Jalesh Cruises has launched a new cruise booking policy that enables passengers to book now and change their travel plans however they like until August 31st, 2021.

With limited flights operating to or from the UAE, and Dubai in particular, the move will likely prove popular with the Indian expat community in the country, which is a huge secondary market for Jalesh Cruises.

Karnika at sea

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In a statement, Jalesh Cruises said it has taken the move in response to the ongoing uncertainty brought about by the Coronavirus pandemic, which has not only disrupted global air travel, but also the entire cruise industry.

Like every other cruise line in the world, Jalesh Cruises has been forced to suspend operations.

While the cruise line, which primarily cruises from India, was mainly impacted by the national lockdown in the country, similar measures in all countries across the world have brought the global cruise sector to a standstill.

With Future Pass, potential passengers can book their cruise holiday now and be able to finalize their travel dates through August 31st, 2021, according to a press release. If purchased before June 30th, 2020, a discount of 25 percent will be applied to the Future Pass.

The main atrium lobby aboard Karnika where passengers board the ship

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“Owing to the uncertainty around future travel, we recognised the need to introduce a Future Pass which allows the flexibility to customers to book now and travel later,” said Vijay Kesavan, Director – Sales and Marketing, Jalesh Cruises.

“Through this offering, travellers can alter and reschedule their travel dates as per their convenience and travel with ease,” he added.

Jalesh Cruises’ upcoming itineraries visit a variety of destinations from Goa, Diu, and Lakshadweep in India to Colombo, Galle, and Trincomalee in Sri Lanka, with all voyages for the coming season departing from Mumbai.

Jalesh Cruises is India’s first mainstream domestic cruise line and operates one ship, Karnika, but has plans to add more in the coming years.

“Jalesh Cruises is all set to offer enhanced safety, hygiene and added amenities to provide guests with the best cruise experience of their lifetime,” said Jurgen Bailom, President and CEO, Jalesh Cruises.

“Karnika has and always will be a home away from home and we look forward to welcoming guests onboard as soon as the prevalent conditions subside,” he added.