In announcing the news, Carnival highlighted the fact it carries more children than other lines, and it claimed more multigenerational passengers, as well as expertise in short cruises—all relevant factors to the Chinese market.
'Carnival is the world's most popular cruise line and our style of cruising appeals to guests of all ages and particularly families,' Carnival president Christine Duffy said. Of the 4.5m passengers the line carries annually, more than 700,000 are children.
Duffy also said Carnival offers a very interactive and participatory style of vacation that brings together travelers and 'well-trained and motivated on-board team members,' who give 'a high level of respect, service and hospitality.
'We know this will resonate very well with our Chinese guests and allow us to exceed their expectations,' she added.
The Fun Ship brand is the world leader in three- to five-day cruises, and said this expertise will be invaluable in the market. Itinerary details for China are to be announced.
Carnival will be establishing operations in China in partnership with sister company Costa Asia, which has operated in the market for the past nine years.Â
Duffy said this, together with sister companies either already in the market, such as Princess Cruises, or entering the market, such as AIDA Cruises, enable her brand to tap into 'an immense network of resources and expertise as we launch our China program.'
Reservations for voyages on Carnival Miracle are expected to open in 2016.
