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40 Interesting Cruise Ship Facts that Will Surprise You

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If you’re new to cruising, or even if you’re a little more seasoned, you may be surprised to find out some of these interesting and fun cruise ship facts. Cruise ships are more than a floating resort. In fact, many cruise ships run like small cities.

In this post, you’ll find 40 things about cruising that are pretty awesome , and in some cases even a bit strange.

Fun, Interesting and Strange Cruise Ship Facts

Optional cruise trivia.

These facts, figures and tidbits of information about cruise ships make great cruise trivia. Why not test your knowledge and give yourself 1 point for each cruise fact you know?

At the end, if you’re playing, calculate your score and write in the comments below.

Cruise Ship Trivia Quiz (1 point each)

1. cruise ships have a morgue on board.

Perhaps this cruise ship fact isn’t a fun one, but it’s true. Many people wonder if cruise ships have a morgue on board, and they do.

This isn’t something cruise lines publicize, but of course people can die anywhere, even on a cruise vacation. So, all cruise ships sail with a morgue, usually located on the lowest decks away from passengers.

2. There’s no dentist on board

On your cruise ship, there will be a medical staff (usually a ship doctor and nurse). However, should you have a dental emergency, you’re kind of stuck. You’ll have to wait until you arrive at your next port to go see a dentist.

3. There’s a water filtration plant on your ship

Seriously, I just find this amazing! On my first cruise, it surprised me how a cruise ship runs like a small city, with a water filtration plant right on board. Water is 100% safe to drink on a cruise ship. The process is pretty incredible.

4. Waste disposal on the ship

Now, while some cruise ships have gotten into some trouble with this over the years, overall they do a pretty good job at handling lots of waste disposal on a big cruise ship. It’s pretty surprising! They actually have an entire waste disposal facility right on board.

5. Each week a large cruise ship goes through 20,000 ice cream cones!

Despite most cruise lines doing away with the midnight buffet a few years ago, there is still sooooo much food being served and eaten on a cruise ship!

During a 7 day cruise, a large ship will use over 45000 eggs, 1800 pounds of coffee and 9000 pounds of lettuce! I can only imagine how much pizza they go through!

6. The average cruiser gains a pound a day

You’ve probably heard that the cruise food is amazing, and in turn many people gain as much as a pound a day on a cruise. I will say from experience that this is probably true. Some cruisers will say it’s even more!

The reality is that on a cruise, we do eat and drink differently than at home. While many people do gain weight on a cruise , there are ways to avoid doing major damage. Taking the stairs, using the gym and the jogging track can help , otherwise it could be even more!

7. The crew have their own bars and buffet on the crew decks

Although the crew works so hard, they definitely have a good time while working on a ship. Cruise ship staff tell us they’ve got a pretty fun and active life on the lower decks, with some fun crew parties. Keep in mind, this area is off limits for cruise passengers.

8. Deck 13 is missing

Due to cruise ship superstitions , some cruise ships don’t have a deck 13. It’s a bit funny to be in the elevator and see numbers 11, 12, 14, 15 ect. Funny enough, while many cruise ships skip deck 13, MSC Cruises, doesn’t have a deck 17 due to a similar Italian superstition.

9. There’s a naughty room

That’s what many passengers call it when they are called down to a special room when the ship’s crew has found something “naughty”  in the luggage that has to be confiscated . It might be alcohol that you’re not permitted, an iron or something else.

It’s actually not the end of the world, but if you’d rather not end up there, best not to try to sneak in any alcohol on (which seems to be the most common reason).

10. There is a cruise ship jail or brig

This is a true fact. Cruise ships have a sort of lock-up room, just in case they need to keep someone who is unruly or is suspected to have committed a crime until they arrive at the next port.

11. Cruise cabin walls are metal

This cruise ship fact surprises many cruisers – yes, cruise cabin walls and doors are usually metal. Cruise cabin walls are metal for numerous safety reasons, including fire safety.

However, there are advantages to metal walls. A genius cruise cabin hack is to bring magnet hooks and clips to add extra storage to your stateroom.

Read more:   50 Must-have Amazon Cruise Essentials

12. You can’t bring an iron or steamer on board

While experienced cruisers know this, many first time cruisers ask about bringing an iron or steamer on board. Of course, cruise lines take fire safety very seriously, which is why you can’t bring this item onto the ship .

Cruise tip: If you’re concerned about having wrinkled clothing on a cruise , one of my favorite cruise packing tips  is to bring along a travel size Downy Wrinkle Release.

Read more:  10 Things NOT to pack for a cruise

13. Cruise ship Internet isn’t like internet on land

This may go without saying for seasoned cruisers, but this fact might surprise you if you’re cruising for the first time. Internet on a cruise just isn’t the same as at a land resort.

Wifi has been limited, slow and pretty expensive for years. However, this is changing and cruise lines are making strides. Many cruise lines are now using Starlink and cruise wifi packages are becoming better and more affordable.

Related:  15 Cruise WiFi Tips, Secrets & Mistakes to Avoid

14. There’s a dog kennel on some cruise ships

Awe, can you imagine bringing your family pet on your cruise? While it’s actually an ocean liner, you’re able to bring your dog on a cruise, or trans-atlantic crossing of Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 . The QM2 has a kennel on board with limited space for small and large dogs.

15. Some people retire on a cruise ship

Oh, in my dream life, this will be me! All joking aside, there are a few people who have actually retired on a cruise ship , and claim that it’s more affordable than a quality senior’s residence.

16. Most cabins don’t really have queen or king size beds

Cruise cabins aren’t equipped with a queen or king bed. Instead, twin beds are usually pushed together those who want to sleep in a larger bed. So, the same cabin with two twins, will “convert” to a King.

Cruise tip : Cruise ships do have “egg-crates” or mattress covers available to make it more comfortable, however I suggest requesting this from your cabin steward as soon as possible.

17. Just who is Bill W. and Dorothy, and why do they have friends on every cruise?

Have you ever noticed in the daily planner or perhaps written on a billboard, that there may be a meeting or gathering for “friends of Bill W” or “Friends of  Dorothy”? Absolutely no judgement, but I wondered on my first few cruises just what that was about, so I figure some of you do too.

Friends of Bill W is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Friends of Dorothy are gatherings for those that are gay, lesbian, transgender and bisexual.

18. Cabin door decorations may be sending a message

Cabin cabin door decorating on cruises is a thing to do, on some cruise ships more than others.

Being honest, I already over pack and just don’t need to bring more stuff. So my cabin door is as plain as can be. However, many attest to giving this thought and preparing stateroom door decorations which they bring on board.

Well, I recently found out that pineapples on a cruise cabin door actually have a meaning!! Who knew? Well, apparently other people lol. I’ll let you google that ;-).

Read more:   Cruise Cabin Door Decorations: The Ultimate Guide for Cruisers

19. Not all cruises have “formal” nights

As much as some people love the idea of getting dressed up on a cruise for formal nights , some don’t. They may even hesitate to book a cruise, worrying they’ve got to be dressed to the nines.

While there are cruises where you can really get fancy (tuxes and gowns if that’s your thing) , many cruise lines are maintaining tradition while easing cruise line dress codes .

Examples of more relaxed dress codes include Norwegian Cruise Line’s Freestyle dress code and Celebrity Cruises modern Evening Chic dress code .

Cruise tip: Consider chatting with a travel agent who can go over your options and help to find the best cruise line for you.

Read more:  What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night (and frequently asked questions)

20. The cruise ship pools are filled with sea water

I’m not sure why this surprises people, after all, the ship is at “sea” and it only makes sense that water is abundant. However, I had to add this as people ask about this frequently.

Sea water is used to fill cruise ship pools, however it does go through a filtering process to remove sand and other unwanted stuff. Some cruise lines also use a desalination process which gives a feeling of a freshwater pool.

21. Cruise ship iced tea is unsweetened

Now this cruise fact surprises many cruisers. As you take a sip of your iced tea, commonly served as an included beverage on a cruise , you may be shocked to find that it is unsweetened.

I was really surprised on my first cruise, but found that adding a lemon wedge and a packet of sweetener made it just perfect. If you prefer real sugar, this won’t dissolve in cold water so you’re out of luck if you prefer sweet tea.

Of course, you can always get hot tea and a glass of ice and make it the old fashioned way.

22. Cruise ships have God-Mothers

As tradition would have it, cruise ships are Christened and each has a God-mother.

Some pretty famous ones are Princess Kate for Royal Princess, Oprah Winfrey for Nieuw Statendam, Reba McEntire for Norwegian Epic, Sophie Loren for MSC Divina, Malala Yousafzai for Celebrity Edge ,  and Jennifer Hudson for Disney Dream… just to name a few!

Did you see this already? If you did, go ahead and give yourself a bonus point!

23. There are ice skating rinks on cruise ships

Although I would be exaggerating if I made it seem as though this is common, several of Royal Caribbean’s cruise ships have actual indoor skating rinks where you can see a fantastic show. You can even “rent” skates and try it for yourself during certain hours.

In addition to this, there are many cool things on a cruise , including zip lines and ropes courses!

24. The Church of Scientology has a cruise ship

If you cruise to Aruba or Curacao, there’s a good chance you’ll come upon what looks like a small luxury cruise ship called Freewinds. This is the Church of Scientology ship and it makes some short cruise runs in the Southern Caribbean. I believe they are conferences, but truthfully haven’t looked into it.

I warn you, if you google it, you’ll go own a rabbit hole. Don’t say I didn’t warn you 😉

25. Passenger hallway carpets are there to help you

Did you know that many cruise ships have different colored or patterned carpets on the port side (left) and starboard side (right) of the passenger decks? This is so helpful as a cruise passenger when trying to find your cabin, especially in those early days of the cruise.

Read more:   The Ultimate Cruise Lingo Glossary: 85 Terms You Need to Know

26. The largest cruise ship in the world (soon changing!)

As of today, the largest cruise ship in the world is Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, with a gross tonnage of over 228,000 tons, the massive cruise ship has 7 distinct neighborhoods.

However, in January 2024 this is changing! Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas will take the title of the largest cruise ship in the world. At over 250,000 tons and 365 meters long, this giant cruise ship will be shaking up the cruise industry!

27. Cruise ships travel about 20 knots per hour

Cruise ships aren’t especially fast, which actually surprised me to find out. In fact, the average speed that a cruise ship travels is about 20 knots . Since 1 knot is equal to 1.15 miles, this is about 23 miles an hour.

Cruise ships can go faster, reaching about 30 knots an hour. An interesting fact is that cruise ships will slow down when seas are choppy or speed up when trying to outrun storms and rough seas.

28. Royal Caribbean is now the largest cruise line in the world

For many years, Carnival Cruise Line held the record for the largest fleet of cruise ships. However, in 2021 Royal Caribbean took the title of largest cruise line in the world (by fleet size). Royal Caribbean now has 28 cruise ships in its fleet.

Top 3 Largest Cruise Lines in the World (by fleet size)

• Royal Caribbean – 28 cruise ships
• Carnival Cruise Line – 24 cruise ships
• MSC Cruises – 23 cruise ships

29. Princess Cruises sets romantic world record

On February 11, 2020 Princess Cruises set a Guinness World Record’s title for the largest multi-location vow renewal. 1443 couples renewed their vows during simultaneous ceremonies onboard three Princess Cruise ships; Regal Princess , Royal Princess and Crown Princess.

Read more:  Princess Cruises: 15 First Time Cruise Tips

30. Miami is the “Cruise Capital of the World” (or is it?)

While Florida boasts 5 cruise embarkation ports, Miami has held the title of “Cruise Capital of the World” for years! However, there is a rival Florida cruise port that is a contender for the title.

In 2022, Port Canaveral surpassed Port Miami by passenger numbers. In 2022, Port Miami welcomed 4,022,544 cruise passengers. Port Canaveral welcomed 4,072,396 cruise passengers during the same time period. This means that Port Canaveral beat Port Miami as the busiest cruise port by 49,852 guests.

Some say that Port Canaveral has now earned the title of “Cruise Capital of the World”.

That said, Miami is an amazing destination! In fact, there’s so much to do in Miami Beach for a pre and post cruise stay

31. Cruise ships have robot bartenders

Can you be served by a robot bartender on a cruise? You sure can, but only on a few cruise ships. While a bit of a novelty, some Royal Caribbean ships have the Bionic Bar, where you can be served by robot bartenders. This includes the Anthem of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas.

While Royal Caribbean ships have robot bartender “arms”, in 2021 MSC Cruises went a step further. The MSC Virtuosa has Rob, the first Humanoid bartender. This robot bartender not only makes drinks, but makes jokes with the guests on the ship.

32. The world’s first roller coaster at sea

If theme parks and roller coasters are your thing, you may want to book the Carnival Mardi Gras or its sister ships. This ship has the world’s first roller coaster at sea, a seacoaster! With several fun and amazing features, this new cruise ship definitely debunks the cruise myth that cruises are boring.

33. MSC Cruises is the world’s largest privately owned cruise line

In a time where most cruise lines are publicly traded and owned by parent companies, MSC has a different story. MSC Cruises is privately owned by the Aponte family, an Italian family of ship owners.

MSC Cruises is part of the Mediterranean Shipping Company, a large container shipping operator. MSC is now the the 3rd largest cruise company, with 23 cruise ships, and the world’s largest privately owned cruise line.

34. You can literally travel the world by cruise ship

While Caribbean cruises might be the most popular cruises, a World Cruise is on many avid cruiser’s bucket list. World cruises are typically around 100 days or more and can be booked in segments if you can’t commit to the full voyage.

35. Princess Cruises’ Stanley the Bear mascot is named after a real person

If you’re a Princess Cruise fan, you may own a stuffed Stanley the Bear or have taken a picture with the famous cruise mascot. However it might surprise you to know it’s origin.

Stanley the Bear was named after the founder of Princess Cruises, Stanley B. McDonald. The bear mascot also made it’s debut on Princess Alaska cruises , where bear sightings were one of the most highly anticipated experiences.

36. Norwegian Cruise Line has 1 Ship Flagged in the USA

The Pride of America sails round trip from Honolulu, Hawaii and is the Norwegian Cruise Line ‘s only US flagged ship. Most cruise ships fly under foreign flags, for a variety of reasons. However, when they do they’re subject to the Passenger Vessel Services Act, which requires ships to stop in a foreign port.

