Cruise port Xiamen
Info for port Xiamen on 31 May 2027
Port information & tips for Xiamen
Xiamen is a picturesque port city on the southeast coast of China and is considered one of the most livable metropolises in the country. The city fascinates with its relaxed garden city atmosphere, where modern architecture meets colonial history and vast parklands in harmony. Among the splendid highlights are the UNESCO World Heritage island of Gulangyu with its magnificent villas, as well as the impressive Nanputuo Temple and the lively shopping street Zhongshan Road. Cruise ships dock at the modern Xiamen International Cruise Center, located in the Dongdu district, which boasts first-class infrastructure. Thanks to its central location, visitors can easily reach the city center and the ferry terminals to Gulangyu Island in just a few minutes by taxi or public transport.
Xiamen is a major Chinese cruise port and welcomes ships at the modern Xiamen International Cruise Center (Dongdu Terminal), which is located on the western side of the island and is easily accessible thanks to excellent connections. For guests from the DACH region, an overnight stay in a pre-cruise hotel is recommended due to the long travel time, ensuring a relaxed start to the cruise.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN), located only about 11 kilometers from the cruise terminal. Thanks to the short distance, you can easily reach the terminal by taxi in around 20 to 25 minutes, with costs amounting to approximately 35 to 40 CNY. Additionally, airport shuttle buses and the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system are available, providing efficient connections to the city center and the port area.
Train
Xiamen has two main railway stations: the centrally located Xiamen Railway Station and Xiamen North Railway Station, which is situated slightly further out. From Xiamen Railway Station, you can reach the cruise terminal by taxi in about 16 minutes for around 20 CNY. Xiamen North Railway Station is further away at approximately 25 kilometers and requires a taxi ride of about 30 minutes, costing around 80 CNY. Both stations are well-connected to the city's bus and subway network, which also serves the port area.
Local Transfer & Pre-Cruise Hotel
For a stress-free arrival, we recommend an overnight stay in a hotel in Xiamen after the long-haul flight to adjust to the time difference and explore the city. The transfer from the airport or railway station to the port can be easily organized by taxi or through private transfer services. At the Xiamen International Cruise Terminal, a guarded parking lot is available about 400 meters from the terminal, open 24 hours a day and costing around 40 CNY per day. Please note that traffic in Xiamen, especially during peak hours, may require a longer travel time.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually provide you with a fixed check-in time slot, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
Xiamen is a major Chinese cruise port and welcomes ships at the modern Xiamen International Cruise Center (Dongdu Terminal), which is located on the western side of the island and is easily accessible thanks to excellent connections. For guests from the DACH region, an overnight stay in a pre-cruise hotel is recommended due to the long travel time, ensuring a relaxed start to the cruise.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN), located only about 11 kilometers from the cruise terminal. Thanks to the short distance, you can easily reach the terminal by taxi in around 20 to 25 minutes, with costs amounting to approximately 35 to 40 CNY. Additionally, airport shuttle buses and the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system are available, providing efficient connections to the city center and the port area.
Train
Xiamen has two main railway stations: the centrally located Xiamen Railway Station and Xiamen North Railway Station, which is situated slightly further out. From Xiamen Railway Station, you can reach the cruise terminal by taxi in about 16 minutes for around 20 CNY. Xiamen North Railway Station is further away at approximately 25 kilometers and requires a taxi ride of about 30 minutes, costing around 80 CNY. Both stations are well-connected to the city's bus and subway network, which also serves the port area.
Local Transfer & Pre-Cruise Hotel
For a stress-free arrival, we recommend an overnight stay in a hotel in Xiamen after the long-haul flight to adjust to the time difference and explore the city. The transfer from the airport or railway station to the port can be easily organized by taxi or through private transfer services. At the Xiamen International Cruise Terminal, a guarded parking lot is available about 400 meters from the terminal, open 24 hours a day and costing around 40 CNY per day. Please note that traffic in Xiamen, especially during peak hours, may require a longer travel time.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually provide you with a fixed check-in time slot, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
The modern Xiamen International Cruise Terminal is centrally located on the west side of the island and offers travelers a first-class starting point for discovery tours thanks to its integrated infrastructure.
Ferries to Gulangyu
Ferries to the famous island of Gulangyu depart directly from the terminal building. The crossing is very comfortable and provides direct access to the picturesque, car-free alleys and historical colonial buildings of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Taxis and ride-sharing services
Official taxi ranks are marked and well-organized directly in front of the terminal exit. The trip to the lively city center around Zhongshan Road usually takes only 15 to 20 minutes due to the short distances and offers a convenient connection to the most important sights.
Public transport and BRT
Within walking distance of the port are stops for the efficient Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system as well as local bus lines. These offer an affordable way to explore the city flexibly while getting to know the authentic city life of Xiamen.
To make the most of your stay in Xiamen, a combination of the picturesque island of Gulangyu and the cultural treasures in the city center located directly at the harbor is recommended.
Gulangyu
The charming, car-free island is quickly accessible thanks to a short ferry ride and enchants with its magnificent colonial architecture and idyllic sandy beaches. This UNESCO World Heritage site also offers shady gardens and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a soothing stroll by the sea.
Nanputuo Temple
This significant Buddhist complex at the foot of the Wulao Mountains impresses with its artistically designed pagodas and gilded Buddha statues, while the adjacent park invites you to take a meditative break. The peaceful atmosphere and proximity to the famous Xiamen University make this place a cultural highlight and are ideal for deep insights into local traditions.
Zhongshan Road
This lively shopping mile is located directly in the historic city center at the harbor and delights visitors with its mix of delicate architecture and an abundance of authentic food stalls. The extensive pedestrian zone is perfect for an easy city stroll thanks to its proximity to the cruise terminal and simultaneously offers an excellent insight into the modern life of the port city.
Gulangyu Island
The picturesque Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the cultural heart of Xiamen and easily accessible thanks to regular ferry connections directly from the International Cruise Terminal. This car-free location impresses with its unique blend of magnificent colonial architecture, lush subtropical gardens, and a fascinating history as a former international settlement. In the winding alleys, you will also find first-class cafes, small museums, and wonderful viewpoints that are perfect for a relaxed walking tour. Ideally, start your excursion early in the morning to experience the island's special tranquility, and it is best to book your ferry tickets online in advance so that you can return to the ship completely relaxed after an eventful day.
The journey back to the Xiamen International Cruise Terminal is very relaxed and efficient thanks to the city's modern infrastructure. You can reach the terminal safely and punctually from all major attractions.
Taxi and Ride-hailing Services
Taxis are available throughout the city and can be easily found at official taxi ranks near major shopping centers like SM City Mall or directly in front of hotels such as the Pan Pacific. Simply show the driver the address of the Dongdu Cruise Terminal in Chinese and enjoy the quick trip via the well-developed main roads directly to the port area.
Ferry and Ferry Shuttle
When you finish your stay on Gulangyu Island, take the ferry back to Sanqiutan Pier or use the direct connections to the International Cruise Terminal. The ships operate at high frequency, allowing you to return to the ship on time while also offering an impressive view of Xiamen's maritime backdrop.
On Foot and Orientation
The area around the Dongdu Cruise Terminal is modern and easily accessible for pedestrians thanks to its connection to the waterfront promenade. The paths in the port area are generously designed and lead you safely back to the terminal building, with clear signage in English making orientation in the terminal district significantly easier.
In port on 31 May 2027
