Cruise season in Kerala starts around the time of October. Domestic services have started already. There will be 16 domestic services this financial year.
After a hiatus of two years, international cruise travellers are all set to arrive on Kerala shores. The first ship will arrive at Kochi port by November. With this, Kochi will regain its old glory as one of the main cruise hubs in the tourism sector.
This financial year, 38 international cruise ships arrived at Kochi shore. Main cruise lines have contacted the port officials and held discussions about arriving at Cochi. The companies have not yet informed about the number of tourists arriving at Cochi. Booking of tickets has already started.
Cruise season in Kerala starts around the time of October. Domestic services have started already. There will be 16 domestic services this financial year.
It is estimated that a major part of tourism income, including from Kerala, is through cruise tourism. To attract more cruise lines to India, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and waterways has reduced the port tariffs. This was to protect the cruise sector that was badly hit by the pandemic. The concession given is more than 70 per cent. Big ships that ought to pay around Rs 60 lakh, only have to pay Rs 12-15 lakh. This amount is to be produced when the ship arrives at the port.
