If you’re looking for a holiday that’s part adventure, part luxury, and entirely filled with moments where you question your life choices as I do from time to time, then the Cordelia Cruise from Chennai to Sri Lanka is your ticket to ride. Strap in, dear readers, as Shrinidhi and I take you on a journey through high seas, high spirits, and higher-than-expected bar tabs. That last bit was just so I could get over seasickness, or so I convinced myself.
Now get this: seasickness is the great equaliser for someone like me. No matter how fancy the cruise, how majestic the ship, or how lavish the buffet spread, nothing quite humbles you like the rolling waves and the sudden realisation that your stomach has turned into a rebellious teenager. I just stood there minding my own business, cocktail in hand, feeling like a really sedated version of Jeff Bridges from ‘The Big Lebowski,’ only to find myself clutching the railings like a long-lost lover within an hour of boarding.
It’s a rite of passage, really, watching your fellow passengers turn varying shades of green while silently praying to the gods of Dramamine (chewable motion sickness tablets). If Lord Murugan himself had appeared, I would have gladly traded my dignity for solid ground and a stationary horizon. But nevertheless, I was led to believe by my wonderful wife that it was all part of the cruise charm. Right? Well, read more for all the chaos that ensued.
Setting Sail on Cordelia Cruise: Day 1 – The Embarkation Chaos
Our journey began at Chennai Port, where the excitement was palpable. By palpable, I mean the sheer panic of dozens of people realising they forgot to pack sunscreen. The check-in process was smoother than expected but longer than I would have liked, which is to say it was as chaotic as a cat in a room full of laser pointers.
Immigration was crowded, and although the system was smooth, Shrinidhi was upset because they took away her most prized possession – her Dyson hairdryer. She’ll have to pick it up only upon our return to India in five days. Nevertheless, we boarded the majestic Cordelia Empress, a floating city that was quite literally to be our only home for the next few days.
Once onboard, we received a welcome drink first and then it was time to explore. The Cordelia Empress is like a labyrinth designed by someone with a penchant for over-the-top luxury. There’s a casino, multiple dining areas, a theatre, a spa, a 30-foot rock wall climbing area, and pools. Yes, pools, plural. Because why have one pool when you can have three? The decor screamed opulence, and so did the prices. But hey, you only live once, right?
Anchors Away: The First Night
Our first night was spent getting acquainted with the various amenities, including a mandatory safety drill. The welcome dinner was a grand affair, with food that was as delicious as it was unpronounceable but we were rescued by the comforts of South Indian cuisine as well. The evening entertainment included a Broadway-style show, which was essentially a lot of jazz hands and questionable accents. But who am I to judge? I can barely manage jazz hands without looking like I’m warding off flies.
Day 2: High Seas and High Spirits
We came up to the 10th-floor deck to get some refreshments. The spread was so vast we thought it was the actual dinner, but it turns out it was just your average snack offering on the Cordelia. On to the safety drill exercise now – 59 lifeboats in place, smoking zones in some corners, and due to humidity, we were informed that the deck floors may be wet and slippery, so we must walk carefully at all times. Here’s an attachment of a smaller boat that pulled the cruise to deeper waters from the port before it could sail off at a speed of about 16 nautical miles per hour.
We also got a really exciting (paid) opportunity to go check out the Captain’s Den on the ship and learn a thing or two about radars, high tides and quartermasters. I also got to wear the Captain’s hat and that made my inner child very happy.
The rooms were surprisingly cosy and cold. Once we shut the lights off, everything looked so still and peaceful. It was just us and the endless ocean. Woke up in the morning after a good 7 hours, did some push-ups, and hit the breakfast buffet – the South Indian in me was so happy. Idlies, dosai, sambar, and eggs, some fruits as well for balance. Shrinidhi had a cup of coffee – average at best – and then she manifested spotting dolphins, but the morning continued to be a letdown for me as well because I wasn’t walking around. Just sat there watching the deep blue sea be deep, blue, and, well, sea.
Onboard Fun: Sea Day Activities
Back on the ship, we had a full day at sea. This was a perfect opportunity to experience all the onboard activities. From rock climbing to mini-golf, there was something for everyone. I opted for some climbing adventure, the fear of climbing a high wall sticking out from the edge of a massive ship in the middle of an ocean was like being turned into sushi, but more exhilarating. Others tried their luck at the casino, where they quickly learned that the house always wins, except when it doesn’t, and then you’re really in trouble.
Day 3: Port of Call – Hambantota (Kathirgamma Temple)
Our first stop was Hambantota, a place known for its wildlife and natural beauty. We, however, took the spiritual path instead. We could have seen elephants, leopards, and birds that would have convinced me were animatronic because nothing that colourful can be real. But alas, we got on to the temple hopping wagon and did the round there and we were better off for it. It was an awe-inspiring experience, marred only by the realisation that I should probably visit this place again for a much longer period.
Day 4: Port of Call – Trincomalee (Anuradhapura Buddhist Monastery and Complex)
The next day, we docked at Trincomalee, a coastal town with breathtaking views and even more breathtaking prices at the souvenir shops. We visited the famous Koneswaram Temple, which stands majestically atop Swami Rock and then a few Buddhist monasteries. The view was worth the climb, and the Instagram posts were worth the sweat. Pro tip: Always bring a water bottle and an extra power bank. Selfies wait for no man.
Day 5: Port of Call – Jaffna (City Tour and Temples)
Our last stop was Jaffna, a place as rich in culture as it is in humidity. Disembarking, we were greeted by local guides who were as enthusiastic as they were unintelligible (the accent, not their knowledge, granted their accent was beautiful, we just don’t know our roots well enough). We toured ancient temples, bustling markets, and had our fill of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, which is to say we drank a lot of water and tried to extinguish the fire in our mouths. Note to self: Sri Lankan spices are not for the faint-hearted but be sure to buy a lot of cinnamon and local tea, they’re insanely good and modestly priced.
Gastronomic Delights: Themed Nights
Back onboard, each night brought a new culinary adventure. There were themed nights, from Asian to a seafood extravaganza. My personal favourite was the ‘Desserts of the World’ night, where I discovered that one can indeed suffer from a sugar hangover. Who knew?
The Final Stretch: Return to Chennai
As we sailed back to Chennai, there was a palpable sense of camaraderie among the passengers. We had shared an incredible journey, filled with laughter, new friendships, and more than a few embarrassing moments. The farewell dinner was a bittersweet affair, made all the sweeter by the unlimited desserts (I will not stop gushing over the sweets, I’m not sorry).
Reflections: The Highs and Lows
Looking back, the Cordelia Cruise from Chennai to Sri Lanka was an experience of a lifetime. It had everything – adventure, luxury, culture, and more food than you could shake a stick at. Sure, there were moments of chaos and confusion, but isn’t that what makes travel exciting? If everything went smoothly, we’d have nothing to laugh about later.
Tips for Future Cruisers
Pack Wisely: Bring sunscreen, hats, shades and comfortable shoes. Trust me on the shades.
Be Adventurous: Try new foods, explore new places, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
Stay Hydrated: Both for the sake of your health and to balance out the inevitable overindulgence (I’m not talking about the alcohol which is unlimited and free).
Budget Wisely: The ship may be luxurious, but it’s also a money pit. Keep an eye on your expenses.
Enjoy the Moment: Take lots of pictures, but also put your phone down and enjoy the experience.
So there you have it, folks – my Cordelia Cruise adventure. It was a journey filled with highs, lows, and a lot of in-betweens. Would I do it again? In a heartbeat. But next time, I’ll bring a bigger suitcase and a smaller budget for the casino. Happy sailing!
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