Last month Bird Group launched Silversea Cruises, a highend luxuryliner in India. They sell and market exclusive destinations worldwide which were not available to the Indian market till now. Silversea Cruises sail across 7 continents in over 80 countries covering more than 400 destinations through the year. These will be completely new destinations for Indians. Bird Group's luxury ships include intimate, all- suite vessels such as Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and Silver Spirit. They offer tailor made packages. The costs depend on the itinerary and the destination being covered. However, a 7- day package would, on average, cost anywhere upwards of Rs 2 lakh. Port of boarding can vary.
What’s the Indian cruise market like? What’re the challenges?
Bird Group's cruise infrastructure is next to nothing. They coastline is as good as non- existent. Besides, you have to travel long- distance to board a ship - either you have to go to the Bahamas or to the Mediterranean sea to board one. It’s time consuming and not a simple affair at all. However, the Indian cruise sector, estimated at Rs 240 crore with approximately 80,000 travellers every year, is evolving with a huge potential for growth. With the Indian economy getting stronger, cruising in India will increase at a steady pace.
So what’s the government doing to develop cruise tourism?
Of late, the government has been working on developing cruise infrastructure at key ports such as Mumbai, Goa and Kochi. The Union Shipping Ministry has approved the Cruise Shipping policy keeping the potential of the sector in mind. In 2008- 09, the Ministry of Tourism had sanctioned projects across Indian ports to develop cruise tourism, notable being the development of tourism infrastructure at Kochi Port for Rs 1450 lakh.
Share some tips with our readers for going on a cruise holiday.
Firstly, check the ports of call and where do you have to board the ship from? Secondly, check out for the facilities on the ship. Is it child- friendly? Are there ample activities on board? Thirdly, check what’s the view like from your cabin? What’s the cabin structure like? Do you get a three dimensional view from the cabin windows? Does your room have a balcony?
Is this is good time to go on a cruise?
Because of global recession, prices have become very reasonable. Take the advantage.