China Aims to Get Cruise Industry Sailing Again

After a four-year hiatus due to the pandemic, a mainland Chinese port has reopened for international cruise ships to homeport, marking a significant milestone. MSC Cruises from Switzerland led the way with its MSC Bellissima, the first international vessel to initiate homeporting operations in China since the closure. Setting sail from Shanghai on March 18th, the vessel embarked on its inaugural journey across China.

The reopening of the cruise sector in China has proceeded with caution, prioritizing safety and gradual reintroduction. The inclusion of international vessels in China's homeporting facilities represents a critical step towards the complete revival of the country's cruise industry.

The MSC Bellissima is celebrated as one of the newest and most majestic cruise ships globally, planning to dock in Shanghai, Keelung, and Shenzhen for the duration of summer 2024.

This significant event was met with much celebration, attracting numerous officials, travel industry professionals, media, and corporate partners. Additionally, MSC took this opportunity to reveal plans for their upcoming vessel, the MSC Splendida, which is scheduled to operate out of Shenzhen and Xiamen from December 2024 until April 2025.

Following MSC's lead, Royal Caribbean is also preparing to reassign the Spectrum of the Seas to Shanghai for homeporting in the forthcoming weeks.