Cruise ship with 619 passengers calls at New Mangalore Port

MS Sirena arrives at New Mangalore Port, enhancing cruise tourism with 619 passengers exploring local culture and attractions.

The third cruise vessel of the current cruise season, MS Sirena, with 619 passengers and 390 crew members on board called at The New Mangalore Port on Sunday (March 8, 2026) boosting cruise tourism in the region.

The cruise liner sailing under the Marshall Islands flag and operated by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, arrived at the port at 9 a.m. from Kochi as part of its international itinerary covering Colombo – Kochi – Mangaluru – Goa – Mumbai.

Passengers of MS Sirena being welcomed at New Mangalore Port Authority. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Passengers were accorded a warm traditional welcome at the Cruise Terminal, reflecting the vibrant culture and hospitality of coastal Karnataka. To ensure a seamless experience for the visiting tourists, New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), in coordination with various stakeholders, made elaborate arrangements at the Cruise Terminal.

During their stay, passengers had the opportunity to explore several prominent tourist destinations in and around Mangaluru, including Gokarnanatheshwara temple, the historic St. Aloysius Chapel, Tribhuvana Tilaka Choodamani Basadi (or thousand pillar Jain temple) at Moodbidri, as well as local markets. Guided tours were arranged for visitors to experience the region’s rich heritage, cuisine, and craftsmanship.

Cultural programmes, including traditional performances and meditation sessions, were also organised to provide tourists with a glimpse of India’s cultural and spiritual traditions.