South China’s Hainan Province is steering its cruise ship and yacht industries into a golden era. With only four days to go before the island-wide special customs operations kick off on December 18, 2025, a suite of customer-friendly measures is already making waves.
Key policies include zero tariffs on yachts, deposit-free yacht rentals and flexible multi-port call arrangements for foreign cruise ships. These steps aim to remove financial and logistical barriers for operators and travelers alike, setting the stage for a surge in maritime tourism and marine leisure.
Industry insiders predict that zero tariffs will slash the cost of yacht ownership by up to 20%, while deposit-free rentals could boost short-term charters by 30% this winter season. Meanwhile, multi-port calls will allow cruise lines to design bespoke itineraries across Hainan’s coastal hotspots, from Sanya’s tropical shores to Haikou’s historic harbors.
“By removing upfront costs and simplifying customs procedures, Hainan is positioning itself as Asia’s next marine playground,” says a leading yacht operator in Sanya. “We expect visitor numbers to climb sharply in the first quarter of 2026.”
As Hainan prepares for its special customs launch on December 18, these policies underscore the province’s commitment to expanding China’s opening-up drive. For young global citizens, entrepreneurs and adventure-seekers, the island offers a fresh playground where innovation meets leisure on the high seas.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
