Sunday, September 15, 2024 Panaji – Goa is witnessing a significant surge in cruise tourism, with a remarkable 40 percent increase in cruise passengers during the fiscal year 2023-24. This growing momentum has prompted the Mormugao Port Authority to take proactive steps toward further boosting these numbers. According to an official, the construction of a state-of-the-art International and Domestic Cruise Terminal is already underway, with completion expected by March 2025.
The new terminal is anticipated to be a game-changer for the region’s tourism industry, providing world-class facilities to accommodate more tourists while enhancing their travel experience. The new terminal is not just about catering to rising passenger numbers but also about positioning Goa as a premier destination for both international and domestic cruise travelers. The strategic development is part of a broader initiative to strengthen the region’s infrastructure and capitalize on the increasing global demand for luxury cruise vacations.
Once completed, the terminal will not only boost tourism but also create numerous employment opportunities, stimulate local businesses, and contribute to the overall economic growth of the area, signaling a prosperous future for Goa’s tourism sector. The construction of the International and Domestic Cruise Terminal, along with its associated facilities, is poised to significantly elevate tourism and boost the local economy in Goa. By incorporating sustainable practices and investing in infrastructure improvements, the project aims to strengthen the region’s appeal in the global cruise industry.
According to a senior official from the Mormugao Port Authority (MPA), these developments will enhance Goa’s competitiveness, drawing more cruise operators and travelers while ensuring long-term growth for the region’s tourism sector. The official made these remarks during the Maritime States Development Council meeting, which was held in Goa on September 12 and 13. This gathering brought together key stakeholders to discuss the future of maritime infrastructure and its potential impact on regional economies.
The official highlighted that Goa’s cruise terminal project is a vital component of these discussions, as it promises to transform the port into a hub for both international and domestic cruise travelers. With the increasing global interest in cruise tourism, Mormugao Port has already seen a notable uptick in cruise ship arrivals. This surge positions the port for even greater growth in the coming years, as more liners include Goa in their itineraries.
The new terminal, once completed, is expected to accommodate larger vessels and higher passenger volumes, thereby cementing Goa’s reputation as a premier cruise destination while delivering substantial economic benefits to the local community. During the 2023-24 financial year, cruise vessel calls saw a 15 percent increase, accompanied by a 40 percent rise in cruise passengers compared to the previous year, the official reported. On the opening day of the Maritime States Development Council meeting, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal toured the location for the upcoming International and Domestic Cruise Terminal.
The visit highlighted the government’s commitment to advancing infrastructure in Goa, with the new terminal expected to be a modern facility aimed at boosting both international and domestic cruise tourism. The proposed building promises to elevate the region’s status as a premier cruise destination, offering cutting-edge amenities to cater to the growing number of travelers. The new terminal will prioritize passenger convenience and efficiency, ensuring a seamless experience for those passing through.
Plans for the facility include 24 immigration counters and 10 check-in counters, designed to handle the increasing volume of cruise passengers with ease. In addition, the terminal will feature a spacious waiting lounge and other essential services, all aimed at enhancing the overall experience for cruise passengers. With these advancements, Goa is set to further solidify its position on the global cruise map, driving both tourism and economic growth.
The terminal is set to feature duty-free retail shops, lounges, a food court, and various other amenities, according to the official..
