Sri Lanka takes its place on the global maritime stage, “Voyage Sri Lanka 2024”
This event illuminates the Sri Lankan vast potential and innovation in the Marine & Offshore and Boat Building sectors, together with the unique Maritime Tourism opportunities of this lovely tropical island.
This landmark event brings together industry pioneers, thought leaders, and key stakeholders from around the world to engage in dynamic discussions, forge strategic partnerships, and drive the future of marine excellence.
DAILY BLOG with live updates
Day 1
A morning tea stop during VIP Road trip with Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 Export Development Board – inaugural Maritime event VOYAGE SRI LANKA 2024
After a rejuvenating night’s sleep, the gentle yet insistent call of a pheasant served as our wake-up alarm, reminding us to gather in the lobby at 0445. The early hour was brightened by a host of smiling faces, as we introduced ourselves to the other delegates of this VIP adventure to Trincomalee.
At 0512, we embarked on our journey to Trinco aboard a luxurious AC bus, complete with a police escort to skilfully guide us through the bustling streets of Colombo. After a two-hour drive, we left the city behind and entered the serene and vibrant countryside, stopping for a refreshing tea break at Epitome near Kurunegala.
Epitome Hotel laid on a wonderful breakfast with many dishes including curd and honey.
Another two hours on the road brought us to the Trincomalee Navy Base. Nearing the town, our police escort from Colombo was seamlessly joined by police motorcycle outriders who led us directly to the Navy Base. As we passed through the town, we were accompanied by our distinguished guide for the day, Rear Admiral DK, a knowledgeable gentleman with a wealth of information about boats, ships, and the sea. He provided us with a fascinating introduction to the town of Trinco, the Navy Base, and the various activities conducted there.
Upon receiving our security passes at the main gate, we entered the Navy Base and embarked on a bus tour. We marvelled at the Training Academy, the Officer’s Wardroom, and some of the ships berthed in the port. Our tour also included a stop at the Recreational Club for a much-needed refreshment break.
Next, we boarded a tour boat for a harbour tour, where we were introduced to the local pilots from the Colombo pilot station. These master mariners, with their extensive local knowledge, guide ships from around the world into Sri Lanka’s ports. The pilots were keen to highlight areas of land earmarked for commercial investment, including specific zones for ship-to-ship fuel transfer with containment measures to protect the environment, as well as deep-drafted vessel anchor points.
We also explored the fish farm area, recently expanded with potential for further development, benefiting from the sheltered, clean seawater and the daily tide replenishment. Additionally, we saw where commercial baking flour is stored and shipped worldwide and the area where large barges undergo maintenance.
After an hour-long boat tour with the pilots, we had a comprehensive understanding of the area’s investment opportunities and the benefits each sector offers.
Our tour concluded with a scenic drive through the dockyard to a picturesque golf course with a stunning sandy beach, palm trees, and a tropical paradise atmosphere. At the Officer’s Mess, we were treated to a delectable local curry lunch. The curry was flavorful and authentically Sri Lankan, catering to vegetarian tastes as well. The meal was finished off with a delightful mixed fruit salad, showcasing the exceptional quality and taste of Sri Lanka’s fruits, including papaya, pineapple, coconut, and mango.
What an exhilarating day! Have you been on similar trips, or would you like to plan one?
Epitome Hotel laid on a wonderful breakfast with many dishes including curd and honey
Harbour Tour and Pilot Station
