Resorts World Cruises India vs. Cordelia Cruises: A Detailed Comparison for Your Next Sea Adventure

Welcome to the FastTreck Travels Blog! If you're dreaming of a luxurious escape on the high seas, India’s burgeoning cruise industry offers two standout options: Resorts World Cruises India and Cordelia Cruises. Both promise a blend of relaxation, adventure, and indulgence, but they cater to slightly different vibes and traveler preferences. Whether you're a foodie, a thrill-seeker, or a budget-conscious explorer, this in-depth guide will help you decide which cruise line is your perfect match. We’ll compare their pluses and minuses, explore their itineraries for March, April, and May 2025, and break down the shows, foods, costs, freebies, and more. Let’s set sail!

Overview: Resorts World Cruises India vs. Cordelia Cruises

Resorts World Cruises India

• Background: Resorts World Cruises, a Singapore-based luxury cruise line under Genting Hong Kong, expanded into India in 2024 with tailored offerings for the Indian market. Known for its upscale, international flair, it operates ships like the Resorts World One, blending Asian hospitality with global appeal.
• Vibe: Sophisticated, modern, and cosmopolitan—perfect for travelers seeking a premium, resort-style experience with a touch of international glamour.
• Target Audience: Families, couples, and discerning travelers who enjoy high-end amenities and diverse entertainment.

Cordelia Cruises

• Background: Launched in 2021 by Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd., Cordelia Cruises is India’s first premium cruise line, operating the Empress. It’s designed to resonate with Indian sensibilities while offering a taste of luxury cruising.
• Vibe: Warm, culturally rooted, and welcoming—a “home away from home” on the water with a strong desi twist.
• Target Audience: Indian families, weekenders, and first-time cruisers looking for affordable luxury with a familiar feel.

Plus and Minus Points

Resorts World Cruises India

Pluses:

• Luxury & Modernity: Offers state-of-the-art facilities, spacious cabins, and a sleek, contemporary design.
• Global Appeal: A wider range of international dining and entertainment options, appealing to seasoned travelers.
• Diverse Itineraries: Plans to include international destinations (e.g., Southeast Asia) alongside Indian ports, offering more variety.
• Premium Amenities: Features like larger pools, water parks, and exclusive spa experiences elevate the onboard experience.

Minuses:

• Higher Costs: Tends to be pricier than Cordelia, reflecting its upscale positioning.
• Less Indian Focus: While it caters to Indian travelers, the experience may feel less culturally tailored compared to Cordelia.
• New Entrant: As a newer player in India, it’s still establishing its reputation and operational consistency in the region.

Cordelia Cruises

Pluses:

• Indian-Centric: Offers Bollywood-themed shows, Jain cuisine, and a menu crafted for Indian palates, making it feel familiar and comforting.
• Affordable Luxury: Provides a premium experience at a lower price point, ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
• Established Presence: With over 450 sailings and 600,000 passengers since 2021, it’s a trusted name in Indian cruising.
• Short Getaways: Specializes in 2-5 night itineraries, perfect for quick escapes.

Minuses:

• Aging Ship: The Empress is over 30 years old, which may affect reliability and modern appeal compared to newer vessels.
• Limited International Reach: Focuses primarily on domestic routes, with fewer plans for global destinations in the near term.
• Smaller Scale: Fewer onboard facilities (e.g., no water park) compared to Resorts World’s larger ships.

Itineraries: March, April, and May 2025

Note: Exact schedules for 2025 may not be fully released as of March 13, 2025. Below are projected itineraries based on current trends, seasonal patterns, and announcements. Check official websites (www.rwcruises.com and www.cordeliacruises.com) for confirmed dates closer to your travel time.

Resorts World Cruises India

Resorts World Cruises typically operates from Mumbai and Chennai, with plans to expand routes in 2025. Expect a mix of coastal Indian voyages and international jaunts during the pleasant spring weather of March-May.

• March 2025:
  • 3-Night Mumbai-Goa-Mumbai: A classic coastal getaway with a day in Goa for beach hopping and nightlife.
  • 5-Night Mumbai-Colombo (Sri Lanka)-Mumbai: An international adventure with a stop in vibrant Colombo.
  • Options: Interior cabins, ocean-view rooms, balcony suites, and premium suites are available.
• April 2025:
  • 4-Night Chennai-Maldives-Chennai: A tropical escape to the Maldives’ turquoise waters (subject to international route confirmation).
  • 2-Night Mumbai-High Seas-Mumbai: A quick “cruise to nowhere” for onboard indulgence.
  • Options: Same cabin categories, with potential early-bird discounts.
• May 2025:
  • 6-Night Mumbai-Singapore (via High Seas): A longer voyage introducing Southeast Asia (pending expansion plans).
  • 3-Night Mumbai-Diu-Mumbai: A serene trip to the lesser-known Diu coastline.
  • Options: Full range of accommodations, including family suites.

Cordelia Cruises

Cordelia focuses on shorter domestic sailings from Mumbai, Chennai, and Kochi, with occasional international hops to Sri Lanka and the Maldives. March to May is the peak season for coastal routes.

