Shanghai has launched its first-ever International Cruise Festival, which will run from Aug 2 to 31.

This vibrant event is part of the Shanghai Summer International Consumption Season and aims to promote cruise culture and boost the city's growing cruise economy. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]

The festival features six exciting themed activities that highlight the unique offerings of various cruise companies and involve key business districts throughout the city.

Key events include:

1. China Cruises' Haipai Cruise Style Show: Held at the city's old wharf, this event showcases ship models, a food festival, and an exhibition celebrating the 180th anniversary of the birth of artist Wu Changshuo.

2. Cruise Sports Carnival: Held on the Piano Land cruise ship from Aug 2 to 6, this carnival features martial arts performances and health lectures, promoting physical fitness and cultural exchange.

3. Bailian Group's theme market, in collaboration with partners such as Blue Dream Cruises, will be held on Nanjing Road from Aug 9 to 11. It offers cruise route promotions and maritime cultural exhibitions.

4. China State Shipbuilding Corporation's special cruise event will start on Aug 10. This event will feature cruise-building exhibitions and an exciting drone show.

5. Royal Caribbean Cruises' Around the World Experience Week will be held at Shanghai's Global Harbor from Aug 16 to 31. This event will include family-friendly activities and interactive piano performances.

6. Cruise Open Days: Visitors can explore various cruise ships, such as Piano Land and Adora Magic City, on designated open days.

The festival's logo creatively combines the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower with a cruise ship, waves, and Shanghai's city flower, the white magnolia. The mascot, Ubao, is a dolphin holding a white magnolia. It symbolizes the fusion of Shanghai's rich cultural heritage its maritime traditions.

The official mascot of the first Shanghai International Cruise Festival. [Photo/WeChat account: shanghaifabu]

Sources: Shanghai Observer, "shanghaifabu" WeChat account