Sarbananda Sonowal Launches ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ to Boost India’s Cruise Tourism

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 30: Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has launched the ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ from the Mumbai port. This initiative aims to double cruise passenger traffic within five years, by 2029.

Mission Details

The mission was launched from the cruise ship ‘Empress’ and aims to make India a global hub for cruise tourism. The Cruise India Mission will be implemented in three phases from October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2029.

Phase 1

Phase 1 will focus on conducting studies, master planning, and forming cruise alliances with neighboring countries. It will also modernize existing cruise terminals, marinas, and destinations.

Phase 2

Phase 2 will develop new cruise terminals, marinas, and destinations to activate high-potential cruise locations and circuits.

Phase 3

Phase 3 will integrate all cruise circuits across the Indian Subcontinent, marking the maturity of the cruise ecosystem while continuing the development of cruise terminals, marinas, and destinations.

Key Performance Targets

According to the Ports, Shipping & Waterways Ministry, the mission aims to increase sea cruise passengers from 0.5 million in Phase 1 to 1 million by Phase 3. River cruise passengers will grow from 0.5 million to 1.5 million. The number of international cruise terminals will expand from 2 to 10, and river cruise terminals will increase from 50 to 100. Marinas will grow from 1 to 5, and employment will rise from 0.1 million to 0.4 million by the final phase.

Minister’s Statement

Sarbananda Sonowal stated, “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 Narendra Modi ji, the government is committed to harness the tremendous potential of Blue Economy of India.”

He added that the mission aims to transform India’s maritime landscape and harness the potential of the country’s vast coastline and waterways through cruise tourism. The mission will develop world-class infrastructure and enable the growth of cruise tourism and maritime trade.

Future Projections

The mission aims to double the volume of cruise calls from 254 in 2024 to 500 by 2030 and 1,100 by 2047. Passenger numbers are expected to rise from 4.6 lakh in 2024 to 5 million by 2047. The mission also aims to create 4 lakh jobs in the cruise sector during this period.

Key Cruise Segments

The Cruise India Mission targets three key cruise segments:

• Ocean & Harbour Cruise: Includes deep-sea and coastal cruises, along with harbour-based yachting and sailing cruises.
• River & Inland Cruise: Focuses on river and inland cruises on canals, backwaters, creeks, and lakes.
• Island Cruise: Highlights inter-island cruises, lighthouse tours, liveaboard experiences, expedition cruises, and boutique cruises to lesser-known destinations.

Sarbananda Sonowal -: Sarbananda Sonowal is an Indian politician who is currently the Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. He is responsible for managing and developing India’s ports and waterways.

Cruise Bharat Mission -: The ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ is a new plan launched to improve and increase cruise tourism in India. It aims to attract more people to travel on cruise ships in Indian waters.

Mumbai port -: Mumbai port is one of the largest and busiest ports in India, located in the city of Mumbai. It is a major hub for shipping and trade.

cruise passenger traffic -: Cruise passenger traffic refers to the number of people who travel on cruise ships. The mission aims to double this number by 2029.

infrastructure development -: Infrastructure development means building and improving facilities like ports, terminals, and other structures needed for cruise ships to operate smoothly.

cruise alliances -: Cruise alliances are partnerships between different cruise companies and organizations to work together and promote cruise tourism.

sea and river cruise passengers -: Sea and river cruise passengers are people who travel on cruise ships either on the sea or on rivers. The mission aims to increase the number of these passengers.

international cruise terminals -: International cruise terminals are special facilities at ports where cruise ships from other countries can dock and passengers can get on and off the ships.

maritime landscape -: Maritime landscape refers to the overall environment and activities related to the sea and waterways, including shipping, ports, and tourism.

coastline and waterways -: Coastline and waterways are the areas along the sea and rivers. India has a long coastline and many rivers, which can be used for cruise tourism.