• March 2025:
  • 2-Night Mumbai-Goa-Mumbai: A weekend favorite with a day in Goa.
  • 3-Night Mumbai-High Seas-Goa-Mumbai: Extra sea time for onboard enjoyment.
  • Options: Interior, ocean-view, balcony rooms, mini-suites, and the Chairman’s Suite.
• April 2025:
  • 4-Night Kochi-Lakshadweep-Mumbai: A scenic journey to Lakshadweep’s coral islands.
  • 2-Night Chennai-Jaffna (Sri Lanka)-Chennai: A cultural cross-border trip.
  • Options: Same cabin range, with possible festival-themed sailings for Easter.
• May 2025:
  • 3-Night Mumbai-Lakshadweep-Mumbai: A relaxing island escape.
  • 5-Night Chennai-Colombo-Galle-Chennai: A deeper dive into Sri Lanka’s coastal gems.
  • Options: Full accommodation lineup, with summer promotions likely.

Shows and Entertainment

Resorts World Cruises India

• Offerings: Expect a mix of international and regional entertainment, including Broadway-style musicals, live bands, magic shows, and dance performances. Bollywood-inspired nights may feature, but the focus leans global.
• Highlights:
  • Cabaret shows with professional troupes.
  • Themed parties (e.g., White Night, Retro Night).
  • Kids’ programs with cartoon characters and interactive games.
• Unique Feature: Potential for celebrity guest performances, given its upscale branding.

Cordelia Cruises

• Offerings: Heavily Indian-flavored entertainment, including Bollywood dance shows, live music with Hindi and regional hits, and comedy nights. Casinos and nightclubs add a lively vibe.
• Highlights:
  • “Cordelia Academy” for kids with educational activities.
  • Movie nights under the stars.
  • Cooking demos showcasing Indian cuisine.
• Unique Feature: Strong emphasis on cultural resonance, like Diwali or Holi-themed events if dates align.

Food and Dining

Resorts World Cruises India

• Cuisine: A global buffet with Indian, Asian (Chinese, Japanese, Thai), and Western options (pizzas, pastas, grills). Specialty restaurants offer fine dining (e.g., seafood, steaks).
• Dietary Options: Vegetarian and Jain meals are available, though less extensive than Cordelia’s offerings.
• Experience: Upscale and varied, focusing on presentation and international flavors.
• Freebies: Complimentary meals at the main buffet and select snacks; specialty dining incurs extra charges.

Cordelia Cruises

• Cuisine: Tailored for Indian tastes with stations like Essence of India, Far Eastern Kadhai, Jain Haven, and Vegetarian Bang Street Food. Specialty restaurants (e.g., Chopstix, Waterfront) offer Pan-Asian and gourmet options.
• Dietary Options: Extensive Jain and vegetarian menus, no beef or pork, and halal meat available.
• Experience: Homely yet diverse, with a buffet-style food court and all-day dining.
• Freebies: All meals included in the package (buffet and select restaurants); soft drinks often free at bars.

Average Costs (Per Person, Double Occupancy)

Resorts World Cruises India

• 2-3 Nights: ₹25,000-₹40,000 (interior cabin); ₹50,000+ (suites).
• 4-6 Nights: ₹50,000-₹80,000 (interior); ₹90,000+ (suites).
• Inclusions: Cabin, meals, basic entertainment, pool access.
• Extras: Alcohol, spa, Wi-Fi (₹1,500-₹2,000 for 2 days), shore excursions.

Cordelia Cruises

• 2-3 Nights: ₹20,000-₹35,000 (interior); ₹60,000+ (Chairman’s Suite).
• 4-5 Nights: ₹40,000-₹65,000 (interior); ₹80,000+ (suites).
• Inclusions: Cabin, all meals, entertainment, pool, kids’ activities.
• Extras: Casino, alcohol, Wi-Fi (₹1,500 for 2 days), shore excursions.

Freebies and Perks

Resorts World Cruises India

• Freebies: Welcome drink, daily buffet meals, access to pools and fitness centers, and select shows.
• Perks: Loyalty programs for repeat cruisers, early-bird discounts, and occasional kids-sail-free offers.

Cordelia Cruises

• Freebies: All meals, unlimited soft drinks and basic alcoholic drinks at bars, movie nights, kids’ club access, and basic entertainment.
• Perks: Seasonal promotions (e.g., 20% off), group discounts, and onboard credit for future bookings.

Additional Considerations

• Ship Size & Capacity:
  • Resorts World One: Larger, with 1,800-2,000 passengers and more expansive decks.
  • Empress: Smaller, with a 2,000 capacity, but feels more intimate.
• Crowd: Resorts World attracts a mix of Indian and international travelers; Cordelia is predominantly Indian.
• Sustainability: Both are working on eco-friendly practices, but Resorts World’s newer ships may have an edge.

Which Cruise Should You Choose?

• Pick Resorts World Cruises India if: You crave a luxurious, modern experience with international flair, don’t mind splurging, and want diverse itineraries (especially if international routes launch by May 2025).
• Pick Cordelia Cruises if: You prefer a culturally immersive, budget-friendly trip with Indian comforts, shorter getaways, and a proven track record in India.

Final Thoughts

Both Resorts World Cruises India and Cordelia Cruises offer unforgettable sea journeys, but your choice depends on your priorities. For a glamorous, resort-like escape, Resorts World shines. For a desi-hearted, value-packed adventure, Cordelia’s your go-to. As schedules firm up for March, April, and May 2025, keep an eye on FastTreck Travels for updates—or reach out to us to book your spot! Ready to sail? Contact us now...