A popular mode of water transport used for commuting within cities like Mangalore:

Ferry
Houseboat
Cruise
Catamaran

The correct answer is A) Ferry.

A ferry is a boat that carries passengers and vehicles across a body of water. They are often used to connect two parts of a city that are separated by a river or lake. Ferries are a popular mode of transportation in many cities around the world, including Mangalore.

A houseboat is a boat that is used as a home. They are often used for vacation rentals or as permanent residences. Houseboats are not typically used for commuting within cities.

A cruise is a vacation that takes place on a ship. Cruises typically last for several days or weeks and visit multiple ports. Cruises are not typically used for commuting within cities.

A catamaran is a type of boat that has two hulls. Catamarans are often used for racing or for sailing in rough waters. They are not typically used for commuting within cities.