The mega cruise ship, likened to a floating city, measuring 323.6 meters long, embarks on its first 9-day journey at sea.
The Adora Magic City during its inaugural trial run. (Video: CGTN)
The first large cruise ship built independently by China departed from the port in Shanghai on July 17, beginning its trial journey, according to Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Company, a part of China State Shipbuilding Corporation. The cruise ship, named Adora Magic City (H1508), will undergo 9 days of sea trials, as reported by CGTN.
During the voyage, the ship will primarily test crucial systems and technical indicators related to certification standards, including navigation systems, propulsion systems, fuel supply, ballast water treatment, and maneuverability performance. Measurements of vibration and noise from each auxiliary system and the entire ship will also be conducted to lay the groundwork for the second sea trial, scheduled for August.
The cruise ship passed a series of inspections after leaving the dry dock on June 6, including tests of the main propulsion engine’s condition and auxiliary systems that were inoperative due to power loss. This is a standard functional test for a vessel in emergency conditions. For the Adora Magic City, the main engine must restore power within 30 minutes after a blackout. This test allows the ship to respond quickly in emergencies and recover energy.
The cruise ship passed a series of inspections after leaving the dry dock on June 6.
Weighing 135,500 tons, the ship is 323.6 meters long and 37.2 meters wide, capable of accommodating over 6,500 people in 2,826 cabins. The vessel is described as a “mobile city at sea” due to its numerous entertainment facilities, including theaters, restaurants, shopping centers, art corridors, and water parks.
The successful construction of the Adora Magic City marks a new milestone in China’s shipbuilding technology, making it the fifth country in the world capable of building large cruise ships, following Germany, France, Italy, and Finland. The ship is expected to be delivered by the end of 2023. The construction of the second cruise ship (H1509) began in August 2022 and is projected for delivery in 2025.
