Costa neoClassica to homeport in Mumbai for three months

The 654-cabin Costa neoClassica will sail weekly from December 16 to March 18.

'We are delighted to bring cruising to Indians at their doorstep,' said Buhdy Bok, president of Costa Group Asia. 'For many travellers, the holiday often starts after some sort of a long journey. Now like never before, Indians will have the opportunity to start holidaying—right from their doorstep—from India's largest metropolis, Mumbai.'

'It is a proud moment for us to have Costa neoClassica to be homeported at India’s premier Mumbai Port,' said Sanjay Bhatia, chairman of Mumbai Port. 'The Mumbai Port has long been the principal gateway to India, playing a crucial role in sea trade and the development of the national economy, trade and commerce and the prosperity of Mumbai city in particular.'

In addition to Costa's traditional Italian cuisine, cruisers will be able to order a variety of Indian cuisine and the restaurants on board are equipped to cater to special Indian diet requirements, including Jain.

Nalini Gupta, managing director, Lotus Destinations, gsa for Costa Cruises India, said the modern Indian traveller is 'seeking a different kind of thrill' and cruise holidays are now featuring on their 'must-experience' list. She added: 'The fact that Indians can now embark directly from Mumbai not only makes the process hassle-free and visa-free, but also saves the traveler costs and time.'

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