The huge social and economic change that has swept across China in recent decades has brought with it the demand for new vacation experiences. Cruise companies are one of the beneficiaries of this demand, with Western-style cruises becoming ever more popular. As well as being a status symbol, cruise holidays are a chance to escape the frenzy of everyday life and the polluted skies of the cities. Cruising also has intergenerational appeal in China, with extended families holidaying together; some elderly members perhaps leaving the country for the very first time. Even during the cooler winter months many cruises remain popular, with passengers taking to the decks and enjoying the various activities.

The images were taken in December 2015 on a cruise from Shanghai to Hong Kong via Okinawa. I concentrated primarily on the outdoor areas, trying to capture a sense of journey through waters that were no doubt new to many aboard the ship. Wandering around this vast floating island I was drawn to the ever-changing seascapes, views of the ports, and the different aspects of life on deck in the cool East China Sea air.