Visakhapatnam cruise terminal gains momentum as East Coast hub

The Visakhapatnam International Cruise Terminal (VICT) is quickly emerging as a key driver of cruise tourism on India’s eastern seaboard, having already welcomed nearly 10,000 cruise passengers this year.

Since beginning operations in September 2023, the terminal has steadily built momentum, positioning Visakhapatnam as an important cruise gateway, according to M. Angamuthu, Chairperson of the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA). He said the facility is fully functional and catering to a wide range of passenger-focused tourism and commercial activities, while also drawing growing interest from global and domestic cruise operators.

Developed at a cost of ₹93 crore, the modern terminal has exceeded early operational expectations. A major highlight came in April 2024, when it received its first call from MV The World, one of the world’s most exclusive luxury residential cruise vessels. The terminal also handled three back-to-back voyages of MV Empress operated by Cordelia Cruises, together carrying about 8,100 passengers during the current financial year.

Angamuthu said the successful handling of these calls demonstrates the terminal’s ability to manage large cruise volumes efficiently. He attributed the strong response to the terminal’s strategic location in Visakhapatnam’s Outer Harbour, its proximity to popular tourist destinations, and its international-standard infrastructure.

The facility meets International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code norms and is equipped with advanced security systems overseen by the Central Industrial Security Force, ensuring a safe and seamless experience for passengers and cruise operators.

Industry confidence in the terminal was reinforced at Indian Maritime Week 2025, where Jurgen Bailom, President and CEO of Waterways Leisure Tourism and Cordelia Cruises, said Visakhapatnam Port Authority is poised to develop VICT as a home port for premium cruise services on the East Coast.

Looking ahead, the terminal aims to significantly scale up operations. Passenger throughput is expected to double to around 20,000 by 2029, in line with the objectives of the Cruise Bharat Mission, further strengthening Visakhapatnam’s role in India’s growing cruise tourism landscape.