Reviving the ancient Maritime Silk Road

Chinese navigator Zhai Mo. [Photo provided to China Daily]

It will take two or three months to finish the route, which stretches more than 10,000 sea miles. The crew will carry on board ancient and modern Chinese ceramics, and Chinese tea and paintings to promote the culture at local museums and other events.

A camera crew from Central Studio of News Reels Production will sail with them to shoot a documentary about the Maritime Silk Road, including their ocean trip and the stories of local residents in foreign countries.

Zhai plans to arrive in Milan in May, just in time to join the 2015 Milan Expo that will kick off on May 1.

"It's the best international stage to showcase the Maritime Silk Road culture and Chinese culture. Our photos and videos will be amazing. I'm contacting an officer from the Chinese Pavilion to discuss it," he says.

He also wants to make the voyage a regular international event, and invite visitors to enjoy the pretty scenery and diverse cultures.

During his tour around the globe, Zhai fell ill several times and had some close calls with dangerous storms. But this voyage will be easier and safer, as his crew will operate advanced yachts and high-quality equipment.

The only potential threat is Somali pirates, but the Chinese navy will escort the crew in the Gulf of Aden, a hub of pirate activity.