Oberoi Hotels & Resorts to launch "M.V. Vrinda". Friday, 11th July 2003 Source : Oberoi Hotels & Resorts

India’s First Luxury Cruiser on the Backwaters of Kerala

Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, in keeping with its global expertise and commitment to offer the highest standards of luxury and comfort, today announced the launch of India’s first luxury cruiser – ‘M.V. Vrinda’, on the backwaters of Kerala.

Vrinda, the luxury cruiser would commence operations on November 1, 2003 and will take guests on a journey through the picturesque and scenic backwaters of Kerala.

The vessel with elegant interiors and excellent facilities, offers eight tastefully appointed air-conditioned cabins with attached bathrooms. Each cabin is equipped with modern day amenities such as, digital video players and television sets. Both international and regional cuisine will be served to the guests in an air-conditioned dining room, which offers views of the serene backwaters.

With the successful experience of operating cruises on the Nile in Egypt, Vrinda is yet another offer by the Oberoi Hotels & Resorts to the highly discerning global traveler. Oberoi Hotels & Resorts in their efforts to optimise the tourism potential of Kerala, will offer a special package on the launch of Vrinda. The itinerary would consist of a two-day stay at The Trident, Cochin and two-nights on M.V. Vrinda.

The package will be available from November 1, 2003 to April 30, 2004 at a price of US$ 1,150 for single occupancy and US$ 1,250 for double occupancy. The rate includes accommodation at the Trident Cochin for two nights in an executive room and accommodation on Vrinda for two nights including excursions and entertainment. A maximum of two persons can be accommodated in the cabin on Vrinda. One child upto three years of age can be accommodated in the same cabin without an extra bed at no additional charge. The package is also inclusive of all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and transportation from the Trident Cochin to Vembanad Lake jetty and back.

The excursions include sailing in traditional rice boats, visiting St. Mary’s church, some of the ancient temples and glimpses of village life along the backwaters to Alleppey, known as the ‘Venice of the East’. Guests will be entertained on board, Vrinda, by a classical dance form called Mohiniattam, ‘Dance of the Enchantress’.