Nicole Edene
Antara River Cruises makes a strong case for why guests should choose India as their next destination in Asia.
New itineraries have been added to the luxury river cruise line that sails India’s major rivers and inland waterways. They range from short journeys on the Kolkata-Varanasi route to new travel styles, including an intimate catamaran voyage through Bhitarkanika National Park, and new vegetarian cruise itineraries.
Catamaran sailing in Bhitarkanika National Park
Travellers looking to embark on a journey to one of India’s most biologically diverse ecosystems by the end of the year will have several opportunities to do so on Antara’s newest catamaran voyage through Bhitarkanika National Park in the country’s northeastern corner.
This catamaran voyage follows the Brahmani-Baitarani-Mahanadi river network.
There are currently two itineraries available: a three-night cruise on the Bhitarkanika and a four-night Amazon of the East, both aboard the Bhitarkanika and Mahanadi, vessels built specifically to navigate the river system.
On board, guests can enjoy local cuisine prepared from scratch by a private chef. The bedroom suites are contemporary and designed with contemporary furniture, original artwork, handloom fabrics and luxurious linens.
There is a sun deck with several lounge chairs, where guests can watch the forest creatures pass by. The catamaran takes its time sailing and slowly cruises through India’s second largest mangrove forest, giving guests a front-row view of the area’s flora and fauna, including saltwater crocodiles and over 320 species of birds.
When I think of these catamaran cruises, I think of European canal barge cruises: slow pace, cozy cabins, and an up-close look at life in small waterways that larger ships would never dare enter.
The best departures for these two weekend trips are in November and December. Cruise fares on Bhitarkanika start at $1,235 per person, while those on the Amazon of the East start at $1,645 per person.
Walk the Buddha's Path
One of Antara's latest itineraries takes travelers on a spiritual journey following the footsteps of the Buddha.
On the 10-night, 30-day 'Walk the Buddha' itinerary, travelers sail between Kolkata and Varanasi, exploring important sites on the Buddhist path – temples, ancient ruins and educational institutions – and stopping at ports such as Sultanganj, Munger and Patna.
Site visits include the excavation site of the former Bikramshila University, the granite island of Sultanganj and the Chandikasthan temple dedicated to Goddess Shakti.
There is currently one flight departing in late October 2024, with fares starting at $5,085 per person.
Enjoy a vegan cruise
Vegetarian travel is quickly becoming mainstream in the travel market, with many suppliers introducing plant-based culinary offerings.
Antara is no different. This luxury river cruise line is launching the first vegetarian cruise that uses locally sourced ingredients to create authentic vegetarian dishes, meaning no fake meat or artificial substitutes.
Artisans of Bengal — The Vegan Cruise is called the eight-night round trip from Kolkata, stopping at Bandel, Mayapur and Fulia. No animal products are used on the ship during this journey, and Antara stands for this. Even the crew's uniforms are made from recycled fabrics, canvas shoes and woven belts.
Sustainability is a key part of Antara’s latest itinerary launch. The line is deepening its investment in sustainable practices on the river, using local produce, indigenous artisan foods and crafts, and dolphin deterrents.
As tempting as this culinary adventure sounds, travelers will have to wait a little longer to board the ship. The first departure of this cruise is scheduled for September 8, 2025.
