Heritage River Journeys has placed a repeat order for two luxury river cruise vessels with Hooghly Cochin Shipyard, marking another major step in the expansion of India’s luxury river cruise fleet and inland waterway tourism infrastructure.
Valued at approximately ₹250–300 crore, the contract was signed during SAGARMANTHAN in New Delhi in the presence of Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Shantanu Thakur, and distinguished international dignitaries. Heritage River Journeys was represented by its Founder, Raj Singh, and Chief Operating Officer, Vineet Arora.
The latest order follows a commitment made by Raj Singh to Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota, IAS, in July 2026, towards an investment of ₹500 crore in the Brahmaputra region. The repeat order further reinforces the company’s long-term vision of developing purpose-built vessels and establishing world-class river cruising experiences in India.
The two newly ordered vessels are scheduled for delivery in June 2029 and June 2030, respectively, and will be deployed on the Brahmaputra River. The contract follows an earlier vessel order placed by the company in June 2025, reflecting its continued focus on building a modern fleet specifically designed for India’s river systems.
The investment comes amid growing interest in experiential travel, destination-led tourism and luxury river journeys. The expansion of river cruise infrastructure is expected to create opportunities across hospitality, local employment, destination development and allied tourism services, while supporting the broader development of India’s inland waterways.
Heritage River Journeys has been a pioneer in luxury river cruising in India since launching Bengal Ganga in 2008 under the Antara Cruises brand. Its fleet includes Bengal Ganga, Ganges Voyager I, Ganges Voyager II and Ganga Vilas, whose landmark itinerary was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The company has also diversified into private luxury and wildlife experiences with Nauka Vilas on the Hooghly River and four luxury catamaran yachts operating in Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha.
The latest repeat order represents a significant addition to India’s purpose-built river cruise fleet and highlights the growing role of private-sector investment in unlocking the tourism and economic potential of the country’s inland waterways.