Cruise Ship Travel in India: Budget, Packages & Loan Solutions

India’s cruise tourism is opening up new ways to experience the beautiful coastline and rivers that this country has to offer. Exploring the shores on a cruise provides both relaxation and a sense of adventure. So, if you prefer a quick coastal getaway or an extended river journey, you can surely check out the cruise trip price in India.  

Generally, the cruise trip price varies depending on factors like route, cabin choice, and trip length, making it possible to find options that fit different budgets. Growing interest in cruise ship travel in India reflects the rise of both affordable and luxury packages, giving travelers more choices than ever before. 

Top Cruise Destinations, Highlights, Duration, Packages and Costs in India

In India, there are a variety of cruise destinations, and each one of them can give you unique experiences. For your better understanding, the table below covers popular routes, their main highlights, typical trip lengths, package types, and approximate costs. This will help you get a clear idea of what to expect when planning your cruise ship travel in India. 

If you have a look at the table above, you would understand that the cruise ship packages in India vary widely, not just in cost but also in experience and duration. You will find budget-friendly coastal cruises that are short, alongside luxurious, longer river cruises that provide an immersive cultural journey.  

Also Read: 8 Things To Do In The Hidden Gem Of India – Lakshadweep

Top 10 Best Cruise Tours in India

1. Ganges River Heritage Cruise (Antara Cruises)

Route: Kolkata to Varanasi 

Duration: 19 – 20 days 

Price Range: ₹1,50,000 – ₹2,50,000 per person 

This cruise is India’s longest river journey, traveling along the Ganges and its tributaries. Passengers visit important heritage sites like the terracotta temples at Kalna, the grand Hazarduari Palace, and the spiritual ghats of Varanasi.

The suites offer French balconies and personal butler service, with the cruise focusing on a relaxed pace. Onboard Ayurvedic spa treatments and meals introduce you to local flavours and offer a luxurious experience that justifies the cruise trip price in India. 

2. Mumbai-Goa Coastal Cruise (Cordelia Cruises)

Route: Mumbai to Goa to Mumbai 

Duration: 2 – 3 nights 

Price Range: ₹24,480 – ₹40,214 per person

This popular coastal cruise combines beautiful beaches with lively nightlife. The Empress ship offers entertainment like Broadway shows and a casino, plus six dining spots, including a seafood specialty restaurant. When the cruise is docked in Goa, passengers can explore waterfalls and historic churches.

Among the onboard amenities, you can enjoy a spa treatment, an infinity pool, and family-friendly areas like an arcade. This is one of the most accessible cruise ship packages in India, ideal for short getaways with options to suit all budgets. 

3. Brahmaputra River Wildlife Expedition (Assam Bengal Navigation)

Route: Guwahati to Majuli Island 

Duration: 7 – 10 days 

Price Range: ₹30,000 – ₹60,000 per person

This adventurous cruise takes you through Assam’s Brahmaputra River, close to Kaziranga National Park and Majuli, the world’s largest river island. The MV Mahabaahu features luxury cabins with large windows for scenic views. During the excursions, you can visit tribal villages, tea gardens, and enjoy sunset barbecues by the river. 

4. Kerala Backwater Houseboat Cruise (Spice Routes)

Route: Alleppey to Kumarakom to Kochi 

Duration: 1 – 2 nights 

Price Range: ₹40,000 – ₹80,000 per person  

Explore Kerala’s peaceful backwaters in traditional houseboats that have been converted into luxury vessels. These boats offer air-conditioned suites and private chefs preparing authentic Kerala dishes like karimeen pollichathu.   

The cruise glides through Vembanad Lake and narrow canals lined with coconut trees, stopping at local villages and historic sites like St. Mary’s Church. While this is a premium experience, the small cruise ship price in India makes it an excellent value for a short but immersive trip. 

5. Lakshadweep Samudram Cruise (Government of India)

Route: Kochi to Kavaratti to Kalpeni to Minicoy 

Duration: 5 days 

Price Range: ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 per person

This government-run cruise offers an affordable way to explore Lakshadweep’s coral islands. The passengers can stay in Diamond-class air-conditioned cabins that this cruise offers. The trip includes fun activities like diving, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat rides.  

6. Sunderbans Mangrove Safari (Vivada Cruises)

Route: Kolkata to Gosaba to Sudhanyakhali 

Duration: 3 – 4 days 

Price Range: ₹25,000 – ₹50,000 per person  

This trip will take you through the UNESCO-listed Sundarbans delta on the MV Paramhamsa. In this journey, you may come across Royal Bengal tigers, saltwater crocodiles, and rare birds like the masked finfoot.   

