Southern China’s cruise industry booms with AIDA Cruises’ new ship | kbnmart

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AIDA Cruises is partnering with Guangzhou Nansha to launch a new cruise ship by 2026, combining Lingnan culture and the maritime Silk Road heritage to provide a unique cruise experience.

Adora Cruises today revealed that its ship, Adora Mediterranean, will embark on a series of two- to six-day world voyages starting December 18, 2024, from Guangzhou Nansha. The ship will seamlessly blend the cultural essence of Lingnan with innovative marine and tourism experiences, providing passengers with a luxurious and immersive cruise experience.

The ship, named Aida Mediterranean, is 292 meters long and has a gross tonnage of 86,000 tons. It is equipped with 1,057 luxurious rooms and suites accommodating up to 2,680 passengers. Inspired by Mediterranean civilizations, its design features a range of Mediterranean-themed arts including oil paintings, sculptures and architectural decorations, creating a true Mediterranean atmosphere. The ship features 15 restaurants and bars offering a wide range of international cuisine, traditional Chinese meals and unique drinks. Onboard entertainment includes “Mediterranean-style” music and dance performances in the large Osiris Theater and several lively themed parties, creating a festive atmosphere at sea. The recently enhanced Aida Mediterranean also integrates iconic cultural tourism with traditional Chinese elements, enriching the visitor’s onboard experience. In addition, AIDA Mediterranean leads the industry with its spacious guest-to-staff ratio, ensuring ample personal space and superior, attentive service.

On board Aida Mediterranean, sailing from Southern China, a range of new and enhanced experiences await, deeply rooted in the rich intangible cultural heritage of the Lingnan region. Culinary offerings include authentic Cantonese cuisine – from traditional dishes and desserts to hot pots infused with Sichuan and Guangdong flavours. The cruise will also offer a healthy fall and winter menu featuring nourishing soups and seasonal delicacies, catering to a wellness journey on the high seas.

Furthermore, Aida Mediterranean will host a series of cultural activities to celebrate the intangible heritage of Lingnan. Passengers will have the opportunity to participate in traditional handicraft workshops, attend lectures by inheritors and experts of these arts, enjoy performances such as Cantonese opera and Gaohu music, and immerse themselves in the deep cultural currents of Lingnan.

The new cruise itineraries announced by Aida Mediterranean from Guangzhou include many sought-after destinations including Hong Kong, Japan and Vietnam. These itineraries not only showcase the ship’s unique offerings, but also allow guests to explore diverse shore excursions and delve into the rich traditions of each port. Inquiries and bookings for these cruises are now open via Aida Cruises’ official website, WeChat mini-program, customer service centers, or through local travel agents, providing multiple channels for potential travelers to plan their next cruise.

Liu Hui, CEO of AIDA Cruises, said:“The launch of AIDA MSC’s Guangzhou Autumn and Winter Line is an important step for us to deepen our strategic planning in South China. In the future, we will continue to strengthen our business planning in South China and continue to launch diversified routes and products that combine the traditional culture and regional characteristics of Lingnan, and strive to bring a new maritime cultural exploration journey to our guests.”

Furthermore, AIDA Cruises has established a strategic partnership with Guangzhou Nansha International Cruise Port. This cooperation represents a decision to base the next large domestic cruise ship primarily in Guangzhou, with a focus on strengthening its presence in the South China market. The ship is expected to be delivered by late 2026 and will begin international voyages from Guangzhou Nansha Cruise Port shortly thereafter.

This new ship will operate with South China as its permanent base, integrating its offerings with the distinctive Lingnan culture and historical influences of the Maritime Silk Road. This approach aims to blend innovative maritime culture with tourism to provide a unique experience for passengers. In addition, this initiative is set to foster a new era of high-quality development for both the South China region and the broader Chinese cruise industry, positioning the region as an important hub in the global cruise landscape.