China handled 4.39 million cruise passengers last year, up 82 percent on the previous year. The country is expected to become the second-biggest cruise market in the world, after the United States, by 2020. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Chinese ports received 955 cruise ships last year, up 65 percent over the previous year, according to the report.

The report also says that China handled 4.39 million cruise passengers last year, up 82 percent on the previous year, and the country is expected to become the second-biggest cruise market in the world, after the United States, by 2020.

The growth of the cruise market represents an increasing awareness of this travel mode, says Liu Xiaolyu, the cruise travel general manager with Ctrip.

Also, new cruise ships and domestic ports are driving the market, says Liu.

Many new cruise ships entered the Chinese market in July, and this has stimulated traveler interest.

The Norwegian Joy cruise ship began to operate from Shanghai on June 27, the SuperStar Virgo from Star Cruises launched its maiden voyage on July 6, and the Majestic Princess from Princess Cruises entered the Chinese market on July 11.

These ships, besides the Quantum of the Sea and Mariner of the Seas, both from Royal Caribbean International, and the Costa Serena all offer varied experiences.

The Norwegian Joy saw the most bookings for July and August, with the Ovation of the Seas and the Quantum of the Sea right behind it.

More cruise ports have also made things easier.