By: Staff Writer Colombo (LNW): Advantis, a leading Sri Lankan firm and Cordelia Cruises have partnered to unleash the ultimate cruising experience in Sri Lanka, company officials said. The transportation and logistics arm of the Hayleys Group, Advantis, announced a groundbreaking partnership with India’s top cruise line, Cordelia Cruises to usher in a new wave of inbound luxury tourists to Sri Lanka. Leveraging their newly forged partnership, Advantis – Travel and Aviation will serve as the General Sales Agent, while Advantis Group subsidiary, Clarion Shipping will serve as the Port Agent for Cordelia Cruises in Sri Lanka. Cordelia Cruises aims to revolutionize the tourism market in the region by offering an extraordinary cruise experience that exudes style and luxury through its crown jewel – “The Empress”, an iconic vessel that first set sail with the name The Nordic Empress. With 796 cabins in 5 distinct categories filled with state-of-the-art amenities, the ship is capable of accommodating 2,000 passengers. The luxury cruise line will embark on its inaugural sailing to the island, in June 2023. The collaboration marks a milestone in Sri Lanka’s efforts to revitalize inbound tourism and capitalize on the island’s significant untapped potential as an international hotspot for cruise tourism. Embarking on a Cordelia Cruise journey to Sri Lanka opens up a world of thrilling shore excursions for travelers, with Jaffna, Hambantota, and Trincomalee serving as bases. These exceptional locations offer an opportunity to embark on unforgettable adventures that showcase the very best of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and vibrant cultural diversity. A significant boost to the Sri Lankan tourism industry is anticipated, attracting an estimated 80,000 tourists within the first four months alone. This surge is set to unlock significant commercial opportunities for the tourism value chain, drive economic growth and position Sri Lanka as a premier destination for discerning travellers, providing a timely impetus to the country’s travel and tourism industry. Cordelia Cruises President and CEO, Jurgen Bailom stated that: “Sri Lanka is truly one of the most uniquely diverse holiday destinations in the Asian region. Combined with the invaluable support of our local partners Advantis, and the Hayleys Group, we see immense growth potential in synergistically integrating Sri Lankan and Indian destinations into a single, unforgettable luxury travel and hospitality experience.” Hayleys Group Chairman and Chief Executive, Mohan Pandithage noted the collaboration with Cordelia Cruises would inject much needed energy into the country’s tourism sector. Commenting on the partnership, Advantis Managing Director, Ruwan Waidyaratne said:. This partnership promises to channel much needed support for Sri Lanka’s resurgent tourist industry, and we are confident that this partnership will help our nation promote its attractions year-round.”