The passenger ferry ‘Scotia Prince’ which sailed from Tuticorin to Colombo on Monday afternoon arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday (14) carrying more than 179 passengers.
India’s Union Shipping Minister G.K. Vasan flagged off the vessel at V.O. Chidambaranar Port, Tuticorin on Monday and the she docked at the Colombo harbour this morning, as scheduled.
The passenger vessel service is a result of a commitment between the Governments of India and Sri Lanka to restore traditional links between the two countries and this is a historic moment for Sri Lanka, said Minister of Ports and Highways, Rohitha Abegunawardena on board yesterday.
The services will initially sail twice-a-week between Colombo and Tuticorin. The Colombo-bound vessel will depart from Tuticorin on Mondays and Fridays at 6 p.m. and arrive in Colombo at 8 a.m. the next day. The vessel from Colombo to Tuticorin will sail on Wednesdays and Sundays at the same timings.The journey is expected to last 14 hours each way.
The 9- deck spacious ship houses 317 well designed cabins that can accommodate 1044 passengers and has world class facilities on board equaling cruise liners. Some of the features on board include: Broadway Lounge, Concorde restaurant and Manhattan café, Bar’s, Disco and a very well equipped infirmary. The soon to be launched features include a casino, drive in drive- out facility for cars and cargo vehicles and a duty free shop on board.
The vessel will have over 40 crew members on board and around 25 ground staff to help with check-in procedures, Immigration, Customs procedures and baggage clearance.
The ship can take around 300 tonnes of cargo. The basic economy room comes at an early bird offer of $49 (exclusive of taxes) and $65 (exclusive of taxes) during regular periods. The package includes complimentary dinner.
Scotia Prince will also have live performances by top notch bands and entertainers, in order to let the guests on board have a varied experience during the journey.
