In a momentous event today, Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, ceremoniously flagged off the MV Empress, India's inaugural international cruise vessel, from Chennai to Sri Lanka.

This groundbreaking occasion not only marked the commencement of the international cruise tourism terminal in Chennai but also signified the advent of a new era in cruise tourism and maritime trade across the nation. The construction of this magnificent terminal, which has cost approximately Rs 17.21 crores, stands as a testament to India's commitment to fostering growth in the cruise tourism industry.

The MV Empress, on its maiden voyage, will traverse three ports in Sri Lanka, namely Hanbantota, Trincomalee, and Kankesanturei. It will offer an array of captivating tour packages, ranging from 2 nights to 5 nights, before eventually returning to the vibrant city of Chennai. As the vessel embarks on this extraordinary journey, it brings with it the promise of unforgettable experiences, luxurious amenities, world-class entertainment, and breathtaking vistas, enabling people to revel in the splendors of cruise travel at an affordable cost.

Expressing his sentiments on this momentous occasion, Minister Sonowal acknowledged the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under whose guidance the cruise service between Chennai and Sri Lanka has come to fruition, ushering in a new chapter in India's cruise tourism sector. With the introduction of this service, the Indian populace can now relish and indulge in the opulence and convenience of international cruise travel, an experience that was once reserved for a privileged few.

The inception of this cruise service is the outcome of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Chennai Port and M/S Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd during the first Incredible India International Cruise Conference held in 2022. The resounding success of the domestic circuit, with an impressive 85,000 passengers availing the cruise service through 37 vessels, bodes well for the prospects of the international circuit, which is poised to further bolster the cruise tourism industry in the region.

The modern cruise terminal, meticulously developed at Chennai Port, spans a vast expanse of 2,880 square meters, providing ample space and state-of-the-art facilities to accommodate up to 3,000 passengers simultaneously. This terminal serves as a testament to India's commitment to providing an exceptional experience for cruise travelers, ensuring their comfort and convenience from the moment they step foot on Indian shores.

Minister Sonowal also divulged exciting plans for the future, stating that three additional international cruise terminals are expected to be completed and operational by 2024. Such significant infrastructure development, coupled with the increasing popularity of cruise travel, is predicted to propel the volume of cruise ships from 208 in 2023 to 500 in 2030 and a staggering 1100 by 2047. Consequently, the number of passengers availing cruise services is also anticipated to surge, skyrocketing from 9.5 lakhs in 2030 to an impressive 45 lakhs in 2047.

To boost the demand for cruise services along India's western, southern, and eastern coasts, the government is diligently working on various initiatives. These include the implementation of Gujarat Pilgrimage tours, Cultural and Scenic Tours, Ayurveda Wellness Tours, and Heritage Tourism. Additionally, plans are underway to develop new cruise tourism terminals in captivating destinations such as the Andaman Islands, Puducherry, and the enchanting Lakshadweep circuit. Furthermore, the government is actively exploring the feasibility of establishing ferry circuits that would connect India with neighboring countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Myanmar, thereby enhancing regional connectivity and promoting cross-border tourism.

In conclusion, the launch of the MV Empress and the inauguration of the international cruise tourism terminal in Chennai have marked significant milestones in India's cruise tourism industry. With a strong focus on infrastructure development, expanding services, and strategic partnerships, the government aims to position India as a prominent player in the global cruise market. As more and more travelers embark on these unforgettable journeys, the nation's cruise tourism sector is poised to flourish, captivating the imaginations of both domestic and international tourists alike.