KSINC and SWTD to Restart Tourist Boat Services from Marine Drive

Quick Summary

• Teh Kerala Shipping and Inland Navigation Corporation (KSINC) and the state Water Transport Department (SWTD) are set to resume full-fledged operation of tourist vessels from the Marine Drive waterfront as the festive-tourism season approaches.
• KSINC’s fleet includes:

– Three sea-going vessels: Nefertiti (a luxury vessel), Sagara Rani I, and Sagara Rani II.
– Sea cruises will restart on September 1 after the monsoon safety restrictions are lifted.
– Cruise packages range from two to four hours, with food-inclusive fares now reduced.
– Solar-powered boats like Sooryamshu,offering backwater cruise options around Kochi and nearby islands. Group bookings available online or via phone.

• SWTD operations begin August 28 at Ernakulam Boat jetty:

– Featured vessels include:
– Indra: A fully air-conditioned, solar-electric ferry with a capacity of 100 passengers.
– Vega: Offers seating for 40 AC passengers and an additional non-AC capacity of up to 80 passengers.
– New children-specific, one-hour food-inclusive budget trips being introduced due to popularity in other areas such as “See Kuttanad,” “See Astamudi,” etc.

• Private boat operators at Marine drive are also expanding offerings, including new package tours in collaboration with KSRTC’s budget tourism cell.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The resumption of KSINC’s tourist services alongside SWTD’s initiatives signifies timely support for Kerala’s robust tourism sector,especially following monsoon restrictions. By offering varied cruising options-from luxurious sea trips aboard nefertiti to eco-amiable backwater explorations using solar ferries-KSINC is tapping into a growing demand for diverse travel experiences tied closely to Kerala’s natural beauty.

SWTD’s introduction of innovative packages like children’s one-hour budget tours may further attract domestic family travelers while reinforcing sustainable tourism models exemplified by solar-electric ferries like Indra. Notably, private operators leveraging partnerships such as those with KSRTC showcase how integrated public-private efforts can enrich regional offerings while fostering healthy competition within the market.

As Kerala enters its lucrative festive-tourism season during Onam, these developments could boost local economies dependent on hospitality sectors while advancing environmental considerations in maritime mobility-a key issue amidst global climate goals.

Read more: The Hindu