Recognizing the immense potential of this industry, India took a momentous step on June 5 2023 by inaugurating its maiden international cruise ship, MV Empress.
Commencing its journey from Chennai to Sri Lanka, this 5-day cruise will encompass three ports along its route.
MV Empress, India’s first international cruise, sets sail for Sri Lanka
This groundbreaking development means that Indian travelers no longer need to venture overseas to board a ship and partake in an international cruise experience.
During the inauguration ceremony in Chennai, Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, hailed this occasion as a historic stride for the maritime sector.
He emphasized that this endeavor would not only bolster tourism but also generate employment opportunities.
The overwhelming response received thus far indicates that the introduction of the international circuit is poised to further amplify cruise tourism.
Official statistics reveal that 85,000 passengers have already availed themselves of domestic cruises offered by 37 vessels.
MV Empress Journey in Detail
The voyage of MV Empress will commence from Chennai and traverse through three Sri Lankan ports:
Hambantota
Trincomalee, and
Kankesanturei.
The cruise will make stops at these ports before returning to Chennai.
Cost to travel in MV Empress
The reported price for the tour package is INR 86,383 (for two individuals for three nights).
The package duration can vary from two nights to five nights, depending on the desired length of stay.
The maximum duration for an individual’s cruise experience is five days.
Additionally, there are options available for two and three-night packages.
The departure point for the cruise is Chennai’s International Cruise Terminal, which was constructed at a cost of INR 17.21 crores.
courtesy THE HINDU: CHENNAI, 12/10/2018 : For City Desk :The new Modernised International Cruise terminal at Chennai Port Trust inagurated by K.J.Alphons,Union minister of state for tourism in chennai during the Port Day celebrations on Friday. Photo: B. Jothi Ramalingam / The Hindu
Upcoming International Cruise Vessels
According to Union Minister Sonowal, three new international cruise terminals are slated to be completed and operational by 2024.
He also mentioned that the number of cruise ships is expected to increase from 208 in 2023 to 500 by 2030, eventually reaching up to 1100 by 2047.
Through the introduction of this cruise, the central government aims to develop top-notch infrastructure to bolster cruise tourism and maritime trade.
The minister further stated, “India possesses immense potential in cruise tourism, given our rich heritage and cultural significance along our coastal regions.
Today, with the inauguration of the inaugural cruise service between Chennai and Sri Lanka, we embark on a new chapter in the cruise tourism sector within the country.
As world-class cruise services become affordable and accessible, people can indulge in luxurious amenities, entertainment, and awe-inspiring views.”
