Highlights
- Approval granted for a proposed 4000-km cruise route from Kerala to Dubai i.e Beypur in Kozhikode, via Kochi, to Dubai, according to regional reports.
- Indian central government reportedly confirmed the route’s approval during a parliamentary session.
- Kerala Maritime Board and NORKA tasked with conducting feasibility studies for potential passenger cruise ships.
- Initiative aimed at addressing the high travel costs during peak seasons, offering affordable cruise rates ranging from Rs10,000 to Rs15,000 per person.
- Upcoming release of tenders by NORKA Roota and Kerala Maritime Board to invite proposals for vessels or services for the cruise route project.
Proposed Cruise Route from Kerala to Dubai
Expats and tourists might soon have an alternative travel option cruise route from Kerala to Dubai, as recent regional reports indicate the approval of a sea route connecting the two destinations.
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Indian Government Approves Kerala-Dubai Cruise Route
According to media sources, the Indian central government has greenlit a 4000-km cruise route from Beypur in Kozhikode, via Kochi, to Dubai. During a parliamentary Q&A session, India’s Union Shipping Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal, reportedly confirmed the approval of this route.
Kerala Maritime Board Eyes Feasibility for Kerala-UAE Cruise
Chairman of the Kerala Maritime Board, NS Pillai, mentioned in September that the Department of Non-Resident Keralite’s Affairs (NORKA) had been tasked with conducting feasibility studies for potential passenger cruise ships aimed at bridging the travel gap between Kerala and the UAE.
Affordable Cruise Route Initiative Addresses High Travel Costs
This initiative addresses the necessity for an alternative route due to high travel costs, especially during peak seasons. Reports from June 2023 highlighted potential affordable cruise rates ranging from Rs10,000 to Rs15,000 per person (Dh440 to Dh660).
For tourists visit https://www.tripadvisor.com/Cruises-g297633-a_dp.295424-Cruises_from-Dubai-To-Kochi_Cochin_Ernakulam_District_Kerala
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Next Steps for Kerala-Dubai Cruise Route Advancement
Upcoming steps involve NORKA Roota and the Kerala Maritime Board releasing tenders for the project, inviting companies to submit proposals for vessels or services, as per Mathrubhumi’s report. This development could potentially offer a three-day sea journey, potentially boosting tourism for Kerala.