A cruise ship bonanza

SHANGHAI: More than 40 international cruise liners are expected to visit Shanghai this year, carrying a record number of tourists into the city and providing a great boost to the local cruise ship industry.

Last year, 32 international passenger liners carrying about 90,000 passengers and crewmembers visited Shanghai, representing an increase of 20 percent over 2005.

According to the Shanghai Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection Station (SEEFIS), more than 30 foreign passenger liner companies have confirmed cruises to Shanghai this year. The station estimates that at least 10 more international cruises are likely to visit the city during their voyages next year.