The coastal city of Qingdao in Shandong province witnesses a boom in marine tourism. [Photo by Wng Lei/Guanhai News]

Qingdao's marine tourism has hit a major milestone, with annual visitor numbers surpassing one million, 147 days ahead of last year's pace. This early achievement highlights the growing popularity of the city's seaside attractions.

In June, Qingdao Marine Tourism Development Co Ltd launched joint operations at the Qingdao Bay Zhanqiao Pier, breaking through the barriers imposed by the traditional tourism market.

By accelerating the pace of joint operational integration through market-oriented means, joint maritime operations have successfully coordinated vessel resources, optimized sea tourism routes, increased vessel operational efficiency, and achieved resource optimization and efficient utilization. This is a significant achievement in the deep integration of maritime tourism in Qingdao.

"Since the joint operations began, overall order in sea tourism has improved, with a noticeable increase in the number of voyages and passengers, demonstrating significant joint operational effects," said a local ship owner.

"Since the commencement of joint maritime operations, the biggest beneficiaries have been locals and tourists. Now, there is an increasingly diverse and rich array of options for maritime leisure activities," said a local citizen.