Abu Dhabi Ports, the master developer, operator and manager of commercial and community ports within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, has joined hands with local ferry services company Jalboot Marine to start cruise trips to the Louvre Abu Dhabi in addition to other city landmarks.

The agreement also allows Jalboot Marine to operate cruise ships and tours from Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal at Mina Zayed, said a statement from Abu Dhabi Ports.

"This partnership with Jalboot will open new gateways for Abu Dhabi’s tourism and leisure as well as offer a unique sight-seeing experience around the city’s touristic attractions," remarked Abdulkareem Al Masabi, the executive VP of Ports, after signing deal with Mohamed Roestali, the CEO of Jalboot Holdings in the presence of Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, the CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports.

"We will continue to work closely with all relevant organisations to showcase Abu Dhabi’s spectacular views through the maritime transportation sector," he stated.

Captain Al Shamisi said: "It has been a remarkable season for Abu Dhabi’s marine tourism sector with Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal and Sir Bani Yas Island being key factors in this continued prosperity."

"We have signed an agreement with Jalboot Marine to operate marine cruise ships and tours to Abu Dhabi's most important cultural and tourist attractions as part of our efforts to enhance customer experiences and provide a variety of activities and attractions," he added.

According to him, Abu Dhabi Ports is keen to play a pivotal role in further supporting the UAE capital’s positioning as a unique touristic destination.

"We can see ample avenues to expand alongside our partners and stakeholders and look forward to this opportunity to work with Jalboot Holdings and to further contribute to the success of the cruise sector," he added.

Expected to start operating in the current season, Abu Dhabi’s first water-taxi shuttle services will be available for residents and visitors for city sight-seeing and drop-off, revealed Captain Al Shamisi.

Passenger pickup will be from Zayed Port’s Cruise Terminal and will include several stops at destinations such as Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Yas Island and Etihad Towers, he added.

Roestali said the support from strategic partners such as the Department of Culture and Tourism, Miral and Aldar for Jalboot will go a long way in the development of the water transportation sector in Abu Dhabi.

The agreement also includes the building of a new 20m jetty with wheelchair and secure gated access, he added.-TradeArabia News Service