Mumbai to Host ‘Waterways to Wonder’ Conference to Boost Cruise Tourism Growth in India

August 16, 2025 MTIMES 54 Views Breaking News, Cruise Tourism India, India, Inland Waterways Authority of India, Mumbai Port Trust, NAVIC Cell 4, Waterways to Wonder 2 min read

Mumbai is set to host a major industry event titled ‘Waterways to Wonder: Unlocking Cruise Tourism’ on Monday, August 18. Organised by the Mumbai Port Trust in collaboration with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and the Indian Ports Association (IPA), the conference will explore opportunities in India’s growing cruise tourism sector and highlight strategies and policies needed for its expansion.

Cruise tourism in India gaining momentum

The conference will include presentations and panel discussions featuring officials from the Ministry of Tourism, the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation and other industry stakeholders. Key focus areas will include strategic planning and policy support for cruise tourism development, regulatory reforms, development of cultural and coastal cruise itineraries, smart terminal operations, and adoption of green port practices.

A special presentation by NAVIC Cell 4 will showcase notable achievements and reforms within the tourism and ferry sector. NAVIC Cell 4—under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW)—focuses on ocean, river and lighthouse tourism as well as ferry services, aiming to position India as a global hub for cruise tourism through sustainable and functional ocean and river circuits.

Cruise tourism in India supported by policy and industry stakeholders

The conference will feature a keynote address by Shri Vijay Kumar, IAS, Chairman of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Nodal Officer of NAVIC Cell 4. IWAI, a key body of the Government of India, has taken major steps to promote river cruise tourism and strengthen inland water transport infrastructure through technology-led operations and sustainable practices.

A panel session will bring together experts such as Shri Vikas Narwal (MD, IPA), Shri AK Bansal (Chief Engineer, IWAI), Shri Opesh Sharma (Director – Cruise, MoPSW) and representatives of Antara Cruises, Heritage River Journeys Private Limited, Nordic Cruiseline Private Limited and other river cruise operators to discuss industry trends and best practices.

The event will conclude with a presentation on India Maritime Week 2025. Scheduled for October, IMW 2025 will highlight key developments, investment opportunities and international collaborations in the maritime sector while promoting domestic growth and innovation.

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