Cruise Bharat Mission: India’s Game-Changer for Inland Waterway Tourism by 2027

India’s Inland Cruise Boom: What B2B Travel Pros Need to Know

India is setting sail on a bold journey to redefine its inland tourism landscape. Under the Cruise Bharat Mission, the government is gearing up to launch 51 new river cruise routes across 47 waterways, aiming to triple passenger capacity from 5 lakh to 15 lakh by 2027.

For B2B travel agents, consolidators, and corporate planners, this mission presents new product verticals, sustainable travel offerings, and the chance to tap into untapped domestic circuits.

Covering 14 States and 3 Union Territories

The mission stretches across 14 states and 3 union territories, positioning India as a fast-emerging hub for inland cruise tourism. This expansion is backed by robust government planning, private sector collaboration, and eco-tourism alignment.

From 5 to 25 Vessels in a Decade

India’s inland cruise evolution has been remarkable:

• 2013–14: Just 5 cruise vessels across 3 waterways

• 2024–25: Now 25 vessels across 13 waterways

• 2027 target: Over 1 million annual passengers

This surge in cruising options enables agents to sell new experiences across tier-2 and tier-3 cities that were previously off-grid.

Sustainability & Green Cruising

A core focus of the Cruise Bharat Mission is eco-friendly tourism. The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is spearheading efforts to:

• Promote green vessels

• Develop sustainable cruise terminals

• Enhance waste management and clean energy adoption

These factors cater perfectly to the evolving preferences of corporate clients and eco-conscious travellers.

Growth Indicators: Demand Rising Fast

According to the 2024–25 data:

• River cruises jumped from 371 voyages to 443, a 19.4% increase

• Infrastructure upgrades and marketing initiatives are drawing attention from both domestic and international travellers
  
  

 Viking Cruises Enters Indian Waters

A major highlight is Viking Cruises’ plan to launch the “Viking Brahmaputra”—an 80-guest luxury vessel built in India. Scheduled for a 2027 debut, it will navigate National Waterway-2 (Brahmaputra River). This move reflects the rising international confidence in India’s cruise tourism.

Infrastructure Rollout: New Terminals and Routes

New terminals are being developed in:

• Ganga River Belt: Varanasi, Patna, Kolkata

• Brahmaputra Belt: Guwahati, Silghat, Neamati, Biswanath Ghat, and Guijan

These hubs will improve passenger flow and support higher-frequency departures—ideal for B2B packaging.

State-Level MoUs for Regional Expansion

The IWAI has partnered with several states to promote cruise-based tourism:

• Gujarat & Madhya Pradesh: Cruise development on the Narmada River

• Delhi: Ferry and cruise services on the Yamuna

• Jammu & Kashmir: Sustainable circuits on Jhelum, Ravi, and Chenab

Each of these regions offers rich cultural and natural experiences, opening up new itineraries for group travel planners and incentive travel sellers.

Spotlight: MV Mahabaahu on the Ganges

India’s first successful river cruiser, the MV Mahabaahu, has demonstrated the viability and appeal of river cruising for affluent domestic and inbound clients. It sets the stage for similar launches nationwide.

What This Means for B2B Travel Agents

The Cruise Bharat Mission is more than an infrastructure project—it’s a revenue opportunity. Here’s how:

• Offer premium, non-traditional travel products

• Build packages for incentive groups, wellness retreats, and eco-tours

• Tap into government-supported, high-visibility sectors

Final Takeaway

India’s river cruise revolution is poised to reshape the country’s tourism narrative. For travel agents and consolidators, this is a first-mover moment. Leverage these upcoming routes, terminals, and vessels to diversify your offerings and stay ahead in the evolving landscape of experiential travel.

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