By being a US flagged ship, the Pride of America is able to offer 7 day round trip itineraries in Hawaii, something other cruise lines aren’t able to do.

37. Cruise Ship Anchors Weigh Tons

I wondered how much can a cruise ship anchor weigh. This can vary between 10 and 20 tons.

However, I was hoping for a real example. I asked Celebrity Cruises’ Captain Kate and was told that Celebrity Edge’s anchor weighs 15 tons.

38. You can go on a “Friends” themed cruise

You may be aware of theme cruises, which is when a cruise ship that has been chartered and there are special themed activities onboard. A new themed cruise that I have NEVER seen before is a “Friends” themed cruise . Yes, that “Friends” (Ross, Chandler, Joey, Rachel, Monica, Phoebe).

Of course, there are other theme cruises as well, including Golden Girls, Abraham Hicks and an 80’s cruise.

39. Cruise Ships Are Becoming More Sustainable

A lot has changed in the cruise industry over the years. A big change is the emphasis on sustainability in cruise travel. A few examples include:

• Several cruise lines are transitioning to using Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) as a cleaner fuel source for their ships.
• Cruise lines are investing in technologies that improve fuel efficiency, including optimized hull designs and advanced propulsion systems.
• Many cruise lines have eliminated or are in the process of eliminating single use plastics, such as straws and individual water bottles.

40. Over 30 Million People Went on a Cruise this Year

The cruise industry is growing, despite the shut down in 2020-2021. According to cruise industry statistics , over 30 million cruise passengers will sail the seas this year.

The number of ocean going cruise passengers is expected to rise to almost 40 million in 2027.

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Final thoughts: 40 Interesting and Fun Cruise Ship Facts

We went through 40 interesting cruise ship facts and figures, and fun things you may not have known about cruises. Cruises are not only great vacations, but are amazing floating resorts with so much going on behind the scenes!

How did you do with your cruise trivia? Were there any cruise facts that surprised you? Please share any cool things you know about cruise ships in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you found this post helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Share it on Facebook or Save for later Pinterest (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

10 Comments

I’ve been on lots of cruises, and LOVE cruising. Being at sea is a freeing experience. I do have a complaint about a recent change I’ve noticed…I no longer have a cabin or even a stateroom, just a room. And the pursers desk is now the information desk. Don’t the cruise lines know that we cruise because we like the nautical experience of getting from here to there.

Hi Marlene,

I do love the nautical terms as well. I also remember the “pursers desk”. I haven’t heard cabins referred to as rooms, I don’t like that either. Rooms are in hotels, staterooms are on ships 😉

Thanks for taking the time to comment,

I got 23 out of 25 correct. I got # 14 wrong as I was not thinking of the trans-cruises that would have kennels for pets. The other one about the tea being unsweetened I just didn’t know, but am happy to find out as I drink unsweetened tea. By the what I watch all you tips and know how’s on your videos. (big fan lol)

Hi Deborah,

I know right? I think I’d visit the dogs on the TA trip!! They even have a fire hydrant – too cute!

Thanks so much for your kids words! I’m thrilled you watch my videos and read my blog posts :-)!

Keep a lookout for LIVES on YouTube which I’ll be starting hopefully next month. I’d love to catch you there.

I did not know about the Godmothers or the Scientology cruise ship. Very interesting stuff. Can’t imagine confining my dog TA. Wouldn’t a plane ride be faster/easier for the furry family member? Lol. Thanks for the interesting information. Nice to see something different.

Glad you enjoyed this. The TA is interesting, because the dogs actually get outdoor time and are in fairly spacious kennels. Owners can hang out and visit. Seems popular with those who are relocating to England. Interesting huh? You’re right though, perhaps a plane is more speedy.

Thanks for reading and commenting,

That’s some interesting insights and facts about cruise ships. I am amazed and fascinated with so many to them. Facts such as a morgue on board, No. 13 is missing deck, and the fact that cruise ships are Christened and have God Mothers were quite intriguing. ’Friends of Bill W’ or ‘Friends of Dorothy’ was fun to know as so does pineapples on a door! Ice skating rinks on cruise ships, roller coaster on a cruise are some facts remotely unknown to me. You post has ample information on cruises and so delighted to read through. The fact that Cruises has advanced to such great heights and offers so much more, one being a robot bartender is surprising, besides you can learn something as well while on a cruise. Awe-struck!

Glad you enjoyed the info!

This was fun! I did not know The Church of Scientology has a cruise ship.

It really looked different too!!

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46 Fascinating Facts about Cruises

46 fascinating cruise facts.

Though cruises are now seen as the pinnacle of luxury vacation by many, the multibillion-dollar cruise industry was originally born out of necessity. Serving as the primary means of trans-continental passage in the early 1800s, cruise ships moved cargo and ferried immigrants across the Atlantic for years before modern cruise lines took shape.

As transport was initially the main objective, conditions were less than glamorous. In the early 1840s, one of the first "amenities" offered by Cunard's steamship, Britannia, was the addition of a cow that supplied passengers with fresh milk and three cats to keep the rats away. Later, faced with competition from air travel, cruise companies were forced to evolve; catering to passenger comforts and more emphasis on the voyage itself. Fast forward to today, wayfarers can opt to watch a movie in 4D, drink a molecularly-enhanced cocktail, or ice skate over the Mediterranean.

A recent outlook released by The Cruise Lines International Association ( CLIA )  projects a significant increase in cruise travel next year, with an expected 25.3 million travelers worldwide, up from 24.2 million in 2016; and almost a 200% increase since 2007's 9.5 million. This continued growth shows no signs of decline in what is projected to grow to a $57 billion industry by 2027.

Often forgotten, an industry this big certainly has its own secrets and subculture. As we glide into fall, Stacker has dug up some of the most interesting facts about the industry, its evolution, and inner-workings. We've consulted cruise data, historical texts, and industry experts to compile the most interesting factoids that surround this thriving, niche industry.

#46. Cruise Ships Have Morgues

Most travelers don’t labor over the ominous possibility of death while booking a vacation, but as history has shown, death doesn’t discriminate. What happens to the suddenly deceased aboard cruise ships far from port? Some crews will use the phrase “Operation Rising Star” to signal the death of a passenger. According to Cruise Critic, by law all cruise liners are required to keep body bags onboard and maintain morgues to house the deceased until the nearest port is reached and the body can be repatriated in accordance with the docking nation’s laws.

#45. A Titanic Replica Is Set To Take New Passengers in 2019

Perhaps the most iconic cruise ship of all time, the RMS Titanic has been reimagined. The main attraction of the forthcoming Romandisea Resort in Sichuan, China, the replica’s designers have labored over the exact details of the original in an attempt to accurately depict everything from the light fixtures to the original European cuisine. Su Shaojun, one of the ship’s financiers told The China Daily, "Many blueprint fragments found their way into the hands of collectors or remained missing. We spent many years collecting the blueprints from many parts of the world and managed to obtain most of them." Passengers can expect to pay around $400 a night for an economy cabin and into the thousands for more luxury accommodations.

#44. Mark Twain Boosted The Early Cruise Industry

In 1869, Samuel Clemens (under the pen name Mark Twain) wrote the most notable book of his career, The Innocents Abroad, a candid depiction of his five month voyage from Europe to Jerusalem onboard the Quaker City. The release of the book changed the face of travel writing and sparked major interest in “pleasure cruising” after the American Civil War.

#43. Men Prefer Cruises

It’s hard to say why men are more often lured by cruise travel over women, but recent findings have shown this to be true. During a Statista study done in April of this year, regular travelers were asked, "How likely are you to go on a cruise in the next two years?" Of the 965 respondents, 41% of men answered “Very likely” compared to only 26% of women. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) also released its consumer outlook which revealed that 74% of men showed general interest in cruising compared to just 54% of women.

#42. Don’t Forget Your Magnets

According to Cruise Critic, while the walls of your cabin may not look magnetic, they function like a big refrigerator door. Since a ship is essentially a sailing metal entity, passengers can stick conventional magnets around their cabin to display appointments, itinerary notes, or personal decor to make that cozy room feel more like home on longer voyages.

#41. Launching a Cruise Liner

Throughout history seafarers have sacrificed fine wine, animals and even their fellow man to invite good luck and safe voyage aboard new ships. In 1891, Queen Victoria smashed a bottle of champagne - the more aristocratic option - against the HMS Royal Arthur and it’s remained the tradition of choice ever since. Due to the pressure inside, it’s fairly difficult to smash a bottle of champagne, but failure to do so is often seen as a bad omen. In 2007, The Duchess of Cornwall (Camilla) failed to break a bottle of champagne against the Queen Victoria and nearly 80 passengers came down with Norovirus during the ship’s maiden voyage, later coined the “The Curse of Camilla.”

#40. Talking In Code

 While each ship line has their preferred jargon, many crews share the same secret code names and terms for people, places, and events onboard. According to Cruise Critic, an FOD or “Friends of Dorothy” meeting is a covert invitation for members of the LGBTQ community to mingle with other like minded passengers aboard the ship. Coined after Alcoholic Anonymous founder William Wilson, “Friends of Bill” signals an AA meeting for cruisers seeking support and anonymity.

#39. The Amenities Keep Getting Bigger

While a small number of cruise companies dominate the market, it remains a competitive industry. Onboard amusement parks, ice rinks, and live concerts have become the norm, and each year new amenities and extravagances are added to up the ante. Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 has it’s very own planetarium, Carnival Vista has an-800 foot SkyRide cycling track, and this year Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of The Seas will introduce the first sky-diving simulator at sea.

#38. Rise of Celebrity Chefs

 As society has become increasingly food conscious, cruise ships have had to retire the troth-style dining days of ol’ in exchange for more gastronomic options. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) attributed a recent spike in cruise sales among millennials to the rise in celebrity chefs serving up their famous fares onboard. Some notable restaurateurs include Guy Fieri, Angelo Auriana and Jose Garces among others.

#37. Retiring At Sea

More and more seniors opt to spend their final days at sea as the cost of living is comparable to constant cruising. This year, the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research revealed the average cost of assisted living facilities at $3,500/month, while permanent stay in a nursing home at around $7,000/month. A savvy cruiser can find voyages that average just $50/night, and while they don’t (yet) offer medical assistance, healthy seniors can retire at sea with fewer expenses than they’d have to maintain on land.  The World  offers permanent “residences at sea,” but this option comes at a cost; studios and apartments range anywhere from $1 million to $13 million.

#36. The World’s Largest Cruise Ship

 At 226,963 tons, Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas is the largest cruise liner in the world. Built in 2016, the mega-liner can hold around 5,000 passengers; boasts four swimming pools, a full-size basketball court, a ski rink, and a 1,400 seat theatre. Next Year, Royal Caribbean will go even bigger with the launch of Symphony of the Seas; coming in at 230,000 tons, it is set to steal the title from its sister ship.

#35. The Legend of “Posh”

While the origin remains unknown, many believe the word “Posh,” meaning elegant or luxurious, was coined by passengers traveling aboard cruise ships between Britain and India during the late 19th century. The etymology legend claims that the letters make up an acronym that refers to the best location on ships to avoid the harsh sun on those early voyages, Portside Out Starboard Home. The tale goes on to explain that since A/C had yet to make its grand debut, wealthy passengers would request “POSH” tickets to avoid the sun (as fair skin denoted high status) and receive cooler, more desirable accommodations.The term eventually took on a life of its own to describe all things upper-class. While the validity of the legend has been highly debated, with no proven origin of the word, many cruisers have adopted this etymology.

#34. Nude Cruising

According to the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR), nude recreation is a $440 million dollar (per year) industry. With a built in market, it makes perfect sense for the cruise line industry to include disrobed voyages. The ships are fully chartered by third party companies that handle nude travel and tourism such as Bare Necessities and Castaways Travel. The level of nudity clearance is dependant upon each cruise but naked dining is almost always prohibited. Nude cruise forerunner, Bare Necessities struggled to break into the cruise industry when the company first started. Owner Nancy Tiemann told The Emerging Nudist, “When we first started calling cruise lines some would actually hang up on us thinking it was a phony call or some kind of joke.” The industry eventually came around to the idea and Bare Necessities has had major success; once a year, it charters a major vessel carrying 3,000 bare-skinned passengers, aptly named “The Big Nude Boat.”

#33. Cruise Dress Code

Not all cruises are created equal and neither are their dress codes. As every cruise is tailored to a different experience, etiquette rules vary by ship. According to the Smithsonian, cruise attire in the early 20th century was very formal and reflected the wealth of the passengers onboard. When the cruise industry opened its market to the middle class, casual attire became widely accepted, but many formal dining rooms of present day ships still flash to the formalities of the past. According to Cruise Critic, the largest cruise company (Carnival) explicitly states, “Shorts (including gym and basketball shorts), beach flip-flops, bathing suit attire, cut-off jeans, caps and sleeveless shirts for men are the only items of clothing never permitted in the dining room during dinner,” but many cruisers adhere to one simple rule, “No shorts on the ship after six p.m.”

#32. Smart Ships

Later this year, Carnival is set to introduce wearable smart technology that could change the world of hospitality. Outfitted with Ocean Compass Technology, passengers of the Regal Princess will receive an Ocean Medallion, that will serve as a wallet, an ice breaker, and an app. According to  Cruise Critic , the token acts as a virtual concierge, collecting data to personalize each passenger's experience, “All participating ships...will undergo massive revamping from bow to stern to install a massive network of sensors and experiential computing devices. These will enable the Ocean Medallion and Ocean Concierge to interact as each passenger moves around the ship.”

#31. Eloping On Deck

Contrary to delusions inspired by “The Love Boat” and other misinformed media, ship captains can’t sporadically ordain a marriage. Many cruise lines do offer wedding packages, but only a few captains can legally officiate a ceremony, including those on Princess, Cunard, Celebrity, and Azamara cruises. An industry leader in wedding planning, The Knot polled 13,000 couples in 2016 and found that the average cost of an American wedding is $35,329. The good news? According to Cruise Critic, weddings at sea start as low as $1,500 and couples can live stream their ceremonies for their friends and family on land. Princess captains are alleged to be especially romantic, “On one particular cruise over Valentine's Day, the captain casually announced he'd conduct vow renewals for anyone who wanted them, and about a half-dozen couples showed up.”

