Cruise is a popular mode of transport for those who wish to reach the Lakshadweep archipelago. The fascinating group of about 1 lakh islands, located in the placid waters of the Arabian Sea, can be accessed by yachts and cruises with myriad luxury provisions. These may be government-run or privately-operated. One can board a cruise to Lakshadweep from Kochi, Beypore, Mangalore, Mumbai, and Goa.
Let us now have a look at the various options for a cruise to Lakshadweep. The list includes both government-run and private cruises.
Best Time To Take A Cruise To Lakshadweep
Cruise to Lakshadweep is an exciting and great option for you if you are planning for a trip to Lakshadweep. The best time to visit Lakshadweep is between October and mid-May. Monsoons in Lakshadweep begin in the later half of May and continue till late September, thereby making it difficult to reach the island group by sea. The temperature remains between 22° C and 36° C; perfect for adventures like surfing, swimming, canoeing, snorkelling, scuba diving, water skiing, and kayaking.
Best Options For A Cruise To Lakshadweep
So, while you’re still planning to visit the charming land of Lakshadweep, make sure you choose from the following options and decide accordingly. Check it out.
1. Government-Run Cruises: A Pocket-Friendly Option
A number of government-run cruises to Lakshadweep operate from Cochin. These ships can accommodate more than 650 passengers. They are comfortable and provide a variety of rooms. These government cruise to Lakshadweep include AC Deluxe-class rooms with 2-berth cabins, AC first-class rooms with 4-berth cabins, and AC tourist-class rooms with seating arrangements. These ships are provided with basic facilities, such as the cafeteria, snack bars, lounge, and video shows. Medical facilities with doctor-on-call are also provided. Kochi to Lakshadweep cruise price in 2023 is around INR 2,200 as far as a second class, 4 berth cabin in MV Kavaratti is concerned. To make the most of your trip without any hassle, make sure to book a Kochi to Lakshadweep cruise package. If you are seeking Carnival cruise to Lakshadweep during the festive season, make sure you book the tickets at least one month earlier.
Ships that cruise to Lakshadweep from Kochi: MV Kavaratti, Lakshadweep Sea ship, Arabian Sea ship, MV Tipu Sultan, MV Bharat Seema, and MV Amindivi
Note: Located close to Kochi is Beypore. M.V.Dweep Setu is exclusively operating from Beypore Port to Lakshadweep islands.
Time taken to reach Lakshadweep: A cruise to Lakshadweep from Cochin takes anything between 14 and 20 hours.
Must Read: 8 Best Beaches In Lakshadweep
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2. Privately-Operated Cruises: A Luxurious Option
In addition to the various government-run cruises, a number of private operators run ships that occasionally sail to Lakshadweep from various Indian port cities such as Mumbai and Panaji. Of these, Star Cruises & Indian Ocean Cruises are the most popular. However, lately, the number of private cruises have been declining. It won’t be a surprise if you do not find a single private cruise to Lakshadweep. Nonetheless, it is worthwhile to mention the past cruises for Lakshadweep.
Super Star Libra: The Super Star Libra is is run by a private-operator of cruises in Asia-Pacific – ‘Star Cruises’. These luxury cruise to Lakshadweep offers lavish deluxe rooms, first-class rooms, and tourist rooms. Dishes from Indian & Continental cuisines are served on board. Other on-board facilities include swimming pool, Jacuzzi, casino, and discotheque. The luxe passenger ship has a capacity of over 1,400 passengers. However, it is not a regular cruise to Lakshadweep from Mumbai. You will have to check the website for Star Cruises (India) for itineraries if any.
MS Ocean Odyssey: The MS Ocean Odyssey is a private cruise operated by the ‘Indian Ocean Cruises’. In the past, it has served as a cruise to Lakshadweep from Goa. The private carrier has a capacity of 250 passengers.
