MPA: Incentives for cruise vessels extended to 2027

Panaji: The Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) has extended its rationalised tariff structure for cruise vessels till March 31, 2027, in a move aimed at attracting more domestic and international cruise liners to Indian ports.


The extension follows approval from the Indian Ports Association and comes as the earlier incentive regime was due for renewal after its last extension in 2025.


Under the revised tariff structure, cruise vessels will be charged US$0.085 per gross registered tonnage and US$6 per passenger for the first 12 hours of stay at berth. For stays exceeding 12 hours, an additional fixed charge of US$0.0175 per hour will apply, port officials said.


Authorities said cruise operators will also receive additional discounts based on the number of port calls made during a year. As part of efforts to boost cruise tourism, ports are continuing to offer several incentives, including priority berthing for cruise vessels, removal of ousting charges, and waiver of cabotage requirements.


Officials said cruise passengers are also being facilitated through e-visa and visa-on-arrival facilities, while a single e-landing card valid across all ports on a cruise itinerary has been introduced to simplify procedures.


Authorities have also approved a conditional IGST exemption for foreign-flag foreign-going vessels converting to coastal operations.