Royal Caribbean's "Oasis of the Seas," Largest International Cruise Ship Departing From Mainland China, To Begin 39 Routes In February 2010#
Despite rapid growth in the Chinese tourism sector, luxury cruises have not caught on there as they have in most major global markets. Aside from the American-built Victoria Jenna, the largest river liner in the world, which offers cruises in China's southwestern Sichuan province for upwards of $5,000 for a four-night package, and a limited number of charter cruises that ferry mainland tourists to Taiwan, longer cruise vacation packages are an anomaly in China.
However, that looks to be changing as Royal Caribbean has announced that it will start offering cruise tours to Taiwan and Japan beginning in February of next year. Via the Global Times:
Dr. Liu Zinan, China's managing director of Royal Caribbean International said, "We hope the rare opportunity to take 'Oasis of the Seas' can help more travelers understand and feel the unparalleled charm of cruise tours. In 2010, we will have more cruise line trips for Chinese travelers."
The cruise liner, which can hold 2,074 persons in its 11 decks, is equipped with a series of recreational facilities ranging from a nine-meter high climbing wall, mini-golf course, Broadway dance performances and youth activities, as well as a main restaurant serving various international delicacies. This is the first luxury cruise for visitors from the Chinese Mainland to Taiwan, approved by the Chinese government in spring of 2009. It will enable more than 10,000 mainland visitors to fulfill their dreams of traveling to Taiwan.