Built in 2004, with inspiration from traditional Burmese river vessels and colonial Clyde steamships, the Antara Bengal Ganga has been refreshed and refurbished into a contemporary, graceful craft with 20 suites. The newly added eclectic 1970s decor that features wood, metal and leather brings to life the gleaming Burmese teak floors and decks of the original. Curved motifs, rounded edges and striking colours, and the new artwork by Anil Chandran P create a fresh, stylish and restful feel. Large balconies and artful décor allow old-world charm to embrace you on your voyage and immerse you in the spectacular sunsets on the Ganges.

The newest member of the fleet of Antara River Cruises is an 18-suite ship that sets sail on the longest, most picturesque river cruise in the world. Over 51 days across 2 countries, 5 states and 27 river systems, Antara’s Ganga Vilas sails from Varanasi to Dibrugarh via Dhaka. Ganga Vilas is a celebration of post-independence Indian design innovation. It features elegant mid-century furniture, enhanced by Varanasi’s Gyasar textiles and contemporary meditative art.

With its sister ship, Antara’s Ganges Voyager II was one of the first to sail the Ganges as a cruise vessel. Its all-white Georgian décor cocoons guests in a glorious past, combined seamlessly with contemporary hospitality and comforts. 

Common spaces are rich with cane and wood furniture, Persian rugs, and wide Burmese teak decks. Large French balconies offer riverscapes and spectacular views to guests. In the spacious suites, intricate tapestries and hand-stenciled murals embellish a luxe stay. Cosy sitting areas, a gym and spa, breezy, sun-kissed spaces and excellent service make these ships serene sanctuaries for travellers in India.

Antara’s compact and well-designed catamarans come with two well-appointed suites, a lounge-dining area, a sundeck and a scratch kitchen. For the first time, guests can experience comfort cruising in Odisha’s Bhitarkanika National Park, home to India’s second-largest mangrove system, and its four rivers, Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra and Pathsala.

Each catamaran has two plush cabins, a lounge-dining area, a sundeck, kitchen, butler service and an expert naturalist on board.

A pioneer on the river, Antara’s Ganges Voyager was the first of the fleet of Antara River Cruises. For 56 guests in 28 suites, the past feels alive here, with ornamental William Morris-style Arts and Craft décor. Iconic cane and wood furniture, Persian rugs, and wide Burmese teak decks offer stylish comfort. 

French balconies with floor-to-ceiling glass doors present expansive views of the river. Rich tapestries and hand-stenciled murals embellish the large and luxurious suites. Cosy sitting areas, a gym and spa, breezy, sun-kissed common spaces and excellent service make these ships serene sanctuaries for travellers in India.

Antara Nauka Vilas is a one-of-a-kind, private houseboat that rekindles the romance of river cruising in comfort. An elegant 32-meter wooden ship, beautifully designed and built by hand, it has just one spacious presidential suite and a sun deck, and is perfect for private charters or bespoke journeys in and around Varanasi.