In a significant maritime development, Costa Cruises, a prominent European cruise company known for its luxurious inter-country voyages, is poised to commence its coastal cruise operations in Indian waters. This expansion comes on the heels of the successful luxury river cruise, Ganga Vilas.
The inaugural domestic voyage of the esteemed international cruise liner, Costa Serena, was inaugurated on Friday, November 3, in Mumbai by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal.
The Ministry has been actively working to position India on the global cruising map. During the recent Global Maritime India Summit 2023 (organized by the Ministry), discussions were centered on achieving the ambitious goal of hosting ~50 million cruise tourists in India by 2047, leveraging the immense potential the country offers.
The Italy-flagged Costa Cruises is expected to transport ~45000 passengers in its upcoming 2-month voyages. They would have otherwise embarked from foreign locations/ports, underscoring the significant advantage of providing an international cruising experience for Indian passengers within the country's own waters.
This expansion reflects the growing popularity and potential of the Indian cruise industry.