The largest tourist vessel of its kind in Kerala, the luxury ferry “Classic Imperial,” has been essentially inaugurated by Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari.
Speaking at the event, the Minister stated that Kerala in particular offers countless opportunities for cruise tourism in the nation. There will be a significant effort to get the financial industry to provide further funding for the building of ships.
According to a news statement issued by the program’s organizers, the Union Minister praised the vessel’s commissioning. “The vessel has enhanced his professional and entrepreneurial abilities. The businessman who created the luxurious cruiser,” said Gadkari. Also, Nishith K. John, was praised by the Union Minister, who also pledged full assistance.
The boat was launched at Marine Drive’s Neo-Classic Boat Jetty. Mayor of Kochi Corporation M. Anilkumar, MP Hibi Eden, MLA T. J. Vinod, and GCDA chairman K. Chandran Pillai were present at the program.
Classic Imperial is said to be the biggest of its kind tourist vessel in Kerala which can accommodate up to 150 passengers at a time. The vessel is 50 meters long, 11 meters wide and 10 meters high with IRS (Indian Registrar of Shipping) safety certification. From wedding ceremonies to company conferences, the design of the Imperial Classic is done in a way that can host such many things. Centralized AC, DJ booths, open bath, dining area with state-of-the-art facilities, spacious hall, green room, lounge, etc. are part of the vessel.
The ship’s construction got underway in March 2020. Nishijith K. John, Managing Director of Neo Classic Cruises and Tours Pvt Ltd, made it happen. Nishijith established the construction center by renting the Cochin Port property for INR 1.20 lakh per month. Nishijith had entered the backwater tourism market using a rented boat. On the other hand, the Covid era had caused a construction standstill.
