Vizag Set For First Overseas Cruise Sailing As New Route Opens To Southeast Asia

Visakhapatnam will see its first international cruise depart on July 15, with a 14-day voyage planned across Southeast Asia. The ship will sail out from the port’s international terminal, marking the city’s entry into overseas cruise routes for the first time.

The Route

The route brings India’s eastern coast into the international cruise circuit for the first time. Starting from Visakhapatnam, the voyage moves down to Chennai, where the ship will stay for two days, giving passengers time to step off and explore the city.

From Chennai, the cruise continues into international waters, calling at Phuket, Langkawi, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. The itinerary also includes several days at sea, set aside for onboard activities as the ship moves between destinations.

Until now, most international cruise departures from India have been concentrated around western ports, particularly Mumbai. Visakhapatnam’s entry into the circuit changes that pattern, offering a new boarding point for travellers in the eastern and southern parts of the country. It also cuts down the need for passengers to cross regions just to begin an overseas cruise.

Ports Of Call And Travel Requirements

The first international cruise from Visakhapatnam will be operated by Cordelia Cruises. After leaving Visakhapatnam on July 15, the ship will head to Chennai, where it is set to remain for two days before resuming its journey on July 18. From there, it will sail onward to Southeast Asia, with stops planned at Phuket, Langkawi, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore before looping back to complete the itinerary on July 28.

Travel industry representatives in the state say that the service is expected to draw more tourists to the region and raise Visakhapatnam’s standing as an international travel hub.

Travel requirements for passengers have also been outlined in advance. Those boarding the cruise will need a passport valid for at least 6 months at the time of departure. While visas are not required for Thailand and Malaysia, arrangements have been made for a visa-on-arrival for Singapore, according to industry representatives.

The Cruise Info

• Departure: July 15 from Visakhapatnam International Cruise Terminal

• Chennai: First stop, with a two-day halt for local visits (until July 18)

• Phuket, Thailand: July 22–23

• Langkawi, Malaysia: July 24

• Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia: July 26

• Singapore: July 27–28

• Conclusion: Voyage ends on July 28

Travel Requirements

• Passport: Minimum six months’ validity required

• Thailand & Malaysia: No visa required for Indian travellers

• Singapore: Visa on arrival available for cruise passengers

Visakhapatnam International Cruise Terminal (VICT)

• Departure point for all sailings

• Facilities include lounges, customs and immigration, baggage handling, duty-free shopping, restaurants and currency exchange

• Can accommodate ships carrying up to 2,000 passengers, with a 180-metre berth

FAQs

When does the first international cruise from Visakhapatnam begin?
The maiden international cruise is scheduled to depart on July 15, 2026 from the Visakhapatnam International Cruise Terminal.

What is the duration of the voyage?
The journey runs for 14 days and concludes on July 28, 2026.

Which destinations are included in the itinerary?
After leaving Visakhapatnam, the ship calls at Chennai before heading to Phuket, Langkawi, Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) and Singapore.

Who is operating the cruise service?
The international sailing is being operated by Cordelia Cruises.

What travel documents are required?
Passengers must carry a passport with at least six months’ validity from the date of departure.

Are visas needed for the destinations on the route?
No visa is required for Thailand and Malaysia for Indian travellers. For Singapore, visa on arrival arrangements are available for cruise passengers.

Where does the cruise depart from?
All sailings operate from the Visakhapatnam International Cruise Terminal, which has facilities including immigration, lounges, duty-free shopping and passenger services.