Port firm deepens ties with cruise line

SHANGHAI International Port Group yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding to deepen a strategic partner relationship with a cruise line operator in an effort to boost the cruise economy in the city.

The port operator will carry out joint market promotions, staff training and other areas of cruise operations with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

"We will continue to upgrade terminal services as the number of visitors continues to rise, and Royal Caribbean's rich experience will help boost the city's cruise economy," said Lu Haihu, chairman of SIPG.

There are also hopes that the World Expo 2010 Shanghai will trigger an influx of tourists and travellers to the city.

"The cruise economy in Shanghai is not yet fully developed, but we hope the World Expo 2010 Shanghai will bring more visitors," said Cheng Meihong, vice director of Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration.

The cruise terminal on the north Bund in Hongkou District now handles around 80 percent of the cruise liners calling at the city. A second cruise terminal under construction in Baoshan District is set to be operational in April 2010.

The State Council, or China's Cabinet, has said Shanghai should boost its cruise industry and attract overseas cruise liners to sail to the city.

The number of international cruise visitors arriving at ports in China is set to reach 600,000 in 2010, according to an estimate by the Shanghai's tourism administration.

Email Story    Printable View    Blog Story    Copy Headline/URL