#30. Illegal Dumping & Emissions

In 2014, Princess Cruise Lines  plead guilty  to seven felonies and was fined $40 million, the largest-ever penalty for the deliberate dump of toxic waste at sea. Royal Caribbean pleaded guilty in 1999 to the tune of $18 million for a similar crime. While the cruise industry has taken efforts to reduce emissions, a 200,000-ton vessel leaves a massive carbon footprint. In 2016, Disney was the only cruise company to receive an A grade on the  environmental report card  put out by Friends of the Earth. This summer, for the first time, the Tasmanian EPA will monitor air quality surrounding its cruise port.

#29. Crime & Punishment

Contrary to what many might think, American passengers are not afforded the same rights they enjoy on land during an international cruise. Passengers must adhere to the laws of the respective port cities or maritime law if crimes are committed at sea. There’s little information circulated in regard to criminal justice aboard cruise ships, and most companies employ their own security and pseudo justice systems. Coined “the brig” there are small cells onboard ships for passengers who are too dangerous to be confined to their rooms; until they can be handed over to port authorities.

#28. Celebrity Godmothers

A longstanding tradition, cruise ships have Godmothers handpicked by each line, and many are well known celebrities. According to Cruise Critic, P&O chose actress, Helen Mirren for the Ventura, Reba McEntire was chosen for Norwegian's Epic, and Sophia Loren has her hands full as she’s been elected Godmother for eight MSC ships.

#27. Women At The Bow

In 2007, Royal Caribbean named swedish navigator, Karin Stahre-Jason the captain of Monarch of the Seas. Long overdue, she is the first female captain employed by a major cruise line in the history of cruising. In 2015, Kate McCue took another first after she was named the first American female captain in the industry. Throughout history, women have had a tumultuous relationship with ships. For a time, many superstitious sailors banned women because they believed they were a bad omen that would enrage the sea. Adversely, many seafarers put naked women at the bow of ships to calm the sea and still refer to the vessels as “she” for added protection and luck.  

#26. Crazy Gripes

What’s the famous saying? Wherever you go, there you are. While cruise vacations are known for relaxation and exploration, things are bound to go wrong. Acceptable gripes over port cancellations, bad buffet food and overcrowding are to be expected. According to Cruise.co.uk, some passengers have taken high maintenance to the next level. The cruise site released a roundup of the most outrageous complaints they’ve received: A woman once complained that the topless sunbathing at a port beach ruined her stay because her husband spent all day staring at other women. Another passenger asked the captain to turn off the engine because it was too loud, and one woman believed that the ship’s photographer intentionally took bad photos of her to make her look ugly.

#25. Different Strokes For Different Folks

As the cruise industry amps up amenities there are also a number of niche options that offer specialized experiences for very specific audiences. For cat lovers who want to travel among fellow felo-philes cue the  Meow Meow Cruise.  Love haunted history?  Norwegian  offers a seven day ghost hunter’s cruise. In 2018, diehard fans of The Walking Dead can set sail alongside the cast of the popular television show.  The Walker Stalker  cruise even employs professional makeup artists to transform passengers into the undead.

#24. River Cruises

In 2016, according to the CLIA’s yearly outlook, river cruising was up by 7%. A growing industry, river riding caters to travelers looking for an intimate, port-intensive experience without all the extravagances offered by large ocean liners. In 2017, Condé Nast Traveler asked its readers which river cruise line they enjoyed most, and respondents chose Viking River Cruises as the king of narrow waterways. Another report released by The Travel Leaders Group in 2014, revealed that France and Germany are the most desired locations for river travel among U.S. respondents.

#23. Customer Satisfaction

An industry won’t survive without repeat guests or customer satisfaction. In 2017, Statista asked travelers to rate their overall cruise experience. It’s no surprise that the cruise industry has seen such growth, as 59% of respondents said their experiences have been “quite positive,” 2% rated “quite negative,” and not one cruiser chose the poorest rating, “very negative.” Who has kept passengers so satisfied? In October of 2016, Condé Nast Traveler asked 300,000 of its readers to rate major cruise lines. Disney took first place, while the award for the best mid-size cruise line went to Crystal Cruises and the best small-ship cruise went to Seabourn.

#22. Bananas Are Bad Luck

Dating back to the 1700s, many superstitious mariners believe that bananas bring bad luck. Although there is no concrete origin, some believe that the omen started when sailors noticed ships transporting bananas often wrecked or were lost at sea. Some sources trace the myth to poisonous spiders that hid in banana crates that would poison the crew, and other sources claim the haunting buoyancy of bananas; floating at the top of the water among pieces of wrecked ships.

#21. Norovirus

According to the CDC, “You can get norovirus from an infected person, from contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces. The virus causes your stomach or intestines or both to get inflamed (acute gastroenteritis).” It’s believed that the Norovirus breeds in nursing homes, daycares, restaurants and cruise ships. Cruise ships are often cited as major hubs for the virus because health officials are required to track onboard illnesses so more cases are accurately reported. The CDC states that in reality, the virus is relatively infrequent onboard ships despite its notoriety. According to Cruiseable, many ships have recently adopted a “code orange,” and “code red” system to alert passengers of the illness. “Code Orange refers to early stages of a reported infection, where the buffet is no longer self-service but pools and public rooms remain open. Code Red refers to a wider outbreak of norovirus, which results in the closure of pools, whirlpools and self-service dining and requires the crew to scrub down all public areas each day.”

#20. Talk Like a Cruiser

Many cruisers have adopted sailing lingo in addition to slang that’s evolved onboard cruise ships over time. Cruise Critic created a glossary of terms to help new cruisers talk like sea vets. Some popular terms include, OBC: onboard credit added to your account, Tender: a small boat that ferries passengers from the ship to the shore and back, Open-Jaw sailing: a one way route that begins and ends in different ports, MDR: main dining room, and The Lido deck: the main pool deck.

#19. Intellectuals Invited

While many people have adopted the idea that cruising is for the lethargic and uninspired, Seabourn’s luxury line looks to contradict that belief. The company invites seasoned scholars and luminaries versed in a wide range of topics to facilitate meaningful dialogue during each voyage. The cruise line coined it, “ Seabourn Conversations ,” with the tagline, “On some ships, they lecture. On Seabourn, they join the conversation.” Upcoming conversationalists include fashion icon - Brad Goreski, Everest mountaineer - Paul Deegan, Apple co-founder - Steve Wozniak, and notable author - Sir Tim Rice.

#18. Concert Cruises

Sonic treats galore, the matrimony of music and the sea is commonplace among most leisure-focused vacations. Today, most cruises hire entire casts, performers, and engineers to entertain guests onboard ships. Hop on the Celebrity Summit for “ Blue Note at Sea ” to hear renowned jazz dreamed up by the genre’s forerunning label, Blue Note records. This year, diehard fans of Kiss can sail with the band and partake in all things related to the famous rockers onboard the Norwegian Pearl for the “ Kiss Kruise VII .” Do you really miss the 2000s, and wish you made it to one more Warped Tour? Have no fear, the Norwegian Pearl also hosts, “Warped Rewind at Sea,"  a flashback concert cruise to pop-punk’s heyday. 

#17. Nationality of Captains

Repeat passengers of Carnival cruises might notice that their captain is often Italian. According to Medium , certain cruise lines tend to hire captains of a specific nationality. It is believed that Carnival and Silversea commonly employ Italians, Celebrity’s captain’s are primarily Greek, and Royal Caribbean often opts for Scandinavians. While these hirings are historically commonplace, many companies have begun to widen their net in regard to nationality.

#16. Furry Friends

According to Cruise Critic, there is only one ship that currently accepts your four legged friends, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2. Expect to pay a hefty sum to bring your favorite pet, as “prices range from $500 to $1,000 per dog and from $1,000 to $1,600 per cat.”

#15. Most Popular Ports and Destinations

According to BREA, the US Maritime Administration, and the US Department of Transportation, Miami was the leading U.S. cruise port among U.S. travelers in 2015, with 2.35 million embarkations. Which comes as no surprise since a recent Statista study revealed that 85% of American travelers chose the Caribbean as their most desired cruise destination.

#14. Pirate Attacks

While pirates might seem like fictional characters, they still pose a very real threat to mariners. According to a Statista analysis, in 2016 there were 191 pirate attacks worldwide, 46 of which took place in Panama. The good news? The number of hostages taken by pirates has dropped from 802 crew members in 2011 to 151 in 2016. While most of these attacks exclude luxury cruise lines, they are not completely unheard of. According to Cruise Critic, “In more than a decade, there have been only six reported incidents of pirates attempting to attack cruise ships.”

#13. The Price of Being Single

According to cruise critic, until 2010 solo travelers were almost always charged the, “single supplement” fee; Forced to pay the price for double occupancy. While discounted options are still limited for solo cruisers, a few companies now offer cabins for one. The most popular among them, Norwegian offers “studios” that cater to the single mariner.

#12. Cruising With Kids

Every year Cruise Critic posts the results of its Cruisers’ Choice Awards, and this year Disney Cruises took first, second and third among parents traveling with children. The Disney Magic took first place with the option to see Tangled the musical, meet and greet with Marvel heroes, and superhero stunt shows.

#11. Milestones

In January of 2016, Windstar Cruises not only named its first female captain, but named the world’s first African American commercial cruise captain, Belinda Bennett of the MSY Wind Star.

#10. Seasickness

 A hand me down throughout history, cruisers and divers have long recommended green apples to avoid the dreaded “dock rock.” Cruise Critic also suggests booking a cabin in the middle of the ship in its natural balance point, in addition to a pinch of ginger extract to avoid sea sickness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fixing your gaze on one point may also help passengers regain a sense of balance.

#9. Missing Persons

While crime remains relatively low aboard cruise ships, according to Cruise Junkie, since 2000 nearly 300 people have gone missing at sea. Under Obama, new legislation was introduced to implement precautions and procedures to avoid such instances, but laws have yet to be enforced.

#8. People Are Willing to Spend

As the cruise industry continues to command leisure travel, potential wayfarers plan to spend. This year, Statista surveyed 316 travelers interested in booking a cruise in the next two years: 29% of respondents said they were willing to spend over $2,000 on a seven day cruise and 25% said they’d fork out a grand.

#7. The World’s Longest Cruise

In 2016, Mundy Cruises offered the “ World of Travel”  cruise that reached all seven continents, aboard seven different cruise ships in 357 days.

#6. The Love Boat

On air from from 1977 to 1986, The Love Boat ranked as one of the most popular sitcoms in the country. The television series was set on a cruise ship, and detailed the daily happenings of the captain and crew onboard. Previously reserved for affluent travelers, the show is often credited for introducing commercial cruising to a middle class audience.

Predicted to be one of this years premier cruising destinations among travelers surveyed in a recent Statista study, Alaska is expected to receive 1.06 million visits via cruise in 2017. According to the The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the Alaskan tourism industry accounts for one in eight jobs within the state. In 2016, the cruise industry generated 19,842 jobs and $991 million in wages.

#4. Scuba at Sea

According to a Statista study, over three million Americans participated in some form of scuba diving in 2016, and the hobby has remained constant among adventurers since 2006. While many places offer Discover Scuba, a one day tutorial and quick dive experience for curious mariners, dive certification can be a lengthy and expensive process. This year, Royal Caribbean partnered with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors® (PADI) to offer the first dive certification course offered by a cruise line at sea.

#3. Don’t Forget to Tip

Tipping remains a controversial topic for cruisers. Many cruise employees rely on tips the same way hospitality workers do at home. Leaving out cruise lines that exclude tipping altogether, and assuming you’ve already opted in to the offered auto-gratuity offered by your selected ship, Cruise Critic suggests these additional tipping measures (that amount to around $84 a week): You should tip in-port baggage handlers $1-2 depending on the amount of luggage you have, tip stewards and butlers $15-20 at the beginning and end of your stay dependent on service, tip room service $23 a visit, tip your bartenders, sommeliers and waiters the same way you would at home - 15-20%. The site also warns against tipping cabin or ship officers as it may be translated offensively and they are appropriately compensated.

#2. Cruisers are Getting Younger

In recent years the cruise industry has looked to capture a younger audience, and according to the CLIA it’s worked. The current age of a cruise ship passenger is around 50-years-old, down from 56 in 2011. This year Statista captured cruiser demographics: while the majority (over 50%) of passengers were between the ages of 40 and 75, an encouraging 20% were between the ages of a 30 and 39, a number expected to go down in the coming years.

#1. Flags of Convenience

The cruise industry is known for registering ships outside of the United States, giving them the benefits of the reputation and port access of their registered country while also allowing circumvention of certain U.S. labor and safety laws. This positioning has long been a point of controversy for the cruise industry deemed “flags of convenience.”

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109 Incredible Cruise Ship Facts and Statistics 2023

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Accounting for over 30 million passengers every year, the cruise industry is one of the largest and fastest-growing sectors of global tourism. Every single cruise voyage is the result of incredible feats of engineering, a hardworking crew, and a long history of sea travel.

We’ve put together a list of shocking cruise ship facts and statistics. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a first-time cruiser, you are bound to learn something new and fall in love with the incredible cruise ships on our list.

Table of Contents

Cruise Industry Statistics

• At its peak in 2019, the cruise industry catered to over 30 million passengers
• The total guest capacity of the cruise ship industry is almost 500,000 guests
• The cruise industry is the fastest-growing sector of the leisure travel market, with 7.4% year-over-year growth since 1980
• A quarter of US citizens have taken a cruise vacation.
• Cruisers average about 3.5 years between cruise vacations.
• Carnival Corporation & plc is the largest cruise operator in the world with an estimated 45% of passenger volume. The cruise operator owns Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, Holland Americal Line, Seabourn Cruises, Cunard Line, AIDA Cruises, Costa Cruises, P&O Cruises, and P&O Cruises Australia. ( Statista )
• Carnival Cruises, the largest cruise line by passenger volume, accounts for 21.3% of all cruise passengers.
• The second-largest cruise line, Royal Caribbean International, accounts for 16.67% of cruise passengers.
• MSC Cruises is the world’s largest privately-owned cruise operator .
• Many cruise ships undertake world cruises which can take in more than 100 days at sea.
• Many cruise ships undertake “repositioning cruises,” where they travel to a new homeport and even a different continent. Passengers can typically book a cabin on these cruises at a reduced rate.
• One study found that in 2014, cruise ships dumped more than one billion gallons of sewage into the ocean.
• Your average cruise ship produces between 140,000 and 210,000 gallons of sewage per week. Eww!
• Around 300 ocean sailing cruise ships are currently in operation, and the number grows yearly.

