Cruise Manual

CRUISE
OPERATIONS MANUAL

T h i n k T hCi nrkuTir asvee l,, CTr uhi sienDki s t Di n cits t i n c t 1

Think Cruise,
Think Distinct

2 Think Cruise, Think Distinct

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 3

CONTENTS

WHY US AS YOUR CRUISE DMC?
CRUISE COMPETENCE NETWORK
UNDERSTANDING OF THE CRUISE BUSINESS
PORT OF CALL SERVICES
MAJOR SEA PORTS IN INDIA AND SRI LANKA
MUMBAI PORT TRUST, MAHARASHTRA
MORMUGAO PORT TRUST, GOA
PORT OF KOCHI, KERALA
CHENNAI PORT, TAMILNADU
PORBANDAR PORT TRUST
TUTICORIN PORT
PORT BLAIR PORT
PORT OF COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
LIST OF SHORE EXCURSIONS | INDIA & SRI LANKA)
PORT CITY | MUMBAI INDIA
PORT CITY | KOCHI
PORT CITY | MORMUGAO
PORT CITY – CHENNAI
PORT CITY – COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
SHORE EXCURSIONS | GENERAL OBSERVATIONS
OVERLAND TOUR SAMPLES
PRE OPERATIONS CHECKLIST SHEET
CRUISE OPERATIONS | IMPORTANT OBSERVATIONS
OUR COMMITMENT

4 Think Cruise, Think Distinct

WHY CHOOSE US AS
YOUR CRUISE DMC?

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 5

This cruise operations manual is
essentially designed as a reference
and toolkit to follow and manage the
important aspects of cruise handling
by the Cruise Competence Centre.

This manual is the guideline to the team to gain better understanding of;

++ The structure of the Cruise industry, cruise travel trends and new product
demand;

++ Cruise market segmentation, using specific information on traveller interests,
motivations and expectations;

++ Steps of new product development in organizing and selling new high value
niche products specific to cruise travelers;

We aim high to
provide the best
to all our cruise
guests and partners
by following the
designed norms in
place for our team.

6 Think Cruise, Think Distinct

WHY CHOOSE US AS A
CRUISE DMC?

01 06

An organization with a Price advantage due to
strong financial stability our global buying power

02 07

Extensive DMC Network Complete knowledge
of the destinations
03
08
Time/cost saving by
freeing resources Response to Proposal requests
(within 24-48 Hrs)
04
09
Specialized Local destination
know-how Tailor-made approach

05 10

Standardized services in Enthusiasm, creativity a
all DMC offices nd efficiency

HEALTH & SAFETY: INSURANCE POLICY:
Distinct Destinations has a Distinct Destinations has best
dedicated team to monitor the rated and best in class public
general Health & Safety norms
and standards at all times. liability insurance.

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 7

CRUISE COMPETENCE
NETWORK

8 Think Cruise, Think Distinct

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 9

UNDERSTANDING OF
THE CRUISE BUSINESS

10 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

Cruise Shipping is an important and growing component of the leisure
industry worldwide. Due to its multiplier effect, there are a number of spin-off
effects in the service sector.

Cruise lines are like floating resorts, travelling through the oceans and
seas from different home ports to various destinations offering various tour
packages globally to its passengers.

The role of the Cruise handling DMC essentially circles around the port
cities in any country. The services involved are primarily focusing on shore
Excursions, turn around services, overland tours, transportation etc.

The Cruise product is different to that of any other segment of the tourism sector and is very
specific to the demands of cruise passengers. It’s governed by important factors, under-
standing of which will go a long way to being successful.

Each cruise ship caters to a different market segment or target market, thus understanding
their potential customers and their respective needs and expectations are important.

If the goal is to offer product as a Shore Excursion, it’s important to be aware of the rules
of commitment with the cruise ship companies. For example;

• Disembarkation and Embarkation procedures.
• Delivering the clients back to the ship at the appointed time.
• Ensuring all the appreciated licenses and insurances are in place.
• Providing appropriate net rates and offering appropriate terms and conditions.
• Tailoring/adapting the product as required.
• Wherever possible, over-delivering on the services.
• W ord of mouth is gold for this sector – cruise ship passengers are avid talkers and

social media users, given the extremely high rates of repeat cruising, the cruise ship
companies are by necessity very responsive to their client’s feedback.

