While previously more popular with international tourists and long-haul guests, Antara Cruises is now revising its routes to better serve Indian holidaymakers in search of long weekend escapes or culturally engaging short breaks.
Antara’s new journeys, set to launch in August and September 2025, promise a blend of nature, culture, and comfort in various curated formats.
Discover itineraries and routes below:
Creeks and crocodiles (2 nights/3 days | Departs 2 August 2025) | This expedition takes travellers through Bhitarkanika, India’s second-largest mangrove ecosystem, often referred to as the “mini-Amazon.” Starting from Gupti, a charming riverside village about 3.5 hours from Bhubaneswar, guests can partake in a village walk, enjoy a traditional Odia dinner, and experience a day-long cruise to Dangamal. Wildlife sightings may include estuarine crocodiles, deer, wild boars, Indian pythons, and numerous bird species, with a visit to the forest’s Orientation Centre concluding the adventure.
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Mangrove Majesty (3 nights/4 days | Departs 4 August 2025) | For those desiring a more immersive experience in Bhitarkanika National Park, this extended journey includes a voyage to Habali Kathi. Highlights include guided nature walks, serene river passages, and close encounters with the region’s rare wildlife.
Kolkata to Mayapur – Upstream (3 nights/4 days | Departs 15 September 2025) | This peaceful cruise up the Hooghly River features cultural stops at Bandel and Kalna. Travellers will visit landmarks such as the historic Hooghly Imambara and the Rajbari Temple Complex before reaching the ISKCON global headquarters in Mayapur.
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Mayapur to Kolkata – Downstream (3 nights/4 days | Departs 18 September 2025) | The return journey begins at the revered ISKCON temple in Mayapur, followed by a stop at Guptipara, known for its paddy fields and Himsagar mangoes. Passengers will explore traditional Vaishnav terracotta temples and handloom weaving in Fulia before proceeding to the colonial towns of Chandernagore (French) and Serampore (Danish).
Commenting on the new offerings, founder and chairman of Antara Cruises, Raj Singh, stated: “Over the years, we’ve been fortunate to host travellers from across the globe. Now, we’re noticing increasing interest from Indian travellers seeking shorter, meaningful getaways that transcend the conventional. These new voyages are crafted to address that demand, blending cultural richness, flexible durations, and the distinctive elegance of every Antara journey. We’re thrilled to welcome more Indian guests aboard.”
The new routes are meticulously designed for Indian travellers, adapting to the evolving tastes of Indian tourists, featuring weekly departures, personalized experiences, and all-inclusive stays aboard its boutique vessels and catamarans.
