The plans have been actively backed by tourism officials who believe the highway will boost international tourism arrivals.
The proposed infrastructure initiative is expected to have a positive impact on cruising connectivity at 10-identified major seaports across the archipelago and to reduce logistics and operating costs.
Passenger numbers in 2013 have risen 500% since 2001, reaching a total of 159,578. The rapid growth indicates a wealth of untapped potential with the ministry targeting half a million cruise passengers and 700 port calls in 2016.
A total of 150 ports are expected to be available by 2016 in order to achieve the tourist target.
