With just one ship in its fleet, the new kid quickly hit the headlines on the Cordelia Cruises block. The reason is that this one ship is none other than the former Royal Caribbean International ship – the Empress of the Seas.
The Indian startup announced the purchase of the ship in late December 2020. Cordelia’s parent company, Waterways Leisure Tourism Private Limited, previously acquired Jalesh Cruises, which filed for bankruptcy in October 2020 after just about a year from launch.
Jürgen Bailom, who ran Jalesh, has been named President and CEO of Cordelia Cruises.
In a press release, Bailom said he “continues the legacy of Jalesh Cruises by preserving the spirit, culture and value of Incredible India” and is the evangelist of joy by curating memorable cruise vacations that delight customers. “
After the purchase, the Empress of the Seas was renamed Kaiserin. According to the photo and video material, the Empress now has a large “Cordelia Cruises” logo on her hull.
According to the Cordelia Cruises website, the cruise line will have two to seven night trips to Sri Lanka, the Maldives and across India. The earliest available cruise departs June 5, 2021 with a seven-night itinerary through India and Sri Lanka.
The cruise line positions itself as “India’s first premium cruise ship”.
“Cordelia strives to promote and advance the cruise culture in India through stylish, luxurious and, above all, Native American experiences. Cordelia is a cruise ship for Indians that fulfills the way Indians love to vacation, ”the cruise company wrote.
Cordelia Cruises offers a variety of restaurants on board the Empress, including oriental, continental, Mughlai and Indian street food.
“Take your palate with you on a Southeast Asia tour with our in-house oriental restaurant with delicacies from Japan to Thailand. Or experience a sumptuous meal curated by our talented in-house chefs, or choose from a number of our food spots that offer the best of tandoors, pizza, pasta, grill and even if you want something quick, substantial, and satisfying are looking for delicious Indian street food! We also have a dedicated Jain Food section so you can enjoy a delicious meal while sticking to your diet, ”the cruise line wrote, adding that a range of confectionery and sweet treats will also be available.
In terms of entertainment, Cordelia promises “groovy nightclubs” and casinos as well as five different bars.
For cruises in June and July 2021, Cordelia Cruises is offering free tickets for children up to 12 years.
Facilities such as a swimming pool and a climbing wall as well as a “dedicated area for educational and fun activities for children of all ages” are offered on board.
