Shipping Ministry unveils Cruise Bharat Mission Plan, boosting cruise tourism

New Delhi: The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, launched the ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ from the Mumbai port. Aimed at boosting the tremendous potential of cruise tourism in the country, the program by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways aims to propel the country’s cruise tourism industry by doubling cruise passenger traffic within five years; i.e. by 2029, said Shri Sarbananda Sonowal. The Union Minister of State, MoPSW, Shri Shantanu Thakur also joined Sonowal at this historic occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ is a watershed moment in the revamp of the cruise sector of India. Under the visionary leadership of Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the government is committed to harnessing the tremendous potential of the Blue Economy of India.

This visionary mission is aimed at transforming our maritime landscape and harnessing the potential of India’s vast coastline and waterways through cruise tourism.

Based on critical pillars of infrastructure development, amping up cruise experience for tourists, and sustainability of resources, the three-phased mission will develop world-class infrastructure and enable the growth of cruise tourism and maritime trade.

The mission aims to continuously work towards the development of world-class infrastructure and destinations while leveraging technology to provide a seamless experience for embarkation, disembarkation, and destination visits.

It will promote the cultural, historical, and natural circuits of the Indian Subcontinent, ensuring inclusive and equitable growth for all stakeholders, including ports, cruise lines, vessel operators, tour operators, service providers, and local communities.

Additionally, the mission will enable the responsible involvement of all regulatory agencies such as Customs, Immigration, CISF, State Tourism Departments, State Maritime Agencies, District Administrations, and local police.

The Cruise India Mission targets three key cruise segments. First, the Ocean & Harbour Cruise segment encompasses ocean cruises, including deep-sea and coastal cruises, along with harbour-based yachting and sailing cruises. Second, the River & Inland Cruise segment focuses on river and inland cruises on canals, backwaters, creeks, and lakes. Lastly, the Island Cruise segment highlights inter-island cruises, lighthouse tours, live-aboard experiences, expedition cruises, and boutique cruises to lesser-known destinations.