Cruise Ship Facts and Figures

• The world’s largest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas , measures 236,857 gross tonnes
• The longest cruise ship in the world is twice the length of the Washington Monument
• The largest cruise ships in the world are as tall as a 16-story building
• More than 25 commercial cruise ships are currently being built worldwide.
• Most cruise ships skip deck 13 – due to superstitions
• Similarly, the Italian cruise line MSC cruises tends to omit deck 17 – due to Italian superstitions surrounding the number.
• A cruise ship can sail more than 73,000 nautical miles every year.
• Cruise ships sail an equivalent distance of three times around the world each year
• Cruise ships travel at an average speed of 18 to 20knots . That’s equivalent to 23mph or 37kph on land.
• The original Titanic would be barely half the size of most modern cruise ships .
• And the Oasis of the Seas is five times bigger than the Titanic in gross tons.
• Cruise ship godmothers include the Duchess of Cambridge, Julie Andrews, and the Queen.
• Cruise ships are roughly the same size under the surface of the sea as they are above.
• Many kitchens are located below sea level
• The Queen Mary 2 operates a kennel club so cruise ship passengers can travel with their pets .
• Cruise ships have onboard morgues .
• And almost all cruise ships have onboard jails .
• Any ship with more than 50 passengers must have a hospital.
• The Norwegian Epic has an onboard ice bar where guests can enjoy cocktails in sub-zero conditions – even when sailing through the Caribbean.
• A number of cruise ships offer AA meetings to ensure cruise ship passengers enrolled in the program don’t give in to temptation on the high seas.

Cruise Ship Building Facts

• A cruise ship can take anywhere from two to four years to build .
• Cruise ships are built-in blocks, or sections, that are assembled like legos into the finished ship.
• The average cruise cabin block manufacturer can produce 12,000 cabins per year.
• It costs over $1 billion to build a mega-cruise ship.
• Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas is the most expensive cruise ship ever built at $1.6 billion.
• The Royal Princess took 3 million man-hours to build.
• Cruise ship anchors can weigh more than 17 tons or the weight of four elephants.
• The average cruise ship has more than 16 miles of sprinkler piping, six miles of fire hose, 5,000 sprinkler heads, 4,000 smoke detectors, five firefighting teams, and 500 fire extinguishers.
• The average cruise ship uses around 18.3 gallons of fuel per minute or 1100 gallons per hour.
• The cruise ship’s fuel efficiency is roughly 0.004 miles per gallon
• A large cruise ship can hold between 1-2 million gallons of fuel .
• Modern diesel-powered cruise ships have between four to six medium-speed (500 revolutions per minute) engines ( Source )
• Each engine has around 25,000 horsepower.
• The world’s largest cruise ship has enough electrical wiring to stretch from coast to coast in the US. Over 3,000 miles of electrical wiring.

Destinations

• The Caribbean/Bahamas is the world’s most popular cruise destination, accounting for over one-third of cruise itineraries
• The Mediterranean is the second most popular cruise destination
• Mainland Europe, Australasia, and Alaska make up the rest of the top five destinations.
• More than 2,000 ports worldwide can be visited by cruise ships.
• Almost half of all cruise ship itineraries depart from Florida
• It’s no surprise that the port of Miami is the world’s busiest cruise homeport.
• However, Nassau in the Bahamas is the busiest overall port.
• The average cruise itinerary is seven days.

Cruise Passenger Statistics

• The average age of cruise passengers is 50.
• 86% of cruise passengers are college/university graduates .
• 62% of cruise passengers are married and work full-time.
• 40% of passengers report returning to a destination more than once
• Famous cruise fans include David Bowie, Mick Jagger, Sharon Stone, and Meryl Streep.
• Most cruise ships have fake funnels for aesthetic purposes
• The average passenger gains a pound per day on a cruise
• Half of all cruise passengers reside in North America
• Three-quarters of people use a travel agent when booking a cruise
• There are many retirees living permanently on cruise ships

Jobs in the Cruise Industry

• The industry generates around 400,000 jobs throughout the country, paying $17.4 billion in wages.
• The cruise industry creates approximately 4,000 new jobs every year.
• Some ships have over 2000 crew members.
• Many crew members sleep in cabins below sea level
• A cruise ship captain’s salary is, on average, $96,000 per year, in a salary range that varies from $48,485 to $180,308
• The Monarch of the Seas was the first ship to have a female captain, Captain Karin Stahre Janson.
• Cruise ship crew members have secret code words to communicate.
• The average salary for a cruise ship worker is $16,000 to $20,000.
• The crew has their own bars and dining rooms on the crew decks.

Food & Alcohol

• Passengers aboard a single cruise ship can consume more than 5,000 eggs daily.
• Of the 5,000 eggs used daily, 1,956 are scrambled, 984 are used in omelets, 480 are eaten soft-boiled, 552 are served sunny side up, and 976 are made into other dishes.
• As well as 2,000 steaks and 1,000 baked potatoes every day.
• For any average 7-day cruise, approximately 5,040 pounds of lamb, 1,680 pounds of sausage, 24,236 pounds of beef, 7,216 pounds of pork, 10,211 pounds of chicken, 4,500 pounds of veal, and 3,156 pounds of turkey are consumed by passengers.
• And 400 bottles of champagne are drunk every week aboard a cruise ship.
• During a world cruise, more than 312 bottles of gin, 840 bottles of vodka, and 285 bottles of scotch will be drunk.
• Several celebrity chefs have restaurants aboard cruise ships, including Jamie Oliver, Atul Kochhar, and James Martin.
• A large cruise ship can go through 20,000 ice cream cones each week!
• And 600 gallons of ice cream.
• Approximately 17 tonnes of fruit will be consumed on an average week-long cruise.
• All this food consumption means that approximately 10,000 glasses, 12,500 plates, and 15,000 items of cutlery need to be washed up every day.
• The food is eaten off of 8,000 tablecloths, with 16,000 napkins.
• An average of 4,000 cups of coffee is served on a cruise ship daily.
• Carnival Cruise Line used to place over 10 million chocolates on passenger pillows annually before eliminating pillow chocolates.
• This is in addition to the 500 kilos of chocolates consumed on a 7-day cruise.
• Cunard Cruise Line purchases $500,000 worth of caviar in a single year.

• Passengers spend an average of $220 per day onboard a cruise.
• The most expensive cruise holiday could cost you millions. The Silver Whisper from Silversea Cruises offers packages costing a cool £1m.
• The most expensive cruise, The Silver Whisper from Silversea Cruises, offers packages costing over $1 million dollars.
• The P&O Britannia’s $1 million art collection includes more than 8,000 individual pieces.
• The most expensive cruise ships are Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas at $1.4 billion each.
• The average cruise passenger spends $385 in port before boarding a cruise.
• It costs around $500,000 to prepare a cruise ship before passengers can board.

Historical Cruise Industry Facts

• An Australian billionaire plans to build a replica of the Titanic, appropriately named Titanic II.
• Docked Cruise ships have served as hotels for major sporting events, including the FIFA World Cup and The Olympics.
• They even served as makeshift shelters in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
• Futuristic cruise ship amenities include robot bartenders and skydiving simulators.
• Several cruise ships were used during World War One, World War Two, and other major wars.
• It used to be common for ships to have topless sunbathing decks .
• P&O Cruises is the world’s oldest cruise operator – tracing its history back to 1837.
• In its history, more than 100 ships have sailed for Cunard Cruise Line.
• The first cruise ship to set sail was the Prinzessin Victoria Luise in 1900.
• The first swimming pool on board a cruise ship didn’t appear until 10 years later, in 1910.
• The first cruise ships had cows onboard to produce fresh milk for passengers

Marcello De Lio

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Some interesting facts. FYI # 88 is incorrect. Carnival stopped putting chocolates on pillow around 2018. There were low quality and usually got thrown away anyway, I don’t miss them 😉

Thank you for pointing that out!

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11 Wild Cruise Ship Facts Most People Don’t Know

There’s no arguing, cruising is pretty crazy when you think about it.

Where else do you take five thousand people, take them hundreds of miles around in the water on a ship with go-karts, waterslides, and fine dining? And then at the end of the week, pick up a new five thousand people to do it all over again?

The logistics and dynamics of all of that are mind-boggling, and it leads to some very interesting things that you may not realize about cruising, even if you’ve sailed plenty of times before.

That’s not to mention some other interesting things about cruise ships and the industry that most people don’t know. With that in mind, here are nearly a dozen insane facts about sailing on a modern ship…

Most Cruise Ships Sail Above 100% Occupancy

Let’s begin with something most people don’t realize about the occupancy of cruise ships. You likely have seen Internet ads touting unsold last-minute cruise cabins selling for pennies on the dollar. In reality, during normal times (before the health crisis) cruise ships sail full. In fact, they sail above 100% occupancy.

For a ship’s occupancy, it’s calculated as each cabin times two people. So if there are 2,000 cabins and 4,000 passengers, that’s 100% occupancy. But before the pandemic at least, ships sailed well above that level. For instance, Royal Caribbean Group saw a yearly occupancy of 108.1% in 2019. And that’s not uncommon. All the major cruise companies have similar figures.

That means at least some cabins had more than two people in them, such as families sailing with kids. In other words, those ships can sail with even more people than you realized.

A New Ship Can Cost More Than $1 Billion

When you get on a new ship, it’s no exaggeration that it can feel like a five-star resort that just happens to float. That’s because it is. Everything from high-end dining to massive suites are included on a modern ship, not to mention the activities and entertainment on board.

All of that comes with a hefty price tag. Essentially the floor for a new modern cruise ship is $1 billion. Price tags for some of the largest ships are said to be closer to $1.5 billion.

In fact, the cost to even refurbish an older ship to where it’s updated and more in line with the newer-built ships can easily run $100-$150 million for a large ship.

The good news is that the lifetime of a ship is measured in decades, meaning that with constant sailing there is plenty of time to recoup that cost, so passengers don’t have to pay a fortune to sail.

The Biggest Ships Can Go Through 5,300 Pounds of Bacon in a Single Cruise

The logistics and scale of operating a cruise ship can be mind-boggling. For instance, feeding more than 6,000 passengers for a week on the biggest ships is no small task. It’s not just how many meals have to be made, but how much food is consumed.

Royal Caribbean released some statistics about dining for one of its largest ships , Symphony of the Seas. Over the course of a 7-day cruise, passengers on the ship eat 5,300 pounds of bacon . That’s more than 750 pounds per day.

It’s also in addition to 2,300 pounds of lobster tails, 5,000 dozen eggs, and 20,000 pounds of baked potatoes. The amounts are almost too large to comprehend.

Maybe that’s why Symphony of the Seas also has nearly 1,100 members on its culinary staff? That is a small army, all there to feed a small city.

Cruise Ships Continue to Get Larger

Gone are the days where a cruise ship was designed simply to be the vessel to get you from port to port. Today, the cruise ship is the destination.

For years there has been an arms race when it comes to ships. The major cruise lines — including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian — have competed to create ships that not only push their own fleets bigger, but also put them on par with their rivals.

That’s led to the largest cruise ships the world has ever seen… and a steady increase in average size over time.

Consider that from 1990 until 2000, most cruise new ships built were in the 70,000-80,000 gross ton range. But since then the size of ships has soared.

From 2015 until 2021, the average gross tonnage of a new cruise ship from the major cruise lines is 164,000 gross tons — more than twice the size of a ship built during the 1990s.

The Size of the Biggest Ships Peaked in 2009

Given the current trend, you might think that the biggest cruise ships will continue to increase in size in the future. That’s likely not the case. There does come a point where size becomes a negative instead of a benefit.

Consider that the Oasis of the Seas — the first of the largest Oasis-class vessels built by Royal Caribbean — was built in 2009, more than a decade ago. Since then, it’s had several sister ships built that have been marginally larger at most. However, there hasn’t been a significantly larger cruise ship built.

Instead, at least for now, this seems to be the upper limit for how large cruise ships will become. As ships get larger, so too do the logistical issues that come with them. Namely, not every port of call can handle the size and scale of the largest vessels.

In fact, Norwegian’s new Prima class ships are actually smaller than its last Breakaway-Plus class.

Most Cruise Lines Are Actually Owned by One of Three Companies

There are tons of cruise lines out there — Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Disney, Norwegian, Princess, and more.

But what most people don’t realize is that three large companies dominate the space .

Carnival Corporation is the parent of Carnival Cruise Line, Princess, Holland America Line, AIDA, Costa, Cunard, and more.

Royal Caribbean Group is parent of Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity, and Silversea Cruises.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is owner of Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas, and Oceania.

Just like how many car brands are actually owned by larger companies, it’s the same for cruise lines. There are some independent lines out there, but if you are sailing a major line, chances are it’s owned by one of these few companies.

Despite Sailing From the U.S., Almost All Cruise Ships Are Foreign-Flagged

It’s easy to think of cruise lines as being American. For many, they are led by American executives, they have large shoreside operations in the United States, sail from U.S. ports, and their shares trade on American stock exchanges.

In fact, nearly every major cruise ship is “flagged” in a foreign country . Since ships are international in nature, it makes sense to register them in areas that are most friendly to their needs. This practice is what’s known as using a “flag of convenience.” It’s similar to the way that many corporations in the United States are located in Delaware, despite possibly having limited operations there.

Foreign-flagged vessels from certain countries can hire from less expensive foreign labor pools. According to a report from the U.S. Department of Transportation that explored the costs of operating a foreign-flagged merchant ship versus U.S. merchant ships, the average daily crew cost for U.S.-flagged ships was approximately 5.3 times that of foreign-flagged vessels.

One ship that is U.S. flagged? Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America. It sails the Hawaiian islands.

