India’s Union Minister for Port, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday (June 5) flagged off India’s first international cruise from Chennai Port to Sri Lanka. Named 'Cordelia Empress', it has marked a new chapter in the growth of cruise tourism in India.
While speaking at an event in Chennai organized to mark the launch, Sonowal said, “It has been a vision of our honourable Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) to develop cruise tourism in the country. India has a huge potential in the cruise tourism segment. Last year we organized an international cruise tourism event in Mumbai in which many international cruise liners participated. Besides Chennai Port, the Department of Tourism, Tamil Nadu extended all the support to make this endeavour a success,” added Sonowal.
Sunil Paliwal, Chairman, Chennai Port Authority said, “Today we are witnessing a historic event as the first international cruise is starting operation from this port. This is a proud moment not just for Chennai Port but for the entire coastline of the country. We received excellent support from Cordelia Cruises. We have partnered with many government agencies and worked with them in tandem to make this (cruise service) happen.”
Jurgen Bailom, President & CEO, Cordelia Cruises said, “Today is a historic day as we embark on a new journey. We were the first one to start operations in the year 2021 when the tourism sector came to a standstill. Our honourable Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) has been persistent about supporting Sri Lanka as much as possible. And we are moving in the right direction.”
The cruise tour package will allow tourists to visit the ports of Hambantota, Trincomalee, and Jaffna in Sri Lanka, before returning to Chennai. Cordelia Cruises will offer regular services on this route, providing tourists with options for 3-night, 4-night and 5-night cruise packages.
Onboard the cruise, passengers will have access to world-class restaurants and bars offering international and Indian cuisines, as well as onboard entertainment and premium accommodation options.