On November 28, 2025, the Bahamian-flagged cruise ship Norwegian Spirit made its maiden call at Sanya, in Hainan Province in the south of the Chinese mainland. Carrying over 1,800 passengers, the ship set a new high – international visitors accounted for more than 99 percent of its manifest, the largest share since Sanya reopened its international cruise routes in 2023.
Thanks to Sanya's optimized customs clearance procedures, guests disembarked smoothly this morning at the city's modern cruise terminal. Local officials introduced a one-stop service earlier this year, cutting processing times by half and making tropical getaways more accessible for young global citizens, business travelers, and digital nomads alike.
For Sanya, often dubbed 'China's Hawaii,' the arrival of Norwegian Spirit marks a milestone in its post-pandemic comeback. Cruise operators have responded to rising demand for immersive, sustainable travel experiences, with Sanya offering a blend of pristine beaches, island adventures, and emerging tech hubs.
Industry experts see this debut as a sign of growing confidence in Asia-Pacific maritime tourism. The record-breaking ratio of international passengers underscores Sanya's appeal across G20 markets, from Europe and North America to Southeast Asia. As more lines add Sanya to their itineraries, the city is poised to become a year-round hotspot for culture, commerce, and leisure.
For travelers, the Norwegian Spirit's stopover is more than a photo op – it's a gateway to local Uygur-inspired cuisines, coral conservation initiatives, and the buzz of Hainan's burgeoning startup scene. Whether you're a curious thought leader, an entertainment fan, or an adventurer plotting your next escape, Sanya's global cruise revival promises fresh perspectives on tropical exploration.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
