In a momentous event aimed at propelling cruise tourism in India, Costa Serena, the country’s first international cruise liner, is ready to embark on its domestic sailings this season. Scheduled to commence in Mumbai, this event is a part of the ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ initiative, which encourages middle-class tourists to explore domestic travel options.
Commencement of Costa Cruise Voyages
The Costa cruise voyages are slated to begin on November 4 and will continue operations until January 1, offering an extended two-month cruising experience. Costa Cruises anticipates ferrying approximately 45,000 passengers during these voyages, marking a significant milestone in the development of India as a premier cruise destination. The increasing confidence of international cruise liners in India’s burgeoning cruise potential is evident.
Costa Serena: A Remarkable Cruise Liner
Costa Cruises had previously announced the domestic sailings of Costa Serena for November and December 2023. This magnificent cruise liner has a passenger capacity of 3,780 individuals, spread across its 14 decks, and offers a diverse selection of 10 restaurants. To embark on these domestic sailings, passengers are required to present their Aadhar Card as part of the boarding process.
Government’s Commitment to Global Cruising
The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized the government’s commitment to putting India on the global cruising map. Discussions during the Global Maritime India Summit 2023 revolved around the ambitious goal of attracting 50 million cruise passengers to India by 2047. Given India’s immense potential in the maritime sector, Minister Sonowal believes this target is easily achievable.
Milestones in Indian Cruise Tourism
India reached a significant milestone this year with the launch of MV Ganga Vilas, the world’s longest river cruise. This remarkable journey took passengers from Varanasi to Dibrugarh in Assam, traversing 27 riverfronts, including a portion of the route through Bangladesh. The cruise attracted the interest of both international and domestic tourists, further promoting cruise tourism in India.
Enhancing Cruise Travel Experience
Speaking at the Global Maritime Summit, Minister Sonowal highlighted the cutting-edge infrastructure, advanced technology, and streamlined immigration procedures that have been implemented to enhance the cruise travel experience in India.
More International Cruise Liners on the Horizon
In addition to Costa, three more international cruise liners are gearing up to commence their domestic sailings in India between November and December 2023. The Indian government’s agreement with these globally renowned cruise lines, including Costa, has set a vision for 2041, with the aim of boosting cruise tourism in the country. According to a senior official from the Cochin Port Authority, these cruise ships collectively dominate 80 percent of the cruise market.
About Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises, a part of the Carnival Corporation & plc Group, boasts a fleet of 10 ships and operates globally. With headquarters in Genoa, Costa sails on various routes across the world, including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, North and Central America, South America, the Arab Emirates, and the Far East. Costa Cruises had pioneered the introduction of the Mumbai to Maldives itineraries in 2016, offering these journeys until 2020.