You will also be able to experience guided walks through mangrove forests, visits to local fishing villages, and cultural programs featuring traditional Baul music as part of the trip.  

7. Andaman Islands Explorer (Cordelia Cruises)

Route: Chennai to Port Blair to Havelock to Chennai 

Duration: 7 days 

Price Range: ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 per person  

This cruise explores the beautiful Andaman Islands, including stops at Radhanagar Beach, Cellular Jail, and Ross Island. Passengers can enjoy scuba diving at North Bay Island and Elephant Beach. The amenities included in this cruise ship are themed parties, a jazz lounge, and a kids’ club. 

8. Golden Triangle & Ganges Combo Cruise (Oberoi Hotels)

Route: Delhi to Agra to Jaipur to Kolkata to Varanasi 

Duration: 12 – 14 days 

Price Range: ₹3,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 per person 

This luxury package combines land tours of India’s famous Golden Triangle with a river cruise on the Ganges. Guests stay at prestigious Oberoi hotels in Delhi and Agra before boarding the MV Ganga Vilas. 

Some of the main highlights included in this journey are sunrise visits to the Taj Mahal, exploring Jaipur’s Amber Fort, and attending evening aartis on the banks of the Ganges. This cruise ship package in India offers the best of culture, heritage, and luxury for a memorable experience. 

9. Goa Monsoon Cruise (Mandovi River)

Route: Panaji to Divar Island to Old Goa 

Duration: 2 – 3 hours 

Price Range: ₹550 – ₹9,000 per person 

This short cruise on the Mandovi River offers budget-friendly options with live DJs, sunset views, and chances to spot dolphins. If you want a more luxurious option, private yacht charters with gourmet dinners are available.  

The Santa Monica boat will show you Goan-Portuguese architecture, while the Peacock Paradise cruise will feature cultural shows. It’s a quick and affordable option for a fun experience on a small cruise ship price in India. 

10. Luxury Lakshadweep Expedition (Cordelia Cruises)

Luxury Lakshadweep Expedition (Cordelia Cruises)

Route: Mumbai to Lakshadweep to Mumbai 

Duration: 5 days 

Price Range: ₹1,51,494 – ₹2,00,000 per person 

Cordelia’s premium cruise on the Empress travels to coral reefs and atolls around Lakshadweep. In this cruise ship, passengers can enjoy amenities like a casino, spa, and infinity pool.  

The trip also offers activities like banana boat rides and guided tours of Minicoy’s lighthouse. This luxury cruise is perfect for international travelers, offering visa-on-arrival facilities for Lakshadweep. 

Also Read: Top 10 Places to Visit in Monsoon in India: Budget, Packages & Loan Support

Budgeting for Your Cruise Vacation

Finalizing your budget is an important step you need to consider before booking any cruise ship travel in India. Costs can vary widely depending on the route, duration, and type of cabin you choose.  

For starters, basic coastal cruises start at around ₹8,700 and cover short trips lasting 2-3 nights. If you prefer mid-range options, prices typically fall between ₹20,000 and ₹50,000. Luxury cruises, such as river journeys or longer expeditions, often exceed ₹1,00,000. 

Please note that the cruise trip price in India typically includes accommodation, meals, and some onboard activities. However, extras like shore excursions, specialty dining, spa services, and drinks can add up and increase your overall spending. Transportation to and from the port is another cost to consider, especially if you’re traveling from inland cities. 

If you understand these factors, you can better estimate your budget and choose from the many cruise ship packages in India that suit your financial plan. Smaller vessels tend to offer more affordable experiences, so the small cruise ship price in India is often a good starting point for travelers looking for budget-friendly options.

Financing Your Cruise Trip with Personal Loans

Cruise vacations offer unforgettable experiences, but the overall cruise trip price in India can sometimes be higher than expected. Many travelers find it helpful to use a personal loan to cover the upfront costs, especially when planning longer or luxury cruises.  

Personal loans provide financial flexibility, allowing you to enjoy your trip without worrying about a large immediate expense. 

If you can spread the cost over several months, you can comfortably manage your budget while still choosing from a variety of cruise ship packages in India. Whether you’re eyeing a luxury river cruise or more affordable options that fit the small cruise ship price in India, a personal loan can make the journey more accessible. 

