In a significant development for cruise enthusiasts in Kerala, the Central government has given its nod to the Beypore-Kochi-Dubai cruise service. This move, announced by Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, is a response to persistent demands from non-resident Indian passengers. Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden had recently raised a query, leading to the initiation of the cruise ship service.
The cruise, estimated to take approximately three days, aims to commence operations before the December school break, facilitating affordable travel for Indian expats in the UAE. YA Rahim, President of the Indian Association Sharjah, emphasized the goal of providing an economical alternative to the often exorbitant airline charges faced by non-resident Keralites traveling between Kerala and Dubai.
The cruise service, expected to accommodate up to 1,250 passengers, is a result of collaborative efforts involving the Shipping Corporation of India, NoRKA-Roots, and the Kerala Maritime Board. The vessel designated for the Kochi-Dubai route, repurposed from its original construction in Kochi for another state, is fully equipped for the journey.
For expatriates grappling with soaring airfares, the cruise service presents a cost-effective solution, offering one-way tickets for as low as ₹10,000. This initiative, supported by cargo companies, not only enhances feasibility but also allows passengers to carry three times the luggage permitted on an airplane.
As discussions unfolded at prominent forums, the decision to approve the cruise service reflects a collaborative effort to address the travel challenges faced by non-resident Keralites. The prospect of a more affordable and convenient mode of transportation is poised to reshape the landscape of travel between Kerala and Dubai.
