Mangaluru Welcomes First Cruise Liner of 2025–26 Season

By Admin

23 Dec, 2025

Mangaluru marked a significant milestone in cruise tourism as the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) welcomed the first cruise liner of the 2025–26 season. The arrival of the luxury cruise vessel M.S. Seven Seas Navigator signalled a promising start to the season and reinforced the port’s growing importance on India’s west coast cruise circuit.

Arrival of M.S. Seven Seas Navigator

The Bahamas-flagged cruise ship arrived at New Mangalore Port at 6.15 am on Sunday and was safely berthed at Berth No. 4 by 7.15 am. Measuring 172.50 metres in length with a draft of 7.50 metres and a gross registered tonnage of 28,803, the vessel called at Mangaluru from Mormugao Port. Onboard were 450 passengers and 360 crew members, eager to explore the cultural and natural richness of the coastal city and its surroundings.

Warm Cultural Welcome by NMPA

To mark the occasion, NMPA extended a traditional and vibrant welcome to international tourists, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage. Extensive arrangements were made in coordination with various stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and a memorable experience for visitors. Smt. Vinitha Sekhar, IRS, Commissioner of Customs, Mangalore, formally welcomed the master of the ship, accompanied by the Traffic Manager, port officers, and staff.

Passenger-Centric Facilities and Seamless Operations

Several initiatives were introduced to enhance passenger comfort and experience during the port call. A meditation centre set up by the Ministry of AYUSH offered a space for relaxation, while NMPA provided free Wi-Fi connectivity for passengers. The Ministry of Tourism installed a selfie stand featuring Mangaluru’s iconic Yakshagana art form, giving visitors an opportunity to engage with local culture. Advanced planning and strong coordination among agencies ensured a smooth and efficient immigration process, significantly reducing waiting times.

Exploring Mangaluru and Nearby Attractions

During their stay, cruise tourists explored a wide range of cultural, spiritual, and natural attractions. These included the Gomateshwara Temple at Karkala, the 1,000 Pillar Temple at Moodabidri, Soans Farm, Pilikula Nisargadhama and Artisan Village, Gokarnanatha Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel, local markets, and Trinity House at Valencia. These visits offered passengers a comprehensive glimpse into the heritage and lifestyle of the region.

Departure and Growing Cruise Potential

After a successful port call, M.S. Seven Seas Navigator departed Mangaluru at 4.30 pm for its next destination, Cochin. The arrival of this vessel highlights NMPA’s growing stature as a preferred cruise destination. With modern infrastructure, efficient port operations, and strong inter-agency coordination, the port authority is well positioned to promote cruise tourism, boost the regional economy, and foster cultural exchange, with several more cruise calls scheduled during the 2025–26 season.