Gujarat is taking another significant step towards strengthening its tourism sector with the introduction of a new 600-seater luxury cruise at Ektanagar, home to the iconic Statue of Unity. The project is expected to enhance the visitor experience while supporting the state’s vision of making Ektanagar one of India’s premier tourism destinations.
The new cruise has been announced in response to the rapidly increasing number of domestic and international tourists visiting the Statue of Unity. At present, a 200-passenger cruise operates on the Narmada River. However, growing tourist demand has encouraged the Gujarat government to significantly expand the river cruise experience with a much larger vessel.
Once operational, the cruise will comfortably accommodate up to 600 passengers, making it one of the largest inland tourist cruise experiences in the region. Authorities have confirmed that the vessel will begin operations after completing all mandatory safety inspections and obtaining approvals from the relevant departments.
Beyond scenic river rides, the cruise has been designed as a multi-purpose floating venue. Visitors will be able to enjoy birthday celebrations, wedding-related functions, music performances, cultural programmes, private parties, corporate meetings, conferences, and social gatherings while cruising along the beautiful Narmada River. This approach is expected to attract both leisure tourists and corporate travellers.
The luxury cruise will feature a spacious dining facility capable of serving around 250 guests simultaneously, allowing visitors to enjoy meals while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. In addition, a dedicated performance stage measuring approximately five metres by four metres will host live entertainment, cultural shows, and special events during the journey.
Tourism officials believe the new attraction will significantly increase visitor spending and extend tourist stays in Ektanagar. The destination already offers several attractions, including the Statue of Unity, Valley of Flowers, Jungle Safari, Ekta Nursery, Children’s Nutrition Park, Cactus Garden, riverfront developments, laser shows, and adventure activities. The addition of a larger cruise further strengthens the destination’s appeal for families, tour groups, and event organisers.
The cruise project is also expected to create new employment opportunities across hospitality, food services, entertainment, tourism operations, and event management. Local businesses, hotels, transport operators, and travel agencies are likely to benefit from higher tourist arrivals throughout the year.
For travellers planning a visit to Gujarat, the new cruise offers another memorable experience alongside the world’s tallest statue. Whether visitors choose a relaxing sightseeing cruise, a dinner event, a cultural programme, or a private celebration, the upgraded facility promises a premium experience on the scenic waters of the Narmada River.
Industry experts also expect this development to encourage more domestic tourism while attracting international visitors looking for unique inland cruise experiences. With continuous investments in tourism infrastructure, Gujarat continues to strengthen its position as one of India’s fastest-growing travel destinations.
As the cruise prepares to welcome its first passengers following regulatory clearances, travel enthusiasts can look forward to an enhanced Ektanagar experience that combines luxury, entertainment, hospitality, and spectacular riverside scenery. The initiative reflects Gujarat’s continued commitment to developing world-class tourism infrastructure around the Statue of Unity and creating unforgettable travel experiences for visitors from across India and abroad.
