Gujarat Becomes First State to Lead Cruise Bharat Mission

Gandhinagar, Gujarat –  Gujarat has become the first state in India to formally align with the Cruise Bharat Mission, marking a significant milestone in the country’s push to develop a globally competitive cruise tourism ecosystem.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the state has taken a proactive role in shaping the national cruise agenda, leveraging its strategic 2,340-km coastline and navigable rivers like the Sabarmati and Narmada.

In alignment with the national mission envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gujarat Maritime Board organized a stakeholder consultation workshop on May 6 to chart out a Cruise Shipping Policy tailored to Gujarat’s unique strengths and aspirations.

The day-long workshop began with a welcome address by Capt. Banshiva Ladva, Chief Nautical Officer (HQ), Gujarat Maritime Board. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp formally opened the session, followed by a keynote address by Rajkumar Beniwal, IAS, Vice Chairman and CEO of GMB. He highlighted the state’s growing maritime capabilities and underlined the economic opportunities presented by the emerging cruise tourism sector.

Policy and Infrastructure in Focus

Session 1, themed “Policy & Infrastructure – Laying the Foundation for India’s Cruise Growth,” featured insights from leading maritime and tourism experts.  Rajiv Jalota, Advisor to the Indian Ports Association, outlined strategic goals under the Cruise Bharat Mission. Sushil Kumar Singh, Chairperson, Mumbai Port Authority, discussed port readiness and the need for clear berthing policies. Krishnaraj R, FRRO Cochin, focused on streamlining immigration and onshore procedures, while Gautam Dey, CEO of Goa International Cruise Terminal, addressed infrastructure upgrades and skill development.

Gujarat’s roadmap was formally presented by Rajkumar Beniwal, who introduced the state’s plans for world-class cruise terminals, supported by investment-friendly frameworks. Adding to this vision, Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak, IAS, Managing Director of Gujarat Tourism, laid out a strategy for developing “cruise-ready” destinations and shore excursion circuits designed to enhance passenger experience.

Krishnaraj R, IPS, again emphasized the need for efficient immigration processes, recommending the use of digital technologies to streamline tourist handling. 

Government Commitment and Vision

Delivering a Special Address, Ashwani Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Ports and Transport Department, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to establishing Gujarat as a leading cruise hub. He emphasized that the state’s integrated approach—combining infrastructure, policy, and tourism development—will serve as a model for others to follow.

Insights from Industry

An interactive Q&A session followed, allowing stakeholders to exchange views and contribute recommendations toward the formation of a robust state cruise policy. A panel discussion was held during the workshop in which the panelists shared their invaluable operational insights, addressed existing challenges, and explored future growth avenues, fostering a rich exchange of ideas. This session also concluded with a Q&A, providing attendees the opportunity to interact directly with the industry stalwarts.

Proposed Cruise Circuits to Boost Coastal Tourism

As part of the Cruise Bharat Mission, Gujarat has proposed multiple potential cruise circuits along its western coast. These include key destinations such as Diu, Veraval, Porbandar, Dwarka, Jamnagar, Okha, and Padala Island, alongside the operational Ghogha-Hazira Ro-Pax service.

The proposed routes have been divided into three clusters:

• Padala Island–Rann of Kutch
• Porbandar–Veraval–Diu
• Dwarka–Okha–Jamnagar

Each cluster is designed with tourism logic, ensuring that key religious, natural, and cultural destinations are within a 100-kilometre radius, making shore excursions efficient and attractive for cruise passengers.

National Mission, Local Action

The Cruise Bharat Mission, launched by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, on September 30, 2024, aims to make India a global cruise tourism hub within the next decade. The goal is to increase sea cruise tourism tenfold by 2029.

While major ports like Mumbai, Cochin, Chennai, and Mormugao have made significant strides in cruise terminal development, Gujarat—despite having India’s longest coastline—has yet to establish a dedicated cruise terminal. The recent workshop marks a turning point, as the state gears up to bridge this gap.

The workshop outcomes are expected to feed into a comprehensive, actionable cruise tourism policy for Gujarat. With a clear vision, strong government backing, and strategic infrastructure plans, Gujarat is positioning itself not just as a key player in India’s cruise tourism landscape—but as a leader shaping its future.