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PORT OF
CALL SERVICES

12 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

01

Shore Excursions

02

Extensive DMC Network

03

Meet and Greet Services

04

Transfer Services

05

Hospitality Desk at Port and Hotels

06

Pre/Post Programs

07

Overland Charter Programs

08

Own stock of life jackets

09

Own stock of life jackets

10

24 Hours Emergency support services

11

Partners with hoteliers, official bodies and port authorities

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 13

SHORE EXCURSIONS:

SHORE EXCURSIONS TRENDS

++ These are the official on shore tours offered by the cruise ship companies to its customers
as offered on ships tour brochure.

++ The shore excursions are pre-booked by the cruise passengers, either at the time of
booking their cruise holiday, online pre-departure or on-board prior to arrival in port.

++ Availability and content of Shore Excursion is determined by the cruise ship companies
through their Shore DMC, generally on a charter basis, ensuring the tours offered are
tailored to the needs of their particular clients.

++ Once tours are agreed and contracted at the destination, the cruise ship companies are
able to offer a wide range of targeted pre-determined/pre-costed programs which then
they heavi- ly promote prior to the ship’s arrival at port.

++ Shore excursions are considered an extremely important revenue generating source for
the cruise ship companies.Participating in shore excursion programs and shows security
for both the operator and supplier.

++ Anticipated customer numbers, inclusions / exclusions, payment arrangements and
products are promoted to the passengers prior to the ship’s arrival at Port.

++ They are able to familiarise themselves with the itinerary, inclusions etc prior to the
arrival, they know the tours have been checked and are of high quality, and most
importantly, they are aware that the ship will wait for them if for some reason the
tour is held up and the cruise ship company will address issues on their behalf should
they arise.

SHORE EXCURSIONS TRENDS

++ It has become increasingly challenging for the cruise ship companies to encourage
passen- gers to undertake a shore excursion.

++ The quality of cruise lines free cruise and onboard marketing / information and the
unique- ness of the shore excursion on offer are increasingly important aspects, thus
offering a com- pelling tour with appropriate inclusions and providing the right shore
excursions with enough in-depth and appealing content to enable them to market the
product effectively is critical.

++ There has been a growth in independent passengers making their own arrangements
once they arrive at the destination. Cruise passengers are increasingly price and value
conscious; however they will still expect high quality tours.

14 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER

++ Different target markets for the different cruise lines.
++ Need to keep evolving and be flexible.
++ Work closely with the Cruise ship partner - this is a relationship building exercise - it

takes time.
++ Not everyone has a product that is suitable for group sightseeing.
++ Not everyone on the ship wants to take a group sightseeing excursion.
++ Different nationalities for different cruise lines.
++ It’s all about an experience ~ try to carve a niche for yourself ~ don’t just offer some-

thing that can be found in other ports / destinations ~ play to your strengths

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TOUR SYNOPSISTOUR SYNOPSIS
TOUR SYMBOLS / CODE (SAMPLE)

TOUR SYNOPSIS
TOUR SYMBOLS / CODE (SAMPLE)NAME OF
TOUR / DESTINAT-OUR SSUYGMGBESOTL- S / CMOINDE/ M(SAAXMPLEL)EVEL OF COMMENT
TION ED TIMING CODE ACTIVITY
COMMENT
TOUR DESTINA- CODE MIN / MAX CODE
NCOAMDEE OF TION SUGGEST- CODE LEVEL OF 4.5 Hours
Tour
TOUR / ED TIMING ACTIVITY
4.5 Hours
TOUR Mumbai CODE 20/27 CODE Tour
HighCliOghDtEs 0900-1330
of Mumbai 7 Hours
hrs Tour

(A01 Mumbai 0900-1330 20/27 7 Hours
Highlights Tour

of Mumbai hrs 7 Hours
Tour
(A01
7 Hours
Best of Kochi 0900-1500 20/27 Tour
Kochi (A02) hrs
4.5 Hours
Best of Kochi 0900-1500 20/27 Tour
Kochi (A02) hrs
4.5 Hours
Explore Mormugao 0900-1420 20/27 Tour
Goa (C03) (Goa) hrs

