The Sri Lanka Navy’s largest passenger craft the ‘Jetliner’ which served as a life line between the North and East during the Humanitarian Operations, set sail on a new journey at the launching ceremony of Jetliner Entertainment Cruise Venture on Friday.

The ceremony was held at the Port of Colombo. Minister of Tourism Achala Jagoda was the Chief Guest. He was received by Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe on his arrival. Ambassadors, Secretaries to the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Ports and Aviation, and foreign dignitaries were among the VIP invitees. Many senior Naval Officers and a large number of other invitees including members of the media were also present. The event was arranged by Sri Lanka Navy and Ministry of Tourism.

The Jetliner passenger vessel played a pivotal role in the Naval operations during the humanitarian operations. It ferried thousands of security forces personnel, civilians and cargo between Trincomalee and Kankesanthurai ports till the main ground supply routes were cleared and restored after the dawn of peace. It also holds the record for carrying more than three thousand security forces personnel at once. With this new venture it is set to continue her valuable service to the nation in a different sphere.

The Nautical Enterprise under the theme ‘Visit Sri Lanka 2011’ is a joint venture between Sri Lanka Navy and Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority. The press conference held at the launching ceremony was attended by Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism George Michael, Secretary to the Ministry of Ports and Aviation Ranjith De Silva, Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe, Chairman Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority Bernard Gunathilake, Chairman Sri Lanka Ports Authority Dr. Priyath Bandu Wickrama, Managing Director Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau Dilip Muddeniya and Captain of the Ship Captain Nilantha Heenatigala.

Subsequently the ship left the harbour for a short sail where the invitees were treated for a sundown cocktail and later for a twilight menu. The Navy Band kept on the sprits high with their musical and cultural entertainment. A breathtaking fireworks display at sea enthralled the guests.

The Jetliner will chart the waters as a recreational cruise ship, taking onboard weddings, corporate events and other social functions. The ship is equipped to cater to the needs of the new clientele. The ship is manned by a well disciplined and highly trained professional Naval crew who are on par with the best in the industry.

Since the dawn of peace in the country Sri Lanka Navy in its role as the first line of defence has involved in the development process of the country. As a part of that process the Navy is utilizing its assets not only as a source to generate income but also to increase the efficiency. – (Courtesy Sri Lanka Navy)

Posted on Sunday, January 24, 2010 @ 15:02:52 LKT by SaNDun

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