Apart from flying above the clouds and riding along the valleys, have you ever considered sailing across the seas to meet the dolphins??? If not, this post is for you to cross the norm and meet the ends to witness beauty in the blues.
My friend and I were tired of the usual vacations and wanted to try something different. We were looking for an adventure that would not only be thrilling but also help us unwind and relax. We wanted to dive deep and explore the depths of the unknown. While cruising had never crossed my mind, my friend's suggestion for this unique experience instantly captivated me. From there on, we researched the different options available here in India.
Cruising is not very popular in India due to its high prices and the biased opinion that it's for the elite, however I would say otherwise. Cruising is for everyone - for every explorer, adventurer, and lazy vacationer. Though it seems a little expensive, every experience here is worth the penny. You can easily save for a couple of months and afford this beautiful seacation
On Google, Cordelia Cruises was the first search that popped up.
https://www.cordeliacruises.com/
Cordelia Cruises is a premium cruise line in India, taking you across the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean to explore different destinations. Their website is easy to navigate and provides a range of options.
Our Sailing Route : Kochi -> Lakshadweep -> Mumbai
With the help of Cordelia staff, we booked our sea tour from Kochi to Lakshadweep for 3nights. There are a variety of rooms you can choose from. We opted for a budget-friendly standard interior room. There are ocean-view rooms, elite mini-suites, Chairman suites with a balcony, and much more.
Our calendars, marked with the sailing date, served as a countdown for the beginning of our vacation. With great excitement, we departed from Bengaluru to Kochi via a flight to board our cruise.
On arriving at the cruise terminal in Kochi, we were welcomed by a large crowd waiting to board. The boarding procedures are similar to the flight procedures. The approximate wait time for boarding was 1 to 1.5 hrs.
“The Empress” is what they call the cruise. As we boarded and stepped inside, we were transported to a whole new world. I felt like a kid, eager to explore this mini-universe within the ship. But that had to wait, as we had to check in, settle down, have lunch, and prepare to set sail.
The room was spacious enough for the two of us. It had a queen-sized bed, a well-equipped washroom with a health faucet (that’s a huge plus for me), wardrobes, and a dressing table.
The lunch was delicious. The food here on the cruise is incredible. They offer a 5-time buffet meal (breakfast, lunch, hi-tea snacks, dinner, and midnight sandwiches), which is a cherry on the cake for a food lover like me. Additionally, they have special themed dinners every night.
The Empress has a total of 11 floors or decks. The cruise offers various activities throughout the journey to keep you entertained. Starting with the sailing party the fun extends to a live Music concert, games with the cruise staff, dance shows, karaoke nights, a live DJ pool party, spa, star gazing, early morning yoga, Zumba classes, photoshoots, casino, gym, library and much more. It’s a gigantic 5-star city within, catering to all your needs and desires.
Other than these exciting things, the one that adds immense joy and serenity is chasing sunsets and sunrises. Being on a cruise, sailing away to an unknown paradise, how can one miss the beauty in sunrise and sunset over the seas?
Standing on the last deck of the cruise, with the wind blowing on your face, making your hair fly, observing the minute details of the sky painted in the hues of red and orange with the seas reflecting the golden shimmer from the sun, a faraway land forgot, the nature immersed in the ombre colors of blue with the dolphins dancing around gracefully is all that one needs, to live and cherish the aesthetics of life. The peace and gratitude that wash over witnessing the sight are incomparable to any other worldly experience one can have. The beauty in the imperfection of the creation is just a reminder we need to embrace our flaws. The enchanting sunrise and sunset are not to be missed on the cruise.
There were multiple options to either enjoy the activities on the cruise or explore the untouched seashores of Lakshadweep. The traveler's soul in me wanted to jump away and begin the shore excursion. However, Cordelia Cruises had meticulously planned and arranged the day tour with different time slots for all the guests. Spotting coconut trees never felt as exciting as seeing them from the faraway seas.
De-boarding from the Cruise, we were ushered into a small boat to explore the group of islands. We reached Agatti, one of the many islands of Lakshadweep. We were warmly welcomed on the island and introduced to their cultural folk dance, native food, and divine beaches.
The clear, turquoise teal-blue waters were a wonder to my eyes. It was my first time seeing such clear water. The colors of nature have always fascinated me, and the variations of blue had me spellbound. As my bare feet felt the tingles from the white sands of the shore, I felt an instant connection with the land. The alluring blue beauty reflecting the clear blue sky was all I needed to feel alive and refreshed.
Agatti is still a tiny developing island. You can choose to roam around, hiring an auto. Water activities are available to dwell deeper into the oceans.
As the shore excursions ended, I had a satisfying smile on my face, showing my inner happiness of having explored my own country first.
Heading to the cruise, we decided to wander around different decks of the Empress. The ship has approximately 800 cabins and can accommodate over 2000 people. It has a beautiful shopping center and splendid mall-like architecture. There are different clubs and bar-like places to have a drink and socialize. The people were warm and welcoming. There are a few secret spots where you can head for a spectacular sunset, take beautiful photographs, or sit down for a peaceful "me time" with pleasant music on your headphones and a book in hand.
Any experience you crave is here for you. From silent solitude sunsets on higher decks to blazing dancing DJ parties by the pool, from happily singing karaoke nights to beautiful candlelit dinners, from enjoying rocking live music to enjoying the sounds of waves and winds, the cruise has it all.
Sometimes, it is not the destination, it is the journey that matters. This vacation truly justifies that statement.
We sailed back to Mumbai from Agatti, and the vacation ended. However, the memories still linger as I finish sharing my cruising moments with you.
For those seeking new experiences, the cruise already seeks you!! Get your tickets booked and sail away from the constant chaos of life.
Tips and Tricks
Cruise doesn’t accept cash or cards. You need to load money to your cabin key card which also acts as a debit card. All prices are in dollars.
Phone network will not be available during sailing. Cruise Wi-Fi is chargeable.
Airtel and BSNL networks are available on reaching close to Lakshadweep.
Book your vacation and flights prior for the best pricing and discounts.
If possible, get a photoshoot done, as the staff has access to better location to click your beautiful pictures on board.
You can minimize your expenses by not spending too much on board and opting for a standard interior room.
Carry cash for any transactions on the island.
Expenses
Cruise Vacation - 46k[Standard Interior Room:Accommodation, 5 meals a day during the entire stay, Access to all activities and locations across the cruise, Complimentary drinks, Water bottles]
Flight from Bengaluru to Kochi - 4k
Flight from Mumbai to Bengaluru - 6k
On-Board Photo shoot - 5k [For 10 Soft copy Photographs]
Shore Excursion - 1.8k
Spa Expenses - 1k
Happy Sailing!!!
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