Colombo Harbor Gears Up for Tourist Surge

COLOMBO (News 1st); To accommodate a surge in luxury cruise ship arrivals expected during the upcoming tourist season and beyond, Sri Lanka's Port Authority is preparing to temporarily convert the Bandaranaike Quay jetty in Colombo harbor for passenger operations. 

This decision stems from concerns about capacity and facilities at the existing passenger terminal.

Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva has directed officials to relocate warehouses currently occupying the designated space at the Bandaranaike Quay. 

The move aims to provide a dedicated and efficient processing area for the anticipated influx of passengers.

The Maritime Division of the Sri Lanka Port Authority reports that roughly 35 luxury cruise liners are to reach Colombo during the upcoming holiday season. 

This reflects a significant increase in cruise tourism, as a large number of additional luxury ship visits have already been contracted for the coming years.