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China’s first large domestically built cruise ship, the Adora Magic City, embarks on its maiden voyage, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s cruise industry.
China is making a significant entry into the global cruise market with the launch of its first large domestically built cruise ship, the Adora Magic City. The ship embarked on its inaugural commercial journey on January 1, 2024, a momentous event widely covered in the media. This venture is not only a testament to China’s shipbuilding capabilities but also positions the company as a pioneer in the domestic cruise industry, aiming for regional expansion and further cruise ship construction.
The venture, a collaboration between China State Shipbuilding Corporation and Carnival Corporation, is the culmination of eight years of research and development. The ship’s design and construction, a five-year process, were meticulously executed by CSSC, with consultancy from Fincantieri and involvement from various international suppliers.
Although the 135,500 gross ton vessel is based on designs by Carnival and Fincantieri, it has been uniquely tailored to meet the preferences of Chinese travelers, blending Eastern and Western design elements. The ship’s décor, heavily inspired by the Silk Road and Maritime Silk Road themes, sets the tone for its cruise operations.
The Adora Magic City, colloquially known as Ada Modu, commenced its journey with over 3,000 passengers from Shanghai’s Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal. The six-night itinerary includes stops in Japan and South Korea. With 80 cruises planned for 2024, the ship will initially focus on shorter trips, expanding to longer Maritime Silk Road destinations with the addition of a new cruise ship in 2025. Additionally, the company operates a secondhand ship acquired from Costa Cruises, a part of its joint venture formation with Carnival Corporation.
The Ada Modu boasts 2,125 passenger cabins, accommodating up to 5,246 passengers, and measures 1,060 feet in length. Its amenities include over 20 restaurants and bars offering Chinese cuisine, a vast shopping center, and a main theater seating nearly 1,000. The ship’s design and services are tailored to Chinese tastes, staffed by an international crew with European officers.
Chinese officials laud the ship’s launch as a national achievement. Yang Guobing, Chairman of CSSC Cruise Technology Development, highlighted the project’s role in developing China’s first national team for cruise ship design and fostering sector interest.
China resumed cruise travel for domestic companies post-pandemic, giving Adora Cruises a competitive edge. International operators like Royal Caribbean International and MSC Cruises are set to return to the Chinese market in 2024. Prior to the pandemic, China was a rapidly growing segment in the cruise industry, and the return of international brands is anticipated.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
