First Chinese-language Mediterranean cruise sets sail from Spain

A cruise ship operating the industry's first Mediterranean itinerary with Chinese-language services set sail from the Port of Tarragona, Spain, on Tuesday, embarking on a 13-day voyage with nearly 900 passengers on board.

The itinerary will call at 10 destinations across six countries, namely Spain, France, Monaco, Italy, Greece and Croatia, before concluding in Venice, Italy, according to global travel and cruise company Viking.

The voyage is operated by Viking Yidun, which accommodates 930 passengers. Its smaller size enables the ship to call at ports that are less accessible to larger cruise vessels, bringing guests closer to destinations and offering opportunities to experience local cultures.

The Mediterranean voyage marks the start of Viking's 2026 Chinese-language European ocean cruise season, which runs from August to December and features eight itineraries.

Speaking at the launch ceremony on Monday, Leah Talactac, president and CEO of Viking, said the Viking Yidun's inaugural European voyage offers Chinese travelers new opportunities to explore Europe's history, culture and way of life through destination-focused and culturally immersive journeys.

Since entering the Chinese market in 2016, Viking has welcomed more than 100,000 Chinese guests on board, making China one of the company's most important source markets globally, Talactac said.

For many passengers, the availability of Chinese-language services is a key factor in choosing the cruise.

Xie, a retiree from Shanghai and a repeat Viking guest, said the Chinese-language services were the main reason she chose the cruise, as they make it easier and more comfortable for Chinese travelers with limited foreign-language skills to explore Europe.

Ke Fan, who lives in Canada, said his family flew from Canada to join his parents-in-law on the cruise so that three generations could travel together. Asked why they chose the Chinese-language itinerary, his daughter, Kayla Ke, said, "Because my grandparents speak only Chinese, the Chinese-language services make the trip much easier for them."

Reflecting on Viking's decade-long presence in China, Weehoon Tan, senior vice-president of product development and brand of Viking China, said the company's growth has been driven by its long-term commitment to the Chinese market. She added that Viking's localization strategy extends beyond language services, with tailored onboard experiences designed to meet the needs of Chinese travelers while introducing them to European culture.

Looking ahead, Tan said Viking will continue expanding its European cruise offerings for the Chinese market. By 2027, the company's European cruise network is expected to cover nearly 30 countries and close to 100 destinations.