India is surrounded by water bodies and has a lot of potential for cruise tourism. In addition to this, there is a scope for water sports as a part of tourism. In keeping with this, the authorities have decided to launch the country’s first international cruise vessel and it was flagged off by the Union Minister! Here’s what you need to know about the cruise vessel from Chennai to Sri Lanka.
India’s 1st International Cruise Vessel Flagged Off!
Historic Beginning! ⛴️
Flagged off the first regular international cruise service from @PortofChennai, the MV Empress to Sri Lanka. Cruise tourism holds huge opportunity for our maritime sector, and this cruise will further boost tourism, generate employment and strengthen the… pic.twitter.com/b6tSWdeg0z
— Sarbananda Sonowal (@sarbanandsonwal) June 5, 2023
The first international cruise ship from India was formally launched on Monday by Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. The MV Empress cruise set sail from Chennai port to Sri Lanka and can hold 3,000 guests. Further, it will stop at three ports in Sri Lanka, namely Trincomalee, Hambantota, and Jaffna. The ship also has several activities, including casino games where visitors can win money. The game will only be played in international waters, according to the operators.
In Chennai, a new era of cruise tourist and marine trade has begun with the opening of the international cruise tourism terminal, which cost ₹17.21 crores to build. According to an NDTV report, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal stated that they are aiming to turn Chennai into a cruise tourism hub. He further stated that a casino is required for a modern outlook.
Also Read: All You Need To Know About The New Mysuru-Chennai Vande Bharat Express
Chennai To Be Developed As A Cruise Centre!
The Chennai port, which is primarily used for cargo, is in severe need of modern cruise passenger amenities, immigration facilities, and baggage claim facilities. The minister also saw to it that Tuticorin port will be developed into a cruise centre with the ability to provide intriguing cruise itineraries.
The domestic and international cruise service is the product of an MoU inked in 2022 during the first Incredible India International Cruise Conference between Chennai Port and M/S Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd. It is predicted that the launch of the international circuit will help the local cruise tourism industry grow even further. With an incredible response, 85,000 passengers utilised the cruise service through 37 vessels for the domestic circuit.
Also Read: Travel By Chennai Metro With Your WhatsApp Ticket! Here’s How To Book It
The modern cruise terminal built at Chennai Port is 2,880 square metres in size and can accommodate 3,000 people at once.
Cover Image Courtesy: Sarbananda Sonowal/ Twitter