Largest cruise economy taking shape

Travel industry, public sector step up moves to boost marine-based tourism

If a friend from abroad were to materialize suddenly in China as a tourist, the question "Gee, when did you land" will likely pop up from the presumption that he or she flew into the country. But, if some tourism firms' plans fructify, there might soon be an alternative question: "Hey, when did you make landfall?"

More and more tourists are expected to reach China by cruise liners from now on. And, as wanderlust grips experience-hunting Chinese middle-class travelers flush with rising disposable incomes and bitten by the consumption upgrade bug, the domestic tourism industry is expected to see a rapid growth of cruises, market insiders said.