The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) ushered in the much-anticipated 2025–26 cruise season on Monday with the grand arrival of the luxury vessel, MS Seven Seas Navigator. The event marks a significant boost for tourism and the regional economy in coastal Karnataka.
A Grand Welcome for the First Cruise of the Season
The Bahamas-flagged luxury cruise ship made its entry into NMPA waters at 6.15 am, successfully berthing at berth No. 4 by 7.15 am. The vessel, measuring 172.5 meters in length with a draft of 7.5m and a gross registered tonnage of 28,803, arrived from its previous port call at Mormugao Port in Goa. Onboard were 450 international passengers accompanied by 360 crew members.
NMPA, in collaboration with various stakeholders, orchestrated a vibrant and traditional welcome to showcase the region's rich cultural heritage to the global tourists. The port authorities had undertaken extensive preparations to ensure a flawless and memorable experience for the visitors from the moment they stepped ashore.
Enhanced Passenger Experience and Cultural Immersion
To facilitate a smooth arrival process, NMPA implemented advanced planning and coordination for immigration, which significantly reduced waiting times for the large group of passengers. The port also provided free Wi-Fi connectivity for the tourists.
Adding unique experiential value, several special installations were set up for the cruise guests. These included a meditation centre by the Ministry of Ayush and a selfie stand depicting Mangaluru's famed Yakshagana art form, installed by the Ministry of Tourism. Vinitha Sekhar, the Commissioner of Customs in Mangalore, formally welcomed the ship's master along with the port's traffic manager, officers, and employees.
During their day-long stay, the passengers embarked on tours to prominent tourist sites in and around Mangaluru. The itinerary offered a deep dive into the area's diverse heritage:
- Karkala Gomateshwara Temple
- The 1000 Pillar Temple at Moodabidri
- Soans Farm and Pilikula Nisargadhama
- Artisan Village and Gokarnanatha Temple
- St Aloysius Chapel and local markets
- Trinity House at Valencia
These visits provided the international tourists with a comprehensive glimpse into the region's spiritual, cultural, and natural treasures.
Setting Sail for a Promising Season
After a successful and eventful port call, the MS Seven Seas Navigator departed from New Mangalore Port at 4.30 pm, setting sail for its next destination, Cochin. The inaugural call sets a positive tone for the entire season, with several more cruise visits lined up.
The event underscores NMPA's pivotal role in promoting cruise tourism, which is a vital catalyst for the local economy and cultural exchange. The successful handling of the first vessel demonstrates the port's readiness and commitment to establishing itself as a key destination on the global cruise map.
