THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In search of new avenues for tourism, the Maritime Board has approved the luxury ship service connecting Vizhinjam, Kollam, Kochi, Beypur and Azheekal ports. As part of this, the board accepted the application submitted by the Mumbai SSR Marion Private Limited Cruise Company to run luxury cruise services up to 20 nautical miles into the bay. Application is submitted to Port Department for approval. The advantage is that the government and the board will get revenue without direct investment.

The permission was sought by the company which operates cruise services to Goa and other places on lease. Being a foreign flag ship there will be no barriers to go and spend time in the bay. The 280-passenger ship will have modern amenities. The arrival and departure of luxury ships will increase the development potential of the ports. Tourism employment opportunities in the coastal areas will also increase as sailing is linked to other tourist destinations. Dredging of the harbour base to accommodate ships will begin soon.

Amenities on board

Five-star hotel

Restaurant

Casino

Online games

Games for kids

Bar, Pub

Aquapark

Live music and dance shows

Income

5% of the ticket charge to the Maritime Board

Bar license fee to Govt

GST revenue

Port charge