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Indian start-up Jalesh Cruises takes delivery of first ship

Jalesh Cruises Karnika
Pacific Jewel arriving in Singapore this week is now owned by Jalesh Cruises and named Karnika
Jalesh Cruises, a start-up catering to the Indian domestic as well as international source markets, took delivery of its first ship, Karnika, the former Pacific Jewel from P&O Australia, on Tuesday in Singapore.

The 70,285gt vessel will drydock in Singapore at Sembcorp Marine Admiralty Yard over the next few weeks for an extensive refurbishment to customize the ship to suit Indians travelers.

It will then proceed from Singapore to Colombo via Kochi, New Mangalore, Goa and finally arrive in Mumbai on April 17.

The 2,000 passenger capacity ship will be named at a gala event in Mumbai on April 19.

Jurgen Bailom, president & ceo, Zen Cruises the exclusive ticket selling agent on behalf of Jalesh Cruises, said, ‘Today marks an important day for the Indian cruise tourism industry.

‘We are going to offer a memorable vacation to passengers on board with exotic culinary experiences, international hospitality and best of entertainment shows.’

India and Middle East itineraries

The cruise ship will be sailing initially between Mumbai and Goa for first few weeks through to May, 2019 before proceeding to the Middle East where it will remain till mid-September.

Itineraries will explore the coastal length of India and between May and September, 2019, cruise passengers will have a choice of itineraries between Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai, Muscat and Sir Ban Yas Island.