SuperStar Libra to sail into India in October

MUMBAI: It’s cruise time again! After its famous debut on the Indian shores last year, SuperStar Libra, is coming back this October. And apart from the three destinations that were on offer last year — Goa, Lakshwadeep and Mumbai high seas, Indian holiday-makers this time might have the option to cruise to a South East Asian destination too.

SuperStar Libra, part of leading cruise line Star Cruises, last year became the first ever cruise ship to operate from the country.

“We had a very encouraging response from the country, especially from the corporate clients. This time around, SuperStar Libra will have four sailing per week, one more from last year,” said Sarosh Khatib, general manager — India, Star Cruises.

Mr Khatib’s appointment earlier this year, was the first time that the company had appointed a country-head in its 13 year-old operation in India, reflecting its growing interest in the Indian market.

Though the cruise-market is still in its nascent stage in India, it is more than tripling its business every year. From about 45,000 Indians who cruised last year, the number is estimated to shoot up to 1,50,000 in ‘06. Internationally though, Indian tourists have been more adventurous. In fact, they are the number one transit cruisers to Singapore, the cruise-centre in Asia. Almost 20,000 tourists from the country cruised through Singapore in ‘05.

“Cruising is slowly but steadily becoming a holiday option here. The concept is getting more known,” said Mr Khatib. Other than being a new concept, monsoons in India has been a hindrance for cruises to function year-round. SuperStar Libra will be sailing from October to April next year.

While corporate clients were majority of the cruisers on SuperStar Libra last year, the surprise customers were from places like Nagpur and Pune.