The Hindu Business Line : Ports to develop cruise shipping facilities

New Delhi March 15 With more and more people opting for cruise tourism, the Government is working on a cruise shipping policy to promote tourism that includes developing facilities at ports for cruise shipping in a phased manner. This was stated by the Union Minister of Shipping, Mr T.R. Baalu, in the Lok Sabha here today, while replying to a question. He added that systems and procedures are being streamlined to facilitate seamless travel by tourists.

Cruise Passengers

The cruise passenger landings at ports of Mumbai, Goa and Cochin, which account for majority of cruise passengers, has gone up to touch 50,705 (2005-06) as against 21,824 in 2004-05 and 24,908 in 2003-04. Listing down the steps that have already been taken to promote cruise shipping, he said that cabotage has been relaxed for cruise ships for a 5-year period from December 2003.

Upto 50 per cent rebate has been given in vessel related charges including berth hire, pilotage, etc.

Moreover, cruise operators have been given permissions to offer services. Ocean Cruises India Pvt Ltd has been permitted to operate cruise from Goa to Lakshadweep via Cochin; and Star Cruises has been permitted to operate cruises from Mumbai to Lakshadweep (Kadmat Island) and Mumbai to Goa.