July 11 marks the 21st China National Maritime Day.
From July 10 to 12, the main event for the celebration is being held in Boao, Qionghai City, south China's Hainan Province, with the theme "Green Navigation, Striving for New Progress."This year's celebration holds special significance as it also marks the 620th anniversary of Zheng He's maiden voyage to the Western Seas.
Six hundred and twenty years ago, the renowned Chinese mariner Zheng He embarked on his epic expeditions, ushering in an era of peaceful exchange and friendship that extended China's reach across the oceans.To foster public understanding and appreciation for maritime culture, 120 national maritime science popularization education bases across China will open their doors to the public during the event.
Volunteers will offer interactive lectures, providing a unique opportunity for people of all ages to learn about maritime history, technology and environmental protection.A major highlight of this year's celebration is the official awarding of the Lingao Lighthouse in Hainan with the prestigious "Heritage Lighthouse of the Year 2025" title by the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities.
This marks a historic first for China.Constructed in 1894, the Lingao Lighthouse stands as the oldest existing modern lighthouse on Hainan Island and serves as a crucial navigational aid for the Qiongzhou Strait that sets the island apart from mainland.In recent years, China has achieved remarkable progress in the maritime sector, underscoring China's ongoing dedication to advancing maritime technology, promoting sustainable practices and preserving its profound maritime legacy.COSCO Shipping's N997, the world's first 700 TEU pure battery-powered container ship, successfully completed its sea trials, marking a significant step towards greener shipping.The "Adora Magic City," China's first domestically built large cruise ship, has officially entered commercial operation, signifying a new era for the nation's cruise industry.