The Government of India approved Cruise Shipping Policy on October 22nd 2008. Cruise Shipping would be a path breaking development in India’s effort to carve a prominent space in world tourism and it would showcase India as a major source and destination of world tourism.

With the implementation of this policy, the growth in diverse sectors will improve and it will earn precious foreign exchange for the country. It will not only generate enormous employment opportunities but will also promote people to people contact, which will enhance India’s friendly ties with foreign countries.

Various features of cruise shipping policy include conducive fiscal regime, development of facilities at Ports and connectivity through rail, road transport, air and metro, quick completion of immigration formalities, hassle free custom clearance and proper waste disposal system ensuring Cleaner Ocean.

Cochin Port, New Mangalore Port, Mumbai Port, Chennai Port and Tuticorin Port have initiated proposals for developing dedicated passenger cum cruise terminals for cruise vessels. In so far as Orissa concerned, there is only one Major Port namely Paradip Port.

Currently, there is no proposal to develop exclusive docking facilities for cruise liners in this port. With regard to non major Ports, as per Indian Ports Act, 1908, these ports are under the jurisdiction of respective Maritime States.