UAE-India passenger ship service expected to begin soon; tickets at Rs 10,000, baggage limit 200 kg

Dubai, Sep 19: President of Indian Association Sharjah said that passenger ship travel between Kerala and UAE will be launched soon with ticket prices at just AED 442 (Rs 10,000) and an allowance of 200 kg of baggage. The ship is expected to reach Kerala in three days’ time from UAE.

A report from Khaleej Times says that the service is likely to begin before the school holidays in December. The aim is to reduce the burden of expats living in UAE from paying astronomical air fares.

The approval from the union government is awaited. Representatives from Kerala are likely to meet the concerned central government minister in coming days. If everything goes well, the trial run will be held in November.

The ticket prices range from AED 442 to AED 663 depending on the time taken to complete the journey. During peak season there may be variation in the prices.

Passengers are allowed to take 200 kg of baggage with them. It will take three days for the ship to reach Kerala from UAE. In addition, excellent food and entertainment facilities will be offered to passengers. The ship is expected to carry 1250 passengers.

In the beginning the ship will call at two ports of Kochi and Beypore. There is also a third port that is being looked into according to Rahim. Vizhinjam is the likely destination for the third port option.

Kerala government is supporting the project which is run by Sharjah Indian association and a private company called Ananthpuri shipping and logistics private limited. Non-resident Keralites affairs (NORKA) is also a part of the project.

(With inputs from Daijiworld)