The Visakhapatnam International Cruise Terminal (VICT) has handled nearly 10,000 cruise passengers this year, positioning itself as a major tourism gateway on India’s East Coast. Since its inauguration in September 2023, the terminal has seen steady growth, bolstered by positive responses from international cruise liners. Built with an investment of ₹93 crore, the facility’s operational performance has already exceeded early expectations.
Major milestones this year included the maiden call of the luxury residential ship MV The World and consecutive voyages by Cordelia Cruises’ MV Empress, which alone ferried 8,100 passengers. Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) Chairperson M. Angamuthu stated that these high-volume operations validate the terminal’s capacity and world-class infrastructure. The terminal’s strategic location and adherence to international security protocols have made it a preferred choice for premier cruise services.
Looking ahead, VICT is projected to double its annual passenger throughput to 20,000 by 2029, in line with the national Cruise Bharat Mission. Industry leaders expect the port to become the primary home port for Eastern Coast cruise services in the near future. With its mix of modern security and proximity to key tourist attractions, the terminal is set to drive significant economic activity in the region.