Cordelia cruises: routes from Mumbai, Kochi and Chennai
Short sailings to Goa, Lakshadweep and Sri Lanka: what a domestic cruise involves and how to plan one.
Most cruise searches in India are for domestic sailings, and Cordelia Cruises is the name most people know. It's an easy introduction to cruising: no long-haul flight, no visa for domestic routes, Indian food on board and entertainment for every age. Many of our travellers take a short sailing for a family celebration, a wedding anniversary or a reunion with friends.
Here's what a Cordelia cruise involves, where the ships sail from, and how to plan one from South India.
Where the ships sail from
Cordelia's routes change by season, as the ship repositions along India's coasts. Typical patterns:
- Mumbai: short sailings to Goa and along the Konkan coast, and seasonal itineraries to Lakshadweep and Kochi.
- Kochi: Lakshadweep and west coast itineraries, convenient for travellers from across Kerala.
- Chennai: seasonal sailings along the east coast and to Sri Lanka.
- Goa: some itineraries start or end here.
Schedules are published season by season, so we send you the current options for your preferred dates and port.
How long are the cruises?
Most domestic sailings are two to five nights. A two or three-night cruise to Goa is a popular weekend break; Lakshadweep and Sri Lanka itineraries are longer. Some sailings are "cruises to nowhere", spending a night or two at sea without a port call, which is fun for a celebration.
What's included
- Usually included: your cabin, main meals in the included restaurants, onboard entertainment such as shows and live music, and use of the pool and many activities.
- Usually extra: speciality dining, drinks, shore excursions, spa treatments, the casino, Wi-Fi and some activities.
- Charges: port charges, service charges and taxes are added to the cabin fare. We show them upfront.
Vegetarian and Jain meals are available. Mention any dietary requirement when booking.
Choosing a cabin
| Cabin | Who it suits |
|---|---|
| Interior | Budget travellers who'll spend most of the time out and about on the ship |
| Ocean view | A window and natural light; good value for families |
| Balcony | Your own outdoor space; makes a short cruise feel special |
| Suite | More space, extra benefits and priority services |
For families, connecting cabins or cabins that sleep three or four are available but sell out early. Choose a cabin mid-ship on a lower deck if anyone is prone to seasickness.
Documents
- Domestic sailings: a government photo ID for every adult (Aadhaar, passport, voter ID or driving licence). Children need ID or a birth certificate as specified by the cruise line.
- Lakshadweep: entry to Lakshadweep is controlled; the cruise line handles permissions for shore visits on its itineraries, which may need extra details in advance.
- Sri Lanka itineraries: a passport valid for six months and a Sri Lanka ETA, which is currently free for Indian citizens.
When to go
The main season runs from October to May. During the southwest monsoon (June to September), west coast sailings are limited or move elsewhere. School holidays, Diwali, Christmas and New Year sell out fastest.
Getting to the port
If you're not in the departure city, we book your flight or train to Mumbai, Kochi or Chennai, and a hotel night before if your sailing leaves early in the day. Arrive at the terminal at the time given on your boarding pass; check-in closes a few hours before departure.
Tips for a first cruise
- Pack light: cabins have limited storage.
- Bring a smart outfit for the captain's dinner or theme nights.
- Carry motion-sickness tablets, just in case.
- Book shore excursions early; popular ones fill up.
- Check the daily programme each evening, so you don't miss the shows.
Beyond India
If you enjoy your first cruise, the natural next step is a Singapore or Southeast Asia sailing, a Gulf cruise from Dubai, or a river cruise in Europe. See domestic cruises, international cruises and European river cruises.
Questions, answered
Do I need a passport for a Cordelia cruise?
Not for domestic sailings; a government photo ID is enough. Itineraries that call in Sri Lanka need a passport valid for six months and a Sri Lanka ETA.
Is food included on Cordelia cruises?
Main meals in the included restaurants are covered, with vegetarian and Jain options. Speciality dining and drinks are usually extra.
When is the best time for a cruise from Kochi or Mumbai?
October to May. West coast sailings are limited during the June to September monsoon.
Are cruises good for families with children and elders?
Yes. Everything is in one place, there's entertainment for all ages, and nobody has to pack and unpack between stops.
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