In yet another major boost to the Maldives’ thriving tourism sector, the Indian cruise liner MS Nautica docked in the country this week, bringing 610 tourists and 397 crew members to the island paradise. The luxury vessel, which departed from the Indian port of Mormugao, marks the ninth international cruise ship to visit the Maldives this year—an encouraging sign of continued confidence in the destination.
The arrival was efficiently processed by the Seaport Division of Maldives Immigration, showcasing the country’s growing readiness to handle the rising tide of cruise tourism.
With President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration doubling down on infrastructure and maritime tourism development, the Maldives is steadily carving out its place as a premier hub for Indian Ocean cruise travel. Under his leadership, the government has announced plans to develop dedicated cruise jetties in three strategic regions, aiming to further attract high-value cruise liners and support the dispersal of tourism across the atolls.
This visit follows the March arrival of MS Insignia, a luxury liner from Oceania Cruises, which brought in thousands of travelers to Maldivian shores—an event that signaled a strong post-pandemic revival of the cruise tourism segment.
Cruise ship arrivals are not just numbers—they represent livelihoods, economic activity, and regional empowerment. As President Muizzu’s government continues to prioritize expanding the tourism portfolio beyond resorts and guesthouses, cruise tourism is fast becoming a pillar of the Maldivian economic engine.
The Maldives has always been a jewel in the Indian Ocean. Now, with strengthened connectivity, modern infrastructure in the pipeline, and bold vision from the top, it’s on course to become a cruise tourism powerhouse.
