CSSC and NOR Cruises sign MoU for 2+3 cruise shipbuilding program at SMM Hamburg
China State Shipbuilding Corporation’s (CSSC) subsidiary Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding (SWS) and China Shipbuilding Trading Co (CSTC) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NOR Cruises for a “2+3” cruise shipbuilding project. This agreement includes two firm vessels and options for three additional units, all based on an 82-84,000 DWT design.
Prominent Visit and Agreements at Shanghai Maritime Exhibition
On September 2nd, Shanghai Vice Mayor Chen Jie, a member of the Standing Committee of the Shanghai Municipal Party Committee, visited the CSSC exhibition booth and witnessed the signing of the MoU. During the exhibition, Xu Peng visited CSSC and partner stands and participated in the China-Europe Maritime Forum, emphasizing the need for closer cooperation between Chinese and European maritime companies in areas such as green and smart technologies, practical business partnerships, and integrated industry development.
Xu Peng, leading a CSSC delegation, engaged in fruitful discussions with international shipowners, classification societies, and equipment and service suppliers. The focus was on global shipping market developments, future vessel designs, and opportunities for expanded cooperation. These meetings resulted in agreements to strengthen existing partnerships and further expand CSSC’s international network.
Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding’s Role in China’s Cruise Shipbuilding Sector
Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding has established itself as a key player in China’s emerging large cruise shipbuilding sector. The yard made history by constructing Adora Magic City, the country’s first domestically built large cruise ship, showcasing China’s entry into the construction of large passenger vessels after years of development.
The construction of the second Chinese-built large cruise ship, Adora Flora City, is well underway, with delivery and entry into service scheduled for November 6th. Additionally, Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding has secured domestic cruise ship orders, including an agreement with China Tourism Group for two large cruise ships, with an option for a third. The first vessel is set for delivery by the end of 2030.
In conclusion, the collaboration between CSSC, SWS, CSTC, and NOR Cruises signifies a significant milestone in the cruise shipbuilding industry, further solidifying China’s position in the global maritime market.
