Hi, Are there any cruises (direct/w.stops) from Europe to India? This is for a friend who is terrified of flying but needs to visit India.

Thanks,
S

There aren't any regularly scheduled sea trips that I'm aware of, but there are many cruise lines that stop in India, usually as part of a world cruise. Your friend might have to buy a couple of segments and travel for up to 2 weeks to reach India this way, but it might be possible. It would be very expensive.

Princess, for example, has a cruise that leaves from Dover on September 17 and eventually gets to Mumbai after 52 days at sea (this is about 2/3 of the way through this particular cruise). It might be possible to buy just a portion. Regent has a 24-night cruise from Piraeus to Mumbai that leaves on October 9.

But to be realistic, I think your friend needs to overcome the fear. Once you get to Mumbai, then you have to figure out how to get back.

Thank you. And, ouch!! Will pass along..

check out this link on overland travel from london to India.
http://www.seat61.com/India-overland.htm
it's not for the faint of heart, as you will go through Iran and Pakistan and it will take about 2-3 weeks. probably cheaper than a cruise, but will still cost more than air ticket. Pakistan is what would really concern me, considering current situation. good luck!

WOW!! I am impressed that anybody attempts this!

Thank you for the amazing seat61 site.. This is just what I need for the next year!!

The other way to do this is to find a freighter making the trip. Some freighters take passengers - google "freighter cruise".

This looks like the best bet for India - most routes seem to bypass India, heading direct for the Far East - www.freightercruises.com/09/07/-news.html

interesting site! i'm surprised how expensive it is to go by freighter. It costs same as a cruise ship, but without any amenities. also, for longer voyages i would think they'd give discount, but probably not. i think this would cure me of any fear of flying i might have!