Islands Covered In A Cruise Trip To Lakshadweep
Trip to Lakshadweep and choosing to prefer Lakshadweep cruise is indeed an amazing choice for you. A Lakshadweep tour by cruise offers a visit to some of the most popular islands in Lakshadweep including Bangaram, Minicoy, Kavaratti, Kalpeni, Agatti, and Kadmat. Each of these islands has its own specialty. And they are so beautiful & so less frequented that you’ll be inspired to go for a honeymoon in Lakshadweep. For a memorable experience, you can also join Cordelia cruise to Lakshadweep which is best known for travelers’ unforttable experience.
However, not all of them are included in all the packages. The number of islands included in your package depends upon the cost of the package and the duration of your cruise trip to the Lakshadweep islands. It is also one of the most popular Lakshwadeep cruise packages that travellers opt for. The islands are also dotted with some of the best hotels in Lakshwadeep for a scenic stay.
Suggested Read: 15 Majestic Places To Visit In South India In August
Tariff For A Cruise To Lakshadweep
A 5D/4N cruise trip to Lakshadweep from Kochi costs around INR 15,000, inclusive of taxes. This cost, however, doesn’t include the costs of water sports. A complete list of fares of the cruises to Lakshadweep that are operated by the government can be found on the website of Lakshadweep Cruise Tourism. The costs will vary depending upon the type of room on cruise, hotel, a number of destinations covered, number of days, and the city of departure. This is also perfect for a honeymoon in Lakshwadeep.
The Society for Promotion of Nature Tourism and Sports, a society under Lakshadweep Administration, provides a plethora of packages for the island group.
Entry Permit To Lakshadweep
If you wish to travel to this charming land, make sure you acquire the entry permit from the administrator of Lakshadweep. Indians can visit the islands freely while the permit for foreigners provides them access to only a limited places such as, Kadmat, International tourist resort of Bangaram and Agatti. You can easily get this permit via your travel agent.
The cost of an application is INR 50, which has to be submitted in cash to the administration office. The application form has to be submitted within 24 hours of arrival on the land.
Further Read: 5 Lakshadweep Honeymoon Resorts
So, in case you’re planning a trip to Lakshadweep, skip the flight, search for the best cruise to Lakshadweep and take the cruise instead; at least for side of your journey. Also, since most cruises operate from Kochi, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to book a Kerala package alongside.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Cruise to Lakshadweep
Which is the best island in Lakshadweep?
Kavaratti Island and Kalpeni Island are some of the best islands in Lakshadweep. The islands in Lakshadweep will enhance your experience where you can capture exquisite and breathtaking views by visiting some of the finest islands in Lakshadweep.
What is the cost of a cruise ship from Kochi to Lakshadweep?
The Lakshadweep cruise ship price for one person is around 37,500. However, cheaper Lakshadweep cruise tour packages are also available.
Does Cordelia Cruise go to Lakshadweep?
Cordelia cruise to Lakshadweep is among the relaxing ways to visit where you will enjoy world-class amenities and other facilities. It offers 3-night, 4-night, and 5-night sailings and lets you experience this gorgeous landscape's scenic view.
Is a passport needed for Lakshadweep?
A passport is only required in the case of foreigners as Indians can get the permit via the other proper documents. Indians only require a valid Photo ID proof like an Aadhar Card, voter ID or Driving Licence.
How can I go to Lakshadweep by train?
There are no direct trains to Lakshadweep. There needs to be rail connectivity to Lakshadweep as the islands are approx. 300 km away from Kerala coast. There are ships offering various classes of accommodation.
How can I go from Mangalore to Lakshadweep?
You can embark on a ferry or cruise to Lakshadweep from Mangalore which will cost you around ₹35,000 - ₹40,000. It will take approximately 27 hours to reach the destination.
How can I go to Lakshadweep from Chennai?
The cruise to Lakshadweep from Chennai is one of the best ways to reach compared to ferries and buses as it minimizes your traveling hours and lets you enjoy the mesmerising view from the waterside.
What is the famous food of Lakshadweep?
Lakshadweep is famous for its lip-smacking cuisine. Some of the famous dishes that you must try are Rayereha, the special ingredient of it is Red Tuna fish and local spices, Malabar parotta, Kadalakka, and Sanath (coconut-based curry).
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