A major state-owned Chongqing cruise operator has unveiled its new models, according to the municipal government’s website. The chairman of Chongqing Transport and Tourism Corporation Xiong Yinlin said that the four cruise vessels under construction will feature a helicopter pad, a swimming pool, a mini golf course, a multi-functional ball room and a conference room with simultaneous translation facilities.

The vessels, each costing Rmb170m and measuring 149.8 metres long and 24 metres wide, will be able to accommodate 570 passengers. They are being built in Chongqing Dongfeng Shipyard and Gezhouba Shipyard, and will take 18 months to complete. Mr Xiong promised that the vessels will go into service by summer 2012, thereby allowing passengers to enjoy the beauty of the Three Gorges in luxury.