Also Read: Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Summer in India

How to Apply for a Personal Loan for Cruise Travel

When planning a cruise, the cruise trip price in India can sometimes be more than what you have set aside. Unexpected expenses or choosing a luxury package may stretch your budget.  

A personal loan can help bridge this gap, giving you the freedom to book your trip without delay or financial strain. It allows you to spread the cost over manageable monthly payments, so you don’t have to compromise on your dream cruise. 

When you decide to take a personal loan for travel to cover your cruise ship travel in India, platforms like Zype make the process simple and fast. Here’s how you can get started:

• Download Zype App from the Google Play Store and create your account.
• Enter your personal details, including income, employment status, and the loan amount that fits your cruise trip price in India.
• Upload the required documents such as ID proof, income statements, and bank details.
• Get an instant decision on your loan application with quick fund disbursal for eligible borrowers. 
• Use the loan amount to book your cruise, whether it’s a luxury voyage or a budget-friendly trip falling within the small cruise ship price in India range.

Zype gives you flexible repayment options. Choose from 6, 9, 12 or 18 months, so you can repay at your own pace, without the stress.

Tips for a Memorable Cruise Experience in India

A great cruise starts with good planning and knowing what to expect. These tips will help you enjoy your cruise ship travel in India, whether you’re booking luxury packages or looking at options within your budget. 

Pre-Cruise Planning

Choose the right itinerary: When selecting your cruise ship packages in India, consider your interests carefully. Cultural trips like Antara Cruises’ Ganges river journey offer heritage walks and temple visits. If you prefer wildlife and nature, Brahmaputra cruises by Assam Bengal Navigation combine adventure with scenic beauty.

For shorter coastal escapes, the Mumbai-Goa route with Cordelia Cruises is popular. Remember, the cruise trip price in India can vary with seasons; October to March is best for most routes, while Kerala backwaters shine during monsoons. 

Prepare documentation: Some cruises, especially to Lakshadweep, require permits. Make sure to get the Restricted Area Permit early. Indian nationals need a Police Clearance Certificate for some islands. International travelers on multi-stop cruises should have a multiple-entry e-Tourist Visa. Carry all paperwork handy for smooth travel.

Plan your budget: While booking cruise ship packages in India, note that mid-range options often exclude extras like shore excursions and specialty dining. These can increase costs by 30 to 50%. For those watching expenses, the small cruise ship price in India offers affordable but enjoyable cruise experiences. 

Onboard Experience

Cabin selection matters: When booking your cruise ship travel in India, picking the right cabin is important. Mid-ship cabins on upper decks reduce motion sickness and offer easier access. Balcony suites provide beautiful views, especially on river cruises like MV Ganga Vilas, where forward-facing cabins allow you to take in the changing river scenery. Avoid lower deck cabins near engines to reduce noise disturbance.

Dining and entertainment: Specialty restaurants on popular cruise ship packages in India should be reserved early to avoid waiting. For example, Cordelia Cruises’ seafood grill is a favorite. Attend cultural shows like Baul music on Sundarbans cruises. Also, keep in mind that buffets can get crowded during peak times, so plan accordingly.

Health and safety: Seasickness can affect even experienced travelers during cruise ship travel in India. Carry ginger tablets or acupressure bands to stay comfortable. Many cruises follow strict health protocols, including temperature checks and mask requirements. Use onboard sanitizers regularly and report any illness immediately. 

Shore Excursions

Guided tours add value: Booking excursions ahead of time through trusted providers ensures a smooth experience. For example, backwater canoe rides in Cochin or visiting Elephanta Caves from Mumbai are popular. Planning shore activities while booking your cruise ship packages in India can improve your trip.

Independent exploration: If you prefer exploring on your own, negotiate fairly with local guides at ports. In Goa, visit spice markets or heritage homes, but avoid unlicensed taxis. Carry small currency notes for tips and local purchases.

Be eco-conscious: When visiting fragile ecosystems like Sundarbans or Lakshadweep, avoid plastic use and respect wildlife. Use reef-safe sunscreen on island cruises to protect marine life. 

Conclusion

India’s cruise tourism offers travelers a wide range of options, from affordable coastal trips to luxurious river voyages. The growing variety of cruise ship packages in India means there is something for every budget and taste.  

If you prefer exploring the calm backwaters on a small vessel or enjoying grand luxury cruises, the expanding options for cruise ship travel in India are opening new doors for unforgettable journeys. With the right planning and financing, your dream cruise can become a reality.