Waterways Leisure Tourism Limited (WLTL), the operator of India’s leading premium cruise brand, Cordelia Cruises, has successfully raised ₹263.25 crore from anchor investors ahead of its much-anticipated Initial Public Offering (IPO), reinforcing investor confidence in India’s rapidly evolving cruise tourism sector.

The company has allocated shares to a diverse group of institutional investors as part of the anchor book process, providing a strong foundation for the public issue. The IPO, which opened for subscription on June 23 and closes on June 25, is entirely a fresh issue aimed at raising up to ₹585 crore. The price band has been fixed at ₹769–₹808 per equity share.

Waterways Leisure Tourism has emerged as a key player in India’s cruise tourism landscape through Cordelia Cruises, offering sailings across domestic destinations such as Mumbai, Goa, Kochi, Chennai, Lakshadweep, and Visakhapatnam, while also expanding its footprint on select international routes, including Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.

The proceeds from the IPO will primarily be utilised towards lease-related obligations of its subsidiary and for general corporate purposes, supporting the company’s long-term growth strategy amid increasing demand for experiential and luxury travel.

Industry experts believe the successful anchor round reflects growing investor interest in India’s cruise and maritime tourism segment, which is being actively promoted by the Government of India through various coastal and inland waterway tourism initiatives. As cruise tourism continues to gain popularity among Indian travellers, the listing of Waterways Leisure Tourism is expected to be a significant milestone for the sector.