Now that the cruise tourism has begun, we will soon see a lot of new things happening in this sector
- MPT Chairman
VASCO: Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) Chairman (I/C) GP Rai on Sunday informed media persons that the Centre had laid emphasis on giving boost to the domestic cruise tourism in India. Rai was addressing journalists on the sidelines of the arrival of nation's first domestic cruise liner 'Angriya' that arrived in Goa from Mumbai on its maiden voyage.
Rai said that India had a vast coastline and could be ideal for domestic cruise tourism in the future. He also informed that the first if its kind domestic cruise vessel Angriya had received tremendous response and support from both the State and central tourism department. Stating that it was a great moment for Goa to be one of the fist destinations chosen for country's first domestic cruise vessel, Rai assured of extending all possible support to domestic cruise liners from MPT. "It's a great moment for Goa port. These services were awaited for a very long time now. Now that the cruise tourism has begun, we will soon see a lot of new things happening in this sector. We have received information that by December another two to three domestic cruise liners will commence. Many Indians go to international destinations but now is the opportunity for domestic tourists to enjoy a cruise in India itself, " said Rai.
"MPT will give the best of services possible to cruise services. The port trust will also offer and extend relaxations required as per the Act and as per permitted rules to cruise services. Govt of India has also said that in the future, ports like Goa, Mumbai, Cochin etc should be given more emphasis for cruise tourism," added GP Rai
