New Delhi, May 18 2022: India’s cruise traffic is projected to grow 10 times during the next decade, according to the Union Ministry of Shipping.
Before Covid, some 200 ships visited India.  The business halted for almost two years but is recovering now. Under the Maritime Policy announced  last year,  the cruise industry will be developed around five themes; pilgrimage, heritage, ayurveda/wellness, island tourism and regional international circuits.
Cruise hubs are to be set up at Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Kolkata and Andamans on the  east and Mumbai, Goa, New Mangalore and Kochi and Lakshadweep on the west, reports Financial Express
Mumbai’s international cruise terminal is slated   to be operational  in 2024. The Kochi terminal, Sagarika was  inaugurated in September 2021.
The government is offering incentives to cruise operators: removal of ousting ( berth hiring) charges, cabotage (charges for transfer of goods between ports)  and e-visas for all international tourists.