China's first coastal cruise voyage for inbound travelers set sail from the North Bund International Passenger Center Cruise Terminal in Hongkou district of Shanghai on Sept 10.

A high-end itinerary tailored to travelers from Europe and the United States, the China Discovery voyage is being operated by Viking Cruises, a leading Norwegian cruise line operator.

International vistors onboard the Zhao Shang Yi Dun (or China Merchants Yi Dun), the first Chinese-flagged luxury ocean liner, will experience the Buddhist shrines of Zhoushan and the cliffs of Dongtou, follow the steps of 19th-century European diplomats on Gulangyu Island in Xiamen, or try Cantonese dim sum in Shenzhen in the 10-day journey.

From September to November, Viking Cruises will operate eight China Discovery voyages.

The launch of the new cruise route is expected to inject new impetus into China's cruise tourism, and boost inbound tourism along with visa-free and other favorable policies.

It's also seen as helping elevate Hongkou district's port service capabilities and advance the development of its cruise economy.

Source: Shanghai Morning Post