experience and conversations from the road.