Gandhinagar: Gujarat has achieved a major milestone by becoming the first Indian state to formally align with the Cruise Bharat Mission, marking a significant leap in India’s pursuit of becoming a global cruise tourism hub. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Mr. Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat is leveraging its 2,340-kilometre-long coastline and navigable rivers like the Sabarmati and Narmada to boost coastal tourism, economic growth, and maritime infrastructure.
The state’s proactive involvement was evident in a stakeholder consultation workshop held on May 6, 2025, organized by the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB), which focused on framing a Gujarat-specific Cruise Shipping Policy.
Workshop Highlights Vision and Strategy
The day-long workshop began with an address by Capt. Banshiva Ladva, Chief Nautical Officer (HQ), Gujarat Maritime Board. This was followed by a keynote address from Mr. Rajkumar Beniwal, IAS, Vice Chairman and CEO of GMB, who emphasized Gujarat’s readiness to shape India’s cruise future.
Several key maritime leaders participated in Session 1, themed “Policy & Infrastructure – Laying the Foundation for India’s Cruise Growth.”
Notable speakers included:
- Mr. Rajiv Jalota, Advisor, Indian Ports Association – shared strategic goals under the Cruise Bharat Mission
- Mr. Sushil Kumar Singh, Chairperson, Mumbai Port Authority – stressed the need for consistent berthing policies
- Mr. Krishnaraj R, FRRO Cochin – called for streamlined immigration procedures using digital tools
- Mr. Gautam Dey, CEO, Goa International Cruise Terminal – highlighted the need for infrastructure upgrades and skilled manpower
- Ms. Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak, IAS, Managing Director of Gujarat Tourism, outlined a tourism strategy that includes developing “cruise-ready” destinations and designing shore excursion circuits that enhance the tourist experience.
State Commitment to Cruise Tourism
In a Special Address, Mr. Ashwani Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Ports and Transport Department, reiterated the Gujarat government’s strong commitment to building world-class cruise infrastructure. He added that the state’s integrated approach—combining policy, port infrastructure, and tourism—is intended to serve as a model for other coastal states.
Proposed Cruise Circuits in Gujarat
As part of its roadmap, Gujarat has identified three major cruise tourism clusters, designed around cultural, religious, and ecological appeal within a 100-kilometre radius to allow efficient shore excursions:
- Padala Island – Rann of Kutch Cluster
- Porbandar – Veraval – Diu Cluster
- Dwarka – Okha – Jamnagar Cluster
These circuits aim to unlock economic potential in smaller ports and coastal towns by linking them through cruise itineraries. The operational Ghogha-Hazira Ro-Pax service is also expected to be integrated into the larger cruise network.
Aligning with Cruise Bharat Mission’s National Goals
The Cruise Bharat Mission, launched on September 30, 2024 by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, aims to boost cruise traffic tenfold by 2029, develop port infrastructure, and build domestic cruise capacity.
While metros like Mumbai, Cochin, and Chennai have made progress in cruise terminal development, Gujarat—despite having India’s longest coastline—lacked dedicated cruise infrastructure. This workshop marks a turning point as the state begins drafting an actionable cruise tourism policy.
Industry Participation & Next Steps
The workshop concluded with a panel discussion and interactive Q&A session that saw strong participation from cruise operators, port authorities, and tourism stakeholders. Key inputs gathered during the workshop will inform the final Cruise Shipping Policy for Gujarat, expected to be announced later this year.
With a strategic vision, administrative commitment, and rich coastal geography, Gujarat is positioning itself not only as a participant but as a national leader in India’s cruise tourism future.
