Amit Bhasin
Which destinations and cruise experiences are currently in high demand from the Indian market?
Travelers are now seeking cruise routes that offer the thrill of discovery without the hassle of complicated travel planning. That’s why destinations like Lakshadweep, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia are gaining momentum. Close to home, visa-friendly, and yet aspirational.
But what’s equally important is how the onboard experience resonates. Travellers are no longer content with generic “international” cruising, they want cruise vacations that reflect their tastes and traditions. From South Indian breakfasts to Bollywood dance nights, the demand is for culturally immersive, Indianised experiences that still feel premium and aspirational.
What are your expectations for the upcoming season, and how are you preparing to tap into the evolving Indian outbound cruise market?
We see the next season as a bridge between growing interest and long-term cruise loyalty. As Indian travellers begin to repeat their cruise experiences or recommend them to others, the market will move from trial to trust. We’re preparing for this shift by deepening our presence in emerging source markets, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, and offering longer, international itineraries that deliver unmatched value.
The outbound cruise segment still lacks Indian representation. With our new 10-night Southeast Asia sailings between Chennai and Singapore, we’re tapping into that space offering a seamless way for Indians to cruise internationally, without losing the comfort of Indian food, service, or language.
Are there any new itineraries, onboard experiences, or India-specific strategies your brand is introducing to better engage Indian travellers?
Yes, this summer we are launching exciting new sailings from Chennai, including 10-night Southeast Asia cruises between Chennai and Singapore with stops in Phuket, Langkawi, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. We are also continuing with our popular 5-night Sri Lanka cruises to Hambantota, Trincomalee, and Jaffna. These itineraries have seen strong demand over the past two years, especially from travellers in South India who are looking for culturally rich and accessible international holidays by sea. On the domestic front, we are bringing back sailings to destinations like Visakhapatnam and Puducherry—ideal for short getaways that offer a blend of relaxation, exploration, and entertainment.
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