The Kerala government has approved the Beypore-Kochi-Dubai cruise service to boost tourism and facilitate budget-friendly international travel. The decision comes in response to significant demand from non-resident Indian passengers. Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced the development, signaling the initial steps towards the service’s launch.
Benefits of Beypore-Kochi-Dubai Cruise Service:
The cruise service aims to offer substantial benefits to non-resident Keralites residing abroad, providing relief from high airfares. The cruise tickets are expected to cost half or one-third of airplane tickets, allowing passengers to carry three times more luggage.
Passenger Capacity and Technology:
The cruise is designed to accommodate up to 1,250 passengers at a time, featuring advanced technology for a seamless travel experience. With a travel time of approximately three days, the service is geared towards facilitating convenient travel for Indian expats in the UAE.
Purpose Behind the Cruise Service:
YA Rahim, President of the Indian Association Sharjah, highlighted the initiative’s goal to launch the service before the December school break. This ensures that Indian expats in the UAE can travel to their hometown without incurring exorbitant airline charges.
Special Designation for Kochi-Dubai Route:
The cruise, originally designated for another state, has been reassigned for exclusive use on the Kochi-Dubai route. Initially constructed in Kochi, the vessel has now been repurposed to enhance Kerala Gulf services.
The introduction of the Beypore-Kochi-Dubai cruise service reflects Kerala’s commitment to promoting tourism and offering cost-effective travel solutions for its diaspora. The move aligns with efforts to provide accessible and convenient international travel options, making it an attractive prospect for non-resident Keralites seeking affordable journeys to their homeland.