The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) marked the beginning of the 2025–26 cruise season with the arrival of the luxury cruise vessel M.S. Seven Seas Navigator on Sunday.
The Bahamas-flagged cruise ship arrived at the port at 6.15 am and was berthed at Berth No. 4 by 7.15 am. Measuring 172.50 metres in length with a draft of 7.50 metres and a gross registered tonnage of 28,803, the vessel called at Mangaluru from Mormugao Port, carrying 450 passengers and 360 crew members.
NMPA extended a traditional and colourful welcome to the international tourists, highlighting the region’s rich cultural heritage. Extensive arrangements were made by the port authority in coordination with multiple stakeholders to ensure a smooth and memorable experience for the visitors.
Smt. Vinitha Sekhar, IRS, Commissioner of Customs, Mangalore, formally welcomed the master of the ship, accompanied by the Traffic Manager, port officers and staff.
To enhance the passenger experience, several initiatives were put in place, including a meditation centre set up by the Ministry of AYUSH, free Wi-Fi connectivity provided by NMPA, and a selfie stand showcasing Mangaluru’s iconic Yakshagana art form installed by the Ministry of Tourism. Advanced planning and coordination also ensured a seamless immigration process, significantly reducing waiting times for passengers.
During their stay, cruise tourists visited key attractions in and around Mangaluru such as the Gomateshwara Temple at Karkala, the 1,000 Pillar Temple at Moodabidri, Soans Farm, Pilikula Nisargadhama and Artisan Village, Gokarnanatha Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel, local markets, and Trinity House at Valencia, offering them a glimpse of the region’s cultural, spiritual and natural heritage.
Following a successful port call, M.S. Seven Seas Navigator departed at 4.30 pm for its next destination, Cochin.
The arrival of the vessel underscores NMPA’s growing stature as a preferred cruise destination on India’s west coast. With modern infrastructure, efficient port operations and strong inter-agency coordination, the port authority is poised to play a key role in promoting cruise tourism, boosting the regional economy and fostering cultural exchange, with several more cruise calls scheduled during the season.