As a founding member of AIDA Cruises, Mr. Chen played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s early journey. He built a capable team from the ground up, established robust operational systems, and led efforts to overcome significant challenges. Under his leadership, the company successfully launched the independently operated AIDA MODU, China’s first large-scale domestic cruise ship, and the artistic marvel, AIDA MEDITERRANEAN.
Since stepping into the role of senior advisor to the board of directors on July 1, 2024, Mr. Chen has continued to provide strategic guidance, leveraging his deep industry knowledge and insightful recommendations to support the company’s long-term growth and development.
“I am honored to lead AIDA Cruises once again into a new chapter,” said Chen Ranfeng. “AIDA Cruises will uphold the philosophy of ‘people-oriented’, further improve its operational capabilities and refined management level, accelerate the construction of a professional, market-oriented and internationalized operation team, adjust and optimize its products and services, continue to create a cruise vacation experience that ‘better understands Chinese people’, and work with travel industry and other partners to jointly promote the high-quality development of China’s cruise industry.”
CSSC Cruise Technology Development Co., Ltd. and China International Cruise Co., Ltd. have jointly announced an increased investment by China International Cruise in Aida Cruises. This strategic collaboration aims to leverage the strengths of both companies, enhance the structure of the cruise industry, and propel the high-quality growth of China’s cruise sector. Following the capital injection, China International Cruise will hold a 65% stake in Aida Cruises, while CSSC Cruise Technology Development Co., Ltd. will retain a 35% share.
Despite the changes in ownership, Aida Cruises will maintain its status as an independent brand. Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its fleet, optimize ship deployment, elevate the guest experience, and establish itself as a leading Chinese cruise enterprise with comprehensive operational capabilities, contributing to China’s ambition of becoming a global cruise powerhouse.
Currently, Aida Cruises operates two flagship vessels: Aida Magic City, China’s first domestically-built large cruise ship, and the artistic masterpiece, Aida Mediterranean. Together, these ships have welcomed nearly 500,000 guests from China and abroad. Meanwhile, construction of Aida Flower City, the second large cruise ship built in China, is in its final stages, with delivery expected by the end of 2026. Once launched, this ship will serve international routes from Nansha, Guangzhou, further enhancing China’s presence in the global cruise market.
Tags: Chen Ranfeng, Aida Cruises, Cruise Technology Development Co., China International Cruise Co.