Marina Facilities for Cochin (Kochi) in India
by Hindu News/ Sail-World Cruising on 10 Nov 2008
Kochi Anchorage as it is now - Bolgatty Palace Hotel grounds are on the right SW
Sailors cruising the Indian Ocean (why don't more people do THAT?) or transiting the Indian Ocean on their way to other parts will be delighted to learn that there are soon to be marina facilities in the charismatic and welcoming port of Kochi. The 'Marina', claimed to be the first facility in India where transiting yachts can be berthed is fast nearing completion at Bolgatty Island and is expected to be ready in another two months - just in time for the annual flotilla of yachts who are headed for the Red Sea.
Though the flotilla is likely to be much reduced this year owing to the fear of piracy - normally more than 100 yachts make the passage, the facility, being constructed in the backwaters between Marine Drive and Bolgatty Island, is similar in design to St. Katherine's Marina on the banks of the Thames river in the United Kingdom, Cherian Philip, Chairman of the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) told PTI.
The Marina, coming up on five acres of land owned by KTDC near Bolgatty Palace hotel would attract foreign yachts, thereby increase the flow of foreign tourists to the state, particularly to Ernakulam, he said.
The amenities includes berthing facilities for 50 yachts, fuel stations, a recreation centre, restaurant, health club, a golf course and car-parking area.
The existing golf course at Bolgatty would be developed into one of international standards, Philip said.
'In the first phase of construction, berthing facility will be provided for around 30 yachts, which will be increased at a later stage,' Philip said.
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