Adora Cruises has announced its adjustment of Japan-bound itineraries for 1Q 2026, shifting focus onto South Korea and Southeast Asia instead.
This follows a series of counter measures from China, following a high-level diplomatic spat between Beijing and Tokyo.
In early 2026, Adora Magic City will continue to operate from its home port of Shanghai, offering four- to five-night journeys to Jeju, Busan and Seoul.
Adora Mediterranea based from its home port of Guangzhou, will offer four- to five-night journeys to Vietnam’s Da Nang, Halong Bay and Hue. Additionally, the 2,680 capacity cruise will introduce medium to long-range itineraries covering popular destinations in Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and more.
Adora readies second ship
China State Shipbuilding Corp (CSSC) has also announced the construction of its next self-built cruise ship, following the launch of China’s first, Adora Magic City in 2023.
The Adora Flora City will be delivered “some time next year to show our improved technique in building large cruise ships,” said assistant president Ma Yunxiang.
CSSC is the world's largest shipbuilding conglomerate, with control over one-third of the international market. The country aims to catch up on global shares, with shipbuilding listed as one of 10 core technologies within Beijing's "Made in China 2025" industrial strategy.