Vizhinjam to boost tourism projects; luxury cruises to happen soon

VIZHINJAM: Vizhinjam is gearing up for a luxury cruise as part of developing tourism projects. ISPS Code and Emigration Check Post Code have been obtained for this. In addition, the necessary safety measures have been completed in Vizhinjam. In the coming days, luxury cruises will be launched from Vizhinjam.

A meeting was held with entrepreneurs in this regard. According to the authorities, about 15 people from 12 entrepreneurial organizations participated in the meeting held in Ernakulam on the 19th under the leadership of the Maritime Board. If the project is successful, ship service to more countries will be started. Those who participated in the entrepreneurial discussion have been asked to submit a letter of interest prior to this.

Benefit for tourism

With the arrival of the luxury ship, it is hoped that tourist centers including Kovalam will get more active. Silver Discoverer in 2019 was the last luxury cruise shipto come ashore with 101 foreign tourists. There were five Indians on board, including a Malayali. Due to its large size, the tourists were brought to shore by dinghy boat from the ship anchored in the outer sea. There were 213 people on board including the crew. Crew change took place here temporarily when the luxury liner service was stopped due to the covid epidemic.

Inland water cruise service

Along with the luxury cruise service from Vizhinjam, there is also a plan to operate an inland water cruise service. Its proceedings are in progress. It is planned to implement the luxury travel scheme focusing on the rivers and backwaters of the state.

• Dredging will be required at the harbor mouth and new wharf to accommodate larger ships.
• Plan to conduct the first phase of luxury cruise from Vizhinjam to Sri Lanka and Maldives.
• Plan for service from Kollam to Beypur and Mangaluru