What is the New Yamuna Cruise?
Delhi has introduced its first recreational cruise service on the Yamuna River, named the 'Namo Yamuna River Safari'. Inaugurated on November 10, 2026, the service aims to promote river-based tourism and give residents and visitors a new leisure activity.
The project is spearheaded by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) in collaboration with various Delhi government agencies. The service uses an electric-powered, eco-friendly catamaran-style vessel, reflecting a move towards sustainable tourism. With a capacity for about 30 passengers, the boat features a fully air-conditioned lower deck and an open-air upper deck.
Route, Timings, and Duration
The cruise operates on the Sonia Vihar–Jagatpur stretch of the Yamuna in North Delhi. It offers a round-trip journey covering a distance of approximately six kilometres. Each ride lasts between 35 to 45 minutes, providing panoramic views of the river ghats and surrounding greenery. The service is scheduled to run daily, with some reports suggesting timings from 9 am to 9 pm. However, it is important to note that the cruise will remain closed annually from July 1 to September 30 due to monsoon river conditions.
The ₹500 Ticket: What's Included?
The ticket for the river cruise is priced at ₹500 per person. This fare covers the 40-minute boat ride. In addition to the cruise ticket, there is a separate premises entry fee of ₹50 per person for those who wish to visit the recreational area at Sonia Vihar without taking the boat ride. Tickets can be booked online through the official Delhi Tourism website and other platforms like BookMyShow, or purchased at the on-site counter. Given the limited capacity of 30 passengers per trip, booking in advance is recommended.
More Than Just a Boat Ride
The cruise is part of a larger riverfront development project. The area around the Sonia Vihar jetty has been developed into a recreational hub with facilities for the whole family. Visitors can find a food court, retail shops, a children's play zone, and even adventure activities like gaming and rock climbing. An evening musical fountain featuring a light-and-sound show on the history and significance of the Yamuna is also a planned attraction. This aims to make the riverbank a destination where visitors can spend an entire afternoon.
A Step Towards River Rejuvenation
The Yamuna has been designated as National Waterway-110, and this cruise marks a step towards utilising its potential for tourism and navigation. The use of electric vessels is intended to promote clean mobility on the waterway. The launch comes amidst broader efforts by the government to clean the Yamuna and develop its riverfront, drawing inspiration from projects like the Sabarmati Riverfront in Gujarat. While this cruise operates on the cleaner, upstream stretch of the river, it is hoped that such initiatives will encourage greater public engagement and consciousness towards the river's ecological health.