Explore Mormugao 0900-1420 20/27
Goa (C03) (Goa) hrs

Highlights Colombo 0900-1315 20/27
Colombo hrs 20/27
of Colom-
0900-1315
bo (D04) hrs
Highlights

of Colom-

bo (D04)

LEVEL OF ACLTEVIVELIOTFYAC(TSIVYITMY (SBYMOBOLLSS))

LEVEL OF ACTIVITY (SYMBOLS)
MMOODDEERRAATTEE:: IInncclluuddeesssosomme ewawlkainlgki(nMgax(M1 amxile1altmogileethaelrtopegrettohuer)r, per tour), some stairs

so(Mmeasxta2ir0s )(Max 20)

SSMTTRROEEDNNEUUROOAUUTSSE:::PIPnucurlreuedwwesaalklskionimnggeorwosraplksopirntoigvre(tMitvoaeuxrt1(osumariliilne(gsaaeltiotlcign)egthetrcp)er tour),

some stairs (Max 20)

STRENUOUS: Pure walking or sportive tour (sailing etc)

16 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

TURN AROUNDTU(RSNTAAROFUNFD PLAN)(STAFF PLAN)

MENT Turn Around
Manager
ours
ur

ours Pier Airport
ur

ours Check-in Pier Runners Pier Meet Airport meet &
ur & Greet Greet

ours
ur

TURTNURNAARROOUUNNDDMAMNAAGNERAG| 0E1 RP E�R��S�O��N���������������A�I�R��P�O��R��T��S�U��P�E��R�V��IS��O��R��|�0��1��P�E��R�S�0O1N PERSON

PIER COORDINATOR �������������������������������������������������������������������01 PERSON
PIER COORDINATOR | 01 PERSON AIRPORT MEET & GREET | 02 PERSON

PIER CHECK IN ��������������������������������������������������������������������������01 PERSON

PIER CHECK IN | 01 PERSON RUNNERS | 02 PERSON
PIER OUTSIDE MEET & GREET �������������������������������������������������������01 PERSON

AIRPPIEORROTUTSSUIDPEEMRVEEIST O& GRR �E�E��T��|��0�1��P��E�R��S��O�N�����������������������������������������������01 PERSON

AIRPORT MEET & GREET ��������������������������������������������������������������02 PERSON

NOTE: The posted numbers are estimate based and are flexible. Need to be pier adjusted after the final

RUNnuNmbEeRrsSa r�e��r�e�c�e��iv�e��d��fo��r�a��T�u��rn��A��r�o�u�n��d��S�e��rv��ic�e���������������������������������������������02 PERSON

NOTE: The posted numbers are estimate based and are flexible. Need to be
pier adjusted after the final numbers are received for a Turn Around Service

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 17

18 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

DISEMBARKATION PROCEDURE 19

UPON ARRIVAL
• Security Personal, Porters and Hosts are on Stand-by
• After ships clearance passenger disembarkation commences

STAND-BY SERVICES
• Shuttle buses to City & Airport.
• Transfer Buses to Airport.
• Private Passenger Cars.
• Hosts to assist passengers.
• Luggage storage for late departing passengers.

UPON ARRIVAL:
• Shuttle buses will operate between
• Pier to Hotels & airport.

EMBARKATION PROCEDURE

THROUGHOUT THE DAY:
• Security Personal, Porters and Hosts are on Stand-by
• After ships clearance passenger disembarkation commences

THE FOLLOWING SERVICE WILL BE ON STAND-BY:
• Transfer buses from airport to terminal for arrivals.
• Private Passenger cars throughout the day.
• Hosts to assist passengers through- out the day.
• Porters for luggage transport at cen- tral station.
• luggage storage for early arrivals.

