Cordelia Empress, India’s first international cruise from Chennai to Sri Lanka, started it’s maiden voyage on the 5^th of June 2023, from Chennai, flagged off by Indian Minister of Ports , Shipping and waterways Sarbananda Sonowal . This gigantic Vessel is scheduled to make its maiden call at the Hambantota Port today (6^th June 2023) with 750 passengers and will stay overnight offering a cruise tour package to visit the ports of Trincomalee and Jaffna. In Hambantota , tourists will have the opportunity to explore wildlife at Yala and Udawalawe National Park , whereas a visit to a turtle Hatchery Farm is also arranged. As an additional activity, visitors will also be able to take a stroll through the Galle Dutch Fort and a hike to the Diyaluma Waterfall.

The visit to Trincomalee will give them the unique experience of whale and Dolphin watching, engaging in various water sports, and snorkeling. The visit to Jaffna offers a peaceful beach retreat and exploring the scared temples and shrines in the area.

This newly established cruise liner, belonging to Cordelia Cruises, offers state of the Art accommodation choices such as Ocean view staterooms,suites, Mini –Suites and the premium Chairman’s suite. Passengers will be able to enjoy and relax in the comfortable staterooms, after a day filled with onboard activities and entertainment.

The cruise also offers World Class restaurants and Bars onboard, inclusive of all international and Indian cuisine, as well as onboard entertainment and premium accommodation options.

Senior officials from the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau also will be participating for her maiden call at the Hambantota Port on the 6^th of June 2023, and attend the inauguration ceremony scheduled to be held at the Hambantota Port premises. Sri Lanka is all prepared to give the Cordelia Empress a warm welcome on her maiden voyage to the destination, inclusive of a few cultural performances to entertain the crowd and showcase the warmth and hospitality of the Sri Lankan counterparts, which they are world renowned for. An onboard counter will be manned by the staff of Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau. This will be a wonderful opportunity to strengthen the Bilateral and cultural ties between the two nations as well as encouraging more tourists from India, wanting to explore the similar cultural and historical values as well as developing a strong friendship which goes beyond centuries.

It is expected that sixteen such Cordelia cruises will call on Sri Lanka till September 2023 covering Hambanthota, Trincomalee and Kankasanturei.