Cruise Ships Can Actually Move Pretty Fast (For Their Size)

Ok, no one would confuse travel by cruise ship with the speed of traveling by plane or jet. But considering that a ship is roughly as long as the Empire State Building is tall and has about as many rooms as The Mirage in Las Vegas, the fact they can move at all is impressive.

But when you add in the top speed, it’s mind-blowing. While speeds will vary from ship to ship, the top cruising speed of many ships is around 25 miles per hour . That may not seem like much, but many neighborhoods have speed limits of 25 mph. Next time you see a car drive by, imagine that a cruise ship was gliding by your house instead. Usain Bolt — the fastest man on the planet — reaches a top speed around 27 mph.

And at 25 miles per hour, if a ship were able to sail directly around the equator, it would take just about 40 days to go around the entire planet. That’s not bad for being able to carry an entire resort with guests and crew.

There’s an Entire World on the Ship You Don’t See

On the biggest ships it can take you a couple of days just to explore the areas that are for passengers. But beyond the places that passengers see is an entire other part of the ship that most people will never visit.

While passengers do get to enjoy the biggest and most luxurious spaces, facilities for the crew and ship operations are off-limits. Places like the engine room, navigation bridge, and crew quarters are closed off to guests.

Remember, there are “back of house” operations like the kitchens and laundry rooms, but also cabins, lounges, cafeterias for the thousands of crew members on board, medical facilities, and more. It’s an entire world that you just won’t get to see, unless you go on one of the behind-the-scenes tours offered on some ships.

Smile! You’re Likely on Camera

While they aren’t always easy to notice, if you are in any sort of public area, then you can expect that you are on camera.

Cameras are located all around the ship, from hallways to pools decks and more. You don’t have to worry about them being in private spots like your balcony, but if you are out and about on the ship, then it’s likely you’re being recorded.

This isn’t just for safety purposes, but it also helps in the health crisis. With the video surveillance, it’s much easier to do contact tracing should there be virus cases on the ship. The cruise line can see who someone was around and where they went to be able to test potential close contacts.

There Are Often Hidden Hints That Point Forward

Our last thing that many people don’t know isn’t a crazy fact about cruise ships, but something that could help you tremendously the next time you sail.

Cruise cabins are situated in long hallways that make it easy to forget which direction you are walking. There are no windows, and it is door after door that all look the same. It is not unusual to walk one way and then realize it is the opposite direction of where you wanted to head.

But many ships put in hidden clues to help you, if you know what to look for.

Norwegian Cruise Line has carpet with little fish in its cabin hallways. The fish are always swimming forward. And on Royal Caribbean, there are door signs with the ship that face forward, or a small arrow pointing forward. And if there is a “wave” sign on the cabin door, like with some older ships, then the peak of the wave is on the forward side.

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21 Fascinating Cruise Facts that Will Surprise You

A re you a fan of cruising? Cruising is a popular vacation choice for many Americans. Below are some interesting cruise facts about cruising that every cruiser should know. 

Interesting Cruise Facts

1. the caribbean is the top destination for cruise travelers.

Caribbean, Bahamas and Bermuda cruises are by far the most popular cruises. This is followed by Mediterranean cruises. 

2. Transatlantic Cruises are the Least Popular

Transatlantic cruises are the least popular type of cruise. This is probably due to their length, with most people not having enough time for them. Plus transatlantic cruises have a lot of sea days which may not be attractive for many cruisers. They also tend to experience choppy waters, which isn’t ideal for people prone to seasickness.

Check out: Cruise without Seasickness: Genius Tricks You Need to Know

3. Busiest Port in the World

Miami is the busiest port in the world and the US with the most total passengers who are disembarking, embarking and transiting. 

4. Barcelona is the Busiest Port in Europe

Barcelona is the busiest port in Europe with the most total passengers who are disembarking, embarking and transiting. 

Check out: 10 Ridiculous Time Wasters to Avoid on a Cruise

5. Average Age of Cruisers: 46.5 Years Old

The average age of cruise tourists is 46.5 years old, with 32% of cruisers in the 40-59 age range and 33% of cruisers in the over 60+ age range.

6. High Percentage of Repeat Cruisers

85% of travelers who have cruised will cruise again, which is 6% higher than pre-pandemic. 

Check out: I’ve Been on over 25 Cruises, Here are 17 Things I’ll Never Do on a Cruise

7. Millennials are the most Enthusiastic Cruisers

Compared to other age groups, millennials are most likely to plan to cruise again, with 88% planning to do so, followed by 85% of Gen-X cruisers and 82% of Baby boomers.

8. Most People Book their Cruises between 1 to 6 months in advance

54.7% of cruisers book their cruises 1 to 6 months in advance, while 28.1% book 6-12 months in advance. 10.9% of cruisers are last-minute cruisers booking less than 1 month in advance, and 6.3% of cruisers book over a year in advance.

9. Lots of Limited Mobility Cruisers

16% of all cruisers have Limited Mobility. 

10. Most People Use Travel Agents

65% of cruise travelers use a travel agent to book their cruise. 

Check out: 10 Food I’ll Never Eat at a Cruise Buffet

11. Cruisers Spend around $100 a day at Port

Cruisers spend an average of $750 per passenger in port cities for a typical 7-day cruise, which is around $100 a day.

12. A Dozen New Ships Will Be Introduced in 2024

12 new ships will be introduced in 2024, offering new itineraries and experiences. The latest new ship is Icon of the Seas, which launched in January 2024.

Check out: 12 Things You Should Never Do at a Cruise Buffet

13. Over a Million Jobs

The cruise industry provides for 1.2 million jobs and $50 billion in salaries. Adding $155 billion to the global economy.

Check Out: How to Sleep Like a Baby on a Cruise (10 Tips from an Ex-Insomniac)

14. Largest Ship in the World

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is the largest ship in the world with a capacity of 5,610 guests, 2,805 staterooms, 2,350 crew, 7 pools, 9 whirlpools and 6 waterslides.

Check out: 11 Anti-Theft Cruise Tips that Every Cruiser Needs to Know

15. Returned to Destination

63% of people who have taken a cruise return to a destination they first visited via cruise ship. It just goes to show that cruises are great for giving cruisers an overview of a region and then they end up going back for a more immersive experience. 

Check out: 9 Reasons Why I’m Skipping Port Days on My Next Cruise

16. Expedition Cruises are Becoming Popular

Expedition cruises are becoming more popular. These are immersive and bucket-list type cruises such as Antarctica cruises. 

17. Family Cruises

Most people going on cruises travel with family, with 73% of cruise travelers sailing with family members that represent at least 2 generations.

Check out: 9 Things I Wished I Knew When Planning a Large Family Cruise

18. Cruising is Their Only Travel Option

Many cruisers feel that cruising is the only viable travel option for them because of limited mobility issues. 82% of cruise travelers or those traveling with limited mobility are saying that a cruise is the only Holiday travel option for them.

19. Social Media Influence

Some cruise travelers say that social media influences their decision on whether or not to book a cruise or not, with 18% stating that social media has a significant influence over their decision to book a cruise.

Check out: 16 Cruise Ship Embarkation Hack (How to Board the Ship Faster)

20. Most Cruisers are From North America

Most cruisers in the world come from North America, with Western European cruisers being the second source market.

Check out: 11 Most Annoying People to Avoid on a Cruise

21. Solo Cruisers are on the Rise

More and more cruisers are solo cruisers and cruise lines are responding by building more single cabins in new ships and retrofitting older ships to accommodate solo cruisers.

Check out: 14 Simple Ways to Escape the Crowd on a Cruise Ship 

Check out these cruise packing lists with free printables

Alaska cruise packing list

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Bermuda Cruise Packing List

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25 Things People Forget to Pack on their Cruise

Check out: 30 Unusual Things to Pack for a Cruise: Things You Didn’t Know You Need

Looking to save money on your cruise? 21 Smart and Easy Ways to Save Money on a Cruise

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12 Captivating Facts about Cruise Ships

Cruise ships have become a popular way to travel and explore the world’s oceans and seas. With luxurious accommodations, endless entertainment, and exotic destinations, cruise holidays offer a unique and exciting experience for travelers of all ages.

Let’s get you in the mood to cruise with these 12 fun facts about cruise ships and cruise vacations:

1. The World’s Largest Cruise Ship

As of January 2022, the world’s largest cruise ship is Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, which weighs over 236,850 tons and can accommodate up to 6,988 passengers and 2,300 crew members. It is 362m long and 64m wide. That makes the ship longer than the Eiffel Tower is tall!

2. Postage from the Middle of the Ocean

Did you know, cruise ships have their own post offices, so passengers can send mail from the middle of the ocean?!

3. The First Floating Swimming Pool

Of course, most cruise liners have swimming pools these days, but the first to feature a swimming pool was the Titanic.  It measured 30ft long, 14ft wide, and had a maximum depth of 6ft which by modern standards, is a bit small.

4. Flushed Away…

The average cruise ship produces around 140,000 gallons of sewage per day, which is treated and discharged into the ocean.

5. Where’s Wilson?!

Disney Cruise Line has its own private island in the Bahamas called Castaway Cay, which is exclusively available to its passengers.

6. A Power Trip

The power produced by a cruise ship engine can vary greatly depending on the size and type of the ship. However, it is not uncommon for a single cruise ship engine to produce anywhere from 25,000 to 100,000 horsepower!

7. Energy Hungry

Lots of power means lots of energy! Cruise ships consume around 3,000 to 7,000 gallons of fuel per hour, depending on their size and speed.

8. The First Ever

The first-ever purpose-built cruise ship was a German steamship, the Prinzessin Victoria Luise, which set sail in 1900. She ran aground in unchartered waters in Jamaica in December 1906 and sank in 1907.

9. Let’s-a-go!

Norwegian Cruise Line has a go-kart track on its ship, the Norwegian Joy.

10. Ultimate Luxury

The Allure of the Seas is the world’s most expensive cruise ship.  It is reported to have cost around $1.4 Billion to build and features luxurious suites costing $20,000 a week!

11. Another First Ever

The first-ever water slide at sea was introduced by Royal Caribbean in 2006.

12. Another Largest Ever

The world’s largest cruise company is Carnival Corporation, which owns several popular cruise lines including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line.

FAQs about Cruise Ship Vacations

What are some popular cruise destinations.

Some popular cruise destinations include the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Alaska, and the Norwegian fjords.

What is included in a typical cruise package?

A typical cruise package includes accommodations, meals, entertainment, and access to on-board facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, and spas. Some packages may also include excursions or other activities at ports of call.

How do cruise ships dispose of waste?

Cruise ships have waste management systems that treat and dispose of different types of waste, including sewage, garbage, and wastewater. These systems are subject to strict environmental regulations to ensure that waste is handled in a responsible and sustainable way.

Do you know any fun facts about cruise ships? Share them in the comments below!

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25 Interesting Facts About Cruise Ships

Here are 25 Interesting Facts About Cruise Ships.

1-5 Interesting Facts About Cruise Ships

1. In 1991, the cruise ship Oceanos sank off South Africa’s eastern coast. The crew abandoned ship, leaving the passengers behind. They were all saved by guitarist Moss Hills, who radioed for help and directed the rescue operation. – Source

2. There is a cruise ship named “The World,” where residents permanently live as it travels around the globe – Source

3. There is an abandoned Russian cruise ship roaming international waters since January 2013. – Source

4. There is a cruise ship that runs between Stockholm (Capital of Sweden) and Helsinki (Capital of Finland) with the primary purpose of purchasing and consuming cheap alcohol – Source

6-10 Interesting Facts About Cruise Ships

6. In 2011, Big Boi of Outkast was arrested leaving a cruise ship for possession of ecstasy and Viagra. After his release, he tweeted, “Shiiiiit they said it was the Love Boat.” – Source

7. After extensive analysis of charts, currents, video, photographs, interviews, and witness statements, it was shown that the Star Princess, a Princess Cruise Ship, did not leave three men adrift in the sea. – Source

8. An Australian billionaire has made the decision to fund the building of a new Titanic cruise ship, which will set out from England in 2016. Advance ticket sales soon to follow. – Source

9. After Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans’ Tulane University put students and faculty in a cruise ship for the next semester – Source

10. The Cruise Ship “Oasis of the Seas” consumes more than 2400 US gallons of fuel per hour – Source

11-15 Interesting Facts About Cruise Ships

11. There is an abandoned beached wrecked cruise ship in a remote bay of the Solomon Islands. “The world Discoverer. – Source

12. Since 2001, over 170 people have disappeared from cruise ships, and cruise lines are often self-serving and uncooperative in investigating such disappearances as they are governed by very few laws. – Source

13. It is legal for cruise ships to dump raw sewage into the ocean if they are at least 3 miles from shore – Source

14. On average 200 passengers die aboard cruise ships every year – Source

15. The largest cruise ship in the world is only 2 inches longer than the second longest ship. – Source

16-20 Interesting Facts About Cruise Ships

16. The Oasis of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world, uses enough electrical wiring to stretch across America, coast to coast – Source

17. Disney abandoned a half completed island resort near the Bahamas when they discovered that their cruise ships won’t dock close enough to the island. – Source

18. Cruise ships don’t carry blood stocks on board, but solely rely on passengers and crew members in an emergency. – Source

19. That World’s largest cruise ship ‘Oasis of the Seas’, which measures around four football fields, narrowly passed with about a 20 inch gap under the suspension bridge of Great Belt Fixed Link (a Denmark) by increasing the speed in order to lower the ship in water which is also known as ‘squat effect’. – Source

20. Many cruise ships have no deck number 13. – Source

21-25 Interesting Facts About Cruise Ships

21. On old luxury cruise liners, it wasn’t uncommon for the fourth funnel (chimney) to be non-functional and used only for storage. The fake funnel was added for aesthetics as a way to seem more prestigious and powerful. Among the ships to sport a false non-functioning funnel was the Titanic. – Source

22. The first cruise ship built in Finland is now owned by the Church of Scientology – Source

23. Disney (and other) cruise ships share a port with U.S. ballistic missile submarines in Florida. – Source

24. François Zanella (ex coal miner) constructed a 1/8th scale model of the “Majesty of the Seas” cruise ship. In addition to being a scale replica model, the mini Majesty is a fully functional canal boat – Source

25. Salvador Dali often traveled with his pet ocelot (wild cat), even bringing it aboard a luxury ocean liner. – Source

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Are Cruises Fun? Top 12 Reasons Cruising is Fun

Are cruises fun? Is it fun to be on a cruise? Is cruising fun? Those are the most popular questions we get asked when speaking to someone who has never cruised.

