China's cruise industry is experiencing a robust recovery, with increasing domestic demand driving economic growth, particularly in the bustling eastern metropolis of Shanghai.
With a reach extending various sectors, including equipment manufacturing, transportation, leisure tourism, insurance, and service trade, the cruise industry plays a pivotal role in stimulating both upstream and downstream industries.
In the first half of 2024, Shanghai's cruise ports witnessed a flurry of activity, handling more than 90 international voyages, with over 840,000 passengers traversing through these ports, showcasing a promising resurgence in cruise travel.
China's first domestically built large cruise ship, Adora Magic City, has welcomed over 200,000 tourists since its maiden commercial voyage at the beginning of the year, according to its operators.
The cruise economy, often referred to as the "golden industry that floats" due to its long industrial chain, is crucial in expanding domestic demand, unlocking consumption potential and cultivating new economic drivers, according to market analysts.
China's expansive 18,000 km coastline, coupled with improved port infrastructure and burgeoning service industry, has positioned the country as a sought-after destination for international cruise liners.
To further fuel the industry's growth, China has implemented a series of targeted policies. In May, a new policy was introduced allowing visa-free entry for foreign tourist groups arriving on cruise ships at any of the country's coastal ports.
In June, regulations were unveiled to streamline the replenishment of supplies for international cruises at Chinese ports.
And in early August, Shanghai launched its first-ever International Cruise Festival, a testament to the city's commitment to capitalizing on the cruise travel boom. This festival, running until August 31, featured new cruise-related product launches, business promotion activities, and helped solidify Shanghai's position as an international consumption hub.
"It's a mix of between being shocked and surprised, because I did not expect so many things to be in just one ship. The swimming pool, the tour guide said that it actually opens. So, it can even let the sun inside, which I would say would be a really nice experience to be inside a pool, inside the ship, inside the sea. So yeah, it's kind of crazy, but yes, I'd say it would be my favorite place if I'm here," said Sultan, an international student aboard the Adora Magic City.
The presence of cruise ships in Shanghai is boosting consumer spending as thousands of passengers explore the city's attractions, engaging in shopping, dining, and sightseeing activities, thus contributing to the local economy and keeping consumer spending thriving.
"This one is huge. I feel like one day is not enough to explore all the little things, you know, all the places here. It's so luxurious and the staff is so polite. If I could, I would take my family for this trip just to enjoy. You have a beautiful restaurant, you have a swimming pool, you have beautiful views behind the window. I think it's all you need to relax," said Malgorzata Wyszkowska, another international student.
China's cruise sector sails towards recovery, with domestic demand boosting economic growth
