With a strategic 2,340-km coastline, Gujarat leads India’s cruise tourism revolution under the Cruise Bharat Mission, unveiling ambitious plans for cruise terminals, themed circuits, and tourism-driven coastal development.
Gandhinagar, July 8: Gujarat has become India’s first state to formally join the Cruise Bharat Mission, setting a national precedent in maritime tourism development. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat is spearheading India’s vision of a world-class cruise tourism ecosystem by leveraging its 2,340-km-long coastline, navigable rivers like the Sabarmati and Narmada, and robust maritime infrastructure. The state’s commitment was showcased at a landmark stakeholder consultation workshop held on May 6 by the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB), focused on drafting a tailored Cruise Shipping Policy.
The workshop began with a ceremonial lamp lighting and a welcome address by Capt. Banshiva Ladva, Chief Nautical Officer (HQ), Gujarat Maritime Board. Rajkumar Beniwal, IAS, Vice Chairman and CEO of GMB, delivered the keynote address, stressing Gujarat’s readiness to capitalise on emerging cruise tourism trends and the significant economic potential it holds.
Beniwal also unveiled the state’s roadmap for constructing world-class cruise terminals supported by investment-friendly policies. Adding to the comprehensive strategy, Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak, IAS, Managing Director of Gujarat Tourism, introduced plans to create “cruise-ready” destinations and immersive shore excursion circuits to boost visitor engagement and experience.
Krishnaraj R, IPS focused on the need for streamlined immigration systems, recommending digital technologies to ensure smooth tourist processing and faster clearance at cruise terminals.
As part of its alignment with the Cruise Bharat Mission, Gujarat proposed a set of thematic cruise circuits that blend religious, ecological, and cultural attractions along its western coast. The three main cruise tourism clusters include:
- Padala Island–Rann of Kutch
- Porbandar–Veraval–Diu
- Dwarka–Okha–Jamnagar
These routes were designed with strategic proximity in mind, ensuring key attractions lie within a 100-km radius, optimizing onshore tour experiences and turnaround efficiency for cruise operators. Existing services like the Ghogha–Hazira Ro-Pax route serve as operational models for future circuit expansions.
With this strategic alignment, Gujarat aims not only to become a leader in India’s cruise tourism sector, but also to attract global cruise liners, foster regional economic development, and integrate cultural heritage into the tourism experience. Officials have positioned Gujarat as a maritime tourism hub that could serve as a model for other coastal states.