A
4-star archaized imperial style cruise ship constructed in 1996, Qian
Long is the only dragon shaped deluxe ship sailing on Yangtze River.
For a long time, dragon symbolizes China and it is said to represent
the spirits of Chinese people. Dragon actually is the theme of the
ship: not only can they be found on beams and painted rafters, also
they were sculptured in beds and chairs. Throughout the ship, from
reception hall to bedrooms, dragons in various postures are to be
found everywhere. Even musical instruments and dances played aboard,
paintings and calligraphic works on walls, are all related to dragon
in a certain way.
Carved beams, painted rafters, winding corridors, marble railings,
golden sculptures and colored antique palace lanterns, all were built
and decorated in an imperial style dating back to Qianlong period
of Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). All the guests aboard will be treated
as members from the royal families during that time with delicious
foods, luxury accommodations and extraordinary services. All the waiters
and waitresses on Qianlong were well trained. They are familiar with
Qing’s royal life, as well as contemporary tourists’ needs
and know how to make them a perfect combination. They dress in Qing
style costumes and serve guests with utmost care. Veteran chefs offer
a wide variety of exquisite dishes, including "carmine"
rice, green, pink or white polished glutinous rice, sturgeon, soft-shelled
turtle, venison, deer tongue and prawn.
The Ship has eighty cabins, two of which are of special imperial style
suites built to resemble the emperor’s temporary dwellings and
decorated with red felt carpets. Chairs are with red embroidered backs
and black fox skin pillow seats, Mattresses were made of white fox
skin, Covers were made of marten and tiger skins. Waiters and waitresses
will report the time and wish good health to the passengers in the
morning and the evening – like what an emperor received from
their servants. There are also 78 standard rooms with an average size
of 13.2 square meters.
The ship is 93 meters long and 16.4 wide, with a draft of 3.5 meters.
Total tonnage is 5180 and maximum speed in still water is 32 km per
hour. Total capacity is 160 passengers. The ship is equipped with
central air-conditioning, closed circuit TV, international satellite
communication, bar and coffee shop, library, gym, beauty salon, sauna
and massage. In 2009, it will be sailing between Yichang and Chongqing.
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