Introduction:
After three years of no international cruises, China’s first cruise ship has finally set sail from Shanghai to Japan. The cruise ship, Costa Serena, had been docked in Shanghai since March, and with China constantly tightening its Covid-19 restrictions, it was unclear whether it would be able to leave anytime soon. However, as restrictions began to ease and vaccination rates increased, China cautiously reopened its borders, giving people a chance to explore the world once again.
Covid-19 Measures
Before the ship was able to set sail, all passengers and crew members were required to provide a negative Covid-19 test result, taken within 48 hours before their departure. Additionally, all individuals were required to receive a Covid-19 vaccine. The cruise operator had also put strict measures and protocols in place throughout the journey to ensure the safety of everyone on board.
The Costa Serena Ship
The Costa Serena ship, operated by Costa Cruises, spans over 290 meters long and can accommodate more than 3,000 passengers. The ship, which was launched in 2007, is known for its luxurious amenities and has traveled to destinations such as the Caribbean and Mediterranean. This new journey to Japan will take passengers on a seven-day trip, stopping at ports such as Fukuoka, Sakaiminato, and Kanazawa.
Boosting Tourism
The resumption of international cruises is particularly exciting for China, as it opens up more opportunities for Chinese tourists to explore different parts of the world. According to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, China’s outbound tourism market is expected to fully recover by 2023, with the potential to reach over 200 million travelers each year. This resumption of international travel is instrumental in helping China’s economic recovery, particularly in the tourism sector.
Future of Cruise Industry
The cruise industry has been one of the hardest-hit sectors since the pandemic began, with thousands of cancellations and vessel suspensions worldwide. However, with vaccination campaigns underway and borders beginning to reopen, there is a great opportunity for the cruise sector to jump back up. Furthermore, cruise operators are constantly implementing new protocols to ensure the safety of passengers and crew members, giving travelers a reassurance of safety while embarking on these voyages.
Conclusion
The Costa Serena’s journey to Japan marks a new beginning for many international travelers, particularly for the Chinese market. The reopening of international borders is not only significant for the tourism sectors of the world but also for people who are eager to explore new destinations after months of quarantine. As more countries reopen and vaccination rates increase, we can expect the cruise industry to steadily make a comeback and help reignite the tourism sector. The Costa Serena’s voyage is just the first step in a new era of international cruise travel.
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