HYDERABAD: As cruising continues to remain a relatively unfamiliar concept for a large section of the domestic tourism and leisure market, Cordelia Cruises has added a new vessel, Cordelia Sky, to its fleet in an effort to popularise cruise holidays in India.
The vessel began operations with an inaugural three-night voyage from Mumbai to Goa and back. Through its range of onboard amenities and entertainment options, Cordelia Cruises aims to make cruising a more mainstream leisure choice for Indian travellers.
The 12-deck Cordelia Sky resembles a floating city, offering a range of recreational, entertainment and hospitality experiences. The ship features 11 bars and lounges, two swimming pools, five hot tubs and over 30,000 sq. ft. of open-deck space.
At the centre of its entertainment offerings is the 930-seat Marquee Theatre, which hosts stage productions, live performances and musical shows.
For those seeking quieter pursuits, the vessel houses a library with around 1,500 books. The ship also features a casino, multiple bars and restaurants serving a mix of Indian and international cuisine. A luxury spa offers wellness treatments in a tranquil setting at sea.
The appeal of the cruise, however, lies not only in the amenities but also in the flexibility it offers passengers to spend their time at leisure while travelling along the coastline.
Jurgen Bailom, president and chief executive officer of Cordelia Cruises, said the company began operations five years ago with the objective of making cruising an accessible and attractive holiday option for Indian travellers.
“Since then, we have expanded to two ships operating from two homeports, offering passengers a wider choice of destinations and itineraries,” he said.
The company currently offers two-night weekend cruises, three-night Goa sailings, four-night Lakshadweep voyages and five-night itineraries covering both Goa and Lakshadweep. According to the company, the shorter itineraries enable travellers to experience cruising without committing to a long holiday.
Bailom said Cordelia Cruises was attempting to combine international-style hospitality with regional familiarity. Domestic itineraries also reduce the need for international travel arrangements, including passports and visas that may be required for overseas holidays. However, passengers must comply with documentation requirements applicable to their specific sailings.
The company is also highlighting its domestic economic contribution through local operations, employment generation and tax payments.
Bailom said the corporate and celebrations segment had emerged as a major growth area for the company.
“Corporate events, meetings and weddings account for nearly 30 to 35 per cent of our business,” he said, highlighting the growing use of cruise ships as venues for business gatherings and special occasions.
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