Sarbananda Sonowal (MOPSW) flags off India's first international cruise line "Costa Serena" in Mumbai

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways and AYUSH, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off the maiden voyage of India's first international cruise ship Costa Serena from Mumbai. Which is actively promoting cruise tourism for its wider economic positive impact, employment generation potential, foreign exchange earning potential and many other benefits. One of the main thrust areas is to develop cruise destinations on tourist destinations in coastal states and islands. These measures include guaranteed berths for cruise ships, removal of mooring charges, concessional uniform single rate for all major ports, relaxation of up to 30% in cruise tariffs for domestic cruise ships, exemption of cabotage for foreign cruise ships, customs duty These include upgradation and modernization of cruise terminals with enhancements in immigration, CISF, ports, passenger amenities etc. As a result of these initiatives, from 102 cruise calls and 84,000 passengers in 2013-14, to 227 calls and 4.72 lakh passengers during 2022-23. Which represents a 223% increase in cruise calls and a 461% increase in cruises. River cruise tourism operations have also seen a growth of 180% during the last 9 years.