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct

PORT OF
CALL SERVICES

20 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

MUMBAI PORT TUTICORIN PORT
West Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
(NOW CALLED V.O CHILDAMARAM PORT)
MORMUGAO OR GOA PORT Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, India
Panaji, Goa, India
PORT BLAIR PORT
KOCHI PORT OR COCHIN Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar, India
Kochi, Kerla, India
NEW MANGALORE
CHENNAI OR MADRAS PORT Mangalore, Karnataka, India PORT
Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
COLOMBO PORT
PORBANDAR PORT Colombo, Sri Lanka
Porbandar, Gujarat, India

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 21

MUMBAI PORT TRUST, MAHARASHTRA

MUMBAI PORT FACTS

COUNTRY CITY CALLING PORT
INDIA Mumbai
Mumbai Port
Trust,

Maharashtra

22 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

GENERAL FACTS

Distance to Town (All Terminals Are In Town)
Terminal Building BPX (Yes)
Hospitality Desk Yes (Managed by Port authorities)
Immigration At the terminal
Money Exchange Available Inside The Terminal
Shopping in Port Yes (Small Souvenir shops)
Day off None
Restrooms in Port area Yes
Bar/Cafe at Pier No
Tourist Information at Pier Yes (Managed by Port Authorities)
Public Transport Yes (Available outside the port)
Distance to Public Transport Stations 200 Metres From The Ship
Wheelchair Access at Pier On Request
Taxis at Pier Yes
Car Rental at Pier Yes (Provided by Distinct Destinations on
Closest Airport Prior request)
International Airport Domestic Airport 28 km from Port
Internet Cafe at Pier At a distance of 32 Km from Port

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 23

QUICK FACTS

Mumbai, one of the biggest metropolises of India, is a city that virtually never sleeps.
Mumbai houses thecountry’s largest production houses, stock exchanges, sea port and
office of some of the esteemedcompanies of the world. Not only is Mumbai, the capital of
Maharashtra, it is also called The CommercialCapital of India.

Being the city of Bollywood, Mumbai allures thousands of aspirant actors and artists from
all over thecountry. The city offers a cosmopolitan diverse lifestyle with a variety of cuisine
and entertainment. Experienceits dazzling nightlife in bars, lounges, pubs, discotheques
and beaches. Uncover the spiritual side ofthe magnificent city in its places of worship.
Parks, gardens, museums, shopping malls, amusement parks, beaches and lakes define the
charisma of this economic hub.

Official Language Marathi

Local Currency Indian Rupee

Foreign Currency accepted It is advised to exchange at banks or hotels

Time zone GMT 5.30 hrs

Calling code +91 22

Location Western Coast of Maharashtra

Area 603 Sq Km

Attractions Gateway of India, Marine Drive etc.

Major Religions Hinduism, Islam, Christians & Zoroastrians

Emergency Telephone Number - Police 100

Emergency Telephone Number - Ambulance 101

INDEPENDENT GUESTS : All Independent guests can walk from Pier to the outside of the
terminal building (5 min walk one way)

24 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

FACTS & FIGURES

01

Largest city of Maharashtra, India

02

Mumbai is one of the most famous Cities of India

03

Mumbai is the financial capital of India

04

Mumbai was once a tropical archipelago of seven islands.This
group of islands, subsequently joined by the series of reclamations

05

Mumbai was the dowry of the Portuguese Princess, Infanta
Catherine De Braganza who married Charles II of England in

1661

TRANSPORT 25

Good quality buses,very
comfortable andair-conditioned

with 35to 45 seats per bus.
Most buses are around1 to 5
years old, rangingfrom deluxe

to luxurylevel.

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct

MORMUGAO PORT TRUST, GOA

MORMUGAO (GOA)

COUNTRY CITY CALLING PORT
INDIA
Mormugao Mormugao
(Goa) Port Trust, Goa

26 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

GENERAL FACTS

Distance to Town 2 km to Vasco
Terminal Building N/A
Hospitality Desk No
Immigration Onboard The Ship
Money Exchange Arranged by Poet Handling Manager
Shopping in Port No
Day off None
Restrooms in Port area No
Bar/Cafe at Pier No
Tourist Information at Pier No
Public Transport Outside The Port
Distance to Public Transport Stations 2 Km From the Ship
Wheelchair Access at Pier No
Taxis at Pier Yes
Car Rental at Pier Yes (Provided by Distinct Destinations) on Prior
Closest Airport request
International Airport Domestic / International Airport 05 Km
Internet Cafe at Pier Dabolim Airport
Outside the harbour

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 27

QUICK FACTS

Goa is India’s smallest state by area. Located in West India in the region known as the
konkan. It is bounded by the state of Maharashtra to the north and by Karnataka to the
east and south, while the Arabian Sea forms the western coast of Goa. Goa is synonymous
with sun, sea and sand. But there is more to Goa then the sprawling beaches. Magnificent
Churches, beautiful temples and spectacular landscape can leave most speechless. The
picturesque tile roofed cottages and the local culture and cuisine further adds to the charm.

