A star cruise – swan on sea (Picture source)
Want cruising to Andamans via Puri in 3 days? If CPT (Calcutta Port Trust) has its way, this may soon be a reality. Which means the cruise liner will do the complete course from Kolkata’s Kidderpore docks to Sagar Islands at the confluence of Hooghly river, and then turn to the sea to proceed to Puri and further on to Andamans.
The proposed route is Kolkata – Sagar Island – Puri – Andamans. At each place, the liner will anchor in deep water at all-weather points and visitors taken to shore in smaller crafts. Sea-facing cabins may cost Rs 15000 to Andamans and Rs 5000 to Puri per person. Not cheap, but then cruising usually suits people with deep pockets.
Though there are several popular circuits in western waters, something of this sort hasn’t been tried that way in eastern shores, except for occasional Kolkata – Andamans sailings. Expectedly, the tour operators though upbeat, are keeping their fingers crossed. The ball has just started rolling. Hopefully, there will shortly be one more reason for ardent tourists to visit this great city.
This is a fantastic proposal that will have a significant social and economic benefit for Kolkata, Bengal and the nation. The honorable Chief Minister should make this a reality.
I enjoy to read your blog. This is realy economic benit for the people.