MS Empress, a cruise ship belonging to Cordelia Cruises, became first Indian cruise ship to dock at Hambantota in Sri Lanka. The passengers were welcomed in an elaborate ceremony by Advantis, the General Sales Agent and Port Agent for Cordelia Cruises in Sri Lanka.

Leveraging its newly forged collaboration with India’s top cruise line Cordelia Cruises, senior management of Sri Lanka’s ground handling company Advantis welcomed 1,600 tourists onboard MS Empress as the ship made its maiden voyage from Chennai for its inaugural stop at the Hambantota International Port.

With Cordelia Cruises launching international cruises from India for the first time ever, 80,000 tourist arrivals are expected in Sri Lanka in the first 4 months alone, says a press statement, adding that the transportation and logistics arm of the Hayleys Group, the Advantis team greeted disembarking passengers with flower garlands and Kandyan dancers complete with traditional drummers for a warm Sri Lankan welcome.

“We are delighted to welcome Cordelia Cruises and embrace a completely new segment of luxury cruise tourists. Today marks a significant milestone in our efforts to revitalise and unlock substantial commercial opportunities for the tourism value chain, as well as capitalise on our island’s vast untapped potential as a global hotspot for cruises,” says Hayleys Group Chairman and Chief Executive Mohan Pandithage.

Unlocking the full potential of Sri Lanka and positioning it as a top destination for luxury travellers with the combined expertise and resources of the partnership remains one of its key targets, says the statement.

“Our partnership with Advantis is the first step in positioning both Sri Lanka and India as premier destinations for discerning travellers across South Asia. By seamlessly integrating these unique and diverse holiday destinations, we aim to chart new horizons for tourists and stimulate economic growth for both nations,” says Cordelia Cruises President and CEO Jurgen Bailom.

Cordelia Cruises says that with 796 cabins in five distinct categories, each stocked with modern amenities, the MS Empress is built to offer its 1,600 passengers luxury and comfort.

“As an island nation, Sri Lanka has attracted maritime trade and travel for centuries. However, in the modern age, our nation is yet to leverage its natural advantages to the best of our ability. Through our alliance with Cordelia Cruises, we are able to facilitate the first-ever cruise sailing operation around the island, offering a remarkable opportunity for travellers to explore the rich heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and vibrant cultural diversity of Sri Lanka. We look forward to working in close partnership with the Cordelia team to attract at least 80,000 visitors within the next four months alone,” says Advantis Managing Director Ruwan Waidyaratne.

The travel and aviation arm of the Advantis Group will serve as the General Sales Agent, while Clarion Shipping, a subsidiary of the Advantis Group, will act as the Port Agent for Cordelia Cruises in Sri Lanka, the statement added.