Antara Cruises has announced an investment of over Rs 500 crore, approximately USD 52 million, over the next five years to expand its river cruise fleet on the Brahmaputra and strengthen Assam’s position as a luxury cruise destination.
Why is Antara Cruises expanding on the Brahmaputra?
The investment follows discussions between Antara Founder and Managing Director Raj Singh and Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota, where the company outlined its long-term strategy for river cruise tourism in the state. The move aligns with India’s growing inland waterway cruise sector, which saw a 19.4 percent rise in river cruise voyages during FY 2024-25, as the government’s Cruise Bharat Mission targets 51 river cruise circuits across 14 states and three Union Territories by 2027.
What new vessels will Antara Cruises introduce?
The company will build four new luxury riverboats for Brahmaputra operations, with the first vessel entering service in 2027 and one additional ship joining annually thereafter. Each vessel will carry up to 80 guests and feature shallow-draft technology suited to the river’s navigational conditions, built in compliance with the Inland Vessels Act and Indian Register of Shipping standards. The new fleet will operate alongside Antara’s existing flagship, RV Ganga Vilas.
What sustainability measures are built into the new vessels?
The ships will include onboard sewage treatment plants, water filtration systems, shore power connectivity and WWF-approved dolphin deterrent technology to protect the Brahmaputra’s ecosystem.
What economic impact is expected from the project?
Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota said the investment could generate around 5,000 direct and indirect jobs, boosting hospitality, cruise operations, culinary services, marine engineering and local artisan communities, while positioning Assam as an internationally recognised river cruise destination.
