A new cruise service on the Yamuna River is expected to start this February in Delhi. According to PTI, Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra said on Tuesday that the cruise ship for this project has started its journey from Mumbai and will reach Delhi in the next two to three days.
As reported by PTI, the ship is being brought to Delhi by train and is part of the Delhi government’s Yamuna cruise project, which is planned to be launched in February. The cruise will run on an eight-kilometre stretch of the Yamuna River, from Sonia Vihar near the Wazirabad Barrage to Jagatpur near the Shani Temple.
Minister Kapil Mishra told PTI that the cruise ship can carry 40 passengers. Most of the work on the ship is already finished. After it reaches Delhi, some final technical work, such as fitting the engine, will be done before it starts operating.
According to PTI, the cruise will offer a one-hour round-trip on the river. Passengers will be able to enjoy music, entertainment, and food during the journey. The minister also said that Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is likely to inaugurate the cruise service.
The tourism minister explained to PTI that this project is part of a bigger plan to develop the Yamuna riverfront as a place for fun and relaxation. The aim is to give Delhi residents an experience similar to river cruises enjoyed in places like Goa, without leaving the city.
This initiative is more than just a boat ride, it is a major step toward reclaiming the Yamuna as a hub for leisure, culture, and eco-friendly tourism. Here is everything you need to know about this game-changing update.
A First-of-its-Kind Experience: Features & Amenities
The cruise is designed to offer an international-standard luxury experience at affordable prices. Key highlights include:
- The Vessel: A 40-seater, state-of-the-art cruise ship equipped with a hybrid engine (electric-solar) to ensure a quiet, eco-friendly journey.
- Onboard Perks: Passengers can enjoy a one-hour round trip complete with live music, entertainment, and a dining area serving snacks and refreshments.
- Safety First: The vessel is built to international safety standards, featuring life jackets, advanced navigation systems, and a public announcement system for guided tours.
- The Route: The cruise will operate on a picturesque 7-8 km stretch between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur, offering panoramic views of the river’s natural landscape and the city’s skyline.
Timeline & Infrastructure
The journey of the Yamuna Cruise has been years in the making. Recent milestones include:
- The Arrival: The ship is expected to reach Delhi by January 24 or 25. Once it arrives, engineers will complete the final technical fittings, including the engine installation.
- The Launch: Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is slated to officially inaugurate the service in February 2026, coinciding with the anniversary of the current government.
- National Waterway 110: This project marks the debut of National Waterway 110 (NW-110) in Delhi, a collaborative effort between the Delhi Government, the DDA, and the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).
Boosting Connectivity & Tourism
This cruise service isn’t just for fun, it’s a strategic move to boost the local economy and urban mobility. By developing the starting point at Sonia Vihar as a recreational hub, the government is introducing water sports and leisure zones to North East Delhi. To ensure easy access, the DTC is planning dedicated shuttle services to link the cruise jetties with nearby Metro stations, making the riverfront a major weekend destination for all Delhiites.
The New Star of North East Delhi
Perhaps the most exciting part for local residents and investors is that the Yamuna Cruise terminal is located just a 5-minute distance from Sabhapur. Once a quiet residential pocket, Sabhapur has emerged as a high-light of development in North East Delhi. It is truly one of the area’s newest jewels, benefiting from massive infrastructure projects like the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway (Phase I of which is already seeing trial runs), the Signature Bridge, Sonia Vihar Metro Station and the upcoming elevated 6 lane road project. With its proximity to the Pink Line Metro extension and the lush green stretches of the Yamuna, Sabhapur is fast becoming the go-to destination for anyone looking for the perfect blend of modern connectivity and natural beauty.