Germany’s AIDA Cruises has revealed the first ever ship it will deploy to China.
Commencing in spring 2017, the AIDAbella cruise ship will homeport in Shanghai, offering year-round sailings. The move forms part of a major expansion for the Carnival Corporation, AIDA’s parent company, in China, with Carnival Cruises also making its Chinese debut in 2017.
“AIDA would not be so successful today if we had not constantly ventured into new territory in the 20 years since we commissioned our first new ship,” said Felix Eichhorn, president of AIDA Cruises.
“Now we are taking another important step. With AIDAbella, we are exporting our successful concept ‘Made in Germany’ to China, the world’s strongest growing market for cruises. With our lifestyle-oriented and innovative product, we will be providing powerful momentum to the emerging Chinese vacation market and captivating completely new guest groups.”
AIDAbella, which first launched in 2008, can carry 2,050 passengers at double occupancy. Onboard facilities include a large theatre, seven restaurants, bars, a casino and retail outlets. There is also a dedicated pool area for children and a kids’ club.
The ship will undergo a drydock renovation at the beginning of 2017, ahead of its Chinese deployment.
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