China’s Second Domestically Built Large Cruise Ship Begins Final Sea Trials

China has begun final sea trials for its second domestically built large cruise ship, Adora Flora City.

The ship departed from Shanghai on Saturday for a 12-day trial voyage that will test propulsion, automation, power systems and onboard operational performance before its planned delivery later this year.

The vessel was built by Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding, a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation.

A total of 937 engineering and technical personnel from 12 countries joined the trial voyage.

During the trip, 149 tests and verification tasks will be carried out to assess the ship’s safety, reliability and operational readiness, according to Chinese state media.

Chinese media reported that the company combined two separate sea trials used for the first cruise ship into a single 12-day and 11-night testing programme for Adora Flora City, reducing the overall testing schedule.

The trial is regarded as the final major stage before delivery of the vessel, which is scheduled to enter service on Nov. 6.

The vessel measures 341 metres in length and has a gross tonnage of 141,900. It includes 2,130 cabins and suites and can carry up to 5,232 passengers at full capacity.

Adora Flora City is a sister ship to Adora Magic City, China’s first domestically built large cruise ship.

According to the shipbuilder, the new vessel includes upgrades in spatial design, smart technology and onboard cruise experience.

The ship is expected to operate international cruise routes from the Nansha International Cruise Home Port in Guangzhou after delivery.

Large cruise ships are regarded as one of the most technically demanding civilian vessels to build because of their complex engineering systems, hotel operations and safety requirements.

The sector has historically been dominated by European shipyards.

The vessel’s commissioning progress has reportedly reached 86.22%, with the current sea trial expected to validate core operational systems ahead of handover later this year.

Once delivered, Adora Flora City will begin its inaugural operating season from Guangzhou as China continues expanding its domestically built cruise fleet.

References: chinadaily, globaltimes