India's first international cruise was launched by the government-owned Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) in collaboration with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) in 2008. The cruise ship, named "MV Ocean Odyssey," embarked on its maiden voyage from Mumbai, India.
The MV Ocean Odyssey was a luxurious cruise liner designed to cater to both domestic and international tourists. It was equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and amenities to provide a memorable experience to its passengers. The ship had various types of cabins, including suites and staterooms, offering comfortable accommodations to travelers.
The cruise offered a range of itineraries, taking passengers to different international destinations. Some of the popular routes included trips to Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Dubai. The voyage provided an opportunity for travelers to explore these exotic locations and experience their unique culture, history, and natural beauty.
Onboard the MV Ocean Odyssey, passengers could enjoy a wide range of amenities and entertainment options. The ship had multiple restaurants serving diverse cuisines, bars, lounges, a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center, and other recreational facilities. Various entertainment activities such as live performances, dance shows, and casinos were also available to keep passengers engaged throughout the journey.
The launch of India's first international cruise was a significant milestone for the country's tourism industry. It opened up new avenues for travelers to explore international destinations directly from India, without the need for air travel. The cruise aimed to provide a luxurious and comfortable experience to its passengers while promoting tourism and strengthening India's presence in the global cruise market.
Since the launch of the MV Ocean Odyssey, several other cruise liners have entered the Indian market, offering international cruise experiences from different Indian ports. These cruises have become increasingly popular among Indian travelers, providing them with an alternative way to explore foreign countries while enjoying the comforts and amenities of a luxury cruise ship.
Cruise tourism has seen an immense surge in recent years in India and worldwide. Seeing the potential of this sector, India, on June 5, inaugurated its first international cruise vessel, MV Empress. Flagged off from Chennai to Sri Lanka, the cruise will cover three ports during the 5-day cruise. This also means that Indians no longer need to go abroad to board a ship to get international cruise experience.
Inaugurating the cruise from Chennai, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal called it a historic step for the maritime sector, adding that the initiative will further boost tourism and generate employment. Given an overwhelming response, the opening of the international circuit is expected to boost cruise tourism further. Official numbers suggest that 85,000 passengers have availed of the cruise through 37 vessels for the domestic course.
All About MV Empress Journey
The cruise will depart from Chennai to travel through three Sri Lankan ports: Hambantota, Trincomalee, and Kankesanturei. During its run at sea, MV Empress will be touching these ports before returning to Chennai.
Cost
The tour package reportedly costs INR 86,383 (for two people for three nights). The package varies from two nights to five nights, depending on the number of days one wishes to stay. The maximum a person can remain on the cruise is for five days. There is also the availability of a two & three-night package. The cruise will depart from Chennai's International Cruise Terminal, built for INR 17.21 crores.
More International Cruise Vessels In Pipeline
Union Minister Sonowal said that three new international cruise terminals are expected to be completed and operational by 2024. He also added that the number of cruise ships will be increased from 208 in 2023 to 500 in 2030 and up to 1100 by 2047. With this cruise, the Central government aims to develop world-class infrastructure to boost cruise tourism and maritime trade.
The minister added, "With our rich heritage & culture around our coastal region, the potential of cruise tourism in India is immense. Today, as we launch the maiden cruise service between Chennai and Sri Lanka, it has ushered a new chapter in the cruise tourism sector in the country. As the affordability and access to world-class cruise services become a reality, the people can enjoy & relish luxurious amenities, entertainment, and breathtaking views."
source:https://www.outlookindia.com/outlooktraveller/travelnews/story/72161/cruise-tourism-indias-first-international-cruise-vessel-departs-for-sri-lanka?utm_source=pocket-newtab-intl-en
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