Sri Lanka Sets Sail for Cruise Tourism Boom: Cordelia Cruises Drives New Wave of Visitors

September 13, Colombo (LNW): As Sri Lanka ramps up efforts to bolster its tourism industry, the country is expected to see a surge in cruise passengers, particularly from India, in 2024. 

Cordelia Cruise Lines has completed its second season at Hambantota International Port (HIP), with six successful calls between July and September, bringing over 5,000 tourists. The next season is scheduled from June to September 2025.

Since June 2023, Cordelia has made 16 port calls, offering travel packages from Chennai to Sri Lanka. Nalin Perera, Director General of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), highlighted that cruise tourism plays a crucial role in boosting the country’s tourism profile. 

He noted ongoing collaborations with top travel agents and cruise lines, aiming to streamline operations and provide better facilities, including transportation and accommodation, to enhance tourist experiences.

Lance Zuo, General Manager of Commercial and Marketing at HIP, emphasized the port’s modern amenities and scenic location, making it an attractive cruise destination. Clarion Shipping, in partnership with Cordelia Cruises, offers passengers a range of excursions, from exploring historical landmarks like Galle Dutch Fort to visiting Yala National Park.

The integration of cruise operations at HIP is not only solidifying Sri Lanka’s role in global tourism but also positively impacting the local economy with a steady stream of visitors.

As a new and modern port with a 17 metre depth, HIP can accommodate any cruise liner in the world. We are fully geared to handle the needs of crews and passengers, customs, immigration & emigration and secure services. 

The nexus with Hayleys Advantis (Clarion Shipping), agents for Cordelia Cruise Lines is yet another step in promoting Hambantota as an ideal cruise ship destination. While the port’s location away from the busy metropolis, and its green environment, are added attractions, we also have a wide range of touristic offerings at a very short distance from the port’s gate.” says Lance Zuo, General Manager Commercial and Marketing.

Clarion Shipping, agents for Cordelia Cruises in Sri Lanka and GOL Travels Lanka Pvt Limited, offer several excursions to passengers disembarking at HIP, such as walks through the Galle Dutch Fort, river cruises, hikes to the Diyaluma Waterfall, visits to a nearby turtle hatchery, and treks through Yala, Udawalawe, and Bundala national parks. Visits to the Unawatuna Beach and shopping sprees are also included.

The integration of cruise ships into HIP’s operations not only solidifies the port’s role in international tourism but also contributes to the local economy by attracting a steady influx of visitors.

In the current situation, where the Government is intensely focused on elevating the country’s position in tourism, reports suggest that Sri Lanka is anticipated to welcome an increased number of cruise tourism passengers in 2024.

Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) Director General Nalin Perera, noted that cruise tourism was a well-organised arrangement as cruises played a major role in promoting tourism.