Renowned for its beaches, places of worship and world heritage architecture, Goa is
visited by large numbers of international and domestic tourists each year. It also has rich
flora and fauna, owing to its location on the Western Ghats range, which is classified as
a biodiversity hotspot.

Official language Konkani

Local Currency Indian Rupee

Foreign Currency accepted It is advised to exchange at banks or hotels

Time Zone GMT 5.30 hrs

Calling Code + 91 832

Emergency Telephone Number - Police 100

Emergency Telephone Number - Ambulance 108
Location
Area On the Western coast of Indian Peninsula,
Attractions of South Maharashtra, North of Krnataka
on the Western Side of Western Ghats

3,702 Sq Km

Temples, Churches, Beaches & Spice
Plantations

28 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

FACTS & FIGURES

01

Known as the Pearl of the Orient and a Tourist Paradise, the state of Goa is
located on the western coast of India

02

Goa is the land of Sun, Sand, Surf and the Sea

03

The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendors of its temples

04

Each year in February Goa comes alive with music, song and dance
for three days and nights as the carnival is celebrated in keeping with

Portuguese traditions

05

The biggest extravaganza takes place in Panaji and attracts thousands of
Indians & foreigners alike

TRANSPORT

Good quality buses,very
comfortable andair-conditioned

with 35to 45 seats per bus.
Most buses are around1 to 5
years old, rangingfrom deluxe

to luxurylevel.

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PORT OF KOCHI, KERALA

ERNAKULUM WHARF,
WILLINGTON ISLAND, KOCHI

COUNTRY CITY CALLING PORT
INDIA Kochi
Cochin Port
Trust, Kerala

30 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

GENERAL FACTS 8 Km
No
Distance to Town Yes
Terminal Building Onboard the ship
Hospitality Desk Arranged by port handling manager
Immigration No
Money Exchange None
Shopping in Port No
Day off No
Restrooms in Port area Yes
Bar/Cafe at Pier Yes, within walking distance
Tourist Information at Pier 200 metres from the Ship
Public Transport On request
Distance to Public Transport Stations Yes
Wheelchair Access at Pier On Prior Request
Taxis at Pier Domestic / International Airport (40 Km)
Car Rental at Pier 40 Km (1 hour drive)
Closest Airport Cochin
International Airport
Internet Cafe at Pier

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 31

QUICK FACTS

Cochin (Kochi), for centuries had been a main port city, not only of Kerala, but also of the
Indian Peninsula. Kochi is known for its serene beaches, emerald backwaters, sprawling
plantations, divine cuisine and is one of the world’s finest harbours. Since the 14th century,
Kochi, known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, has had ships from Asian and European
countries visiting her port. The traders and travellers from across the globe (Arabs, Chinese,
Portuguese, Dutch, and British etc. were welcomed with open arms and minds. This greatly
helped in its growth into a cosmopolitan city.

Kochi represents different things to different people. To many, it is an emerging cosmopolitan
city with bustling life in the Streets. To some others, kochi is a place with deep roots in
history and its streets exude an old-world charm. Yet another group looks at kochi as
thriving, expanding market, providing opportunities for growth and prosperity to all who
knock at her door.

Official language Malayalam (English is widely Spoken now)

Local Currency Indian Rupee

Foreign Currency accepted It is advised to exchange at banks or hotels

Time Zone GMT + 5.30 hrs

Calling Code +91 832

Emergency Telephone Number - Police 100

Emergency Telephone Number - Ambulance 101

Location Western Coast of India, down South

Area 2408 Sq Km
Attractions
St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishing Nets area at
Fort Cochin, Dutch Palace (Closed on Fridays),
A Jewish Synagogue (Closed on Fridays &
Saturdays)

32 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

FACTS & FIGURES

01

Cochin is called The Queen of Arabian Sea & is located in
the state of kerala on the south-western tip of India

02

Kerala is also known as God’s own Country

03

One of the finest natural harbours in the world

04

Cochin is the Commercial capital of Kerala & the most
cosmopolitan city of Kerala

05

Ancient travellers called this city by several names –
Catchin, Cocym, Cochym, Cochin, and Kochi

06

The local jewish community preferred Kogin, which is in
fact inscribed on the seal of the synagogue in the city

TRANSPORT 33

Good quality buses,very
comfortable andair-conditioned

with 35to 45 seats per bus.
Most buses are around1 to 5
years old, rangingfrom deluxe

to luxurylevel.

