Mumbai: The Mumbai Port Trust, in partnership with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and the Indian Ports Association (IPA), is set to organise the conference “Waterways to Wonder: Unlocking Cruise Tourism” in Mumbai on Monday, August 18.
The event will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to explore the potential of Cruise Tourism in India and deliberate on strategies for growth.
Cruise Tourism to be the Focus of National Conference in Mumbai
The conference will serve as a platform to discuss policy initiatives, regulatory frameworks, and strategic perspectives to boost Cruise Tourism.
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Senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, and other industry representatives will participate in sessions covering cultural and coastal itineraries, cruise terminal best practices, smart operations, and sustainable port strategies.
A key highlight of the event will be a presentation by NAVIC Cell 4, a specialised unit under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW).
NAVIC Cell 4 focuses on developing ocean, river, and lighthouse tourism circuits with a vision to make India a global hub for Cruise Tourism through sustainable and functional cruise networks.
IWAI Chairman to Deliver Keynote Address on Cruise Tourism
The keynote address will be delivered by Vijay Kumar, IAS, Chairman of IWAI and Nodal Officer of NAVIC Cell 4. IWAI, under the Government of India, has been instrumental in advancing inland water transport and promoting river-based cruise tourism through sustainable infrastructure, technology adoption, and regulatory reforms.
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The half-day event will also feature a panel discussion with leading industry experts including Vikas Narwal, IAS, MD of IPA; AK Bansal, Chief Engineer, IWAI; Opesh Sharma, Director (Cruise), MoPSW; representatives from Antara Cruises/Heritage River Journeys Private Limited; Vikas Malviya, Director, Nordic Cruiseline Private Limited; and other river cruise operators.
Conference to Conclude with Preview of India Maritime Week 2025
The programme will conclude with a presentation on India Maritime Week 2025 (IMW 2025), scheduled for October.
IMW 2025 will showcase India’s advancements in the maritime sector while highlighting new opportunities and collaborations aimed at driving both domestic growth and international partnerships.