And as repeat cruisers, we can wholeheartedly respond with a resounding, “Absolutely, cruises are so much fun! They are a blast!” Here’s why.

The number of activities on a cruise is endless, whether you are looking for action, adventure, or relaxation and rejuvenation. How you choose to spend it is up to you.

There is always something to do on a cruise – from the minute you step onboard until the minute you disembark, there is non-stop action if you want it. Most cruise ships have around-the-clock entertainment, including live music, dance clubs, casinos, movies, stage shows, pools, water slides, and more.

Is a cruise fun?

Remember, your idea of “fun” can differ greatly from the person next to us. What we consider fun is not the same for others. But that’s okay. Cruising is fun because there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.

What makes the cruise fun for us?

We love the idea and the experience of leaving the ship to spend the day at the port on an adventure. And then returning to the ship to round out the day with a nice dinner and a show.

Perhaps some gambling at the casino or dancing before heading to bed to do it all the next day.

There are plenty of reasons to take a cruise, and we have listed 25 reasons cruises are one of the best vacations in an article and the pros and cons of cruising in another.

Some of those reasons are also listed below because it’s part of what makes cruising fun. We continue to rebook cruises, and you’ll find yourself researching your next cruise vacation.

So, are cruises fun? This article gives you 12 reasons why cruising is so much fun! From the activities on board to the destinations you’ll visit, cruising is full of enjoyable experiences.

Table of Contents

Are Cruises Fun? 12 Reasons Why

What’s so fun about a cruise.

Many reasons make a cruise fun, but just sailing on a large ship with all the amenities, from delicious food, alcohol, spas, and pools to Broadway-style shows, is ready to make your vacation fun and memorable.

Do people enjoy cruises?

Cruising has become one of the most popular vacation choices for travelers worldwide. Over 29 million people cruised in 2019 .

Is it fun to be on a cruise? Yes! Here are our top 12 reasons:

1. Destination Hopping is Fun

The itineraries are set up so you can explore multiple destinations during your cruise, making it one of our top reasons cruises are fun. You can explore different ports almost every day of your cruise – it all depends on the itinerary you choose to book.

This means that you can experience various cultures and landscapes without spending a lot of time traveling between destinations. As a result, cruises are an ideal way to see the world and have a great deal of fun simultaneously.

So if you’re looking for a vacation that is both enjoyable and educational, then a cruise should be at the top of your list.

2. Dining on a Cruise is Fun

Food is important in Tasty Itinerary and, in turn, fun. So, dining is one of the best parts of cruising – in our opinion, at least.

Whether you are looking for casual or fine dining, most cruise lines have multiple restaurants. You can have anything from Italian, BBQ, Mexican food…etc.

Nowadays, cruise ships are bringing in a variety of cuisines and fun casual dining options, like Carnival Cruise Line’s Mardis Gras and its new Street Eats , familiar when you go to a food truck scene that’s included with the cruise fare.

Dining in the main dining room is fun. You have the option to try as many menu items as you want. Want to try all the desserts? Go for it! You only live once.

*Some specialty restaurants are an extra fee.

3. Fun Drinks

While alcoholic drinks are extra, for some people, the drinks served on a cruise are part of the fun. There are plenty of choices for mixed drinks, wine, and beer. Some cruises have only popular cruise drinks on that cruise line, making it a fun part of cruising.

If you want unlimited alcohol, some cruise lines offer drink packages that can be purchased before your cruise or onboard, like Norwegian Cruise Line offers a drink package as part of their free-at-sea promotion . Check with your travel agent for more info.

You can also purchase cruise drink packages with most cruise lines. It can be expensive without a promotion, so you’ll have to calculate the costs of the cruise cocktails you think you may drink to see if it’s worth it.

Read more: Best Beach Vacation Drinks

4. Shows and Live Music

Entertainment is important on a cruise, and it comes in many forms. You probably won’t get to it all, but shows and live music are scattered throughout the cruise daily. The big shows will always take place in the big theater, and something is always playing almost every night.

On a cruise, you’ll find:

• Broadway-style shows
• live bands and pianists
• DJ Dance Parties

122 Quick & Helpful Cruise Tips

We’ve gathered 122 of our top cruise tips and cruise hacks to help make your planning process smoother and your cruising experience even more fabulous.

5. Pools, Splash Pads & Waterslides

The open pools are one of the most popular places on the cruise ship, especially when heading to hotter destinations like the Caribbean. There are always multiple pools, including an adult-only pool, and some ships have a waterpark with slides.

Depending on the cruise line, they will have pool games and activities throughout the day. As well as music and live bands.

The pools get busy on sea days, but we love grabbing a lounge chair, sitting back, and relaxing with a frozen beach drink . Sometimes they have a great live band or DJ, and it can be a fun atmosphere.

6. Getting Pampered

Not sure what your idea of fun is, but one of the fun things about a cruise is getting pampered from the moment you step on the ship. You don’t have to worry about the mundane everyday tasks you worry about back home.

Lunch is ready to be served upon boarding, and food is provided 24 hours a day – none of which you must prepare yourself. Your cabin is taken care of. There is no need to make make the bed. You can lounge all day by the pool with a drink in hand.

There are opportunities to get massages, facials, and other spa treatments. Most ships will have a spa with different treatments for an additional fee.

The staff is ready to help and make your vacation fun and carefree. You are on vacation, after all!

If you’re staying in a luxury suite, the concierge and butler can help with whatever you need and want.

7. Exploring the Ship

When we are on a cruise, one of the things we love to do is explore the ship. Ships are like a city on the sea and are full of fun things to do. Sometimes you’ll discover things on a ship you may not have read about or been told about. 

We always like to walk the ship on the first day and get our bearings. We will scout the best cozy spot to read, our favorite casino games at the casino, or find the best vantage point to watch sail away.

You’ll also want to find all the places to take beautiful pictures on the ship. So many wonderful memories are made on cruises, and we love being able to capture them in photos.

8. Cruise Activities

Are cruises fun? Besides the shows and entertainment, a cruise is filled with onboard games and activities you can participate in. Trivia games, bingo, dance classes, art auctions, and mixology lessons are some activities you may find on your cruise.

There’s always something going on, so you’ll never be bored.

You can also read: Fun Things to Do On a Cruise

9. Shore Excursions Are So Much Fun

Along with destination hopping, the shore excursions you book at these port-of-calls add to the cruising fun. You can choose from plenty of shore excursion options at each port, so you are sure to find something that interests you.

Some of the most fun we’ve had has been on shore excursions, from exploring the Rio Dulce on a boat in Guatemala to trekking Aruba’s national park in UTVs .

The shore excursions can be anything from historical visits to adrenaline-pumping adventures, beach days, and more. Our favorites are snorkeling tours and food tours.

How to Plan a Shore Excursion

Planning and booking shore excursions for your cruise vacation? How do you book a shore excursion? What helpful cruise excursion tips will help you book and plan them independently? Helpful tips for booking shore excursions so you can save money, make the most of your time in your port destination and make amazing memories.

10. Formal Nights Can Be Fun

When do you ever get to dress up in your fancy dress and suit anymore?

A formal or “chic” night on a cruise can still be fun. They are usually just 1-2 nights on a cruise when you get to dress up in your pretty dress or suit, like if you’re going to a wedding and attending dinner in the main dining room.

While some people prefer freestyle cruising, some cruisers still enjoy getting all dressed up and enjoying a more sophisticated evening. It can be fun getting all gussied up for a night out.

Read more: What NOT to Wear on a Cruise

11. Casino Nights are So Much Fun

Another one of the late-night activities we enjoy is casino nights. If you like to gamble, you’ll have a blast playing slot machines or your favorite table games.

And if you don’t gamble, watching people watch can still be fun. We’ve made great friends while enjoying a casino night on our cruises.

If you play enough, you may get future invitations from the cruise line offering free cruise cabins. We are constantly getting offers after our Celebrity Equinox cruise.

12. Your Luggage Stays on the Cruise Ship From Start to Finish

If you’re still asking yourself if cruising is fun, think about this… the ability to unpack once and have multiple destination options without repacking and checking into another hotel.

Your vacation has started once you are on the ship, and the relaxation can begin.

We just returned from Italy, where we stayed in multiple places. While we had an amazing time, we couldn’t help but discuss how much easier and fun it is to travel on a cruise because we don’t have to drag our luggage around.

– Don’t Miss: Popular Cruise Luggage Tag Holders –

How to Plan a Cruise Vacation

Planning a cruise can seem daunting, but if you take it one step at a time and follow these simple steps to plan a cruise, you’ll have a fantastic cruise booked in no time.

Cruising is the way to go if you’re looking for a vacation to relax, explore new places, and have some fun nightlife options. You may even enjoy yourself more than expected and come back with stories and pictures to share for years.

What do you think? Are cruises fun?

Need some inspiration? Check out: 55 Influential Cruise Quotes to Inspire Your Next Vacation

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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Destination hopping… the exact opposite of how I travel. I want to experience a place deeply, get a feel for what it would be like to live there. Not see it for 8 hours and say goodbye.

But I agreed to a cruise anyway. Hopefully I won’t hate the destination hopping part.

Hi Joe – I completely understand where you’re coming from. While I do love cruising, I also love land vacations where I settle in for a bit and just explore that destination for a length of time that’s more than 8 hours – many destinations deserve more time. I actually was a little upset during our first Mediterranean cruise because it was not enough time for me to enjoy some of the stops that I would rather spend time in exploring for longer. However, some cruise itineraries have lead us to discovering new destinations that weren’t even on our radar and we’ve return to them for longer stays or have future plans to do so. Hopefully, while you’re on this cruise, you visit some new destination you’ve never been or thought of visiting in hopes to return and experience it to the fullest. And if you don’t enjoy the cruise, at least you can say you tried it. It definitely has its pros and cons.

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9 Fun Facts You Didn’t Know About Carnival Cruise Line

Written by: Guest on May 02, 2016

Carnival Cruise Line has come a long way since its launch in 1972. Its first ship, the TSS Mardi Gras, ran aground on a sandbar on its inaugural voyage from Miami to Puerto Rico.

This was just a minor setback, however. Now, Carnival’s fleet of Fun Ships , with their signature red, white and blue funnels, are among the most recognized and popular in the world.

If you are new to sailing, or just to Carnival, these nine fun facts about the cruise giant will give you an idea of just why it continues to wow more and more travelers.

1. Carnival Corporation & plc is now the world’s largest leisure travel company with more than 100 ships sailing under 10 different brands.

2. each year, carnival cruise lines operates 1,500 sailings on 24 ships , which include stops all around the globe, from alaska to athens to aruba., 3. today, more people sail with carnival cruise line than any other cruise line in the world., 4. in 2015, carnival launched a series of one-of-a-kind, longer voyages called carnival journeys . these nine- to 15-day sailings feature more exotic, less traveled-to ports of call, “local”-tainment options, and opportunities to cook and enjoy authentic cuisine from the ship’s destinations., 5. the vista , carnival’s newest and largest ship to date, begun its maiden voyage yesterday from trieste, italy. it will tour the mediterranean before arriving in barcelona on may 14th., 6. dj irie, the official dj of the miami heat , has teamed up with carnival to make nightlife on board hotter than ever, and through the spin’iversity program, train aspiring djs to keep the party going across carnival’s fleet., 7. the carnival vista boasts a number of industry firsts : the first imax theater at sea, the longest water tube slide, and for north americans, the first chance to sail with a working brewery on board ., 8. many of carnival’s ships have a kids-free retreat called serenity , where adults can spend quality time relaxing in a hammock or plush lounge chair, away from the hoopla., 9. passengers on any carnival ship can experience dining, dr. seuss style. it’s called  the green eggs and ham breakfast , and it is as whimsical and memorable as it sounds..

There are so many options for vacations at sea, but when it comes variety and value, a Carnival voyage offers something for just about everyone .

If you’re a cruise fanatic , there is a way to earn income while following your passion. As a home-based travel agent , your expertise, along with KHM Travel’s long-established relationships with top travel suppliers like Carnival , can help others take the cruise of a lifetime.

Get more information on how KHM Travel Group can help you get started with our free information packet. Just fill out the form on the right side of the screen or call 1-888-611-1220 to speak directly with a member of our team.

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Hot Topic: Surprise Cruise Reveal Ideas

Celebrity Beyond Fun Facts: 40 Interesting Things About the Ship

It’s no secret we absolutely love Celebrity Cruises. This exceptional, trailblazing cruise line hooked us from our first sailing on Celebrity Apex. 

We had the chance to visit Celebrity Beyond for its North American premiere, and we were in awe of the ship’s spaces, the team that came together to design and build it, and the crew, led by a female captain, Kate McCue. 

While we were on the ship, we learned some Celebrity Beyond fun facts through various avenues, including a ship tour and a celebrity panel with Nate Berkus, Daniel Boulud, and Captain Kate McCue. 

We share them with you below, including restaurant, bar, crew, art, and architectural things you never knew about this phenomenal Celebrity Cruises cruise ship. 

Disclosure: This post has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We truly only recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Celebrity Beyond Fun Facts Behind the Scenes with Celebrities

Designer nate burkus, michelin-starred chef daniel boulud, and olympic gymnast simone biles.

1. Nate Berkus’s favorite public space onboard is the Sunset Bar, which brings together some of his favorite elements from beach and pool clubs from around the world. 

2. Berkus shared his favorite private space onboard, and his favorite of all on Celebrity Beyond is the crew bar. (Which is, of course, not open to guests!) 

3. The first time Berkus toured the finished Celebrity Beyond cruise ship, he rearranged the throw pillows as soon as he got to the Sunset Bar!

4. Working with the Celebrity Cruises team is the first venture into cruise ship design for Nate Berkus and into the cruising culinary world for Daniel Boulud. 

