Cruise Bharat Mission: Gujarat proposes 3 new coastal routes

Gujarat has taken a significant leap in India's cruise tourism ambitions by becoming the first state to align with the Union government’s Cruise Bharat Mission. As part of the initiative, Gujarat has proposed three cruise tourism circuits along its western coastline, aiming to tap into its vast maritime potential and rich cultural heritage.
According to an official statement released Tuesday, the proposed circuits will cover key coastal destinations including Diu, Veraval, Porbandar, Dwarka, Jamnagar, Okha, and Padala Island. These will be developed alongside the already operational Ghogha-Hazira Ro-Pax (Roll-On/Roll-Off Passenger) ferry service.
The three cruise clusters identified by the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) include:
•Padala Island–Rann of Kutch
•Porbandar–Veraval–Diu
•Dwarka–Okha–Jamnagar
Each circuit has been strategically designed to offer shore excursions within a 100 km radius, encompassing religious, cultural, and ecological hotspots—ensuring both efficiency and appeal for cruise passengers.To chart the way forward, the GMB on Sunday hosted a day-long workshop with key stakeholders, marking the first step toward drafting a comprehensive cruise shipping policy for the state. The workshop focused on leveraging Gujarat’s 2,340 km coastline and navigable rivers like the Sabarmati and Narmada for sustainable cruise tourism.
Speaking at the workshop, Rajiv Jalota, advisor to the Indian Ports Association, outlined the strategic goals of the Cruise Bharat Mission. Sushil Kumar Singh, chairperson of the Mumbai Port Authority, emphasized the importance of port readiness and clear berthing policies to support cruise operations.
Other industry experts echoed the need for streamlined immigration processes, modern infrastructure, and capacity building. Krishnaraj R, from the Foreigners Regional Registration Office in Cochin, highlighted immigration reforms, while Gautam Dey, CEO of the Goa International Cruise Terminal, spoke on the need for infrastructure upgrades and skilled workforce development.Gujarat’s cruise tourism roadmap was presented by GMB CEO Rajkumar Beniwal, and Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak (IAS), Managing Director of Gujarat Tourism, detailed plans to develop “cruise-ready” destinations. Principal Secretary (Ports and Transport) Ashwani Kumar underscored the state’s integrated approach that merges infrastructure development, policy reforms, and tourism enhancement.In a panel discussion, experts addressed the opportunities and challenges in building Gujarat into a hub for cruise tourism, in line with the broader national mission to develop a globally competitive cruise ecosystem.

(State Correspondent)