Beilun Port in Zhoushan boasts some pretty impressive cruise facilities with plenty of depth for those massive ships to dock.
For other China Cruise destinations check out our China Cruise Ports Guide page.
Good news for travelers – you can take advantage of that 144-hour visa-free policy they rolled out in 2024 if you’re on a cruise.
Getting around is pretty straightforward – grab a shuttle from Ningbo Airport, hop in a taxi, or catch one of the ferries to check out the nearby islands.
While you’re there, make sure to swing by Puji Temple, hit the beaches at Dongsha, and definitely sample the super fresh seafood at the local markets.
The terminal sits in a great spot for anyone looking to explore all the cool stuff in eastern China.
Map of Zhoushan Cruise Ship Port
Navigating Beilun Port Cruise Terminal and Facilities
Nestled on China’s eastern coastline, Beilun Port opens up to the gorgeous Zhoushan Archipelago. The terminal sits at 29.90°N, 121.88°E, smack in the middle of what happens to be the world’s busiest cargo port network.
Getting there means sailing through either the deep 20m South Channel or the shallower 8m North Channel. Ships with draughts up to 21.43m can dock here, and you can grab pilotage help around the clock at the Qiliyu and Jintang anchorages.
Need to chat with port authorities? Just hop on VHF Channels 16/09. Watch out for the Zhaobaoshan Bridge though – there’s a 31m height limit. And don’t worry about maneuvering in tight spots – tugs are always on standby to lend a hand.
144-Hour Visa-Free Policy for Cruise Passengers
China’s 144-hour visa-free policy is a game-changer for cruise passengers heading to Zhoushan. No more paperwork headaches – you can now breeze through entry thanks to China opening its doors wider to tourists since May 2024.
What you need to qualify:
- Buddy up – solo travelers aren’t eligible
- Book your trip through Chinese travel agencies
- Stick with your group on the same cruise ship
- Keep your visit under 144 hours (that’s 6 days)
Before setting sail, feel free to check out the coastal hotspots and even Beijing. Since rolling out this policy, Zhoushan has seen tourism jump about 10% each year. The port’s first visa-free cruise recently docked with 1,800 happy passengers ready to explore.
Essential Transportation Options To and From the Port
Getting To and From Zhoushan Cruise Port
Need to reach the port? No sweat—there are four solid transportation options that’ll get you there without a headache.
Flying into Ningbo Airport? Grab a shuttle for just ÂĄ10-30 or splurge on a taxi (ÂĄ150-250) to reach the port in about an hour. Coming from Shanghai? The Maglev train is your zippy friend. Watching your wallet? Hop on an intercity bus from Hangzhou or Xiamen for around ÂĄ100-200.
Already in Zhoushan? Taxis start at a reasonable ÂĄ10, or jump on BRT Line 1 if you’re near the main terminals. Island-hopping to Putuoshan? Regular ferries have you covered. And if you’re at Shanghai’s International Cruise Terminal, you can catch a direct boat to the port.
See what’s on offer from the Port of Shenzhen for a different China Cruise destination.
Must-Visit Attractions Within Easy Reach of the Terminal
Zhoushan’s Five Must-See Spots Just Steps from Your Cruise
Looking for adventure without straying too far from port? Zhoushan’s got you covered with five incredible attraction types that’ll satisfy any traveler’s itch. From ancient temples to beach fun, it’s all just a quick jaunt from your ship.
- Sacred Sites: Check out the crazy-old Puji Temple (1,000 years!) or stand in awe of the massive 33-meter Grand Guanyin Statue
- Beach Time: Catch some waves at Dongsha’s surf park or wander among the cool sand sculptures at Nansha Beach
- Nature Spots: Take a drive along the gorgeous 18km coastal road through Daqingshan National Park
- Seafood Central: Dive into the authentic fishing culture at Shenjiamen Port where the seafood auctions are the real deal
Local Cuisine and Shopping Near Zhoushan Port
When your ship pulls into Zhoushan, you’re in for some seriously good eats just a short walk from where you dock. Grab some crunchy seafood noodles or try the ginger soup loaded with fresh oysters at Hooweet or Shayuan Seafood stands.
You should definitely check out Chuan Yu Shi Fu for their Dongpo pork or those shrimp dishes cooked with Dragon Well tea – they’re killer. For stuff to take home, pick up some vacuum-sealed Jinhua ham or those Wu Fang Zhai zongzi dumplings.
Hit the seafood markets by Beilun Port for everything from live crabs to dried mackerel. Fall is perfect for salt-baked crabs, and when it gets cold, nothing beats those warming ginger dishes to take the chill off.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Safety Protocols Are in Place After the 2024 Container Ship Fire?
Following the 2024 container ship incident, we’ve seriously stepped up our safety game. We’ve tightened hazardous cargo paperwork requirements, installed temperature tracking throughout vessels, and now keep emergency crews with six tugs ready to respond. We’ve also added thermal cameras to spot hotspots before they become problems, and created a system where everyone at the port shares critical information in real time. Bottom line – much better protection for all shipments now.
Are There Luggage Storage Facilities for Passengers Exploring Before Departure?
There aren’t any dedicated luggage storage spots at the port. Maybe check with your cruise line about holding your bags temporarily, or try calling some nearby hotels – sometimes they’ll watch your stuff while you wander around before boarding.
Can Cruise Passengers Visit Dongji Islands as a Day Trip?
Similar to the legendary sailor Odysseus, you’ll find getting to Dongji Islands pretty tough for a day trip. The journey takes 5-7 hours each way, which honestly doesn’t leave much time to actually explore the place. You’re probably better off either booking an organized tour or picking somewhere closer that fits within your cruise schedule. The islands are beautiful, but the transit time is a real killer for cruise passengers.
What Cellular/Internet Connectivity Options Exist at the Terminal?
You’ll find solid 4G/5G signals from all the major Chinese carriers (Mobile, Telecom, and Unicom) throughout the terminal. Grab a Tourist SIM for ÂĄ89 with 15GB of data, or just switch on Wi-Fi calling on your phone to stay connected without any hassle.
Are There Medical Facilities or Pharmacies Available at the Port?
Medical help is pretty limited at the port – just basic first aid at the terminal. If you need meds, China Jo-Jo Drugstores are close by in Zhejiang. Better pack your prescriptions and make sure they show generic drug names since English help isn’t great around here.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Ningbo Cruise Ship Port.