5. Daniel Boulud's first dedicated restaurant at sea, Le Voyage, is on Celebrity Beyond. The tables are within beautiful white “nets” that create an intimate setting, no matter where you’re seated. 

The cost to dine at Le Voyage is $139 with the wine pairing and $75 without the wine pairing. 

6. The menu at The Retreat on Celebrity Cruises Edge Class series ships, including Beyond and Apex, includes curated dishes from Daniel Boulud. 

7. The Godmother of Celebrity Beyond is the Greatest of All Time (the GOAT, as the kids say!) gymnast Simone Biles. She is a 19-time World Champion and seven-time Olympic Medalist.

She was at the cruise ship christening and naming, and guests enjoyed receiving copies of her inspirational book, Courage to Soar: A Body in Motion, A Life in Balance .

Don't Delay Your Celebrity Cruises Vacation!

Celebrity Cruises is one of our favorite cruise lines, thanks to the sophistication and beauty of the ships and staterooms, friendly crew, shopping, entertainment, and delicious food + drinks.

Celebrity Beyond Fun Facts About Its Restaurants and Bars

8. Japanese-born expert restaurateur Chef Yoshikazu “Yoshi” Okada curated the menu for Raw on 5. We recommend the sushi; it’s delicious! (And we’re tough sushi critics!)

9. The Martini Bar, at the “hearth” of the ship, allows guests to sit 360 degrees around the central bar and sculpture. This is opposed to a ship like Celebrity Apex, where there is a wall behind the bar. 

10. Celebrity Beyond assigned a trained mixologist to each bar on the ship.

11. There are 24 sommeliers onboard who rotate through the restaurants. Celebrity Cruises ships are the most awarded ship by Wine Spectator. 

12. A 27-liter bottle of Veuve Cliquot champagne christened the ship during its November 2022 naming ceremony. 

13. You can eat at a different venue each night. Some unique restaurant-specific items are on the menu at each restaurant, yet you can also get the same menu across the ship, no matter the restaurant you’re eating at. 

This is because of the Celebrity Beyond fun fact (and little secret), all the galleys onboard connect behind the scenes. So, for example, if you are in the French restaurant Normandie, but you want a Greek salad from the restaurant Cyprus, you can order one. 

14. One of Celebrity Beyond’s 14 cafes, bars, and lounges is its “World Class Bar,” where you will find specialty cocktails you cannot get elsewhere. 

One example of this is the American Pie Cocktail, made with Bulleit Bourbon. The bartender brûlées an apple slice to top the cocktail per drink order; the smell is as scrumptious as you can imagine! 

We also loved the Rose Water cocktail with the ingredient of the same name, Ketel One, watermelon syrup, and hibiscus salt. It was perfectly balanced!

Fun Facts About Celebrity Beyond’s Crew 

15. One of the ship’s captains is Captain Kate McCue, who has a combined social media following of over 3.4M from TikTok and Instagram. She is a true trailblazer! 

16. Her hairless cat, named Bug, is onboard with her when she captains the ship. Kate and her cat work three months on, then have three months off, as most cruise ship captains of large ships do. @BugNaked has a social media following of nearly 62K on Instagram! 

17. World-renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz photographed three leading women on Celebrity Beyond: Captain Kate, 1st Officer Sahira Binte Shari Nurul, and 2nd Officer Gifty Adu Gyamfi. 

18. Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises, who worked with Captain Kate for 13 years at Royal Caribbean, promoted her to captain when Lutoff-Perlo was named CEO of Celebrity Cruises. 

During the Celebrity Beyond preview panel, she mentioned she recommended Kate for captain many times at Royal Caribbean. 

Lutoff-Perlo was told, “Her time will come,” thirteen years in a row, despite McCue’s stellar record as a leading crew member with Royal Caribbean. Her time came when she was promoted by Lutoff-Perlo in a groundbreaking move to name McCue as the first female captain of a ship that size in the United States. 

19. She wrote an email to Captain Kate about why she was being promoted, highlighting her exceptional qualities, so she could show the email to her parents to break the good news. 

Captain Kate showed the letter to her father (then to her mother) on Father’s Day the year she was promoted to captain! 

20. Just a week before the ship's naming and Celebrity Beyond’s North American debut, Bravo’s Watch What Happens Live was filmed on Celebrity Beyond. The filming occurred in Eden while the ship was docked at Cape Liberty US Cruise Port, just miles from New York City. 

Bravo’s Andy Cohen was onboard for promotional videos and to interview all five captains of the network’s famed Below Deck series. It was the first time all five captains were in the same room! 

Captain Kate, a celebrity in her own right, made an appearance during the episode as she read things that each captain had done in his or her lifetime. Andy had to guess which captain was associated with the memory. 

21. Celebrity Beyond’s 1,400+ person crew hails from 60 different countries. 

Celebrity Beyond Art and Architectural Facts 

22. Celebrity Beyond is 69 feet (or 21m) longer than Celebrity Apex. Beyond has 17 decks, unlike Apex or Edge’s 16 decks. The Sunset Bar is also 180% larger than the sunset bar on Apex and Edge. 

23. To make the ship larger, two 33-foot sections were added to the Grand Plaza. The Celebrity Cruises team, including Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, calls it the “Harri Stretch,” named after Harri Kulovaara, who is Royal Caribbean Group’s EVP of Maritime and Newbuild.

24. The Retreat’s main accent color on Beyond is red. One of the fun things about The Retreat on Celebrity Beyond that you don’t find on Celebrity Apex is that The Retreat pool deck connects to its Luminae restaurant. It also has a 40% larger sundeck.

25. You’ll find hand-painted motifs in several design elements at the Sunset Bar. They’re all inspired by Nate Burkus’s travels to his favorite pool and beach bars around the world. 

One example is the patterns from ancient Greece on the throw pillows. 

During the ship's design phase, Nate Burkus learned that the pillows needed to be crafted from materials that would dissolve in the ocean within a certain period of time should they fall overboard. This was a new learning for him during his foray into the cruise ship design world! 

26. Between $7.5M to $10M is invested in the art of Celebrity Beyond. This budget is typical of a Celebrity Cruises Edge Class ship.

27. Each ship has an art curator. Ally Millard of Peter Millard and Partners Ltd. was the design curator for Celebrity Beyond.  

28. The artists installed much of the art on the ship themselves.

29. Celebrity Beyond had the first NFT at Sea. The digital revolution, marrying Cryptocurrency and Celebrity Cruises’ leadership in art and innovation, presented guests with the opportunity to buy into an immersive art experience by world-renowned Brazilian-born artist Rubem Robierb, who splits his time between NYC and Miami. 

His “Peacemakers Blue Sky,” was inspired by worldwide protests for social justice. 

The 5 total NFT art pieces sold out within the first few minutes they were available. The buyers own these NFTs forever unless they resell to future generations of NFT art collectors. 

30. Odyssey is the famous hallway that leads from the shops to Blu and Eden on Deck 5. London-based Fredrickson Stallard designed it. They are famous for their organic sculptures, like the gold pieces you’ll find on Beyond.

Guests love the metallic sculptures and out-of-this-world feeling inside as they pass through the dark hallway whose light darkens and rises to a still-dim-level over a few minutes' time. 

31. Each guest room floor has photography with different themes. For example, our floor, Deck 10, was themed to the ocean. Other deck photography themes include India, Native Americans, and Australasia/Polynesia. 

Take some time to visit each deck with staterooms to gaze at the awe-inspiring photography. 

32. The first piece of stairwell art that Captain Kate recalls seeing on the ship was the colorful, glittery BEYOND painting between Decks 10 and 11. Inside each letter is a playful paint-by-number motif. 

This eye-catching art is by UK-based pop artist Benjamin Thomas Taylor.

33. Many guests sail on Celebrity Cruises specifically for the art program operated by Park West. Because of this fan base, there is a VIP invite-only art cruise.

34. One of the artistic design choices on the ship is the exposed hull in the hallway on Deck 3. You can see this behind vertical slats (also an art installation) along the wall between the casino area and the restaurants, towards the aft of the ship. 

35. Another cool design element is auditory. If you sit or lay down by the Maison du Chocolat area, by Mont Blanc and Blu (AquaClass restaurant) before you reach Eden, you’ll hear experiential sounds, like birds chirping. You cannot hear these sounds when you walk by…only when you are on the furniture, immersed in the space.

36. Chairs were all sat on by an executive (or two) and tested out before giving the thumbs up and final approval.

37. While some Celebrity Cruises ships have a theme and design throughout the ship, Celebrity Beyond has different art per venue.

38. A lot of sound engineering went into the ship’s design. The goal was to maintain sound for different venues, obtained through selecting carpets, wall materials, and furniture pieces. Keep your eyes peeled on the ship for unique ways the designers achieved this!  

39. Celebrity Beyond has 179 more staterooms than Apex. Of the 1,646 staterooms, 198 are suites. All of these suites are part of The Retreat. 

40. The coveted highest-level suite onboard is the Iconic Suite, and it’s the largest suite on any Celebrity Edge Class ship to date at 2,581 square feet. There are two onboard Celebrity Beyond. 

Prices for a one-week cruise vary based on the season, with prices ranging from $30,000 to $100,000 per week for two guests. 

Each suite features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, a kitchen, an outdoor lounge area, and a hot tub. It has phenomenal bow-facing views similar to what the Captain’s stateroom and navigation bridge see. 

41. Celebrity Beyond is registered in Malta.

Read this next:

• Celebrity Cruises Classes Explained: AquaClass vs The Retreat vs Concierge
• Helpful Info about Luminae in The Retreat on Celebrity Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises The Retreat Review: a Ship-Within-a-Ship Worth the Cost

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Disney Cruise Line Fun Facts

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Uniquely Disney

• The Disney ships are painted in Mickey Mouse-inspired colors – black hull, white superstructure, yellow trim and two giant red funnels, each with the Disney Cruise Line Mickey Mouse logo.

• Disney Cruise Line was the first cruise line to have yellow lifeboats, instead of the traditional regulation orange. Disney was granted special permission from the U.S. Coast Guard to paint the lifeboats yellow, to keep with the special color theming of the ship.

• The Disney Magic was built in two halves… one hundred miles apart! Part of the ship was constructed in Ancona, Italy then towed 100 miles to meet the stern in Marghera (just outside Venice) to be perfectly joined and welded together.

• Disney Cruise Line ships use the iconic first seven notes of the “When You Wish Upon a Star” song melody as their horn signals.

• Disney ships are the only cruise ships to have five captains – the ship’s captain, Captain Mickey, Captain Minnie, Captain Hook and Captain Jack Sparrow.

• Measuring 964 feet in length, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are each longer than Main Street U.S.A at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World. At 1,115 feet, the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream are longer than the height of the Eiffel Tower in Paris and longer than the height of New York City’s famous Chrysler Building.

• The anchor on the Disney Magic weighs 28,200 pounds – about the same as three full-grown elephants.

• On a special night aboard most Disney cruises, the “Pirates IN the Caribbean” deck party features a spectacular pyrotechnics performance – fireworks at sea like only Disney can do!

Guest Experience

• Eighty-eight percent of the staterooms on the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream and more than 70 percent of staterooms on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder have ocean views. Of those, nearly 90 percent and 60 percent, respectively, have private verandahs.

• In a cruise industry first, most staterooms on Disney ships feature a split “bath-and-a-half” design, providing families the added convenience of a sink and tub/shower in one room and a sink and toilet in a separate room.

• Onboard both the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, there are about 950 crew members representing more than 86 different nationalities. That is approximately one crew member for every three guests.

• On an average seven-night sailing aboard the Disney Magic, the following food items are consumed:

• Beef – 5,000 pounds • Chicken – 10,000 pounds • Salmon – 1,200 pounds • Shrimp – 1,300 pounds • Lobster Tail – 1,000 pounds • Melon – 15,000 pounds • Pineapple – 4,500 pounds • Eggs – 71,500 • Coffee – 57,820 cups • Soda – 3,125 gallons • Beer – 12,385 bottles/cans • Wine and Champagne – 2,700 bottles

• Disney Cruise Line dining room Cast members represent, on average, 86 different nationalities.

• The décor and food of the Palo restaurant are inspired by Italy, the birthplace of both the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder.

• Palo takes its name from the poles that line the canals of Venice. Palo’s extensive reserve wine list features selections that hail from some of the most mature vineyards in the world and highlight some of the greatest Super Tuscans like Sassicaia, Ornellaia and Tignanello.

Onboard Features

• The Disney Magic and Disney Dream interior is in the art deco style, characterized by geometric designs and bold, solid colors. The interior on the Disney Wonder and Disney Fantasy is in the art nouveau style, which features organic influences and curved patterns.

• Every Disney Cruise Line ship has an atrium lobby statue celebrating a classic Disney character. Mademoiselle Minnie Mouse, dressed in vintage fashion with a parasol and steamer luggage, graces the Disney Fantasy and Admiral Donald strikes a pose on the Disney Dream. They are the subject of as many memorable vacation photos as their counterparts: Mickey at the helm (Disney Magic) and Ariel sitting pretty (Disney Wonder).

• The décor of the Buena Vista Theatre was designed to emulate the elegant movie houses of the 1920s and 1930s, the period when Walt Disney was producing the first Mickey Mouse animated films.

• The main showplace for entertainment, the Walt Disney Theatre spans three decks and can seat 977 guests onboard the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder and 1,340 guests on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

• A leader in family entertainment, Disney is the only cruise line to first-run feature films, including films in 3-D, with movies premiering at sea on the same day that they are released on land.

• With ships purpose built for family cruising, Disney cruise ships boast nearly an entire deck of space dedicated to age-specific children’s activities.

• Don’t worry about getting a chill! The swimming pools on Disney ships are heated when the water temperature drops below 75 degrees.

• Stay connected, even at sea! Disney ships feature Wi-Fi service in staterooms and public spaces, allowing guests to surf the web at sea from their wireless-enabled device.

Castaway Cay

• Castaway Cay was the first private island in the cruise industry where the ship docks alongside so guests do not have to tender to land.

• Guests can mail a special souvenir message to family and friends back home by using the Castaway Cay Post Office.

• Water is procured in Port Canaveral and delivered to Castaway Cay by the ships to an 80,000 gallon fresh water storage tank on the island.

