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**Summary:**

The luxury cruise liner M.V. Empress, operated by Cordelia Cruises, embarked on its journey from Visakhapatnam to Chennai on Wednesday, officially flagged off by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. Andhra Pradesh officials, including Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh, expressed strong support for cruise tourism, emphasizing its potential to boost the local economy. The Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) announced plans to sponsor skill development programs and organize a Cruise Dialogue to further accelerate cruise tourism development in the region, reflecting the Maritime India Vision.

**News Article:**

**Luxury Cruise Tourism Takes Sail in Andhra Pradesh, Boosting Economy and Creating Opportunities**

**VISAKHAPATNAM, July 3, 2025** – The luxury cruise liner M.V. Empress, operated by Cordelia Cruises, set sail from Visakhapatnam’s International Cruise Terminal for Chennai on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone for cruise tourism in Andhra Pradesh. The event was virtually flagged off by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal, signaling a strong commitment from the central government to bolstering the sector.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu voiced his full support for promoting cruise tourism, acknowledging its potential to drive economic growth within the state. Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh highlighted the government’s proactive measures in developing tourist circuits and hubs, paving the way for increased cruise liner traffic.

T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary of MoPSW, described the M.V. Empress’s departure as a “historic milestone,” emphasizing the potential of cruise tourism to boost the local economy, aligning with the Maritime India Vision.

In a move to further support the industry and its impact on the local community, Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) Chairperson M. Angamuthu announced plans to sponsor 5,000 students annually in cruise-led skill development programs. The VPA also intends to host an Andhra-specific Cruise Dialogue in coordination with MoPSW, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Andhra Pradesh government, aiming to accelerate the development of cruise tourism in the region.

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