Shanghai launches first Chinese-language transcontinental cruise

Shanghai has launched China's first transcontinental cruise itinerary departing from a Chinese home port with full Chinese-language service, as the Viking Yidun set sail from the Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal on June 5.

The 60-day voyage, carrying more than 700 passengers, traverses the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic oceans and links 27 destinations in 16 countries across Asia, Africa, and Europe.

As a boutique luxury vessel, Viking Yidun can dock at smaller ports inaccessible to larger cruise ships, reducing transfer times and allowing passengers to spend more time exploring destinations ashore.

Following the voyage, the ship will be deployed in Spain to operate a Mediterranean cruise itinerary.

Brendan Tansey, managing director of Viking Cruises China, said the long-haul transcontinental journey represents an important step in integrating global fleet resources and enhancing its product portfolio.

Shanghai has long been a key source market for Viking Cruises, with local travelers accounting for 30 to 40 percent of its river cruise customers.

As Chinese travelers increasingly seek longer and more immersive overseas experiences, and with Shanghai's cruise market still offering considerable growth potential compared with more mature overseas markets, Viking plans to leverage the city's established cruise market as a blueprint for expansion across China.