Kolkata’s ‘affordable’ river cruise inaugurated on Thursday – Times of India

KOLKATA: Kolkata’s novel Rs 39 river cruise was inaugurated on October 1, Thursday by transport secretary Rajesh Sinha, in presence of West Bengal Transport Corporation managing director Rajanvir Singh Kapur.
The cruise is to explore the hidden history of the city along the either bank of the Hooghly river since time immemorial. The affordable cruise is design to explore the unmatched beauty of the mighty river which has been a living witness of many metamorphosis of the twin City – Kolkata and Howrah.
“The city’s rich history will come alive as the cruise will move from Millennium Park to north and come back after a one and half hour trip. Each weekday will have two trips while on weekends, there will be three trips,” said a WBTC officer.
Though the Hooghly is a busy riverine route for ferrying passengers and cargo, leisure trips are rarities, except a few by operated private players. Private ones are very good and at the same time quite expensive. This is why we want common people to have heritage cruise experience at Rs 39, said Kapur.
River Water Cruise is a rage all over the world. Whether it is London River Cruise or Singapore Boat Ride, it is loved both by locals and foreign tourists alike. Something similar is being planned here in the city.The river cruise will be covering some hidden gems of history along the river in the city of joy. The USP here is price — almost half a dollar.
Complimentary special heritage navigation brochures will be given to each guest as a take home gift and souvenir and also to help them appreciate the landmarks. The guests would enjoy a ride into the history and heritage of Kolkata, amidst some light music and the breeze of the Ganga. The cruise will operate daily from Millenium Park at 4pm and 6pm. On holidays, Saturdays and Sunday: 12pm to 2pm and 4pm to 6pm.
There would be special booking arrangements for educational tours in the future. Proper sanitization protocols are being followed for safety by WBTC. With social distancing norms, a maximum of 150 people would be accommodated in one ride of the cruise.