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct

CHENNAI PORT, TAMIL NADU

CHENNAI PORT

COUNTRY CITY CALLING PORT
INDIA CHENNAI
Chennai Port
Trust,

Tamil Nadu

34 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

GENERAL FACTS

Distance to city Centre 12 Km
Terminal Building No (Proposed)
Hospitality Desk Yes
Immigration On board the ship
Money Exchange Arranged by port handling manager
Shopping in Port No
Day off None
Toilets in Port area No
Bar/Café at Pier No
Tourist Information Pier Yes
Public Transport Yes, Outside the Main Gate
Distance to Public Transport Stations 1 Km From the Ship (Depending upon the berth-
Wheelchair access at Pier ing of the vessel)
Taxis at Pier On request
Car Rental at Pier No
Closest Airport Provided by Distinct Destinations on prior re-
International Airport quest
Internet Café at Pier Domestic / International Airport 25 Km (1 hour)
Chennai
No

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 35

QUICK FACTS

Chennai is India’s fourth largest city and the gateway to the South, from a tiny hamlet in
1639, it grew around the nucleus of Fort St. George built by the British. The British set
foot by starting the East India Company. Many buildings built by the British still exist to
remind you of the Colonial Raj. Today it is a dynamic mix of old & new with stately colonial
buildings juxtaposed with modern high rises. Chennai is also a centre of South India’s film
industry, and towering above the city streets are billboards advertising movies.

A commercial hub, leather goods, peanuts, and raw cotton are exported from its large
artificial harbor; it retains a rich cultural heritage reflected in Tamil literature, dance and
music. It is also known as the Detroit of Asia due to many automobile industries are located
near Chennai. Chennai, then known as Madras, was the gateway to the south to the British,
French, Portuguese, Dutch and Danes, all of who sought its riches and in the process,
turned it into a flourishing port.

Official language Tamil (English is widely spoken)

Local Currency Indian Rupee

Religion Hinduism, Islam, Christianity

Foreign Currency accepted It is advised to exchange at banks or hotels.

Time Zone GMT + 5.30 hrs

Calling Code +91 44

Emergency Telephone Number - Police 100

Emergency Telephone Number - Ambulance 108

Location On the South-eastern Coast of India.

Area 174 Sq Km
Attractions
George town, high court complex, central
railway Station, rippon, Government museum,
kapaleeswarar temple, marina, Beach etc.

36 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

FACTS & FIGURES

01

Chennai is located in the state of Tamil Nadu on the south-
eastern part of India

02

One of the finest natural harbours in India

03

Chennai is also known as “The Detroit of Asia”

04

Chenai is the capital of Tamil Nadu, one of the most
cosmopolitan cities in india, major Car industries are

located here, apart from major IT companies

TRANSPORT 37

Good quality buses,very
comfortable andair-conditioned

with 35to 45 seats per bus.
Most buses are around1 to 5
years old, rangingfrom deluxe

to luxurylevel.

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct

PORBANDAR PORT TRUST, GUJARAT

PORT FACTS

COUNTRY CITY CALLING PORT
INDIA Porbandar
Porbandar
Port Trust,

Gujarat

38 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

GENERAL FACTS

Distance to Town Km / 45 Min
Terminal Building No
Hospitality Desk No (Provided by Distinct Destinations on
Immigration prior request)
Money Exchange Onboard the ship
Shopping in Port Arranged by port handling manager
Day off No
Restrooms in Port area No
Bar/Cafe at Pier No
Tourist Information at Pier No
Public Transport No
Distance to Public Transport Stations 4-5 Km From Ship in the town area
Wheelchair Access at Pier No
Taxis at Pier No
Car Rental at Pier Yes (Provided by Distinct Destinations on prior
Closest Airport request)
International Airport Jamnagar Domestic Airport
Internet Cafe at Pier Ahmedabad (7 Hrs from Porbandar)
No

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 39

QUICK FACTS

Porbandar State was a princely state during the British-Raj. It was one of the few princely
states with a coastline. This city provides an opportunity for an interesting overview of
India’s simple village beliefs, a medieval india almost. Porbandar was the last capital of the
jethwa Rajput’s, who ruled this area for about 1200 years – shifting capitals from Ghumli,
Ranpur and chhaya.

