[Photo provided to China Daily]

The route previously started in Hainan's capital, Haikou, but changed last September to set out from the Phoenix Island International Cruise Terminal in the southern city of Sanya. This gives guests more time to explore the islets the route visits.

Cai's voyage set off on Feb 8. It anchored near the islands during the second day's early morning.

"We watched sunrise from the deck," Cai says.

"We spent the next two days exploring the three islets aboard small boats. It takes half an hour to circumnavigate each. They're small.

"You can snorkel and fish. But I most enjoyed the sea views and daydreaming on the beaches."

Dining and sleeping on the islands are prohibited. Tourists must board the Coconut Princess for lunch, dinner and bedtime. But the cruise offers many activities, including local cultural performances, lectures about Xisha, film screenings and cocktail parties.

The Coconut Princess trip is available at present only to Chinese citizens.

About this series

China Daily explores Silk Road destinations every Monday.