Karnataka Proposes India’s Largest International Cruise Port and Maritime Museum in Mangaluru

The Karnataka Maritime Board has proposed the construction of the Mangaluru International Cruise and Tourism Port at Someshwar near Ullal, according to CEO Jayarama Raipura. A pre-feasibility report has been prepared, and necessary technical studies will be conducted for the detailed project report by IIT Madras. The project, which will be the first of its kind in India, will have a draft of 18 meters and will be a 100% cruise port, making it the largest in the country. The port will also have railway track connectivity, and international players have shown interest in taking up the project.

Additionally, the board plans to construct the Karnataka Maritime Museum in Mangaluru on 1.5 acres of land near Hoigebazar Light House under the PPP model. The civil works are estimated to cost ₹6.7 crore, with management to be handled by a private party. The museum, which will also include a restaurant, will be open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. The establishment of a maritime museum in Kudla is expected to enrich the state’s cultural landscape and coastal heritage.

Furthermore, Mangaluru is among four locations in Karnataka identified for waterdrome projects, with the others being Ganesh Gudi, Linganamakki, and Kabini. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has accepted the proposals in principle, and private operators will be able to participate in the projects. The 10th meeting of the Karnataka Maritime Board has also approved the Mangaluru water metro project, which aims to develop water metro infrastructure at the Gurupura river for shore-to-shore transportation, daily commute, tourism, and regional development.

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