Shanghai Cruise Port
Two terminals, the most departures in mainland China, and a city worth extra days.
Get Shanghai Cruise QuotesMainland China’s Busiest Cruise Port
Shanghai is the center of China’s cruise industry. More cruises start here than anywhere else on the mainland, and the city is a major call on longer Asia voyages.
Shanghai has two cruise terminals. The Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal in Baoshan District, where the Huangpu River meets the Yangtze estuary, handles the largest ships and most homeport departures. The Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal on the North Bund is much closer to the city center, but only smaller ships can reach it, because they must sail up the Huangpu.
Ships Based in Shanghai in 2026
| Ship | Line | 2026 notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adora Magic City | Adora Cruises | China’s first domestically built large cruise ship, based at Wusongkou with cruises to South Korea and Japan |
| MSC Bellissima | MSC Cruises | Returned to Shanghai on August 1, 2026, for a summer and autumn season with calls such as Jeju, Busan, Okinawa, Fukuoka and Sasebo |
| Spectrum of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | Scheduled for Spring Festival sailings from Shanghai in early 2026 |
These ships are marketed mainly to Chinese travelers, though international guests can book them. Deployments change from season to season; our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise confirm the current schedule when they quote.
Shanghai in a Day or Two
Shanghai rewards a pre- or post-cruise stay. The Bund’s historic waterfront faces the towers of Pudong across the Huangpu; Yu Garden and the old city streets offer a contrast; and the former French Concession is ideal for walking. Water towns such as Zhujiajiao are an easy half-day trip. Our sister site has Shanghai shore excursions you can book before you sail.
From Shanghai, high-speed trains and domestic flights reach Beijing, Xi’an and Guilin, so it is a natural start or end point for a longer China trip. Check that your entry permission covers your full land itinerary.
Embarkation Tips
- Allow time: Wusongkou is far from downtown and from both airports; arrange transfers in advance.
- Check documents twice: your entry route into China, whether a visa or a visa-free policy, must match how you arrive and leave. See visa rules.
- Payments: mobile payment apps dominate in China; have a card that works internationally and some cash as backup.
- Holidays: Spring Festival and the National Day week bring the biggest crowds and highest demand.
Shanghai Port Questions
Which Shanghai cruise terminal will my ship use?
Large ships normally use the Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal in Baoshan District; some smaller ships dock at the Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal on the North Bund. Your cruise documents will name the terminal.
How long does it take to get from Wusongkou to the city center?
Wusongkou is well north of downtown, so allow an hour or more by road depending on traffic. If your ship docks there, plan transfers and tours with that time in mind.
Cruise From or Through Shanghai
Tell us your dates and whether you prefer a short cruise from Shanghai or a longer Asia voyage. Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will check Shanghai departures and send free quotes.
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