TTU: The Government of India is working to grow cruise tourism in the country. As part of this plan, it has announced the development of 51 cruise circuits across India by 2027. These circuits will cover 14 states and 3 Union Territories under the Cruise Bharat Mission.
This move aims to promote inland waterways, improve regional connectivity, and create jobs. The plan will use India’s vast network of rivers and coastlines to provide better cruise travel options to both Indian and international tourists.
Viking Cruises to Operate in India by 2027
Viking Cruises has announced its entry into India’s river cruise market. The company will launch a new vessel called Viking Brahmaputra. It will begin operations in late 2027 and will carry 80 passengers.
The ship will be built in India by Hooghly Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kolkata. It will operate on National Waterway-2, which runs through the Brahmaputra River in Assam. This project shows growing interest in India’s river cruise tourism.
Cruise Circuits Across India Show Growing Demand
River cruise tourism is gaining popularity. In 2013–14, India had only 5 cruise vessels operating on 3 national waterways. By 2024–25, this number grew to 25 vessels on 13 waterways. This increase highlights the steady growth of cruise infrastructure and demand.
According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the number of river cruise voyages also increased. There were 371 voyages in 2023–24. That number is expected to reach 443 in 2024–25. This is a 19.4% growth in just one year.
This growth reflects both better facilities and rising interest in cruise travel among domestic and international tourists.
Infrastructure Boost Along Key Waterways
To support this plan, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is building new cruise terminals. These terminals will help vessels dock safely and improve passenger services.
New cruise terminals are being developed in:
- Varanasi
- Guwahati
- Kolkata
- Patna
In addition, four more terminals will be developed in Assam by 2027. These include:
- Silghat
- Biswanath Ghat
- Neamati
- Guijan
These ports will strengthen river cruise connectivity in northeast India. They will also encourage more tourism and economic development in the region.
Cruise Circuits Across India to Create Economic Impact
The government’s goal is to make cruise tourism a reliable and growing part of India’s travel sector. With strong investment in ships, routes, and terminals, cruise circuits across India will provide more travel options, boost local economies, and increase job opportunities.
The Cruise Bharat Mission shows that India is serious about developing river and coastal tourism. The combination of public and private investment can turn India into a top destination for cruise travel in the coming years.
Explore More: Plan Your Luxury Cruise in India
As India expands its cruise tourism network, travelers now have more options to enjoy comfortable and scenic journeys across the country’s rivers and coasts. If you’re planning a premium cruise experience, explore available packages and details on the best luxury cruises in India at Ghum India Ghum – your trusted travel partner for unique and curated cruise holidays.
