Three lines will base ships in Shanghai next year

[Photo provided to China Daily]

Majestic Princess will arrive at Shanghai in July. It offers lively entertainment on board such as dancing. Families can watch two Las Vegas-style production shows that cost more than $6 million to produce.

Onboard guests will have a breathtaking experience by strolling on a glass-floored walkway at sea, which it claims is the first one in China. They can also enjoy wine and have meals with a fantastic sea view.

Among its 20 restaurants and bars, Harmony serves classic Cantonese dishes. It's created in partnership with chef Richard Chen, formerly at Wing Lei Restaurant, Wynn Las Vegas Resort, the first Chinese restaurant in North America that was awarded a Michelin star.

With an area of about 1,100 square meters, its duty-free shops boast luxury brands such as Cartier and Bulgari.

"Many Chinese have a deep desire to travel the world. Cruising is the easiest way to have an international experience on a short trip," says Jan Swartz, president of Princess Cruises. The company is owned by the global cruise company Carnival Corporation & plc.

She says cruising is like being in a floating hotel: "It's still great value compared with a land vacation."

Wang Ping, vice-president and general manager of Carnival China, attributes the line's success to the booming market and its understanding of the guests.

According to her, Westerners just like to relax on board and sunbathe, but Chinese guests want to broaden their horizon and improve themselves via a trip.

"Our guests like to learn things, so we offer various programs such as courses on cooking and Western dining manners. We also want to attract them to spend more days on a voyage, so they can enjoy facilities and activities on board. "