Present day Porbandar was established as a capital by Rana Sartanji in 1785 A.D.
Porbandar, originally a fortified town with high rampart walls, bastions and five gates,
lost its fortification by the order of colonel lally in 1888 A.D. A visit to the birthplace of the
Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi and lord krishna’s friend Sudama is a humbling
experience.

Official language Gujarati
Local Currency Indian Rupee
Foreign Currency accepted It is advised to exchange at banks or hotels.
Time Zone GMT 5.30 hrs
Calling Code + 91 286
Location Seashore of Gujarat
Attractions Temples featuring Kirti Mandir, Sudama Mandir,
Major Religions Bharat Mandir, etc.
Hinduism, Islam and Christians

40 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

FACTS & FIGURES

01

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (Famously known as
mahatma Gandhi) was born here

02

One of the finest natural harbours in the world

03

Fishing is an important industry

TRANSPORT 41

Buses are comfortableand
air-conditioned,Mostly
45 seats perBus. Most
buses are around 3 to
5 yearold& are of good
qualityPorbandar being

aSmall city, theAvailability of
luxuryBuses is not possible. If
required DeluxeBuses can be
arrangedFrom Ahmedabad.

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct

TUTICORIN PORT, TAMIL NADU

VO CHIDAMBARANAR PORT
TUTICORIN FACTS

COUNTRY CITY CALLING PORT
INDIA Tuticorin
V.O.
Chidambaranar

Port Trust,
Tuticorin

42 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

GENERAL FACTS 45 Minutes
N/A
Distance to Town No
Terminal Building Onboard the ship
Hospitality Desk Arranged by port handling manager
Immigration No
Money Exchange No
Shopping in Port No
Day off No
Restroom in port Area No
Bar/Café at Pier No
Tourist Information at Pier 2 Km from the ship
Public Transport No
Distance to Public Transport Stations No
Wheelchair access at Pier Yes (Provided by Distinct Destinations on prior
Taxis at Pier request)
Car Rental at Pier Domestic/international airport 5 Km
Closest Airport 145 Km
Distance to Closest Airport Madurai Airport
International Airport No
Internet Café at Pier

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 43

QUICK FACTS

V.O. CHIDAMBARANAR (TUTICORIN) is one of the 12 major ports in India. It was declared
to be a major port on 11 July 1974. It is the second largest port in Tamil Nadu and fourth
largest container terminal in India. After Sethusamudaram shipping Canal Project V.O.C.
Port will be India’s premier port and one of the major ports of Asia equal to Port of
Singapore.

V.O. Chidambaranar Port is an artificial port. This is the third international port in Tamil
nadu and its second all-weather port. All V.O. Chidambaranar Port’s traffic handling has
crossed 10 million tons from 1 April To 13 September 2008, registering a growth rate of
12.08 percent, surpassing the corresponding previous year handling of 8.96 million tons.
It has service to USA, China, Europe, Sri Lanka and Mediterranean Countries. The Station
Commander, Coast Guard Station Tuticorin is located at Tuticorin Port, Tamil Nadu under
the operational and administrative of the Commander, Coast Guard Region (East), Chennai

Official language Tamil

Local Currency Indian Rupee

Foreign Currency accepted It is advised to exchange at banks or hotels

Time Zone GMT 5.30 hrs

Calling Code +91 461

Emergency Telephone Number - Police 100

Emergency Telephone Number - Ambulance 108
Location
Area South-Eastern Corner of Tamil Nadu, North
by the Tirunelveli, Ramanathapuram. East and
South East by the Gulf of Mannar

4,621Sq Km

Attractions Churches, Beaches and Plantations

44 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

FACTS & FIGURES

01

Tuticorin is a natural harbor, also known as “Pearl City”. Pearls were
harvested from the ocean here, a few decades back.

