New guidelines released on May 8, cruises can operate from Sanya and Haikou and not visit foreign port

China’s Ministry of Transport has approved a landmark deal that will allow cruises to nowhere from Sanya and Haikou in Hainan Province.

New guidelines were released on May 8 that said cruises can operate from Sanya and Haikou and not visit a foreign port.

Among the requirements: the cruise line must include a majority Chinese investor and the ship has to be less than 30 years old. Gambling will not be permitted on these sailings.

Under the pilot program, boarding documents and clearance will be simplified, requiring only national identification cards or entry/exit documents, and travel agents can submit documents on behalf of their groups.

There are also specific guidelines for itinerary planning, ticketing, food safety and compliance reporting.