Jalesh (Lord of the Sea) Cruises, first Indian cruise liner has taken delivery of its first ship from P&O Australia and will start sail of its premiere ship ‘Karnika’ from its home port in Mumbai, in less than a month’s time.
Announcing its launch at the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) and Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) joint event last week, Rajeev Duggal, CEO-Tourism Business, Essel Group, said: “We’re willing to get our own ship built but since the waiting period at all of worlds 19 ship building yards was too long. Not wanting to further delay potential cruisers of exploring India’s coastline, we have acquired a ship from P&O. Starting April 19, Karnika ship with 837 cabins on 11 decks, will offer Indian luxury from cuisine to games, entertainment, wellness and service. It’ll service 226,000 passengers every year connecting to popular Indian destinations of Goa, Kochi and Mangalore as well as with destinations in West Asia.” Jalesh Cruises, the first cruise venture by an Indian company, is part of Essel Group.
The ship will be sailing initially between Mumbai and Goa in April and May. Further Middle East cruises from May to mid-September will let passengers explore Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai, Muscat and Sir Ban Yas Island. While it’s a privilege for Indian cruise enthusiasts to be pampered with their own tastes, it’s an opportunity for International guests to enjoy Indian hospitality with additional international cuisine choice.
Jurgen Bailom, President and CEO, Zen Cruises, said: “With Karnika, we mark the beginning of memorable cruise holidays that will bring joy and delight to the Indian and global community. We are going to offer a memorable vacation to passengers on board with exotic culinary experiences, international hospitality and best of entertainment shows at high seas.”
With Karnika, we mark the beginning of memorable cruise holidays that will bring joy and delight to the Indian and global community.
Yatiraj Kabra, Head, Sales and Marketing, Guideline Travels, said: “There are four categories of cabins of which 430 are categorised ocean view and 209 are interior. 162 balcony and 36 mini suites top two decks have individual balconies. 10 of 14 restaurants are complimentary to all guests. Karnika has nine bars, 4 entertainment avenues and 5 gaming avenues. A spa, salon and a fitness zone are on the top deck. Casino and a duty free shop are added attractions for guests.” Guideline Travels is one of the PSA for Karnika Cruise. Current package on Karnika are of 2 and 3 nights and begin from US$ 255.
The ship has seperate play zones for kids and teenagers, sparing time for parents to explore variety services on ship. It is also equipped to handle meetings, events and weddings of up to 800 guests.
Karnika will open-up new ports and offer insights into less explored port towns and long thriving traditional life along India’s coastline.
Written by Anand & Madhura Katti
.jpg){kind=tracking}
