A luxury cruise ship has set sail from a port near the Italian capital Rome on a voyage to China that will retrace the ancient maritime Silk Road. 

More than 7,000 passengers from dozens of countries are on board Majestic Princess. The ship will visit Greece, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Thailand and finish its journey in east China's Xiamen. 

The Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries has organized a series of cultural performances for passengers to enjoy Chinese culture during the journey.