The Festival of Lights not only illuminates the skies in India, but brings families together in prayer and festivities. Going on vacation with an extended family during Diwali holidays can be an exhilarating experience, but it can become a super-duper experience if you plan a cruise vacation with loved ones. Just imagine, the entire family, cousins , uncles, and aunts all on a cruise, sailing the vast oceans, get to perform prayers and be together in one place. In case you haven't planned anything yet, but hope to do so, worry not. Here's some help at hand. The CNBC-TV18 Travel Desk has compiled a list of cruise vacations that you could embark on in India and enjoy some fun time with the family. (Image: Reuters)
Taking a cruise holiday during Diwali promises a unique and unforgettable experience. You can indulge in spa therapies on board amid the tranquil beauty of the open seas savouring delicious Diwali feasts prepared by expert chefs. The ship would be adorned in festive decorations and will showcase cultural performances that reflect the essence of Diwali. As passengers you could immerse yourselves in joyous festivities and indulge in a game or two at the casino. It's a perfect way to create lasting memories and celebrate Diwali in a immersive way, making Diwali 2023 a voyage to remember. Mentioned below are some popular cruise itineraries listed on Thomas Cook India. (Image: Reuters)
No 1. Goan Delight | Route: Mumbai-Goa-at Sea-Mumbai| Date: November 11, 2023 | Average cost: ₹61,071 per couple | Services: Access to casino | Duration: 3 nights | Cruiseline: Cordelia Cruises/Empress | If you're looking for a holiday destination this festive season, which better place to go than Goa. And it would be even better if you sail to this scenic state. The best part being, you'll even get access to the casino on board the vessel. (Representational Image: Reuters)
No 2. Cruise To Lakshadweep | Route: Mumbai-at-Sea-Kochi-Lakshadweep-At Sea-Mumbai Date: November 6, 2023 | Starting price: ₹ 111,103 per couple | Taking a cruise trip to Lakshadweep offers a journey to a tropical paradise of pristine beaches and azure waters. (Representational Image: Reuters)
No 3. Kerala Delight | Route: Mumbai-at-Sea-Kochi | Date: November 6, 2023 | Starting price: ₹ 48,207 per couple | Duration: 2 nights | Services: Access to casino | Cruiseline: Cordelia Cruises/Empress | Board the cruise in Mumbai, a star-studded mega-city with a rich history and diverse attractions. On on Day 2, enjoy onboard activities, dining, and entertainment, and on day 3, explore Kochi's colonial heritage with visits to the Dutch Palace, and Jew Street. (Representational Image: Reuters)
No 4. Sundowner To Goa | No 4. Sundowner To Goa | Route: Mumbai-Goa-Mumbai | Date of journey: November 11, 2023 | Starting price: ₹ 40,714 per couple | Duration: 2 nights | Services: Access to casino | Cruiseline: Cordelia Cruises/Empress | Enjoying a sundowner cruise to Goa provides the perfect opportunity to savour breathtaking sunsets over the Arabian Sea. What's great about this cruise is that you can indulge in some rejuvinating spa therapies. (Representational Image: Reuters)
No 5. Fabulous Lakshadweep Route: Mumbai-At Sea-Lakshadweep-At Sea-Mumbai | Date of journey: October 30, 2023 | Starting price: ₹87,000 per couple | Duration: 4 nights | Services: Access to casino | Cruiseline: Cordelia Cruises/Empress | Lakshadweep is one of India's hidden gems that beckons with its sun-drenched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush scenery. To fully immerse yourself in this paradise, reserve our shore excursions for a thrilling array of water activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 6. Go Goa Gone | Route: Mumbai-at sea-Goa | Date of journey: November 27, 2023 | Starting price: ₹ 48,207 per couple | Duration: 2 nights | Services: Access to casino | Cruiseline: Cordelia Cruises/Empress | The cruise begins with a breakfast, following which guests can experience various fun and adventure activities onboard with the family. Enjoy fun family time at the pool and indulge in gourmet cuisines and cocktails at the Pool. There are several activities and events planned for the evenings. Don't forget to try your luck at the casino. (Image: Reuters)
No 7. Cruise Weekender | Route: Mumbai-at-sea-Mumbai | Date of journey: December 2, 2023 | Starting price: ₹ 32,391 per couple | Duration: 2 nights | Services: Access to casino | Cruiseline: Cordelia Cruises/Empress | Kickstart the cruise with a hearty breakfast, and then dive into a world of exciting family-friendly activities, from poolside relaxation to savoring gourmet dishes and cocktails. The evenings come alive with a variety of planned events. (Representational Image: Reuters)