India’s leading cruise line Cordelia Cruises launched its maiden sailing to Sri Lanka with the departure of its ship, The Empress, for Colombo on Monday.

The ship was flagged off by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, who was the chief guest on the occasion. He was accompanied Tamil Nadu Tourism minister K Ramachandran, Chennai Port Chairman Sunil Paliwal & Chennai Port Deputy Chairman S Viswanathan.

In a press statement, Cordelia Cruises says that the new route marks a new chapter in India’s maritime tourism industry.

          Jurgen Bailom

“Ever since our launch in the India market, we are committed to providing world-class amenities and unmatched hospitality, we aim to redefine the cruising

experience for our esteemed guests. Cordelia Cruises served 84,000 guests

between June 2022-September 2022. In the year 2023, we hope to host over 50,000 passengers for our Sri Lanka sailings alone between June 2023-September 2023.  We are certain that our new route will be very well received. This initiative is a testament to the government’s commitment to promoting tourism and strengthening bilateral ties between India and Sri Lanka,” says Jurgen Bailom, President and CEO of Cordelia Cruises.

With this first of its kind cruising experience, Cordelia says it aims to offer epitome of everything luxury, warm and great. Discovering Sri Lanka, the best of cuisines, scenic sights and an experience like no other, Cordelia Cruises will leave no stone unturned to make this sail a once in a lifetime experience trip to Sri Lanka for all patrons on board, adds the statement.