Published on
January 22, 2026
In a bid to elevate the festive experience for holidaymakers, Adora Cruises is launching two special Lunar New Year cruises in 2026, offering passengers a chance to experience the holiday season while enjoying luxury cruises across scenic Asia. This move signals a deeper commitment by Adora Cruises to bring cultural celebrations aboard its ships, combining both travel and tradition in a meaningful way.
The Lunar New Year sailings, planned for the Year of the Horse, will offer guests an opportunity to embark on themed voyages packed with traditional celebrations, festive cuisine, and cultural performances. These unique sailings will take place aboard the Adora Magic City and Adora Mediterranea, which will set sail on distinct itineraries starting mid-February 2026.
Festive Cruises from Shanghai and Guangzhou
The first cruise, aboard the Adora Magic City, will depart from Shanghai on 16 February 2026, setting sail on a five-night voyage. This cruise will call at two major South Korean ports: Incheon and Jeju Island. The ship will feature Lunar New Year decorations, bringing the traditional holiday atmosphere onboard. Guests will also be treated to a range of cultural performances, from live music to festive dance shows, allowing them to celebrate the occasion in style, while cruising through beautiful Asian waters.
The Adora Mediterranea, embarking from Guangzhou on 17 February 2026, will also operate a five-night itinerary, with stops in Vietnam, including the beautiful coastal cities of Chan May and Cam Ranh. As with the Magic City cruise, the Mediterranea will be decked out in festive décor, and guests can look forward to Chinese New Year-inspired onboard entertainment. These voyages promise a blend of scenic exploration and cultural celebration, providing the perfect getaway for those looking to spend the Lunar New Year in a unique setting.
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Cultural Celebrations Onboard
Adora Cruises is focused on delivering an immersive experience that blends Chinese traditions with luxury travel. Both ships will offer an onboard experience that integrates festive customs such as Lunar New Year dinners, traditional performances, and hands-on cultural activities, allowing guests to connect with the holiday in meaningful ways.
Cruise-goers can expect to enjoy traditional Chinese performances, including dragon and lion dances, which are staples during Lunar New Year festivities. Onboard chefs will offer special Lunar New Year feasts, showcasing regional delicacies associated with the holiday, such as dumplings, fish, and other dishes symbolising prosperity and good fortune.
In addition, the ships will feature Lunar New Year-themed events, such as lantern-making workshops and tea ceremonies, offering passengers a chance to take part in hands-on cultural activities that align with the spirit of the season.
The Growing Appeal of Lunar New Year Cruises
The decision to offer these Lunar New Year sailings reflects the growing popularity of themed cruises that cater to cultural events and holidays. With travel demand in Asia continuing to grow, Lunar New Year cruises have become a sought-after option for travelers who want to celebrate the festival while exploring new destinations.
This shift towards holiday-themed cruises is part of a broader trend where cruise lines are increasingly tailoring their offerings to local holidays and cultural celebrations. By offering these special sailings, Adora Cruises is tapping into the desire for unique, cultural travel experiences, which are becoming more popular as travelers seek to combine relaxation with enrichment.
Penang and Langkawi: Key Destinations for Asian Cruising
The Lunar New Year sailings also align with the broader trend of growing cruise tourism in Southeast Asia. Ports in Malaysia, such as Penang and Langkawi, are expected to see a steady rise in cruise ship calls in the coming years. With its combination of rich cultural heritage, world-class beaches, and picturesque landscapes, Penang has been positioning itself as a top destination for international cruises.
Tourism Malaysia has been focusing efforts on attracting more cruise traffic, aligning well with Adora Cruises’ offerings. Penang’s Swettenham Pier, a major cruise terminal, and the nearby Langkawi archipelago are both ideal locations to showcase the region’s growing appeal as a cruise destination.
The Growing Influence of Adora Cruises in Asia
Adora Cruises, a relatively young but rapidly expanding brand in the Asian cruise market, has been successfully catering to both domestic and international travelers looking to experience a blend of modern luxury and cultural immersion. The cruise line has been growing its fleet and itinerary options, focusing heavily on the Asian market, which continues to see increasing interest in cruise tourism.
Through these special Lunar New Year sailings, Adora Cruises is positioning itself as a leader in offering themed cultural cruises, capturing the growing demand for festive experiences. The company’s focus on celebrating important cultural events aligns with the global trend of cruises offering more than just sightseeing — they are now offering complete cultural experiences. This evolution is also reflected in the growing demand for travel-related career opportunities within the cruise sector.
Booking Information and Passenger Demand
Reservations for the Lunar New Year cruises opened earlier this year, and demand has been high, particularly for family groups and those looking to celebrate the holiday in a unique environment. As the Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays in East Asia, these cruises are expected to be a hit among Chinese, Taiwanese, and Hong Kong-based travelers, along with tourists from other parts of the world who want to experience the festive spirit in an immersive way.
Travel experts anticipate that 2026 Lunar New Year sailings will be one of the most popular cruise offerings for the season, with both sailings expected to sell out quickly. Early bookings show an uptick in interest, particularly from those seeking a luxury travel experience combined with cultural enrichment.
Adora Cruises and the Future of Themed Voyages
The success of these festive cruises further solidifies Adora Cruises’ place as a key player in the Asian cruise market. The company’s commitment to delivering cultural, seasonal, and enriching travel experiences has garnered it a loyal customer base and growing market share. As cruise tourism continues to rise, Adora Cruises is set to further expand its offerings, catering to the increasing demand for bespoke, holiday-themed cruises that provide more than just luxury — they provide a chance to celebrate traditions while travelling the world.
