India's cruise tourism landscape is about to change significantly
with the upcoming eco-friendly cruise terminal at Goa’s Mormugao Port,
set to open in March 2025. But why is this development generating buzz
in the travel industry?
Goa is looking to entice a growing number of tourists by cruise ship,
especially after witnessing a remarkable 40% rise in cruise passenger
arrivals during the 2023–2024 period, as reported by India’s CNBC TV18.
The new terminal will accommodate both domestic and international
cruise liners, expanding India’s limited options in this sector.
Currently, major ports like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Kochi can only host a
handful of international cruises, leaving a gap that Goa aims to fill.
The new facility will cover 9,960 square metres and feature 24
immigration counters, 10 check-in counters, and comprehensive baggage
facilities. Additionally, the terminal will include duty-free shops,
lounges, a food court, a ferry terminal, and landscaped gardens, making
it a modern travel hub.
Sarbananda Sonowal, minister of ports, shipping and waterways,
announced that building is underway for “state-of-the-art International
& Domestic Cruise Terminals across India,” with the ambitious target
of welcoming 1.5 million cruise tourists by 2030.
With plans to position India to handle 1,000 world-class vessels, Goa
is set to take centre stage in deep-sea, coastal, river, and yacht
cruises. Historically, Mormugao Port has seen increasing traffic,
managing 35 vessels and 47,778 passengers in 2018-2019 alone, and this
December, seven international cruise liners are expected to dock,
bringing around 12,584 passengers.
Among the ships currently calling at Mormugao Port is Celebrity
Cruises’ Celebrity Millennium, which offers an itinerary through India,
Sri Lanka, and Thailand, featuring excursions to historic forts and
museums, a traditional Goan tea ceremony, and exploration of Goa’s
capital, Panaji.
While Goa currently lacks direct international cruise routes, its
proximity to vibrant tourism spots makes it an attractive departure
point for travellers. Other Indian cities, like Chennai and Mumbai,
already serve as gateways to international destinations, making Goa a
strategic addition to the mix.