KMEW to launch luxury Narmada River cruise service

Knowledge Marine & Engineering Works Limited (KMEW) announced it has received a letter of acceptance (LoA) from the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) to build and operate a luxury cruise for 20 years. This cruise will operate between Kukshi, District Dhar (Madhya Pradesh), and the Statue of Unity, Gujarat, covering approximately 135 km on the Narmada River. The LoA was presented during the Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart 2025 by various dignitaries, including Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.

KMEW’s entry into maritime tourism marks the launch of its first luxury cruise vessel, "River Pearl Cruise," expected to commence operations within 21 months from the LoA date, subject to a detailed agreement with MPTB. The project, conceptualized under the MP Tourism Policy 2025, emphasizes eco-friendly operations and community engagement. The three-day voyage will link the "Statue of Oneness" at Omkareshwar and the "Statue of Unity," featuring cultural workshops, temple visits, meditation, and eco-tourism experiences.

The company anticipates a significant revenue generation potential of up to INR 800 crores over a 20-year period from this segment. The "River Pearl Cruise" will be a 70-meter twin-hull luxury catamaran, offering 36 deluxe cabins, fine dining, an infinity pool, spa, and hybrid propulsion systems with zero-discharge waste management for sustainable operations.