Reference News Network, March 22 report: According to the website of the U.S. magazine "Around the World" on March 21, with the successful launching of the "AIDA City" on March 20 in Shanghai, China's cruise industry is entering a more rapid expansion phase. This marks a key step for the "AIDA City" toward formal operation, and also demonstrates China's large shipbuilding capabilities. This is not only a milestone in the construction of a single vessel in China, but also highlights how China is rapidly strengthening its position in the global cruise market by using advanced engineering technologies, upgrading ship design capabilities, and increasing investment in maritime tourism infrastructure.
The report states that the launching of the "AIDA City" marks the transition of this cruise ship from the construction phase to the dock testing phase, bringing it one step closer to international operations. At the same time, this project also shows that China Shipbuilding Group's technical level in building complex cruise ships that meet international standards is continuously improving.
Inside China Shipbuilding Group's important subsidiary, Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., tugboats slowly moved the "AIDA City" to open waters, marking the end of a critical construction phase. The cruise ship will now enter the dock mooring test phase, carrying out extensive testing, system calibration, and final installation work.
The report states that the "AIDA City" cruise ship has a gross tonnage of 141,900 tons, reflecting significant progress in China's ability to design and build large, complex cruise ships. Such a large cruise ship requires highly precise construction to integrate power systems, service facilities, safety mechanisms, and entertainment facilities into a floating "resort."
The report points out that by successfully building the second such large cruise ship, China is demonstrating growing technological confidence in an industry long dominated by European shipbuilders.
Compared to the first domestically built cruise ship, the "AIDA MoDu," the new cruise ship features a series of improvements in design and passenger experience. The "AIDA City" has increased in total length by 17.4 meters, expanding public areas, adding leisure spaces, and upgrading onboard facilities, making it closer to global luxury cruise standards.
This cruise ship will be operated by AIDA Cruise Company and is scheduled to be delivered by the end of this year, after which it will embark on international routes. It will be based at Nansha, Guangzhou, a rapidly developing cruise center.
The report believes that deploying this cruise ship in Guangzhou reflects a broader strategy to diversify cruise operations beyond traditional northern ports, while leveraging the economic strength and tourism demand of southern China. This region is close to major Asian tourist destinations and is an ideal gateway to the international tourism market.
The report states that China is accelerating the development of the cruise tourism industry, which combines high-value manufacturing with service-driven travel experiences. By investing in domestic shipbuilding, increasing cruise infrastructure, and promoting the development of domestic operators, China aims to reduce its reliance on foreign-built vessels while securing a larger share in the growing global cruise market.
The report believes that as the "AIDA City" approaches completion, it not only symbolizes industrial progress but also indicates that China is constantly strengthening its role in global tourism.
Another report from France International Radio on March 20 stated that China is expanding new consumption areas through the development of the cruise industry. On March 20, the second domestically built large cruise ship, the "AIDA City," was launched in Shanghai. This cruise ship, seen as one of the symbols of high-end manufacturing capabilities, is planned to be put into operation by the end of this year, with Nansha, Guangzhou as its home port, and to open international tourism routes.
The report points out that for a long time, cruise ships have been regarded as "floating economies," with their driving effect far exceeding tourism itself, covering port services, logistics supply chains, and even retail consumption. The Chinese authorities clearly hope to use this opportunity to promote a transition from "cruise manufacturing" to "consumption + service." The "AIDA MoDu" has already served nearly 690,000 domestic and foreign passengers. China's cruise industry is gradually moving away from dependence on foreign companies and toward self-operated stages.
The report states that against the backdrop of rising external uncertainties, China is enhancing its economic resilience by attracting international tourists and cultivating a local high-end consumer market. Its policy direction and industrial layout are becoming increasingly clear. (Translated by Zhang Sihao)
Original: toutiao.com/article/7619984235058774528/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author himself.