Kerala to Build Its Own Cruise Ships for Tourism Boost

Kollam: In a significant push towards encouraging marine tourism in the state, the State Maritime Board has unveiled plans to build its own cruise ships to tap into the growing potential of oceanic travel and tourism. This ambitious move aims to position Kerala as a premier destination for cruise tourism, attracting both domestic and international travelers.
As part of the initiative, the Board plans to construct three cruise ships, which will operate from Kozhikode, Kollam, and Azhikkal (Kannur) beaches. The decision follows a recent tendering process where several ship agencies and institutions submitted proposals to operate cruise services. Among them, Mumbai-based SS Marine Company has already received conditional approval to collaborate under the project’s terms.
The Maritime Board Chairman stated that this development led to the realization that owning and operating custom-built ships would be more beneficial in the long run. A cruise ship is expected to cost between 200 crorerupeesand 300 crorerupees, depending on the level of luxury and additional facilities included.
Standard features will include a kitchen, bar, dining area, and a viewing deck, with cruise durations planned between 6 to 10 hours. Construction of a vessel is expected to take approximately one year.
The initiative is seen as a strategic solution to meet the rising demand in the marine tourism sector. The Board also plans to invite more tenders from interested shipbuilding agencies to ensure a competitive and efficient of the project.z

With the construction of its own cruise ships, the State Maritime Board is setting the stage for a new era in Kerala's tourism sector.