Beypore, Kerala, introducing Cruise services next year

Thursday, December 28, 2023

The Finance Minister, Shri KN Balagopal, announced today that the state government is set to initiate cruise ship services from Beypore next year. This decision comes as a result of increased funding allocated for dredging activities at the port. Shri Balagopal made this announcement during the inauguration of the third edition of the four-day Beypore International Water Fest (BIWF) at Beypore Marina Beach.

At the event, both Shri Balagopal and Minister for General Education Shri V Sivankutty jointly inaugurated BIWF, a well-known celebration of water sports and entertainment preceding the New Year. Shri Balagopal revealed that funds have been earmarked for dredging to enhance the river’s depth at the port. He expressed confidence that before the next edition of BIWF, cruise ships will commence their voyages from Beypore.

According to the Finance Minister, the initial services will be launched by domestic cruise ships capable of carrying 300 to 500 passengers. This development is expected to significantly boost tourism in the state, attracting more visitors to the annual BIWF festivities.

Shri Balagopal also mentioned plans under the SagarMala scheme to construct major roads and renovate the wharf at Beypore port. Shri Sivankutty highlighted the global popularity of BIWF and its substantial public engagement, emphasizing its positive impact on tourism.

Tourism Minister Shri PA Mohamed Riyas, presiding over the function, emphasized that BIWF was conceived to promote Kerala tourism and develop Malabar tourism. He credited the festival with fostering harmony, unity among people, and drawing tourists from other states and abroad.

The festival’s major activities will take place at Beypore Marina Beach, Chaliyam Beach, Nallur, and Beypore Port. Various programs are also scheduled across the city, including Kozhikode Beach, to attract international and domestic tourists. The BIWF, organized by the Department of Tourism in collaboration with the District Administration and District Tourism Promotion Council, will feature cultural programs, a mega food festival, adventure sports, and international participation in events like the International Kite Festival.

The Responsible Tourism and Textile Art Festival, part of BIWF, will be held from December 26 to 30 at E K Nayanar Mini Stadium at Nallur. The festival’s diverse activities include a boat parade on the concluding day. Renowned singers and bands are set to perform at various venues during the festival, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Beypore, located six km south of Kozhikode, has a rich maritime history as a port facilitating trade with West Asia long before Western colonialists arrived.

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