Waterways to Wonder: Unlocking Cruise Tourism in India

India’s Green Maritime Vision Anchors in Mumbai

On 18 August 2025, Mumbai will welcome the “Waterways to Wonder: Unlocking Cruise Tourism” conference, a pivotal gathering spotlighting India’s ambition to become a global hub for eco‑friendly cruise tourism. Organized by the Mumbai Port Trust in collaboration with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and the Indian Ports Association (IPA), the half-day event brings together the Ministry of Tourism, Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, industry experts, and maritime stakeholders to shape the future of Indian cruise travel.

Strategic Discussions: Vision, Regulation & Smart Infrastructure

The conference agenda spans a rich mix of topics:

• Policy frameworks & regulatory mechanisms to boost cruise tourism and enhance passenger experience

• Cultural, coastal, and river cruise itineraries, including lighthouse-linked routes

• Terminal innovation and smart port operations

• Integration of sustainable strategies, such as green port development, clean energy, waste management, and low-emission shipping models .
  
  
  

NAVIC Cell’s Role in India’s Cruise Horizon

Vijay Kumar, IWAI Chairman and Nodal Officer of NAVIC Cell 4, will keynote the event. NAVIC Cell 4, under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, is central to developing integrated ocean, river, and lighthouse tourism circuits—as well as ferry services—positioning India as a preferred cruise tourism hub.

Industry Leaders Engage: Panel Highlights

A stellar lineup of panelists, including:

• Vikas Narwal, MD, IPA

• AK Bansal, IWAI Chief Engineer

• Opesh Sharma, Director (Cruise), MoPSW

• Vikas Malviya, Nordic Cruiseline Pvt Ltd

• Leaders from Antara Cruises/Heritage River Journeys and other operators
  
  

These experts will delve into infrastructure optimization, commercial viability, infrastructure planning, and how to elevate passenger experiences across India’s diverse waterways.

Looking Ahead to India Maritime Week 2025

The conference will wrap up with a presentation revealing India Maritime Week 2025, slated for October. IMW 2025 will spotlight investment opportunities, international collaboration, and evolving port infrastructure—building on the momentum of cruise tourism and broader maritime growth.

Why This Matters for B2B Travel & Aviation Professionals

1. Emerging New Revenue Streams

With growing adoption by the Indian middle class (five‑fold surge in cruise passengers over the past decade) , eco‑cruise opportunities are ripe for travel agencies to diversify offerings and cater to evolving preferences.

2. Cruise Bharat Mission Meets Passenger Demand

India’s recently launched Cruise Bharat Mission aims to roll out 51 river cruise circuits across 14 states and 3 UTs by 2027 . States like Gujarat are already designing curated circuits—from Padala Island to Rann of Kutch and Porbandar to Diu—to attract cultural and religious tourism through water routes.

3. Infrastructure Ready for Growth

Mumbai’s International Cruise Terminal Station, operational since early 2023, handles up to 500 ships and 1 million passengers per year. By 2030, capacity is expected to grow to 1,000 ships and 1.2 million passengers annually. Simultaneously, Visakhapatnam is opening up regional cruise links—expanding network potential.

4. Global Best Practices & Smart Tourism Drive

Adoption of digitalization, smart operations, and green infrastructure aligns with global maritime tourism trends, as seen in other emerging ports worldwide . B2B professionals can leverage these evolving frameworks to design sustainable, high-quality cruise packages.

Conclusion & Takeaway

The “Waterways to Wonder” conference is more than a landmark event—it’s a signal that India is steering toward a vibrant, eco-conscious cruise tourism ecosystem. For B2B travel agents, consolidators, corporate travel professionals, and airline partners, this translates into:

• New opportunities across coastal and river cruise segments

• Collaborative alignment with regulatory and infrastructure shifts

• Stronger competitive positioning through sustainable, culturally immersive offerings
  
  

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