China is making waves with the launch of its first ever domestically built cruise ship. The massive “Adora Magic City” sets sail from Shanghai on January 1st on its maiden voyage.
This floating city can hold over 5,000 passengers across 16 decks. It’s got 22 restaurants serving everything from hotpot to craft beer, mahjong rooms, theaters, duty-free shopping – basically all the comforts of home for Chinese travelers heading abroad.
The 323-meter ship is a source of national pride, showing off China’s shipbuilding skills on par with aircraft carriers. Beyond that, it bridges domestic and international travel for families who want to see the world but still enjoy familiar activities and language.
Tickets for early cruises are already sold out, proving the demand for luxury travel that feels like home. Adora plans routes to Southeast Asia now, with dreams of longer trips through the Maritime Belt and Road Initiative countries.
Meanwhile in the US, Carnival is launching its newest ship “Carnival Jubilee” from Galveston, Texas. It’s got a big Texas star on the hull and embraces the Lone Star State’s party spirit.
The 3-hour Lone Star Tailgate is a deck celebration with games and giveaways, just like a football pre-game. You’ve got live pop music shows, comedy clubs, piano bar sing-alongs – nonstop entertainment for Texan tastes.
Carnival Jubilee wants guests to feel the Texas vibe throughout, whether dancing to a live DJ poolside or watching dive-in movies outdoors at night.
The ship will sail year-round to Mexico and the Caribbean, but brings the essence of Texas on board through food, music, comedy and more.
As these two gleaming new ships set sail, they represent innovative attempts to design luxury travel experiences that feel like home for Chinese and American customers.
