Shree Giriraj Seva Trust to Charter Costa Classica

Costa Cruises is partnering with the Shree Giriraj Seva Trust to fully charter Costa Classica from 27 May to 4 June 2010.

“This is the first time ever in Asia Pacific and the history of Indian tourism that a cruise ship has been entirely chartered by a group of Indian passengers of such size (more than 1,300 passengers),” said Mr. Dario Rustico, Sales and Marketing Director, Pacific Asia Operations of Costa Cruises.

Departing from Hong Kong, Costa Classica will take the passengers on an eight-night cruise to Keelung, Nagasaki, Cheju, and Shanghai. The chartered cruise is tailored to the needs of the Shree Giriraj Seva Trust, which includes providing vegetarian meals and having Hindu speaking staff onboard to cater to the special requirements of guests.

“This is an historical moment for Costa Cruises and we expect this to be the first of many important big movements of Indian passengers toward our Costa ships around the world. The fact that this then happen on a cruise out of Hong Kong, where five years ago we have set up our Asian Regional Headquarter and we have invested so much, makes us even happier,” added Mr. Rustico.

Ms Gilly Wong, General Manager, MICE & Cruise of Hong Kong Tourism Board added, “We are thrilled to welcome the Shri Giriraj Seva Trust group to Hong Kong. Among our various source markets, India offers great potential for development. During the first quarter of 2010, we have already recorded growth of 42.8% in the number of Indian visitor arrivals to Hong Kong. In particular, we see great opportunities in the meetings and incentive sector. Through collaboration with our cruise and travel trade partners, we will develop more enticing fly/cruise packages, and actively promote to the Indian corporate groups Hong Kong’s appeal as an incentive destination.”

Costa Classica, the 14-storey, 53,000 gross-tonnage ship with a guest capacity of 1,680, has 659 cabins including 10 suites, two swimming pools and four Jacuzzis. There are two restaurants and seven bars onboard.

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