Tue Feb 25 19:09:02 UTC 2025: ## Visakhapatnam Awaits Inaugural Cordelia Cruise; Decision Expected Soon

**Visakhapatnam, February 26, 2025** – The highly anticipated Cordelia cruise linking Pondicherry, Chennai, and Visakhapatnam is poised for launch, pending final approval from the Pondicherry government. A decision is expected by February 28th, according to Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) Secretary T. Venugopal.

The cruise, operated by Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt. Ltd., is scheduled to begin its maiden voyage on July 2nd, with subsequent departures on July 9th and 16th. Tickets are estimated to cost around ₹18,000. The VPA has completed preparations at its dedicated cruise terminal, the largest in India, to receive the vessel.

Venugopal confirmed that representatives from the Pondicherry government have assured the necessary permissions will be granted by the end of the week. Should delays occur, alternative locations are being considered by the cruise operators. The project has received enthusiastic support from the Union Ministry of Ports & Waterways, which views it as a key component in developing port-based tourism.

The project aligns with the government’s “Cruise Bharat Mission,” aiming to double cruise calls and passenger numbers within five years. Discussions at the recent South Asia Travel and Tourism Exhibition (SATTE) in Delhi highlighted the need for improved local tourist infrastructure to cater to the expected influx of 2,500 to 3,000 cruise passengers daily. The VPA is actively working with the Andhra Pradesh government to develop suitable excursion options for cruise passengers. Several major cruise lines participated in SATTE, emphasizing the growing importance of developing India’s cruise tourism sector.

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