Amidst the escalating airfares that often accompany holiday seasons and peak tourism months, travelers, including NRIs, expatriates, and locals, grapple with the burden of high travel costs between Kerala and Dubai. To tackle this challenge head-on, a new cruise ship service connecting Kerala and Dubai has emerged, offering a cost-effective alternative with the added charm of breathtaking sea views.
The Central Government has given the green light to the proposal for the Beypore (Kozhikode) – Kochi – Dubai cruise ship service.
Read More: Top 5 Places To Visit In Goa For Christmas, New Year Celebration
Cruising Comfort: Key Highlights of the Kerala to Dubai Voyage
Set to roll out soon, this cruise ship service promises travelers the convenience of carrying three times the luggage at just one-third of the cost, amounting to an approximate ticket price of Rs 10,000 – 15,000 for a one-way journey. This starkly contrasts with airfares, with one instance showcasing a substantial Rs 55,000 for a Kochi to Dubai flight earlier this January.
The service will kick off in collaboration with cargo companies, offering accommodation for up to 1,250 passengers. In September, NS Pillai, the Chairman of the Kerala Maritime Board, disclosed that NORKA (Department of Non-Resident Keralite’s Affairs) had been tasked with conducting feasibility studies on potential passenger cruise ships for the service, as reported by Gulf News.
Read More: Countries to visit where Indian rupee is stronger for a luxurious vacation in 2024
The cruise ship’s route will span from Beypore (Kozhikode) to Kochi, ultimately reaching Dubai. Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has declared the initiation of the tender process for launching the cruise ship service, according to Manorama Online. Additionally, the total distance above the water surface between Beypore and Dubai covers 4,000 km. With passenger ships traveling at 35 kmph, they should be able to navigate this distance and connect the gulf in approximately three and a half days.
