30 July,2017 08:45 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet Jadhav
The Maharashtra Maritime Board plans to develop a cruise ship terminal at four locations along the western coast
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In the next couple of years, it might just be possible to take a round along the west coast of Maharashtra - from Mumbai to Sindhudurg - in a cruise ship. The Maharashtra Maritime Board has plans to develop a cruise ship terminal at four locations along the coast. Some of the probable locations include Vijaydurg, Jaigarh, Ratnagiri and Dabhol.
Maharashtra has one of the largest coastlines in the country measuring up to 720 km. "This coastline is administered by the Maharashtra Maritime Board, which is the nodal agency governing the regulatory framework of the state's maritime industry. Over the years, it has taken a number of initiatives to harness the potential of its coastline by developing greenfield ports, captive and multipurpose jetties, inland water transport and shipyards. We propose to further boost the maritime sector with development of a world class cruise terminal along the coastline of Maharashtra. This will enhance the tourism potential of the state and attract international cruise operators and passengers from across the globe," said MMB Chairman Atul Patne.
MMB has invited Expression of Interest from companies, including cruise owners, cruise operators and tour operators, who have expertise in the sector to submit a proposal for providing the cruise terminal services for a period of 30 years. The initiative is expected to boost local employment services as well.
