On July 17th, the first Chinese-built large cruise ship, the “Adora Magic City”, set sail from Shanghai on a nine-day trial voyage in preparation for its delivery by the end of 2023., as reported by news outlet CGTN. After successfully completing the undocking maneuver on June 6th, the ship has completed a series of tests, including emergency tests, according to the manufacturer, Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd, itself owned by the state-owned China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC).
The ship, with a gross weight of 135,500 tons, can accommodate more than 5,246 passengers. It will have a luxury hotel, movie theaters and a water park. Guests will have access to an impressive range of options.
Measuring 323.6 meters in length, Adora Magic City will have plenty of space for guests to relax and enjoy all the onboard activities. According to local media, the ship’s design is aimed to create a unique cruise experience that blends Eastern and Western cultures.
In collaboration with Mahua FunAge, the cruise ship will feature the first live comedy theatre at sea. Selection International Entertainment will present a captivating song and dance spectacle, “Marco Polo: An Enchanted Love Tale”.
Considered the largest shopping centre at sea, the touted Adora Shopping Center, will feature renowned designer brands, fine watches and jewelry, high fashion, cosmetics, as well as unique Chinese products.
Adora Magic City is set to become the world’s first cruise ship with 5G mobile broadband connectivity. The ship’s partnership with China Telecom ensures advanced wireless communication technology and a Wi-Fi6 and mobile 5G network. Passengers are expected to have a seamless digital experience, similar to the one on land.
According to Travel Weekly Asia, Fincantieri served as Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipyard’s technical consultant for the construction of the Adora Magic City. The project, initiated in 2019, saw the hull floated for the first time in December 2021. Adora Magic City will primarily serve international routes to Japan and Southeast Asia, with roundtrip departures from Shanghai as its homeport. CSSC states that the Adora Magic City is on track for delivery by the end of 2023.
