On August 22, “CM-Yidun” — the first high-end cruise ship officially launched its maiden voyage in Tianjin, marking the arrival of a new high-end product in Tianjin’s cruise market. This maiden voyage not only enriches Tianjin’s cruise tourism product line, but also further enhances Tianjin’s influence as a cruise tourism center in northern China, driving the booming development of Tianjin’s cruise tourism market.
It is reported that from August to November, the “CM-Yidun” cruise ship will visit Tianjin once a month, for a total of four visits.
Jointly developed by China Merchants Group and Viking Cruises, the “CM-Yidun” is a true example of “small but beautiful” in the cruise industry. Measuring 228.2 meters in length and 28.8 meters in width, it accommodates 930 passengers and features seven restaurants, four bars, a fitness center, a Nordic spa, a heated swimming pool, a theater and a cinema. It offers a fusion of Chinese and Western cuisine, including the unique experience of starry sky hot pot under the stars.
In 1872, China Merchants Steamship Navigation Company was established in Shanghai, becoming the first modern steamship company in China’s modern history. The company named its first steamship “CM-Yidun”, which was also the first merchant ship in China’s modern national shipping industry.
Moving to 2021, China Merchants Viking Cruises — a joint venture founded by China Merchants Shekou and Viking Cruises — purchased its first luxury cruise ship, the “Viking Sun”. To commemorate the first steamship of China Merchants Steam Navigation Company at its founding, the cruise ship was renamed “CM-Yidun”. As the first international luxury cruise ship flying the Five-Star Red Flag, “CM-Yidun” features full Chinese signage and a 100% Chinese-speaking service team. It provides Chinese-language services throughout the entire journey, from on-board services to on-shore guided tours, allowing domestic tourists to enjoy premium coastal trips and cultural exploration journeys freely and easily visit destinations around the world in the most accessible way.
The maiden voyage of the “CM-Yidun” demonstrates the service capabilities and brand appeal of Tianjin International Cruise Home Port. With its continued operation, it is expected to attract more high-end customers and drive the further development of Tianjin’s cruise tourism and related industries. The cruise home port company will seize this opportunity to continuously enhance its operations and contribute further to the development of China’s cruise industry.