Shanghai's winter cruise season takes shape

english.shanghai.gov.cn| December 29, 2025

As a leading international cruise hub, Shanghai is expanding its offerings this winter into early 2026, with several vessels departing from its port. These voyages cater to a wide range of interests, from round-the-world exploration and festive Chinese New Year celebrations to wellness-focused journeys, promising an unforgettable holiday at sea.

1. MSC Magnifica: 2026 around-the-world voyage

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​MSC Magnifica. [Photo/Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism]

From January to May 2026, MSC Magnifica, operated by MSC Cruises, will set out on a 132-day global voyage. The journey will pass through Europe, the Caribbean, the Americas, Pacific islands, Australia, and Asia, visiting 46 destinations across 33 countries and regions, with seven overnight stays along the journey.

The itinerary includes a stop at Shanghai's Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal on March 29, marking the first time an MSC round-the-world voyage has called at a port in China.

2. MSC Bellissima: Spending Chinese New Year at sea

Beginning Jan 27, MSC Bellissima, MSC Cruises' flagship in Asia, will return to its Shanghai homeport, offering four- and five-night voyages throughout the winter break and the Chinese New Year holiday.

The ship blends European elegance with laid-back leisure, featuring special Chinese New Year's Eve dinners, 20 bars serving global classics, a LEGO play area, Formula 1 simulators, themed anime voyages, and traditional Chinese clothing photo experiences.

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​Guests can enjoy a wide range of activities and dining options aboard the MSC Bellissima. [Photos/Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism]

3. Adora Magic City: A winter wellness cruise

Onboard the Adora Magic City, China's first domestically built large cruise ship, guests can enjoy three seasonal themes:

  • A winter menu featuring nourishing "food-as-medicine" cuisine.
  • Festive holiday with celebrations, including traditional Chinese New Year events.
  • A dedicated wellness program for seniors, including tai chi and health lectures.

With 26 dining venues and bars offering both international and authentic Chinese cuisine, along with nightly shows, themed parties, and craft workshops, the ship delivers a seamless, all-inclusive holiday experience without the hassle of travel planning.

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​Visitors practice tai chi on the deck in the morning. [Photo/Adora Cruises]

4. Spectrum of the Seas: A floating playground of freedom

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​Spectrum of the Seas. [Photo/Royal Caribbean Cruises]

Royal Caribbean Cruises' Spectrum of the Seas, an ultra-Quantum-class ship, offers 33 stateroom categories and 33 ways to play. Highlights include:

  • A glass capsule rising 88 meters above sea level for sweeping ocean views.
  • A VR-powered experience that simulates exploring the cosmos.
  • Broadway-style performances
  • Surfing and skydiving on the deck
  • The largest duty-free shopping avenue at sea

How to book a trip

You can make enquiries and book directly through the official websites of MSC Cruises, Adora Cruises, and Royal Caribbean Cruises.

Whether you are seeking global exploration, festive family time, cultural immersion, or non-stop entertainment, Shanghai's winter cruise lineup offers a memorable voyage for every traveler.

 

Source: WeChat account of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism at "shanghaitourism"