Title: Guangdong Experiences Surge in Waterway Travel During Summer Vacation
Introduction
This summer vacation, Guangdong province has witnessed a significant increase in waterway travel, with millions of tourists flocking to popular routes such as the Pearl River night cruise, bridge tours, and island excursions. According to the Guangdong Maritime Bureau, the province saw a total of 11.86 million waterway travelers during the peak season, marking a robust return to pre-pandemic levels.
Peak Travel Period
Guangdong’s Waterway Travel Surge
On August 31, 2024, the China News Service reported that Guangdong province experienced a waterway travel boom during the summer vacation. The surge in travel was attributed to the popularity of various water-based leisure activities, with the Pearl River night cruise, bridge tours, and island excursions emerging as the most sought-after destinations for tourists seeking to relax and unwind.
Popular Destinations
The Pearl River night cruise in Guangzhou proved to be a major draw, with the city offering a stunning夜景 for visitors to enjoy. The cruise boats operated a total of 8,216 trips during the summer, carrying 1.21 million passengers, marking a 25.37% increase from the previous year. On August 3, a single evening saw 34,200 passengers, setting a new record for the summer season.
Similarly, the sea view of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge became a new highlight of water-based tourism in Zhuhai. A visitor from Sichuan, Ms. Chen, expressed her delight in choosing to take a boat to the bridge, noting the convenience and the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful sea views simultaneously. This summer, the waterway客运航线 in Zhuhai operated 9,200 trips, carrying 2.28 million passengers, up 13.2% from the previous year.
Safety Measures
Maritime Safety Patrols
In response to the increased travel, the Guangdong maritime authorities conducted extensive safety inspections and patrols during the summer vacation. The focus was on key vessels such as tourist boats, roll-on/roll-off ships, high-speed passenger boats, ferries, and yachts. The aim was to ensure a safe, comfortable, and environmentally friendly waterway experience for all travelers.
The maritime bureau’s efforts resulted in a comprehensive safety check of all vessels, providing peace of mind for both tourists and operators. The increased vigilance and safety measures were well received by the public, contributing to the overall positive experience of waterway travel in the province.
Economic Impact
Boost to Local Economy
The surge in waterway travel also had a significant impact on the local economy. The increased tourist traffic translated into higher revenues for the tourism industry, including hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses. The popularity of the water-based activities not only boosted employment but also contributed to the province’s overall economic growth.
Local businesses catering to tourists, such as souvenir shops and tour operators, experienced a boom in sales and bookings. The positive economic impact was evident in the bustling ports and marinas, which saw a continuous flow of游客 throughout the summer.
Conclusion
This summer’s waterway travel boom in Guangdong province highlights the恢复 of the tourism industry following the challenges posed by the pandemic. The popularity of the Pearl River night cruise, bridge tours, and island excursions demonstrates the enduring appeal of water-based leisure activities. With the maritime authorities ensuring safety and comfort, Guangdong is set to continue attracting tourists, further boosting its economy and enhancing its reputation as a top travel destination.
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