The country's first cruise ship for marriage registration started its maiden voyage from the Pier of Pazhou Exhibition and Convention Center in Guangdong provincial capital Guangzhou on Tuesday. [Photo by Parker Zheng/chinadaily.com.cn]

The country's first cruise ship for marriage registration started its maiden voyage from the Pier of Pazhou Exhibition and Convention Center in Guangdong provincial capital Guangzhou on Tuesday.

A new couple enjoyed the beautiful scenery along the Pearl River in the city's downtown area after having been granted with their marriage certificate on board.

According to a statement released by Haizhu district bureau of civil affairs, the launch of the cruise ship marriage registration office aims to further promote the construction of a comprehensive and full chain wedding industry demonstration zone and a "happy island in Pearl River".

"And it also demonstrates the determination of Haizhu district government to join hands with local enterprises to promote and upgrade its wedding industry," the statement said.

The special marriage certificate granting cruise ship is jointly operated by Guangzhou Bureau of Civil Affairs, Haizhu district bureau of Civil Affairs, Guangdong Wedding Trade Association and Guangzhou Public Transport Groups Liner Co Ltd.