02

Major attractions include the beach which is quite clean, shopping places,
Matha Church is very famous and once a year there is a major festival called
Our Lady of the Snows Shrine Basilica festival, which is attended by people

from across the world.

There is a Shiva temple and a Vishnu temple adjacent to each other.

03

In terms of food, sea food is very famous and a lot of this gets exported
too. Porucha roti, which is oil fried parotta is very famous with its salna.
Macaroons is a famous dessert made only of sugar, cashews and egg

whites. It is more like puffed cookies which just melt in the mouth.

TRANSPORT 45

All transport is Arranged from
Chennai as Tuticorin is a small

Port. Good quality Buses,
very Comfortable and air-
conditioned with mostly 35 to
45 seats per bus.Most buses
are around1 to 5 years old
and Ranging from Deluxe to

luxury.

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct

PORT BLAIR PORT, PORT BLAIR

PORT FACTS

COUNTRY CITY CALLING PORT
INDIA Port Blair
Port Blair Trust,
Andaman &
Nicobar

46 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

GENERAL FACTS

Distance to Town 12 Km
Terminal Building Yes
Hospitality Desk No
Immigration Onboard the ship
Money Exchange Arranged by port handling manager
Shopping in Port Yes, Inside the Terminal (Small Souvenir Kiosks)
Day off None
Toilets in Port Area Inside the Terminal
Bar/Café at Pier No
Tourist Information at Pier Yes
Public Transport Yes, outside the main Gate
Distance to Public Transport Stations 1 Km From the ship
Wheelchair access at Pier On Request
Taxis at Pier Outside the Terminal gate
Car Rental at Pier Provided by Distinct Destinations on
Closest Airport prior request
International Airport Domestic / International Airport 5 Km
Internet Café at Pier (1.5 Hrs)
Port Blair
No

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct 47

QUICK FACTS

Port Blair is the capital of the Union territory of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It is located on
the east coast of the South Andaman Island. Port Blair is the gateway to the pristine islands.

Port Blair is also and island town offering water based activities like snorkeling, scuba
diving, sea-cruises, and glimpses of history and culture of the region. The Aberdeen Bazaar
forms the centre of the town. Most of the restaurants and hotels are around this area. The
main bus station is just west of the bazaar and the airport is 4 Km to the south west.

The main passenger dock for ferries-the Phoenix Bay jetty is 1 km to the North West.
While Andaman and Nicobar consist of two island groups (The Andaman islands and the
Nicobar islands) they are actually made up of 572 islands, islets and rocks lying along an
arc in a long and narrow North-South chain, over a distance of nearly 800 Km.

Official language Bengali & Hindi (English is widely spoken)

Local Currency Indian Rupee

Religion Hinduism, Islam, Christianity & many others

Foreign Currency accepted Yes

Time Zone GMT + 5.30 hrs

Calling Code +91 3192

Emergency Telephone Number - Police 100

Emergency Telephone Number - Ambulance 108

Location East coast of the South Andaman Island

Area 16.64 Sq Km

48 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t

FACTS & FIGURES

01

The town of Port Blair boasts of a tropical Monsoon climate that sees little
variation in temperature. It gets rainfall throughout the year, except for the
month of January, February and March, whatever time you decide to visit

port Blair, you will find a good weather.

02

The town came alive in 1789 when the government of Bengal established a
penal colony in the Chatham island in the southeast bay of Great Andaman.
The Island was later renamed Port blair to honour Lieutenant Archibald Blair

of the British East India Company.

03

The Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex is one of the most celebrated
sporting Complex in India, if you want to enjoy some water sports, head to
Port blair. After all, the town has a navy base here and you will never fall

short of experts to train you on how it is done.

TRANSPORT 49

All transport is veryBasic
yet of goodQuality.

Comfortablebuses with air-
conditioning andMostly 35

to 45 seatsPer bus. Most
busesAre around 1 to 5

yearsOld.

Think Travel, Cruise Distinct

PORT OF COLOMBO, SRI LANKA

PORT FACTS

COUNTRY CITY CALLING PORT
INDIA Colombo
Port of
Colombo,
Sri Lanka

50 T h i n k C r u i s e , T h i n k D i s t i n c t