The centre has agreed to the proposal of beginning a cruise service between Kerala and Gulf countries. The service will run from Beypore-KochiDubai sector, taking into account the demands of expatriate passengers. In response to MP Hibi Eden’s questions in the Lok Sabha, union shipping minister Sarbananda Sonowal said that tender procedures have been initiated to begin the cruise ship service.
As of now, expatriates come to Kerala by paying a hefty sum in air ticket charges. The ship charge will only come up to one-third of the plane ticket charges. Additionally, three times more luggage can be brought on the ship when compared to a plane.
This development is the result of the continuous pressure placed by the Kerala government on the centre to launch the cruise service. This matter was also raised in the meetings of the Shipping corporation of India, NORKA roots and Kerala Maritime Board.
NORKA roots and Kerala Maritime Board has been tasked with publishing the tender for the project. Companies interested in providing the vessel and or running the service can participate in the tender.