A large-scale cultural and tourism complex, entitled the "Mirage • Art City on the Sea of Bajiao Bay", started construction in the Yantai Economic and Technological Development Area on Aug 29.

The complex, which will be converted from a semi-submersible multi-functional platform built by CIMC Raffles, will function as an art center on the sea integrating modern marine ranching, offshore entertainment, business services and high-end art hotels.

The first phase of the complex is expected to cost 600 million yuan ($87.9 million).

The complex marks the first time anywhere in the world that a piece of marine equipment has been transformed into a site for cultural tourism. It will offer up an exciting travel experience in which visitors can enjoy water sports, high-end restaurants, fishing, and cruises as well as experience the area's industrial achievements.

Officials said that the platform was previously used for deep-water oil and gas development and was stationed in Brazil for many years.

It can offer facilities for living, leisure and medical care for more than 30 days and can withstand up to grade 12 typhoons.

Rendering of the cultural and tourism complex project. The project will be converted from a semi-submersible multi-functional marine platform. [Photo/qlwb.com]

The former semi-submersible multi-functional platform built by CIMC Raffles [Photo/qlwb.com]