With Cordelia Empress operating near full capacity, the company decided to add two more cruise ships to its fleet, increasing total capacity by approximately 4,000 guests.
This will add 1,800-2,200 staterooms and suites to the existing 800, further enhancing their offerings. To support this growth, the board approved raising approximately Rs. 800 crores through an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in the Indian capital market. The company is also in discussions with major US and European cruise companies for ship acquisitions, positioning itself to lead India’s cruise tourism revolution.
TTI interviewed Jurgen Bailom, President & CEO of Cordelia Cruises, to learn more about these developments and the future of cruising in India.
Q: Cordelia Cruises recently announced the addition of new ships and itineraries. Can you tell us more about these developments?
A: Yes, we are thrilled about our expansion. With our current ship, Cordelia Empress, operating at near full capacity, we saw a tremendous opportunity to grow. This summer, we are launching new itineraries, including voyages to Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. We are also adding two new ships, which will increase our total capacity by approximately 4,000 guests. This expansion is crucial in making cruising a more mainstream travel option for Indian travelers.
Q: How has the Indian market responded to new destinations like Sri Lanka?
A: The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Sri Lanka is a fantastic destination with beautiful landscapes, friendly people and rich culture. One of the major advantages for Indian travelers is that visas are included or available on arrival, making travel seamless. During the monsoon season, many travelers prefer short getaways, and Sri Lanka fits perfectly into that preference.
Q: Do you offer alternative itineraries during the monsoon season?
A: Absolutely! From September to mid-June, we operate primarily from Mumbai, but when the monsoon arrives, we shift to Chennai for two and a half months. Our itineraries include Singapore, Malaysia, and other Southeast Asian destinations. No matter the season, we ensure that Indian travelers get the best cruising experiences.
Q: Cordelia has also been focusing on weddings and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) segments. How is that progressing?
A: The response has been phenomenal. We host between 10-20 large weddings a year, and after the Ambani wedding, the demand has surged further. Corporates have also embraced cruising for MICE events leading companies from industries like banking, investments, and FMCG regularly book with us.
Q: Are these bookings done through travel agents or directly with Cordelia?
A: A mix of both. We have a few major travel partners, but a significant portion of our bookings come directly from consumers. Currently, 70% of our business is B2C, while 30% is B2B. That said, travel agents play a crucial role in handling large group bookings and corporate events. As of today, we have about 4,000 travel agents signed up with us.
Q: With international cruise companies entering Indian waters, how do you see the competition?
A: We welcome competition, but Cordelia Cruises is unique. Unlike international cruise lines, which only visit India seasonally, we are a domestic cruise company, fully dedicated to Indian travelers. Our ships, services, and entertainment are curated for Indian preferences, Bollywood shows, Indian cuisine, and multilingual staff. We are not just an international cruise line making a stop in India; we are India’s own cruise line.
Q: Do you believe Indian travelers will continue choosing Cordelia over international cruise options?
A: Absolutely. Many first-time cruisers start with Cordelia and return because we understand their needs better than any international brand. Our ships offer world-class facilities, but with an Indian touch whether it’s our cuisine, hospitality, or celebrations like Diwali and Holi onboard. That’s where the misconception lies. Our ships are no different from international cruise liners. The only difference is that we focus on the Indian market. We greet guests in the Indian way, serve authentic Indian cuisine, and celebrate Indian festivals onboard. International cruise lines do not allow certain wedding customs, such as fire for the mandap. On our ship, we ensure that the wedding takes place with proper Vedic rituals.
Our entertainment is top-notch, with high-quality live performances. We celebrate everything properly Diwali, Holi, Independence Day—all in an authentic Indian way. Our ships are as luxurious as any international cruise liner, but we offer a uniquely Indian experience.
While international cruises may offer a western experience, Cordelia gives Indian travelers a home-away-from-home experience at sea.
Q: Tell us about the new itineraries you are introducing. Which one has the highest expectations?
A: Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore are among the most anticipated. Indian travelers usually take short trips, about 3-4 days, to destinations like the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Dubai. Now, we are offering them a chance to see multiple destinations in a single trip. With our Chennai-to-Singapore cruise, travelers can explore Thailand, Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia in one go without the need for multiple flights and hotel bookings.
Q: What is your vision for the future of Indian cruising?
A: India has the third-largest coastline in the world, yet cruise tourism is still in its early stages. Our vision is to make India a global cruise hub. We are working closely with the Indian government on the ‘Cruise Bharatmala’ mission. Between 2027 and 2037, India will add 27 new cruise destinations along its coastline, including ports in Chennai, Kolkata, and Kochi. The government is investing in port infrastructure, and we are working closely with authorities to promote these destinations. We want to give Indian travelers world-class cruising experiences without the need to fly abroad.
Q: Any final thoughts?
A: Cordelia Cruises is more than just a business – it’s a movement to make cruising mainstream in India. We are committed to providing the best-in-class experiences while keeping our Indian identity intact. With fleet expansion, new itineraries, and enhanced services, the future of cruising in India has never been brighter!
Blurb 1:
“Our ships are no different from international cruise liners. The only difference is that we focus on the Indian market. We greet guests in the Indian way, serve authentic Indian cuisine, and celebrate Indian festivals onboard. International cruise lines do not allow certain wedding customs, such as fire for the mandap. On our ship, we ensure that the wedding takes place with proper Vedic rituals.”
Blurb 2:
“Our vision is to make India a global cruise hub. We are working closely with the Indian government on the ‘Cruise Bharatmala’ mission. Between 2027 and 2037, India will add 27 new cruise destinations along its coastline, including ports in Chennai, Kolkata, and Kochi. The government is investing in port infrastructure, and we are working closely with authorities to promote these destinations.”