Sarbananda Sonowal Launches Cruise Bharat Mission

India is taking big steps to become a world leader in cruise tourism. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal recently launched the ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ from Mumbai Port. This mission is designed to grow India’s cruise tourism and attract more cruise travelers. By 2029, the goal is to double the number of cruise passengers.

The mission has three main goals. It wants to promote India as a top cruise destination for ocean and harbor cruises, river cruises, and inland or island cruises. The project will roll out in three phases and will run from October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2029.

Phase 1: Improving Current Cruise Terminals

Phase 1 of the mission will run from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. During this time, the focus will be on conducting studies and making plans for cruise tourism. India will also partner with nearby countries to create cruise alliances. The existing cruise terminals, marinas, and destinations will be modernized to increase their potential. This phase will help lay the foundation for future growth.

Phase 2: Building New Cruise Terminals

Phase 2 will take place from October 1, 2025, to March 31, 2027. In this phase, the mission will focus on building new cruise terminals and marinas. This will open up more cruise routes and attract even more travelers. High-potential cruise locations will be developed to give tourists an exciting experience.

Phase 3: Connecting All Cruise Routes

The final phase, Phase 3, will run from April 1, 2027, to March 31, 2029. During this time, all the cruise circuits across the Indian Subcontinent will be connected. This will make India a mature and fully developed cruise destination. Cruise terminals, marinas, and new tourist spots will continue to be developed.

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Aiming for Millions of Cruise Passengers

The mission has some big targets. By the end of Phase 3, the number of sea cruise passengers is expected to grow from 0.5 million to 1 million. The number of sea cruise calls will jump from 125 to 500. River cruises will also become popular, with passenger numbers expected to grow from 0.5 million to 1.5 million. India will also expand its international cruise terminals from two to 10 by 2029, and river cruise terminals from 50 to 100.

Improving India’s Cruise Tourism Industry

Launching the mission aboard the cruise ship “Empress,” Minister Sonowal called it a “watershed moment” for India’s cruise sector. The mission focuses on three main areas: developing infrastructure, enhancing the experience for tourists, and ensuring sustainability. India aims to offer world-class infrastructure that will grow both the cruise tourism industry and maritime trade.

The Cruise Bharat Mission is set to transform India’s cruise tourism. By improving terminals, building new destinations, and connecting cruise circuits, India is set to become a global hub for cruise travelers.