China’s first domestically built large cruise ship, the Adora Magic City, has made a splash in the international cruise market by completing 84 voyages in 2024. Logging 600,000 inbound and outbound visits in its first year, the ship has quickly become a favorite among tourists.
The Adora Magic City embarked on its maiden voyage on January 1, and since then, it has captured 40 percent of China’s international cruise market in 2024. On Sunday, over 3,000 passengers boarded the ship at Shanghai’s Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal for a six-day New Year trip.
Stretching 323.6 meters in length and boasting a gross tonnage of 135,500 tonnes, the vessel can accommodate up to 5,246 passengers in 2,125 guest rooms, along with around 1,300 crew members. Often referred to as “the golden industry that floats,” the cruise industry has a long industrial chain and a high degree of internationalization. The construction of the Adora Magic City involved over 1,000 domestic and foreign manufacturers, showcasing China’s growing prowess in complex shipbuilding.
A second Chinese-built large cruise ship is on the horizon, expected to be delivered by the end of 2026. It will commence international journeys from Guangzhou City in 2027, further expanding China’s footprint in the global cruise industry.
China’s cruise economy is experiencing a steady recovery, bolstered by visa-free policies for international tourists and the resurgence of the global cruise market. Market analysts highlight that the cruise economy plays a crucial role in expanding domestic demand, unlocking consumption potential, and fostering new economic drivers.
To boost the industry, China has implemented a series of targeted policies. In May, a policy was introduced allowing visa-free entry for foreign tourist groups arriving on cruise ships at any of the country’s cruise ports along the coastline. In June, new regulations were unveiled to facilitate the replenishment of supplies for international cruises at Chinese ports.
The success of the Adora Magic City signifies a milestone in China’s maritime ambitions and reflects the nation’s commitment to becoming a key player in the global cruise industry.
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First Chinese-built large cruise ship completes 84 trips in 2024
cgtn.com
