India’s burgeoning river cruise tourism sector is charting an impressive course, with voyages on National Waterways witnessing a robust 19.4% increase in the past year, rising to 443 in 2024-25. This significant growth underscores a strategic national pivot towards leveraging inland waterways for sustainable and equitable tourism. The sector’s momentum is further amplified by the impending entry of a major international player and ambitious government initiatives, signalling a transformative era for eco-friendly travel and local economic empowerment across diverse regions of the country.
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), operating under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, has been pivotal in orchestrating this expansion. Over the past decade, river cruise operations have expanded remarkably, from a modest five vessels on three waterways in 2013-14 to 25 vessels navigating 13 national waterways by 2024-25. This impressive trajectory is a direct result of IWAI’s proactive efforts in enhancing navigational safety and infrastructure, including the development of modern terminals, on-shore and off-shore facilities, ensuring adequate water depth, and providing continuous navigation aids and pilotage services. These foundational improvements have collectively elevated passenger experience, streamlined operational logistics, and bolstered investor confidence.
A significant vote of confidence in India’s burgeoning river cruise market comes from Viking Cruises, a prominent global operator, which has announced the launch of its 80-guest vessel, “Viking Brahmaputra,” by late 2027. Notably, this luxury vessel will be indigenously developed by Hooghly Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kolkata, a testament to India’s growing shipbuilding capabilities and a boost to the “Make in India” initiative. The “Viking Brahmaputra” is slated to operate on National Waterway-2, an 891-kilometre stretch of the Brahmaputra River, promising a unique blend of cultural immersion and natural exploration for travellers.
The government’s overarching “Cruise Bharat Mission” aims to propel this sector even further, targeting an increase in river cruise passengers from 0.5 million to 1.5 million by 2027. This mission is focused on comprehensive upgrades to cruise terminals, ports, and related infrastructure, while vigorously promoting eco-friendly tourism practices through the adoption of “green vessels.” Beyond environmental benefits, the initiative is poised to generate numerous employment opportunities across the cruise industry, fostering economic inclusivity and skill development for local communities residing along the waterways.
Further reinforcing the national strategy, IWAI is actively developing 51 new river cruise circuits across 47 national waterways in 14 states and three union territories by 2027. This includes dedicated cruise terminals on major rivers like the Ganga and Brahmaputra, with new facilities planned in Varanasi, Guwahati, Kolkata, and Patna, and four additional terminals proposed in the Northeast by 2027. Such widespread infrastructure development and strategic partnerships with state governments, including those for the Narmada, Yamuna, Jhelum, Ravi, and Chenab rivers, are crucial for democratising access to diverse tourism experiences, ensuring equitable regional development, and solidifying India’s position as a global leader in sustainable water-based tourism.
Also Read :India Plans 51 Cruise Circuits Across 14 States Through Major Waterways Mission
