China’s 2nd Domestically-Built Cruise Ship Enters Final Assembly Phase In Shanghai Shipyard

In a huge step forward for China’s shipbuilding capabilities, the country’s second domestically made large cruise ship has entered a shipyard in Shanghai for final assembly.

This development demonstrates China’s ability to produce cruise ships in large quantities.

Chen Jianwei, director of the cruise ship project at Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd, a division of China State Shipbuilding Corporation Limited, revealed it.

This new vessel, which is expected to leave the dock in March 2026 and be delivered to customers by the end of the year, will be larger and more efficient than its predecessor, the Adora Magic City.

With a total tonnage of 141,900 tonnes and dimensions of 341 meters in length and 37.2 meters in width, it has 2144 cabins, increasing passenger capacity.

According to Chen Gang, general manager of Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding, 500 suppliers worldwide have collaborated on the construction process, establishing a strong cruise supply chain and laying the groundwork for the mass manufacturing of large cruise ships.

Video Credits: CCTV Video News Agency/YouTube

Meanwhile, the vessel’s hull structure construction began with a keel-laying ceremony.

According to Chen Jianwei, efficiency has been a key focus of the construction process, with the second ship built faster and of higher quality than its predecessor.

The vessel has already accomplished 20% of its construction, procurement, and logistics, all running smoothly.

China State Shipbuilding Corporation has streamlined the construction process based on its experience with the Adora Magic City, resulting in a 20% efficiency improvement.

This optimization includes design advancements, supply chain development, management innovations, and process improvement.

The vessel, which is scheduled to be delivered at the end of 2026, will be floated in May 2025, halfway through construction and ready for undocking by March 2026.

The success of China’s first domestically built cruise ship, Adora Magic City, demonstrates the country’s expanding prominence in the international cruise industry.

With 26 successful journeys and more than 100,000 passengers, China’s cruise ship manufacturing and operation capabilities are demonstrated.

China is a major player in the global cruise industry, and the launch of its second large cruise ship built domestically is an important milestone as the country continues to innovate and increase its footprint in the maritime industry.

Reference: gov.cn, ecns.cn