India’s first International cruise ship, the ‘MV-Empress’ was launched on the 5th of June 2023, and set sail on her maiden voyage from Tamil Nadu to the East Coast of the Pearl of the Indian Ocean; Sri Lanka.
The cruise was flagged off by Indian Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal from the Chennai Cruise Terminal, inaugurating the beginning of a one-of-a-kind experience like never before in India.
The MV Empress, operated by Cordelia Cruises, is a luxury cruise vessel, that promises a world-class cruising experience with state-of-the-art amenities and exhilarating tourist activities.
Exquisite international cuisines are offered in four mesmerizing restaurants within the ship, while a selection of bars and lounge areas await the adults onboard to sip-n unwind in the middle of the Indian Ocean.
Accommodation is divided into five options, depending on the view and the level of luxury you require. The MV Empress offers an array of breathtaking Indian and International destinations; including Chennai, Goa, Kochi, Lakshadweep, and Mumbai to the island of Sri Lanka. Onboard entertainment featuring theatrical performances, magic shows, and live music is bound to enthrall the passengers of the MV-Empress as they sway to the rhythm of the ocean waves.
The first of its kind in India, the MV Empress sailed towards the Hambantota Port in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka on the 7th of June 2023, with 744 Indian tourists onboard to explore the East Coast of the island. The passengers were given a warm and classic Sri Lankan welcome by traditional dancers performing at the Hambantota Port.
The itinerary of the MV Empress cruise followed ports of call to the Hambantota Port, and will thereafter journey towards the Trincomalee harbor, and Kankensanturai in Jaffna respectively.
The Indian tourists will experience the essence of all three locations along the Sri Lankan East Coast, packed with activities including site seeing, whale watching, hikes to waterfalls, dolphin watching, snorkeling, visits to national parks, excursions to tea factories and turtle hatcheries, a climb up the historical marvel of the Sigiriya lion’s rock and a spiritual tour through Jaffna for devotees.
These are just the pinnacle of the adventures that the MV Empress Cruise extends to its passengers, who can take a pick from the three nights, four nights, and five nights regular cruise packages offered by Cordelia Cruises.
With packages starting from INR 86,383 upwards Cordelia Cruises presents special rates and offers to their customers including a book now pay later option, free room upgrades, and limited-time offers for kids and partners to cruise for free!
