Gujarat has given travellers another reason to plan a trip to the Statue of Unity. Gujarat has launched a new 600-passenger luxury cruise on the Narmada River at Ekta Nagar, near the Statue of Unity, adding
a major attraction to one of India’s most visited tourism destinations.
The vessel, launched on Tuesday in Narmada district and will begin commercial operations after receiving statutory clearances and meeting safety requirements. The cruise is expected to further boost tourism in Ekta Nagar, which has emerged as one of Gujarat’s biggest travel destinations, attracting millions of visitors every year.
The initiative is part of the state’s efforts to enhance visitor experiences around the Statue of Unity and strengthen river tourism.
All About The New 600-Seater Luxury Cruise at Statue Of Unity
The newly introduced luxury vessel can accommodate up to 600 passengers and offers panoramic views of the Statue of Unity and the surrounding Narmada landscape. Designed with modern amenities, the cruise promises a comfortable sightseeing experience while showcasing one of India’s most visited landmarks from the water.
The 30-metre-long cruise can accommodate up to 600 passengers, with seating and dining space for 250 guests, and features a 5×4-metre stage for performances. Decorative architectural lighting has been incorporated to enhance the evening experience. Beyond sightseeing, the multi-purpose floating venue is designed to host birthday celebrations, corporate meetings, product launches, musical programmes, cultural performances, private functions and destination weddings against the backdrop of the world’s tallest statue.
The Statue of Unity Area Development and Tourism Governance Authority already operates a 200-passenger cruise that offers views of the 182-metre monument dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the riverfront landscape and surrounding hills. Positive response to that service and rising tourist numbers prompted the introduction of the larger vessel to expand tourism offerings.
More Than A Sightseeing Cruise
Unlike conventional river cruises, the vessel has been designed as a multi-purpose venue. It can host destination weddings, corporate conferences, business meetings, exhibitions, private parties, cultural performances and social events.
One of its biggest attractions is the opportunity for couples to celebrate their wedding with the 182-metre-tall Statue of Unity as a dramatic backdrop, creating a one-of-a-kind setting for special occasions.
Formerly known as Kevadia, Ekta Nagar is located between the Satpura and Vindhya ranges along the Narmada River. The township offers more than 30 experiences spanning nature, adventure, wellness and culture. Key attractions include the Statue of Unity, Children’s Nutrition Park with interactive exhibits and rides, Arogya Van (a 17-acre wellness park showcasing medicinal plants), Jungle Safari with walk-in habitats for birds and wildlife, river rafting, riverfront couple cycling, Miyawaki forest, maze garden and cafes.
The luxury cruise is expected to complement the growing list of attractions around the Statue of Unity. The area already features destinations such as the Valley of Flowers, Jungle Safari, Cactus Garden, Ekta Nursery, Children’s Nutrition Park and several nature-based attractions that have helped transform Ekta Nagar into a major tourism hub.
Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a weekend getaway or a destination celebration, the new luxury cruise adds another memorable experience to Gujarat’s tourism portfolio. From leisurely river rides to hosting grand events against the backdrop of the world’s tallest statue, the Narmada cruise is set to redefine how visitors experience the Statue of Unity while giving a significant boost to river-based tourism in the state.
