But with only two opening days scheduled so far, and a limit of 2000 visitors a day, residents will have to be quick to book their place on the trading ship replica.

The Gotheborg sailed into the city last Tuesday to a warm welcome from residents and officials.

The ship has since received visits from Sweden's Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Carl Philip, but only now will locals be allowed to walk the decks.

On Wednesday the ship will be open from 10am to 2pm and on Thursday from 12pm and 3pm. The ship will be closed to the public on Friday to Sunday with organizers saying they will give details of further opening times soon.

Boarding tickets, which can be bought at Gaoyang Quay on the northern Bund where the ship is docked, or online at www.shanghai.chinaticket.com and www.renhu.net, will cost 30 yuan, with children less than 1.20 meters tall allowed in free. During the October National Day holiday the price will rise to 50 yuan.

The ship will be on the Bund until October 29, when it begins its return trip to its home port of Gothenburg.

Residents who want to buy boarding tickets must show their identity cards, which will be returned after they leave the ship.

Organizers said foreigners who want to board the ship can use their passport in place of an identity card.

Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

The ship tours are part of a month-long festival celebrating the Gotheborg's arrival. The Bund will also host from Wednesday a two-month long navigation culture and history exhibition.

(Source: Shanghai Daily)