Zhuhai Jiuzhou Holdings Group's latest high-speed passenger vessel set off July 11 on its maiden voyage from Xiangzhou Port Ferry Terminal to the Wanshan Archipelago.

The 260-seat Xin Hai Yang (New Ocean) is contributing to an ever-improved marine traffic system and offers travelers a pleasing island-hopping experience. The boat has an average speed of 51 km (32 miles) per hour due to an upgraded engine stronger than that of sister ferry Xin Hai Bin (New Coast) launched last year. Lower fuel consumption makes the new craft more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Xin Hai Yang launch ceremony

Not only does Xin Hai Yang's interior, which features blue sky and white clouds, give a feeling of comfort, its sunshade curtains, front viewing windows, and imported seat cushions add a touch of luxury.

This is the first liner developed for the Island-hopping project but the fourth for general tourism development throughout Wanshan; the fifth is to sail in September.

The Wanshan Archipelago is under the jurisdiction of the Wanshan Marine Development Experimental Zone. It consists of 104 islands in the South China Sea opening of the Pearl River estuary between Zhuhai and Hong Kong, and offers many adventurous activities.

Smooth cruise

Since the beginning of this year, Jiuzhou Holdings has increased island ferry trips to 30 in slack seasons and 38 during peaks. A total of 2,660 trips were added during the first six months of 2019, a year-on-year increase of 103 percent.

The improved service is a foundation for creation of a "main line + branch line + island" sea bus network. It will help Guishan Island to become a marine passenger transport hub. Intracity Island-hopping routes will be common and travel between Dong’ao and Wailingding islands is to be more convenient and worthwhile.

Jiuzhou Holdings will also invest 100 million yuan ($14.55 million) on two luxury cruise ships to connect the tourism resources of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and Wanshan Islands. The goal is for Wanshan to be an international tourism destination in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The first ship is expected to be delivered in May 2020.

B&Bs blending perfectly with the natural environment [Photos by Guan Mingrong / nanfangplus]