China's largest cruise liner completes first trial voyage
Adora Flora City, the largest cruise liner ever built in China, has completed its first trial voyage following its handover to the operator. On November 12, the vessel arrived in Guangzhou from Shanghai, China Tourism Group reported.
The liner departed on November 9 from the Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal in Shanghai and arrived four days later at the Nansha Port in Guangzhou. During the voyage, the crew tested navigation safety, communication with shore-based services, and the operation of information systems, as well as passenger services, including cabin accommodation, dining, and entertainment.
According to Jian Yi, Deputy General Manager of China Tourism Group, the voyage allowed for a comprehensive assessment of the vessel's operational readiness. He rated navigation safety, passenger service, and shore interaction as satisfactory.
Onboard were nearly 1,000 teachers and students from 16 universities in eastern China, including Fudan University, Zhejiang University, and Nanjing University. During the voyage, a seminar on the development of the cruise industry was held, attended by around 80 representatives from businesses, government agencies, and academia.
From November 14 to 16, the liner will undertake a second trial voyage from Guangzhou to Hong Kong, during which route organization and border control will be tested. The first commercial cruise is scheduled for November 22, and by January 2, 2027, the operator Adora Cruises plans to conduct six international voyages.
The vessel was handed over to the operator on November 6 at the Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding yard, which is part of the state-owned China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC). The liner is 341 meters long and features 2,130 cabins and suites accommodating 5,232 passengers, as well as 28 restaurants and bars. Adora Flora City is larger than its sister ship, Adora Magic City, China's first major domestically built cruise liner.
