Planning Your First Cruise In 2025? Here’s Everything Indian Travellers Should Know | Travel News

Last Updated:September 04, 2025, 17:53 IST

As domestic options increase and access to international cruises improves, 2025 is set to be the year cruising becomes mainstream for Indian travellers.

Cruising offers immersive experiences for travellers.

The romance of the open sea is no longer reserved for a few. In 2025, cruising has gone mainstream for Indian travellers, offering everything from quick domestic sailings to indulgent international voyages. The idea of waking up in a new destination every morning, without ever repacking a bag, is drawing more first-timers on board than ever before.

“There’s something truly magical about being out on the open sea, where every sunrise brings you to a new destination. For many Indians, cruises were once considered expensive or complicated. But today, options are growing, and planning your first sailing has never been easier,” says Shiju Radhakrishnan, Founder, GetMyCruise.com.

Choosing the Right Cruise

Should you dip your toes in with a short domestic cruise or dive into an international itinerary? “It depends on comfort level, budget, and goals,” explains Radhakrishnan. Domestic routes like Mumbai–Goa–Lakshadweep or Chennai–Sri Lanka are ideal for families and short breaks. International cruises, from Singapore to Phuket or across the Mediterranean, offer grandeur and variety, perfect for longer vacations.

The Cost Myth

Cruises may sound extravagant, but they often deliver better value than land-based travel. Accommodation, meals, entertainment, and transport between destinations are bundled into one fare. “At first glance, Rs 30,000 for a few nights looks high,” Radhakrishnan admits. “But when compared to flights, hotels, meals, and transfers across multiple cities, the savings and convenience become clear.”

For instance, a three-night Singapore–Thailand cruise may start at Rs 28,000–Rs 31,000, including meals and entertainment, which is far less than piecing together a multi-city itinerary on land. Domestic cruises from Mumbai or Chennai can begin at just Rs 25,000 per person.

Visas and Paperwork Simplified

One concern for first-timers is visas. Domestic cruises need none, while many international routes simplify requirements through “closed-loop” itineraries. “Travellers are often surprised at how seamless the paperwork is,” says Radhakrishnan.

The Seasickness Question

Modern ships are engineered for stability, and most passengers never feel a thing. Still, Radhakrishnan offers simple advice: “Choose a midship cabin on a lower deck, avoid heavy alcohol on day one, and carry motion-sickness remedies just in case.”

Cruise Etiquette and Style

Cruises balance casual comfort with a touch of sophistication. “You don’t need a tuxedo, but smart casual for dinners or themed nights helps you fit in,” he explains. Tipping is often built into fares, though it’s best to confirm in advance. One non-negotiable: punctuality. “Ships won’t wait for late passengers at ports,” he notes.

Where to Begin

For Indian travellers trying cruising for the first time, Radhakrishnan suggests Southeast Asia (Singapore–Penang–Phuket), Dubai–Abu Dhabi–Doha, or short-haul Mediterranean itineraries. These offer a blend of culture, food, and entertainment with simple logistics.

Cruising is no longer a faraway dream but a smart, stylish way to travel. With planning platforms and diverse itineraries, the experience is more accessible than ever.