China Expands Non-Destination Cruise Trials to Xiamen, Guangzhou and Shenzhen
China is expanding its trial of “non-destination” cruises—short sea voyages that never call at a shore port—to three new port cities: Xiamen, Guangzhou and Shenzhen. Transport Vice Minister Li Yang announced the policy shift on September 24, 2026, at a State Council Information Office briefing on holiday transport.
The announcement builds on earlier pilot programs launched in Shanghai and Tianjin. The Ministry of Transport intends to keep refining the idea until it becomes a normal cruise product, though no specific start dates, ship deployments, or fare structures have been released for the newly added cities.
Non-destination cruises operate without docking at ports
Non-destination cruises operate without docking at a port on land. Passengers spend their time onboard, utilizing shipboard entertainment, leisure activities, and duty-free shopping rather than going ashore. According to Ministry of Transport descriptions, these voyages are usually three days and two nights.
The ministry is coordinating the initiative alongside the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, customs, and the immigration administration. Six ships were planned to run 14 voyages from Shanghai, Tianjin, and Shenzhen during the Mid-Autumn and National Day holidays, though the government briefing did not identify the specific vessels or operating companies involved.
Comparing Shanghai and Tianjin Pilot Results
The expansion follows initial tests in Shanghai and Tianjin. Shanghai initiated the pilot in June when the cruise ship Adora Magic City carried 4,000 guests on the first round. Tianjin followed in August with the ship Visio operating two voyages, the first of which carried 2,700 guests.
Data provided by Vice Minister Li indicates that travelers participating in the initial trials were about eight years younger on average than traditional cruise passengers. Government officials attribute this to demand from younger travelers and families drawn to the short-duration formats and streamlined booking processes.
Regulatory adjustments have accompanied the trial structure. In Shanghai, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism issued dedicated permits for the product. Eligible travelers can apply for these credentials with identity documents instead of a standard passport process, lowering administrative barriers for passengers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Chinese cities will offer non-destination cruises next?
Xiamen, Guangzhou and Shenzhen are the next trial cities designated by the Ministry of Transport, joining Shanghai and Tianjin.
Can travelers book tickets for the newly announced cities?
Booking is not yet available for Xiamen, Guangzhou and Shenzhen because the Ministry of Transport briefing on September 24, 2026, did not provide sailing dates, ships, or prices for those cities.
Do passengers need a standard passport to board these sailings?
Travelers can apply for an exit and entry permit instead of relying only on a passport, according to statements from transport and tourism officials.
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