Footloose Gujaratis may soon set sail through their own backyard, as Gujarat becomes the first state in India to formally align with the Cruise Bharat Mission. With its 2,340-km-long coastline, the state is taking bold steps to place itself—and India—firmly on the global cruise tourism map.
Under its ambitious cruise tourism plan, Gujarat has identified three major coastal clusters for development:
- Padala Island–Rann of Kutch
- Porbandar–Veraval–Diu
- Dwarka–Okha–Jamnagar
Each route has been designed to offer seamless access to cultural, natural, and religious landmarks, ensuring a rich and immersive experience for cruise travelers.
At the core of this maritime initiative is a clear strategy: establish world-class cruise terminals, develop “cruise-ready” destinations, and create passenger-friendly shore excursion circuits. The Gujarat Maritime Board initiated the process with a stakeholder workshop on May 6, where officials including Rajkumar Beniwal and Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak shared a comprehensive policy roadmap and investment plan tailored to Gujarat’s unique coastal strengths.
Ashwani Kumar, Principal Secretary of Ports and Transport, emphasized the state’s integrated approach—blending infrastructure development, tourism promotion, and policy support—as a potential model for other coastal regions.
Launched by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in September 2024, the Cruise Bharat Mission aims to increase India’s cruise traffic tenfold by 2029. With its early momentum, Gujarat is well-positioned to become the country’s leading cruise tourism hub.