Male’, Maldives, 8th January 2024 – The esteemed Italian cruise ship, Costa Serena, has arrived in the Maldives carrying over 3,000 tourists. Departing from the ports of Goa and Cochin in India, this vessel valued at USD 450 million is currently anchored near Male City.
With a diverse passenger group primarily comprising Europeans and Asians, including many from India, the arrival of Costa Serena is expected to significantly benefit the local tourism industry. Measuring 950 feet in length and accommodating 1,100 crew members, the ship can host up to 3,700 passengers, making it one of the larger vessels to visit the Maldives. This mirrors the growing attraction of the Maldives as a premier cruise destination.
The arrival of Costa Serena is the result of concerted efforts by the Maldives government and the Maldives Association of Yacht Agents (MAYA). The government took proactive measures by removing certain taxable provisions, as requested by MAYA members. This move has facilitated the arrival of Costa Serena and is likely to encourage more such visits in the future.
