Hangzhou night views from the Qiantang River. [Photo provided by Hangzhou Qianhang Cruise for Tide News]

Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province, launched its first pet-friendly cruise on the Qiantang River on Aug 23, offering pet owners a new nighttime leisure option.

The Meng Hang, a three-deck luxury catamaran operated by Hangzhou Qianhang Cruise, quickly sold out after tickets went on sale. Pet owners can now bring their animals to a designated area on the vessel's open-air third deck and enjoy nighttime views.

The cruise operator has designated a VIP area as a pet-friendly zone and assigned staff to oversee it throughout the trip.

Starting Aug 23, the first nighttime cruise each Sunday will run as a regular pet-friendly service. Passengers traveling with pets will also receive a pet gift package valued at more than 600 yuan ($89.27).

The service comes as demand for pet-friendly leisure activities grows in cities, while suitable tourism options remain limited. By incorporating pet owners into its nighttime tourism offerings, the cruise aims to provide a new leisure option for families traveling with pets.