TEHRAN—Bushehr-Kish sea line is to be launched with a cruise ship for the first time since the entrance of the newly purchased vessel to Iran waters. 

After visiting the vessel which is moving on Persian Gulf waters, Deputy Tourism Minister Anoushirvan Mohseni Bandpei called the measure a key for start of project to promote water and sea-based tourism, IRNA reported.

During the visit which was made with participation of manager of the vessel, it was decided that the first service of this recreational vessel will be inaugurated in late January with participation of influencers, reporters, media persons and owners of travel agencies. 

In a meeting with Bushehr governor-general, Mohseni Bandpei emphasized the importance of launching this sea line and exploiting the recreational vessel. He declared the readiness and support of Tourism Department. 
Promotion of sea-based and coastal tourism  is one of the policies of the Government which is on the agenda of Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts. 

Bushehr province, with more than 900 kilometers of coastline along the Persian Gulf, is one of the most important marine tourism destinations in Iran. With its beautiful beaches, historical ports, and marine biodiversity, this province has great potential for developing sustainable marine tourism.

Over 308,000 tourists used marine tourism services in coastal cities of Bushehr province during Nowruz holidays, of whom 223,000 used pleasure boats, 44,000 used jet skis, 24,000 used motorboats, and 15,000 used metal boats, Miras Arya (CHTN) reported.

These figures show the huge enthusiasm of tourists for the province’s marine services. It shows the high potential of this industry in generating jobs and making revenues for local communities.

Kish is a sports resort island in Bandar Lengeh county, Hormozgan province, southern Iran, located in the Persian Gulf. Kish is one of the major tourist destinations in Iran due to the presence of a free trade zone, entertainment and commercial centers, tourist attractions, and numerous hotels.

Over the past couple of years, the Islamic Republic has made various efforts to exploit maritime tourism potential by developing hospitality infrastructures, diversifying sea routes, and drawing private sector investors along its vast southern coasts.

KD