China’s second domestically built large cruise vessel, Adora Flora City, started sea trials following its departure from Shanghai on a scheduled 12-day testing program.
Constructed by a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation/CSSC, the 141,900-gross-ton ship is based on the platform originally developed by Carnival Corporation and Fincantieri for China’s first cruise vessel, Adora Magic City.
Adora Flora City has a modified design featuring a lengthened hull (LOA 341 m), allowing for more staterooms, larger public areas and additional facilities.
Adora Flora City accommodates 5232 passengers in 2130 cabins and suites. Design revisions include a larger Atrium, expanded retail and entertainment areas, and a new enclosed leisure complex intended for all-weather operations.
Shipyard officials also indicated that the vessel will enable broader use of digital systems and smart technologies across passenger and operational functions.
Among the systems undergoing verification during the trials are propulsion equipment, manoeuvring systems, stabilisers, navigation and communications technology, safety systems and automation functions. The schedule includes 149 individual tests and verification procedures involving 937 engineers and technicians from 12 countries.
Performance indicators, including vibration, noise, fuel efficiency and emissions compliance, will also be evaluated.
The sea trials are also being viewed as a benchmark for the development of China’s domestic cruise shipbuilding capabilities. Unlike the first vessel, which required two separate trial phases, the Adora Flora City is expected to complete testing during a single sea-trial program, reflecting increased confidence in construction and commissioning processes.
The vessel remains approximately 98% complete, according to shipyard figures, with interior outfitting and commissioning progressing ahead of schedule. Delivery is planned for November 2026, roughly two months earlier than originally projected.
Following delivery, the ship will enter service for Adora Cruises from Guangzhou Nansha International Cruise Home Port. Initial deployments are scheduled to include 5- and 6-day voyages to Hong Kong and Vietnam, together with longer itineraries to Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines. One extended sailing is planned to follow routes associated with the historic Maritime Silk Road.
The operator has indicated that the onboard product will place greater emphasis on Chinese cultural elements across dining, entertainment and guest services as part of its continuing “cruise and culture” development strategy. The introduction of the vessel will expand the company’s fleet to three ships as it continues pursuing both domestic growth and future international deployment opportunities.