In light of the plan to turn rivers into waterways, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has stated that cruise tourism presents excellent opportunities for India, particularly Kerala. He was giving a virtual speech on November 29 to commemorate the launch of the opulent cruise ship "Classic Imperial" in Kochi.
According to a news statement issued by the program's organisers, the Union Minister praised the vessel's commissioning. According to him, the vessel has enhanced his professional and business abilities. The businessman who created the luxurious cruiser, Nishith K. John, was praised by the Union Minister, who also pledged full assistance.
The vessel was launched at Marine Drive's Neo-Classic Boat Jetty. Mayor of Kochi Corporation M. Anilkumar, MP Hibi Eden, MLA T. J. Vinod, and GCDA chairman K. Chandran Pillai were present at the occasion.
"Classic Imperial"'s builders assert that it is the biggest boat of its kind to be constructed in Kerala. 150 persons may be accommodated on the yacht at once. For safety, the vessel was constructed in accordance with Indian Registrar of Shipping guidelines. Although the ship's construction was supposed to begin in March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic had caused delays.
