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Louis Cruises targets India with start-up
Saturday, 21 Sep, 2009
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Short cruises from India are to be run by a new subsidiary of Cyprus-based Louis Cruises.
The company is to deploy the 1,200-passenger ship Aquamarine in Kochi in Kerala between December and next May.
The vessel will run itineraries to the Maldives, Colombo and overnight mini–sailings targeting almost 60,000 travellers from India.
Aquamarine currently operates three and four-day day cruises from Piraeus in the Aegean and will be re-positioned in Kochi for the winter season.
The initiative comes from a deal between Louis and Kerala Tourism to market and promote cruise tourism out of Kochi.
“With cruising being a fairly new form of holidaying in the Indian market, Louis Cruises India aims to further promote the benefits and beauties of cruising in comfort and style to some of the region’s most enticing destinations at a great value for money,” a statement said.
Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, minister for home, vigilance and yourism in Trivandrum, said: “The increasing number of international cruise lines calling at Kochi is an indication that the port is emerging as a major destination in the region.
“Kochi was a natural choice for Louis Cruises India, not just because it boasts all the characteristics and potential of an emerging cruise hub but also because of the positive approach of the state government towards tourism.
“Nearly 60,000 travellers are expected to embark on their voyage from Kochi. This would bring real economic benefit to the state in addition to generating new jobs for the local community.”
Louis group executive chairman Costakis Loizou said establishing the India arm was part of a strategy to continue expanding its international operations and also maximize the use of its fleet.
“We pride ourselves for having introduced cruising to the wider European market through our close cooperation with leading tour operators,” he said.
“This time and with the close and most valuable cooperation of Kerala local tourism authority, I have no doubt that the number of Indians who get to experience cruising will continue to rise and that is something we are committed to achieving wholeheartedly.”
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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