Xiamen will welcome its first cruise ship on March 22 when the former Viking Sun docks at the Chinese port.
As part of the joint venture between China Merchants Shekou and Viking Cruises, the vessel is now called Zhao Shang Yi Dun, and it currently offers domestic cruising in China for China Merchants Viking Cruises.
The Xiamen visit is part of a new cruise in Southern China called “Southeast Coast Cultural Journey.”
A one-way itinerary runs from Shenzhen to Shanghai, stopping in Zhoushan, docking at the port and traveling by sea.
Additionally, the eight-day cruise aims to introduce guests to the art, culture, and scenery of the area from the opposite perspective.
An included excursion in Xiamen takes passengers to the Huihe Stone Cultural Park, which contains a museum of stone sculptures. The ship is also connected to the city’s main attractions via a free shuttle bus operated by China Merchants Viking Cruises.
Zhao Shang Yi Dun originally entered service in 2017 and is designed to offer luxury cruising. It was previously operated by Viking Ocean Cruises.
Chinese Merchants Viking Cruises acquired this 930-guest vessel in 2021, modifying it to cater to Chinese travelers.
A localized entertainment and enrichment program was provided onboard along with customized food and beverage experiences.
After the COVID-19 operational pause, the Zhao Shang Yi Dun operated twice in Xiamen in 2022. On July 2, the vessel resumed domestic cruises after a 900-day gap.
It is the only cruise ship operating under Chinese flag in mainland China, carrying 930 passengers.
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