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Floating over endless water bodies, experiencing top-notch hospitality, diverse itineraries, lavish amenities and delectable cuisines. Sounds like the perfect vacation, doesn't it? Luxury cruises are now fairly accessible, and also available for international destinations. Providing you with a way to explore the country and other parts of the world in a special way, luxury cruises are definitely the new, extravagant mode of travelling and enjoying a vacation.
Here are some luxury cruises in India you should explore
1. MV Empress
The MV Empress was recently launched in India, which is the country’s first international cruise. The MV Empress travels from Chennai to Sri Lanka, while visiting three ports in the island country, which include Hambantota, Trincomalee and Kankesanturai. The tour packages in this luxury cruise range from 2 nights, 3 nights, 4 nights and 5 nights. It has the capacity to accommodate a total of 750 passengers.
Starting point: Chennai port
Cost: Tour packages start at Rs 86,383 for two persons for 3 nights
2. MV Paramhansa
The MV Paramhansa is a luxury cruise which travels through the biggest mangrove forests in the world, through the Sunderbans in West Bengal. Showcasing the natural beauty of the region, while exploring the numerous channels, streams, and exotic species of birds, reptiles and mammals, this cruise definitely gives off a fascinating tropical vibe. With excellent hospitality and a range of delectable cuisines, the MV Paramhansa surely provides an exquisite experience. This cruise has a number of facilities such as a gym, Ayurveda treatment centre, library, and conference room, along with internet facilities and a bar. Featuring 32 cabins and 12 luxury rooms, this cruise showcases the utmost comfort and extravagance.
Starting point: Kolkata
Cost: Tour packages starting at Rs 48,500 for two adults
3. MV Mahabaahu
The MV Mahabaahu is a river cruise ship, which sails through the river Brahmaputra in Assam. Passengers can choose their way of travel, either from Jorhat to Guwahati or Guwahati to Jorhat, within the time span of 8 days. Comprising 23 luxurious cabins, multiple fine dining spaces, a swimming pool, bar, lounge, salon, spa and sundecks, the passengers also have the option of indulging in several activities and excursions. The highlights of this luxury cruise include a boat safari in the Kaziranga National Park and also visits to various temples, local villages and tea estates.
Starting point: Assam
Cost: Tour packages starting at Rs 1,63,000 for two adults
4. Oberoi MV Vrinda
The Oberoi MV Vrinda is one of the most luxurious cruises sailing through the backwaters of Kerala. This cruise visits some of the largest backwaters in Kerala, which include the Vembanad Lake and the backwaters of Alleppey. With a beautiful view, the cruise offers top-notch hospitality available at all hours, along with facilities such as an in-house restaurant, and deluxe cabins with amenities such as king king-sized bed, DVD player, electronic safe and LCD television along with high-speed Wi-Fi. Showcasing the abundant greenery and tranquillity of the backwaters, the Oberoi MV Vrinda offers its guests a serene and relaxing vacation.
Starting point: Vembanad
Cost: Tour packages start at Rs 1,33,500 for two adults
5. MV Kavaratti
The MV Kavaratti is an extravagant cruise mainly designed to promote the Lakshadweep Islands. Sailing through one of the most beautiful and exotic locations in the country, this cruise boasts of luxury and comfort. Showcasing the aesthetic marine life and sandy beaches of Lakswadeep, this cruise also offers its guests various water sports activities such as boating, kayaking, sea swimming and deep sea diving. With facilities that include a grand cafeteria, 100 seater dining hall, swimming pool, recreation room and a private helipad, MV Kavaratti offers a splendid experience for its guests.
Starting point: Kochi
Cost: Tour package starting at Rs 27,500 per person
6. MV Ganga Vilas
The MV Ganga Vilas is the first-ever cruise ship which has been made in India. Launched at the beginning of this year, MV Ganga Vilas is the longest river cruise experience in the world. This cruise sails through five Indian states and Bangladesh over a span of 51 days. The cruise starts at Varanasi and continues towards Assam and then Bangladesh. Comprising 18 luxurious suites and with a capacity to accommodate 36 guests, this cruise offers delectable Indian and global cuisine along with a variety of activities for its guests to take part in.
Starting point: Varanasi
Cost: Tour packages at a range of Rs 25,00-50,000 per day per person
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