Kochi to gain foothold on global tourism map
Kochi, Sep.11, 2009
Kochi is preparing to reinforce its position as a leading international cruise destination in the country.The port city shot into the limelight after it became the stopover port in Asia for the grand Volvo Ocean Race.Now it’s set to become a permanent homeport for a number of cruise ships that are planning to berth here this year and in future.
As part of the new scheme, German luxury vessel Aida Cara is scheduled to land here on Oct.22.The cruise liner will be berthed at the port till Oct.27 during which time its high-spending passengers numbering around 2,500 would disembark at Kochi and fly to their respective destinations. While a fresh set of passengers would converge at Kochi and board the vessel from here.
N. Ramachandran, chairman, Port Trust, is reported to have stated that the new scheme would contribute to a significant rise in revenue in the tourism sector.According to him, once the cruise terminal is set up, the crew and passengers from Europe and the U.S.could take a short vacation in the city enjoying sightseeing and shopping.
The port’s BTP Berth which was modified and cleaned up in connection with the Volvo Ocean Race is being planned to be converted into a full-fledged hub for the cruise ships. Besides a jetty, a Kerala village, five-star hotel, convention centre and other facilities are expected to come up.
Kochi had capped the last cruise year with 11 luxury liners calling at the port in March. The vessels that landed here included Queen Mary II, Queen Victoria, Seven Seas Voyager, Arcadia, Silver Wind and Balmoral. The new cruise season will see about 20 cruise liners calling at the port.
