The river cruise tourism sector in India has witnessed notable growth, with the number of river cruise voyages on National Waterways increasing from 371 in 2023-24 to 443 in 2024-25. 51 new cruise circuits have been planned across 14 states and 3 UTs by 2027 under Cruise Bharat Mission

This 19.4% growth underscores the rising appeal and operational efficiency of river cruises in India's inland waterways. Adding to this momentum, Viking Cruises has announced its entry into India's river cruise market with Viking Brahmaputra, an 80-guest vessel scheduled to begin operations in late 2027. It signals heightened interest and investment in India’s river cruise tourism sector.

Viking Brahmaputra, to be indigenously developed by Hooghly Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kolkata, will operate on National Waterway-2. In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision and guidance of Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is making strides in promoting river cruise tourism and developing sustainable water transport system in India.

The sector has witnessed exceptional growth over the last 11 years. From just five vessels on three waterways in 2013–14, river cruise operations have expanded to 25 vessels across 13 national waterways in 2024–25. This growth is attributed to the proactive efforts of IWAI under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways in enhancing navigational safety and infrastructure on National Waterways.

IWAI has facilitated smoother and safer navigation for river cruise vessels by developing terminals, on-shore and off-shore facilities, ensuring adequate depth in waterways, and providing 24-hour navigation aids and pilotage services. These measures have collectively enhanced the passenger experience, improved operational logistics, and boosted operator confidence, contributing to the growth of the sector.

Notably, the MV Ganga Vilas, flagged off by Prime Minister Modi in January 2023, undertook the world's longest river cruise from Varanasi to Dibrugarh, covering 3,200 km through 27 river systems in five Indian states and Bangladesh.

This historic voyage earned a place in the Limca Book of Records. Other popular cruise circuits like Sundarbans in West Bengal, Brahmaputra in Assam, and Alappuzha in Kerala are also gaining traction.

IWAI plans to develop 51 new river cruise circuits on 47 national waterways across 14 states and three union territories by 2027. With the launch of the Cruise Bharat Mission, the government aims to increase river cruise passengers from 0.5 million to 1.5 million. The mission focuses on upgrading cruise terminals, ports, and related infrastructure, promoting eco-friendly tourism practices using green vessels, and creating numerous employment opportunities in the cruise industry in the coming two years.

IWAI has recently signed agreements with several state governments to promote cruise tourism on National Waterways, including partnerships with the Governments of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh for cruise tourism on River Narmada, with the Delhi Government for operating ferries and cruises on the Yamuna River, and with the Government of Jammu and Kashmir for sustainable tourism on the Jhelum, Ravi, and Chenab rivers.

Besides, IWAI is developing dedicated cruise terminals on the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers, with three cruise terminals planned in Varanasi, Guwahati, Kolkata, and Patna. In the Northeast, four more cruise terminals at Silghat, Biswanath Ghat, Neamati, and Guijan are proposed to be developed by 2027.

Europe's Cruise Sector

The world's largest river cruise tourism sector is in ‘Europe’. This is due to a combination of various factors.

Europe has a vast and interconnected system of rivers like the Danube, Rhine, Seine, and Rhone, which provide a wide range of routes and destinations for cruises. The rivers flow through numerous countries, connecting historical cities, charming towns, and famous landmarks. This allows tourists to experience a variety of cultures and historical sites on a single trip. Moreover, Europe has a well-developed infrastructure for river cruising, including modern ports, terminals, and a long-standing industry of cruise operators.

While Europe is the dominant market, other regions are seeing rapid growth. China and India also have immense potential. China's domestic cruise market is a major player, and India is actively developing its inland waterways for tourism, with the MV Ganga Vilas being a prime example of its ambition.

The United States, too, has a strong and growing river cruise market, particularly along the Mississippi and Columbia & Snake Rivers.

In the Southeast Asia, the Mekong River is a popular destination for cruises, attracting travelers with its unique cultural experiences and stunning landscapes.

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