China’s second domestically built cruise ship Adora Flora City completes hull
China is making waves in the cruise industry with the construction of its second domestically built large cruise ship, the Adora Flora City. This impressive vessel recently completed its hull assembly in Shanghai, marking a significant milestone in its rapid construction phase. Set for delivery in 2026, the ship promises to enhance China’s growing presence in the international cruise market. With its advanced features and increased capacity, the Adora Flora City is poised to offer an unforgettable experience for travelers.
Construction Milestones and Specifications
The Adora Flora City is being constructed by Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corp. The hull assembly process took just nine months, which is two months shorter than the assembly time for its predecessor, the Adora Magic City. This rapid construction reflects advancements in shipbuilding technology and efficiency in China’s maritime industry.
Measuring 341 meters in length and 37.2 meters in width, the Adora Flora City boasts a deadweight tonnage of 141,900 tons. It features 2,144 cabins, accommodating up to 5,232 passengers when fully loaded. This is an increase of 19 cabins compared to the Adora Magic City, enhancing its capacity for travelers. The ship also offers expanded public areas, with an additional 735 square meters of space, and outdoor leisure areas that have grown by 1,913 square meters. These enhancements aim to enrich the leisure and entertainment experience for passengers.
Scheduled to launch its first international voyage in 2027 from Guangzhou Nansha International Cruise Home Port, the Adora Flora City is set to target routes in the Southeast Asia region. This strategic focus aligns with the growing demand for cruise travel in Asia, making it an exciting addition to the cruise industry.
Impact on China’s Cruise Industry
The Adora Flora City is part of a broader trend in China’s cruise industry, which has seen significant growth in recent years. Since its maiden voyage on January 1, 2024, the Adora Magic City has completed 84 journeys, carrying approximately 600,000 tourists by the end of 2024. This ship captured 40 percent of China’s international cruise market in terms of passenger traffic, according to data from Shanghai Customs.
As China’s cruise industry continues to expand, it is projected to generate an economic output of 500 billion yuan (approximately $68.21 billion) by 2035, as reported by the People’s Daily in August 2023. The growth of the cruise sector not only boosts tourism but also creates jobs and stimulates local economies. The introduction of the Adora Flora City is expected to further enhance this growth, attracting more international travelers and solidifying China’s position in the global cruise market.
The Adora Flora City represents a significant advancement in China’s cruise ship construction capabilities. With its impressive specifications and enhanced passenger experience, it is set to make a lasting impact on the cruise industry and contribute to the economic growth of the region.
