Visakhapatnam is gearing up for an exciting new chapter in tourism with the arrival of the Cardelia Cruise Ship. The ship will operate cruises from Puducherry to Visakhapatnam, passing through Chennai, between August 4 and 22. This marks a significant step forward for the port, which has been actively preparing to become a major international cruise destination.
The newly built Vizag International Cruise Terminal (ICT) is equipped to accommodate cruise ships carrying up to 2,000 passengers. The terminal features a range of facilities including customs and immigration counters, retail outlets, duty-free shops, food courts, and lounges, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience for international tourists. The terminal’s inauguration was a key milestone for the city, which also hosted the world’s largest luxury cruise ship last year.
T. Venugopal, the Secretary of Visakhapatnam Port Authority, announced that the port’s ownership has now been established, which paves the way for more cruise ship arrivals. The Cardelia Cruise Ship service, operated by GAC Shipping (India) Pvt Ltd, will run three services between Puducherry, Chennai, and Visakhapatnam, offering a unique travel experience for both Indian and international tourists.
With the development of the Vizag port, this city is expected to emerge as a prominent tourist hub on the global map, offering a seamless combination of luxury cruising and scenic coastal beauty. The arrival of Cardelia Cruise Ship is just the beginning of an exciting tourism growth phase for Visakhapatnam.