KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER
Country's first Tourist Submarine to be launched in Kochi
God's Own Country was always in the forefront in introducing new attractions and novelties for travellers. An exclusive Tourist Submarine to be launched in Kochi would be another attraction for tourists to flock to Kerala. When realised this would be the first of its kind in the country. The Kerala Shipping and Inland Navigation Corporation (KSINC) and the Kochi- based Pioneer Underwater Tours jointly introduces the project. A 45- minute underwater cruise with the marine life in close quarters is what the journey would offer. A panoramic view of the sea world through large- diameter view ports would be offered to the travellers, according to the authorities of the Pioneer Underwater Tours. The vessel would travel up to a maximum depth of 100m and would carry 24 passengers and two crewmembers at a time. There will be ten dives, eight in the day and two after sunset. The vessel will have external lighting, very high frequency radio communication system, through- water communications, underwater video and obstacle avoidance sonar systems. Modern life support systems including oxygen facility and environmental control systems would also be available. All passengers will be insured while voyage according to the International Maritime Organisation's regulations. The UK based Silvercast Submarines builds the vessel for the company and the service is expected to start in September. The KSINC would provide support boats to carry the passengers to the submarine, which will be anchored in the sea about seven nautical miles away from the coast. The Corporation's jetty at Marine Drive will be refurbished for the purpose.
