Cruise Tourism on National Waterways Increases with Infrastructure Development
The river cruise tourism sector in India is experiencing significant growth, with the number of voyages on National Waterways projected to rise from 371 in 2023-24 to 443 in 2024-25, marking a 19.4% increase. This surge reflects the growing popularity and operational improvements within the industry. In a notable development, Viking Cruises has announced its entry into this market with the launch of the Viking Brahmaputra, an 80-guest vessel set to begin operations in late 2027, further highlighting the sector’s potential for investment and expansion.
Growth of River Cruise Tourism
The river cruise tourism sector in India has seen remarkable expansion over the past 11 years. Starting with just five vessels operating on three waterways in 2013-14, the industry has grown to include 25 vessels across 13 national waterways by 2024-25. This growth is largely attributed to the proactive measures taken by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The IWAI has focused on enhancing navigational safety and infrastructure, which has significantly improved the operational capabilities of river cruise vessels.
By developing terminals and both on-shore and off-shore facilities, the IWAI has ensured that waterways maintain adequate depth for navigation. Additionally, the provision of 24-hour navigation aids and pilotage services has made river cruising a safer and more appealing option for tourists. These improvements have not only enhanced the passenger experience but also bolstered operator confidence, contributing to the sector’s overall growth.
Notable Achievements and Popular Routes
One of the standout achievements in the Indian river cruise sector is the *MV Ganga Vilas*, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2023. This vessel undertook the world’s longest river cruise, traveling 3,200 kilometers from Varanasi to Dibrugarh, traversing 27 river systems across five Indian states and Bangladesh. This historic journey has earned a place in the *Limca Book of Records*, showcasing the potential of river cruises in India.
In addition to the *MV Ganga Vilas*, several popular cruise circuits are gaining traction, including the Sundarbans in West Bengal, the Brahmaputra in Assam, and Alappuzha in Kerala. These routes not only offer scenic beauty but also provide unique cultural experiences, making them attractive to both domestic and international tourists.
Future Plans and Initiatives
Looking ahead, the IWAI has ambitious plans to develop 51 new river cruise circuits across 47 national waterways by 2027. The government has launched the *Cruise Bharat Mission*, which aims to triple the number of river cruise passengers from 0.5 million to 1.5 million. This initiative focuses on upgrading cruise terminals and ports, promoting eco-friendly tourism practices, and creating job opportunities within the cruise industry.
Recent agreements with various state governments further support these efforts. Partnerships have been established with the governments of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh for cruise tourism on the River Narmada, with the Delhi government for ferry and cruise operations on the Yamuna River, and with Jammu and Kashmir for sustainable tourism on the Jhelum, Ravi, and Chenab rivers.
Additionally, the IWAI is working on developing dedicated cruise terminals on the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers, with plans for three terminals in Varanasi, Guwahati, Kolkata, and Patna. In the Northeast, four more terminals are proposed for development by 2027, indicating a strong commitment to enhancing river cruise tourism in India.
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