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India’s first and only International Cruise launched! Know packages and tickets

India's only International Cruise EV Empress. Photo Credit: Google
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India: India’s first and only international Cruise has been launched on Monday from Chennai to Sri Lanka. The Cruise has been named as MV Empress and will be having a capacity of 750 passengers. It is scheduled to go to 3 places in Sri Lanka during its 5 days long sail. The three parts where it will take the passengers are Hanbantota, Trincomalee and Kankesanturei. The package will includes several options starting from two nights to three nights, four Nights as well as five nights. The cost of the ticket will change as per selected plan.

Price and package of MV Empress

The starting price will be around rupees 86,383 for two people for three nights. The fun part will be that the passengers can play Casino games while they are on the cruise. It is necessary to note that Casino games are not allowed in India. However, it will only be played on International seas as per NDTV report. Sarbananda Sonowal who is the Union Minister of ports, shipping and waterways highlighted how the Indian coastal region is overflowing with rich Heritage and Culture. He also stated that the potential of Cruise tourism in India is immense.

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He continued to say that the launch of the MV Empress will allow passengers to explore world class Cruise service. The affordable and easy access to it will get many passengers to enjoy and experience magnificent views. The MV Express started its journey from Chennai’s International Cruise Terminal which is at a cost of 17.21 crores. Recently, the world’s longest river cruise MV Ganga Vilas was also launched in India.

Three new International Cruise plan

As per the Indian government’s plan, three new International Cruise will be introduced soon in around 2024. The number of Cruise ships have gradually increased and is expected to go from 208 Cruises in 2023 to 500 in 2030. And by the end of 2047 there will be around 1100 Cruise ships. Moreover, the number of passengers who are exploring the service have also increased. As per reports, it is being estimated that 9.5 lakh passengers will opt for the service in 230. Where as it will touch the figures of 45 lakhs in 2047.

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