• Feels like home? Approximately 60 Disney Cruise Line crew members live and work full-time on Castaway Cay.

Environmental Programs

• Each Disney ship has an onboard Environmental Officer dedicated to overseeing all environmental systems and procedures, along with shipboard recycling, waste minimization and water reclamation efforts.

• Condensation from the shipboard air conditioning units is collected and re-used to wash the decks, saving more than 30 million gallons of water each year.

• Disney Cruise Line made history by being the first cruise line to utilize an innovative hull coating that is both 100 percent non-toxic to the marine environment, and effective in increasing fuel efficiency. The coating helps reduce the ships’ surface resistance in the water, decreasing the need for propulsion power as the ship glides through the sea.

• More than 1,000 gallons of used cooking oil from shipboard galleys is offloaded and recycled in ports of call around the world each week. Through a unique partnership with Bahamas Waste Management (BWM) in Nassau, the used cooking oil is being converted into biodiesel fuel used to power a local fleet of BWM vehicles.

• Shipboard recycling systems help divert more than than 325 tons of aluminum, plastics, paper and non-traditional recyclables from conventional waste streams each year. That’s the equivalent of over 54 school buses or 24 humpback whales.

• Disney Cruise Line and Disney Animal Programs have partnered with local non-profit organizations, Disney researchers and educators in a multi-year project to restore the health of the coral reefs around Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island, and throughout The Bahamas. Researchers are taking long-spined sea urchins that are native to the area and translocating them to coral reefs endangered by algae overgrowth. The sea urchins graze on algae similar to a lawnmower keeping the grass short.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit www.disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact their travel agent.

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11 disney cruise fun facts.

Written by Florie Dalrymple

Modified & Updated: 06 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Are you a fan of Disney and looking for a fun-filled vacation experience? Look no further than a Disney Cruise! Disney Cruise Line offers a unique and magical adventure on the high seas that combines the enchantment of Disney with the excitement of a cruise. From exploring beautiful destinations to enjoying world-class entertainment and dining options, a Disney Cruise promises fun for the entire family!

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some fascinating Disney Cruise fun facts. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or considering your first voyage, these facts will give you a glimpse into the incredible world of Disney Cruises. So, sit back , relax, and let’s dive into the enchanting world of Disney Cruise Line!

Key Takeaways:

• Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of destinations and activities for guests of all ages, from private islands to themed cruises, ensuring a magical experience for everyone.
• With world-class entertainment, family-friendly amenities, and a commitment to environmental sustainability, Disney Cruise Line provides a fun and unforgettable vacation for all.

Disney Cruise Line has four ships in its fleet.

Disney Cruise Line currently operates four ships: the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy. Each ship offers a unique experience and is designed to provide entertainment and comfort for guests of all ages.

Disney Cruise Line offers destinations all around the world.

From the tropical islands of the Caribbean to the enchanting cities of Europe, Disney Cruise Line takes guests on unforgettable journeys to various destinations. Whether you want to explore the beauty of Alaska or experience the rich culture of the Mediterranean, there’s a Disney cruise for everyone.

Disney Cruise Line has its own private island.

Located in the Bahamas, Disney Cruise Line’s private island, Castaway Cay, is a paradise getaway exclusively for Disney cruise passengers. With pristine beaches, waterslides, snorkeling adventures, and even a floating bar, Castaway Cay offers endless fun and relaxation.

Disney Cruise Line is known for its world-class entertainment.

On a Disney cruise, you can expect Broadway-style shows, live performances by beloved Disney characters, deck parties, fireworks at sea, and much more. From musical productions like “Frozen” and “Beauty and the Beast” to interactive game shows, there’s always something exciting happening on board.

Disney Cruise Line is family-friendly.

Disney Cruise Line caters to families of all sizes, with activities and amenities designed for guests of all ages. From the Oceaneer Club and Lab for kids to the Quiet Cove Pool and spa for adults, everyone can enjoy their own piece of Disney magic.

Disney Cruise Line offers rotational dining.

One unique feature of Disney Cruise Line is rotational dining, where guests rotate through different themed restaurants each night, while their servers accompany them. This allows guests to experience a variety of cuisines and atmospheres throughout their cruise.

Disney Cruise Line has exclusive partnerships.

Disney Cruise Line has partnered with renowned brands such as Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar to bring even more magic on board. Guests can meet their favorite characters, participate in themed activities, and even watch exclusive screenings of the latest movies.

Disney Cruise Line offers exciting shore excursions.

When docked at various ports of call, Disney Cruise Line offers a wide range of shore excursions. Whether you want to go snorkeling, explore ancient ruins, or go on a thrilling zip line adventure, there’s an excursion for every interest.

Disney Cruise Line is committed to environmental sustainability.

Disney Cruise Line takes its responsibility to protect the environment seriously. The ships are equipped with innovative technologies to minimize their impact on the oceans and promote eco-friendly practices on board.

Disney Cruise Line has adult-exclusive areas.

For adults looking for a more serene and sophisticated experience, Disney Cruise Line offers adult-exclusive areas such as the Quiet Cove Pool, spa, and lounges. These areas provide a tranquil retreat away from the excitement of the family-friendly spaces.

Disney Cruise Line offers themed cruises.

In addition to regular sailings, Disney Cruise Line offers themed cruises throughout the year. From Star Wars Day at Sea to Marvel Day at Sea, guests can immerse themselves in their favorite Disney franchises and enjoy special activities and entertainment.

Disney Cruises are a fantastic way to create unforgettable memories for the whole family. With their immersive experiences, top-notch entertainment, and impeccable service, Disney Cruises offer a unique vacation experience. Whether you’re sailing through the Caribbean or exploring Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes, a Disney Cruise promises adventure, relaxation, and fun for everyone on board.

From the enchanting Disney-themed décor to the world-class dining options and exciting onboard activities, Disney Cruises cater to both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned seafarer, a Disney Cruise is sure to fulfill every expectation. So pack your bags, grab your Mickey ears, and set sail on an extraordinary Disney adventure that will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime.

Q: How many ships does Disney Cruise Line have?

A: Disney Cruise Line currently has 4 ships: the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy.

Q: What ages are appropriate for a Disney Cruise?

A: Disney Cruises are suitable for guests of all ages, from infants to adults. There are activities and spaces designed specifically for different age groups, ensuring that everyone has a magical experience.

Q: Are there adult-only areas onboard Disney Cruise ships?

A: Yes, Disney Cruise Line offers adult-only areas, including lounges, pools, and dining venues. These spaces provide a peaceful retreat for adults looking to relax and unwind.

Q: Can I meet Disney characters on a Disney Cruise?

A: Absolutely! Disney Cruises offer plenty of opportunities to meet and interact with your favorite Disney characters. From character breakfasts to scheduled meet-and-greets, there are many chances to create special memories with beloved Disney characters.

Q: What is included in the price of a Disney Cruise?

A: The price of a Disney Cruise includes accommodations, dining (including rotational dining in different onboard restaurants), select non-alcoholic beverages, onboard entertainment, and access to most onboard activities.

Q: Can I book shore excursions during a Disney Cruise?

A: Yes, Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of exciting shore excursions at each port of call. These optional activities allow guests to explore the destinations they visit and take part in unique experiences.

Q: How far in advance should I book a Disney Cruise?

A: It is recommended to book your Disney Cruise as early as possible, especially if you have specific travel dates or itineraries in mind. The earlier you book, the more likely you are to secure the stateroom category and sail date that you desire.

Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks onboard?

A: Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed on Disney Cruise ships. However, Disney Cruise Line offers a diverse range of dining options, including special dietary accommodations, so there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Q: Are there laundry facilities onboard Disney Cruise ships?

A: Yes, self-service laundry facilities are available onboard most Disney Cruise ships. Guests can use these facilities to conveniently take care of their laundry needs during the cruise.

Q: Is Wi-Fi available onboard Disney Cruise ships?

A: Yes, Disney Cruise Line offers Wi-Fi access for guests. There are various internet packages available for purchase, allowing guests to stay connected and share their magical experiences with friends and family.

Q: What is the best time of year to go on a Disney Cruise?

A: The best time of year to go on a Disney Cruise depends on personal preferences and desired destinations. Disney Cruise Line offers cruises year-round, each with its own unique experiences and weather patterns. It’s recommended to consult with a travel advisor or check the Disney Cruise Line website for specific itineraries and seasonal offerings.

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20 Surprising Facts About Princess Cruises

There are some surprising things you need to know about Princess cruises before booking.

There are lots of really great cruise lines out there, which means that choosing one to go with can be really difficult. That kind of decision is even more difficult for those who do have not been on a cruise before, and that is when doing some research on different cruise lines can be very helpful.

Those who look into Princess Cruises can really dig up some interesting facts. According to traveldiaryparnashree.com , traveling with this cruise line can actually be a great experience. Some people who have traveled with them enjoyed great service from the employees, as well as lots of luxury.

But there are some interesting things to know about this cruise line. Here are just a few facts people should know about Princess Cruises.

20 They Have A Fleet That Includes 17 Ships

These days, this is a very popular cruise line. According to princess.com , they have an impressive fleet that includes 17 ships in total, which means that lots of people in different areas of the world can enjoy a cruise with them. Each one of their ships has a different name.

19 This Cruise Line Pollutes The Ocean

This company may be very popular, but they recently had to dish out a lot of money to resolve an issue. According to globalnews.ca, they had to pay a very large fine because of the fact that the company put some serious pollution into the ocean, which is always bad.

18 Princess Cruises Was Accused Of Not Being Very Friendly Towards Some People

The cruise line did something that offended a large group of people, and it definitely did not go unnoticed. According to foxnews.com, they had to speak out about the incident and apologize for it. This caused a very big stir, and it could not have been good for their business.

17 One Post About The Cruise Line Went Viral For The Wrong Reasons

According to foxnews.com, the reason so many people found out about them doing something that others considered to be offensive was because of a social media post. This is not particularly surprising since social media is a great way to send a message out to lots of other people quickly.

16 They Are No Strangers To Tragedy

According to cruiseind.com, this cruise line is definitely no stranger to tragedy. A few years ago, a couple of men were seriously harmed because they did not receive some help from the cruise line very quickly. The company claimed it was due to a communication error, which is really unfortunate.

15 The Fire Alarms Go Off At Weird Times

According to cruisecritic.com, there are lots of people who have had some really negative experiences during their cruises with this cruise line. In one case, a person claimed that the fire alarms in the ship were going off during some strange times, which made the visit less enjoyable for them.

14 One Of Their Ships Had An Engine That Stopped Working

Ships should never have trouble with their engines while a lot of people are on board, but that does not mean that this never happens. According to cruisecritic.com, this did happen on at least one occasion, and it had a big impact on the rest of the journey after that.

13 Some Customers Didn’t Get The Items They Were Used To Receiving On This Cruise Line

When people become loyal to a certain cruise line, they start to expect some things. People who are loyal to Princess Cruises usually receive some things, but that does not always happen, according to cruisecritic.com. At least one couple complained about this, since it made their trip much less enjoyable.

12 One Of The Rooms On A Ship Had An Issue With The TV’s Inside Of It

According to cruisecritic.com, there are a couple of different television sets in some of the rooms on this cruise line. Some people have had a few issues with them in the past. One customer complained that both televisions turned on whenever they only wanted to watch one, which is really annoying.

11 The Buffet Food Is Not Always Great

One might expect that the food on cruises would always be great since it costs a lot to go on a cruise. But according to cruisecritic.com, that is not always the case. Lots of people are not impressed by the food that is offered by Princess Cruises. It lacks flavor.

10 The Tea Doesn’t Come Free Of Charge

There are some things that are free of charge for people who travel on cruise ships, but tea is not one of those things when it comes to Princess Cruises. According to cruisecritic.com, the tea can actually be a little bit on the expensive side, which guests aren’t pleased with.

9 The Wifi Causes Issues For Customers Sometimes

One of the things that people usually do not think they will have an issue with at a resort is the internet. But according to cruisecritic.com, there are some people who are definitely unhappy with the wifi that is offered by Princess Cruises. They claim it does not always work.

8 One Couple Was Robbed When The Ship They Were On Got To Its Destination

Getting robbed is unpleasant no matter when it happens, but it is even worse when it happens during someone’s vacation. According to cruisecritic.com, one of their ships stopped at an unsafe place, and two of their passengers were robbed shortly after that, which is never a fun thing to experience.

7 This Is Not A Great Cruise Line For Younger People

Cruises are usually great for people of all ages, but a few of them are better for older people than they are for younger ones. According to cruisecritic.com, this cruise line is one of the ones that appears to be better suited for people who are on the older side.

6 One Customer Claimed That The Staff Members Are Not Used To Dealing With Children

Princess Cruises seems to be a place that is great for kids, but some people believe otherwise. According to cruisecritic.com, the staff members on some of their ships do not have much training when it comes to handling little ones, which is something that parents should always keep in mind.

5 The Dining Rooms On The Ships Can Be Cold

Nobody likes to eat in rooms that are uncomfortable for them, but some customers have had to do that when they used Princess Cruises. According to cruisecritic.com, there are times when their dining areas are much colder than they need to be, and one woman wrapped up in a tablecloth.

4 People At The Front Desk Aren’t Very Helpful

Lots of travelers know what it feels like to have to call someone for help. According to cruisecritic.com, getting help from the people at the front desk of a Princess cruise ship is not always a very easy thing to do. This is something travelers need to keep in mind.

3 They Don’t Have Much Variety When It Comes To Their Shows

One of the best parts of going on a cruise is the entertainment. Some cruise ships have a few really cool shows that everyone loves to see. But according to cruisecritic.com, the shows on this cruise line get a bit repetitive and boring, and they lack variety, which doesn’t help.

2 Not All Of The Rooms On Their Ships Have Electrical Outlets

These days, everyone needs to be around electrical outlets because they have cell phones and laptops that they like to use. But according to cruisecritic.com, this is not something that this cruise line has kept in mind, since not all of their rooms have any electrical outlets located in them.

1 Things Can Get A Bit Expensive On Their Ships

One thing that can keep some people from enjoying a nice cruise is the cost, so this is not very surprising. According to cruisecritic.com, things can add up very quickly when it comes to the food and beverages that passengers have access to during their trip, which is not cool.