China's cruise tourism policy evolution and effectiveness analysis

Building on the dynamic expansion of China's cruise tourism industry, this study undertakes a profound exploration of its policy evolution and effectiveness up to 2019, just before the 2020 pandemic halted operations. Applying an all-encompassing methodology inclusive of policy bibliometrics, traditional evaluative techniques, and a vector autoregressive model, the research illuminates the journey of policy effectiveness. The research identifies a sustainable equilibrium among policy effectiveness, managerial experience, development scale, and investment. Notably, increased policy volume, more than clear objectives, drives policy effectiveness. This emphasizes the need for goal-focused policies and measure reinforcement. The importance of inter-departmental collaboration, improved departmental coordination, and diversified policies for optimal impact is highlighted. Additionally, the research advocates for timely policy updates and comprehensive research beyond policy effectiveness. Blending theory and practice, the study enhances the cruise tourism policy literature, offering insights for stakeholders and researchers, and promoting sustainable growth in cruise tourism.