Mumbai Port Trust, in collaboration with the Indian Ports Association (IPA) and the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), is hosting a conference titled “Waterways to Wonder: Unlocking Cruise Tourism” here on Monday in an effort to examine the potential of cruise tourism in India and talk about policy initiatives, best practices, and growth strategies.
Dignitaries from the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, the Ministry of Tourism, and other stakeholders will give presentations, participate in panel discussions, and give speeches throughout the conference.
According to a ministry statement, “Cruise terminal best practices, smart terminal operations, cultural and coastal itineraries, policy and regulatory levers for growth, strategic vision and policy perspective for cruise tourism development, and green port strategies are key topics to be discussed.”
Through a presentation by NAVIC Cell 4, the event will also highlight the changes and accomplishments in the tourism and ferry industries.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) created this specialized cell to concentrate on tourism, particularly ferries and tourism by the ocean, rivers, and lighthouses. By creating efficient and environmentally friendly river and ocean cruise routes, it hopes to establish India as a major cruise tourism destination worldwide.
According to the announcement, Vijay Kumar, Chairman of IWAI and the Nodal Officer of NAVIC Cell 4, would give a keynote lecture.
One of the top government agencies in India dedicated to advancing inland water transportation is IWAI. With an emphasis on tech-enabled operations, sustainable infrastructure, and regulatory reforms, the Authority has achieved great progress in advancing river cruise tourism and creating effective water transportation systems.
A presentation on India Maritime Week 2025 will wrap up the meeting. IMW 2025, which is set for October, intends to highlight developments, prospects, and partnerships in the marine industry, promoting both domestic expansion and global cooperation.
Through public-private partnerships, India hopes to modernize its port ecosystem. Its current 2,760 MTPA cargo handling capacity is expected to increase to 3,500 MTPA by 2030 and 10,000 MTPA by 2047.
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