Vizhinjam International Port is poised to unlock new tourism opportunities after ship crew members were granted permission to go ashore, following approval from the Immigration Check Post (ICP). The move is expected to provide a significant boost to local tourism and allied services in the region.
With the ICP clearance in place, crew members aboard vessels calling at Vizhinjam can now avail themselves of the ‘shore leave’ facility. During cargo operations, crew members—including foreign nationals—will be allowed to disembark, visit nearby destinations and return to their vessels within the stipulated time.
Officials said the initiative will allow visiting seafarers to explore prominent religious and tourist attractions in and around Thiruvananthapuram. Planned visits include temples and popular destinations such as Kovalam and Shanghumugham beach, offering crew members a glimpse of Kerala’s cultural and natural heritage.
The Ports and Tourism departments have already initiated discussions to draw up a structured tourism project aimed at facilitating guided city tours for visiting crew members. The proposed initiative is expected to create new opportunities for local tour operators, transport providers and small businesses.
Authorities are optimistic that the shore leave facility will lead to a gradual expansion of tourism activity around the port. With Vizhinjam also expected to attract cruise vessels in the future, officials believe the port could emerge as an important gateway for maritime tourism in the state, further strengthening the local economy.