Mon Aug 25 19:43:36 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Tamil Nadu is poised for a significant boost in cruise tourism. Feasibility studies are underway to add Rameswaram and Kanniyakumari as cruise destinations. Discussions are ongoing with the Andaman and Nicobar administration to explore cruise connectivity to its islands. Following the ASEAN-India Cruise Dialogue 2025, India is also in talks with Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand to establish cruise routes. Chennai is likely to become a home port for a cruise ship operating on the east coast. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is hosting India Maritime Week 2025 in October to promote the entire maritime sector and encourage stakeholder participation. Efforts are being made to streamline customs and immigration procedures for cruise passengers.

**News Article:**

**Tamil Nadu Set to Become Cruise Tourism Hotspot, Eyes International Connectivity**

**CHENNAI, August 26, 2025** – Tamil Nadu is gearing up for a major expansion in cruise tourism, with plans to develop Rameswaram and Kanniyakumari as new destinations. This development follows increased collaboration with ASEAN nations aimed at establishing international cruise routes.

According to Vikas Narwal, Managing Director of the Indian Ports Association (IPA), feasibility studies are being conducted to assess the suitability of Rameswaram and Kanniyakumari as cruise destinations. Proposed routes include stops at Devipattinam, Kurusadai Island, Kunthukal, Villoondi Theertham, Agni Theertham, Kothandaramar Temple, and Arichal Munnai. Floating jetties are also planned to facilitate tourist embarkation and disembarkation at key locations.

“We are also exploring the potential of cruise connectivity with various islands in the Andaman and Nicobar,” Narwal stated during a workshop-cum-roadshow held in Chennai, ahead of the India Maritime Summit 2025.

Following the ASEAN-India Cruise Dialogue 2025, discussions are underway with Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand to forge maritime partnerships. “We already have a Memorandum of Understanding with Malaysia to explore cruise sector opportunities,” Narwal said. “Similar agreements with Indonesia and Thailand may soon follow, paving the way for enhanced regional cruise connectivity.”

Sunil Paliwal, chairman of Chennai Port Authority and Kamarajar Port Limited, announced that Cordelia Cruise is expanding its operations to the east coast, and Chennai is expected to be the home port for its new cruise ship.

T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, emphasized the importance of streamlined customs and immigration procedures for a positive cruise experience.

To further promote the maritime sector, the Ministry will host India Maritime Week 2025 from October 27 to 31. “Our aim is to invite all stakeholders, professionals, industry bodies, and trained representatives to this comprehensive event,” Ramachandran said. The event will encompass ports, shipping, shipbuilding, funding, financing, insurance, seafarers, fuels, cruise and tourism.

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