China’s second domestically built large cruise ship, Adora Flora City, successfully floated out of dry dock. The vessel will undergo sea trials in late May and is expected to be delivered by the end of 2026, homeporting at Guangzhou.
Adora Flora City is an enlarged version of China’s first homegrown cruise ship, Adora Magic City, increasing passenger cabins to 2,130 with a maximum capacity of 5,232 passengers. The 341-meter vessel (141,900 gross tons) adds more public spaces, including 26 restaurants and bars, a theater, gym/spa, shopping mall, and children’s areas, while reflecting Chinese cultural elements in its design.
The float-out followed critical inclination and lifeboat release tests to verify weight, stability, and emergency systems. Engineers also conducted in-dock trials to assess the performance of the ship’s 18 mega-lifeboats and two rescue boats.
Construction of Adora Flora City began in August 2022 at Shanghai Waigaoqiao. According to China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), the vessel is already 95% complete, with more than 25 million components installed.
With Adora Flora City, China continues to strengthen its marine economy, a sector that reached 11 trillion yuan ($1.6 trillion) in 2025, accounting for 7.9% of national GDP. The project reflects China’s commitment to developing integrated marine tourism and advanced maritime technology, with plans already underway for two additional cruise ships and an option for a third newbuild.
