By Mahebub Kureshi (Bhavnagar) | May 5, 2025
In a landmark initiative that promises to transform India’s maritime tourism landscape, the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) is spearheading the creation of the country’s first comprehensive cruise tourism policy. This ambitious move aligns with the recently launched ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ by the Union Ministry of Shipping, which aims to position India as a major global cruise tourism hub by 2047.
The initiative is not just a regional effort—it’s a national mission to harness India’s extensive coastline and cultural heritage for high-end tourism. By 2029, the government hopes to attract 1.5 million cruise passengers annually and create employment opportunities, both direct and indirect, for over 400,000 people.
A Vision Anchored in Strategy
Gujarat, with its 2,340-kilometre-long coastline and a rich blend of history, culture, and nature, is poised to become the cornerstone of this cruise tourism revolution. The GMB is taking a proactive role by uniting industry leaders, government officials, and tourism stakeholders under a single vision to chart a strategic roadmap for cruise infrastructure development in the state.
At the heart of this effort is an upcoming high-level workshop in Mumbai, which will focus on key development strategies including upgrading port infrastructure, designing themed cruise circuits, and promoting public-private partnerships (PPPs). These efforts aim to make Gujarat a globally recognized cruise destination, offering both luxury experiences and cultural immersion.
Expert Perspective: A Three-Phase Roadmap
According to Rajkumar Beniwal, Vice Chairman and CEO of GMB, the ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ is structured into three distinct phases:
Phase 1 (Oct 2024 – Sept 2025):
Focuses on feasibility studies, detailed master planning, and building cruise connectivity with neighboring countries such as Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Southeast Asian nations. This phase is foundational, setting the stage for sustainable regional growth.
Phase 2 (Oct 2025 – Mar 2027):
Will see the development of new cruise terminals, marinas, and high-potential cruise destinations in Gujarat. This period will mark the activation of cruise circuits, with significant infrastructure development to support international and domestic cruise liners.
Phase 3 (Apr 2027 – Mar 2029):
Will be a period of consolidation and integration, where cruise tourism becomes an intrinsic part of the Indian subcontinent’s travel network. This includes seamless connectivity, advanced facilities, and a fully mature cruise tourism ecosystem that meets global standards.
“This roadmap will enable India to tap into the growing cruise tourism market while promoting regional heritage and sustainability,” Beniwal remarked.
Promising Cruise Circuits: Gujarat’s Hidden Treasures
Gujarat is working on the development of several tourism-rich cruise circuits that combine natural beauty with cultural heritage:
1. Dwarka–Okha–Jamnagar Circuit:
This route is a spiritual and ecological retreat, including sites such as the Dwarkadhish Temple, Gomti Ghat, the Jamnagar Marine National Park, and Pirotan Island. It blends religious tourism with marine exploration.
2. Padala Island–Rann of Kutch Circuit:
An exotic route that includes Padala Island, the surreal White Desert of Kutch, ancient sites like Dholavira, and the sacred Koteshwar temple. This circuit is designed to attract both heritage enthusiasts and eco-tourists.
3. Porbandar–Veraval–Diu Circuit:
This historical and beachside trail features Porbandar Beach, Kirti Mandir (birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi), Huzur Palace, and Somnath Temple. The tranquil beaches of Diu and colonial-era churches make this route perfect for heritage and leisure tourism.
These circuits are not only picturesque but are also strategically selected to create year-round tourism potential, helping diversify Gujarat’s economic landscape.
Green Cruising and Cultural Tourism
A key element of GMB’s approach is to make cruise tourism sustainable and culturally inclusive. The state is exploring policies that encourage eco-friendly cruise operations, waste management protocols, and clean energy use in cruise terminals.
Additionally, Gujarat plans to offer culturally-empowered tourism, where travelers can experience local traditions, food, music, and art forms. This dual focus—on sustainability and cultural engagement—is expected to enhance the appeal of Gujarat as a cruise destination while preserving its environmental and social fabric.
Policy as a Blueprint for the Nation
GMB’s initiative is also intended to serve as a policy blueprint for other coastal states such as Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. By pioneering India’s first state-led cruise tourism policy, Gujarat could set benchmarks for infrastructure design, environmental standards, and community participation.
A significant part of the upcoming workshop in Mumbai will focus on bringing together policymakers, tourism experts, environmentalists, and private investors to ensure that the cruise tourism ecosystem is inclusive, sustainable, and profitable.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the outlook is promising, there are challenges to overcome, including:
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High capital investment required for terminals and supporting infrastructure.
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Environmental concerns over marine pollution and ecological impact.
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Integration with local tourism economies, ensuring that local communities benefit from the influx of tourists.
However, Gujarat’s maritime legacy and the government’s policy-driven approach provide a solid foundation to address these hurdles effectively.
A Sea of Opportunity
The ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ represents a new horizon for India’s tourism industry. With GMB at the helm, Gujarat is not only positioning itself as a state with world-class cruise terminals and services but also as a thought leader in integrating economic development with environmental stewardship.
As India marches toward its 2047 vision, Gujarat’s model may well become the gold standard for how cruise tourism can be a force for sustainable growth, cultural pride, and international collaboration.
Rajkumar Beniwal, CEO, Gujarat Maritime Board
“We are building more than cruise terminals—we are building ecosystems. Our phased approach ensures that every step from planning to implementation is data-driven, sustainable, and inclusive.”
Cruise Circuits at a Glance
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Dwarka–Okha–Jamnagar: Temples, Marine Parks, Historical Forts
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Padala Island–Rann of Kutch: Island Resorts, Desert Tours, Archaeological Sites
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Porbandar–Veraval–Diu: Beaches, Colonial Architecture, Spiritual Retreats
Key Strategies
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Eco-friendly cruise operations
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Public-private partnerships
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Cultural integration in tourism
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Skill development and local employment
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Digital ticketing and smart port facilities
As Gujarat leads the way, the rest of India watches with hope and ambition, ready to set sail toward a future where cruise tourism becomes a vital engine of prosperity.
