After a three-year lull caused by the pandemic, over 40 cruise ships are expected to call at Kochi during the October-April cruise season.
The arrival of cruise vessels is much awaited since they bring in high-spending globetrotters. Among them, 60% to 70% are senior citizens who have ample time to leisurely explore the world. This has brought cheer among stakeholders like ground-handling agents, sellers of curios and antiques, tour operators and guides, who were reeling under the impact of the steep fall in tourist arrivals.
A total of 31 cruise ships had visited Kochi in 2021-22, signalling the sector’s post-pandemic revival, informed sources said.
