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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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The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up

Editor's Note

Wouldn't it be great to be a kid again?

Even if you're just a few years out of school and only beginning your toils in the workforce, you've probably already found yourself pining for those carefree days of childhood.

Maybe you want to relive the thrill of endless afternoons racing your friends around go-kart tracks or hunting them down in laser tag battles. Maybe you want to be back at the arcade, rolling 100s in Skeeball. Maybe you just want to spend a day getting soaked at a waterpark again — without needing the excuse of bringing a child or grandchild along to do it.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter.

We've got some good news: Your misspent youth is still there, waiting for you — on a cruise ship.

One of the biggest trends in cruising over the past couple decades has been the transformation of mass-market cruise vessels into giant floating megaresorts that offer every sort of amusement known to humans — from massive water coasters to bumper cars and skydiving simulators .

Often these amusements were designed with teens and tweens in mind. After all, family cruising is one of the hottest things going in the industry these days. But a quick glance at all the millennials, Generation Xers and, yes, even baby boomers waiting in line for many of these attractions on ships proves they aren't just for young cruisers.

Indeed, if you're the kind of person who has never wanted to grow up — and aren't we all — there are few more enticing vacations than a week spent on one of today's giant megaships.

The best ships for childlike fun

In the early days of cruising, in the 1970s and 1980s, the biggest deck-top attraction on most ships was the pool. Shuffleboard was another hot activity — really, that's not just a cliché. By the late 1990s, a few waterslides had begun popping up on vessels, as well as such then-wow-inducing activities as miniature golf courses and rock climbing walls.

But it's only in the last 15 years or so that we've begun to see truly over-the-top fun zones at sea. And we do mean over-the-top. In the last few years, we've seen cruise lines add everything from sprawling go-kart tracks to a roller coaster to the top of ships. Deck-top waterparks with multiple waterslides are increasingly common. So are features like surfing simulators, zip lines, virtual reality play zones and even ice skating rinks.

Among cruise lines marketing to North Americans, there are four lines, in particular, that have been at the forefront of the trend: Royal Caribbean , MSC Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line .

The first three of those lines dominate the world of big, bustling megaresorts at sea, with vessels that are as much as twice the size of the biggest cruise ships that existed 25 years ago. Carnival hasn't gone quite as big with its ships, for the most part. But Carnival still packs its vessels with a lot of fun-focused activities.

Related: TPG's ultimate guide to picking a cruise line

For the biggest array of back-to-your-youth amusements, you'll want to stick to the newest, biggest ships from each of the brands, which also boast an overabundance of restaurants, bars, showrooms, spas and casinos. They are, as your kids would say, sick. Or is it dope ? While you're waiting in line for the go-karts, you can ask the nearest 15-year-old.

Here, the four ships that we rate the best for reconnecting with your inner child (along with eight similar sister vessels that expand your choices to 15):

Wonder of the Seas

Line: Royal Caribbean

Similar sister ships: Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas

If your goal is to relive your childhood on a cruise ship, we can think of no better vessel than Wonder of the Seas. It is, quite simply, the ultimate floating fun zone.

At 235,600 tons, Wonder of the Seas is the biggest cruise ship ever built (although it's about to be eclipsed by the even bigger Icon of the Seas ), and it's packed with every sort of amusement you could imagine, including a trio of monster waterslides, two surfing simulators, two rock climbing walls and a zip line.

There also are multiple pool zones, a miniature golf course, a basketball court, an ice skating rink and an entire New Jersey shore-like Boardwalk area with its very own handmade carousel.

Whether you're a teenager or teenage-wannabe, you'll also get a rush from The Ultimate Abyss — the longest slide ever on a cruise ship. It drops nine decks (from the Sports Zone on Deck 16 to the Boardwalk area on Deck 6). Royal Caribbean says this is a 10-deck drop, but don't be fooled: There's no Deck 13 on Wonder of the Seas.

In addition, the interior of Wonder of the Seas is chock full of restaurants, bars, a spa, a casino and a giant theater that's home to Broadway productions.

Unveiled in 2022, Wonder of the Seas is the newest and biggest of Royal Caribbean's five Oasis Class vessels, which began debuting in 2009. You'll find many — but not all — of its attractions on the other Oasis Class ships, too, and all five of the ships are mind-blowing in their size and offerings. There's really nothing quite like them at sea: All five Oasis Class ships are bigger than any other cruise vessel afloat.

A sixth Oasis Class vessel, Utopia of the Seas , is scheduled to debut in July.

Where to find it: Wonder of the Seas sails to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of Port Canaveral, Florida.

Norwegian Encore

Line: Norwegian Cruise Line

Similar sister ships: Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Escape

At 169,116 tons, Norwegian Encore isn't quite as super-sized as Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas. But it still features an insane array of over-the-top activities to excite your inner child.

For starters, there are two serious water slides on the deck top — Aqua Racer and Ocean Loops — that are sure to get your heart racing. Ocean Loops, in particular, is a doozy. It's one of those horrifying "drop" waterslides that start with you standing above a trap door that opens to send you plunging downward. At one point, you go spinning over the side of the ship.

Still, the standout feature for fun seekers on Norwegian Encore is its massive go-kart track. Nearly 1,150 feet long and sprawling over two decks, the so-called Norwegian Encore Speedway is truly a sight to behold. It includes four sections that extend up to 13 feet over the sides of the vessel. Just to amp things up a bit, it also has a middle-of-the-track observation area where your family and friends can shoot you with "lasers" that'll give you a power boost.

Note that this is some serious go-karting. The cars that Norwegian uses can hit speeds up to 32 miles per hour, as I experienced firsthand during a test run when Norwegian Encore first debuted.

Norwegian Encore also is home to the largest laser tag arena ever put on a ship and a massive gaming and virtual reality zone. Themed after the lost city of Atlantis, the former is at the very back of the vessel and is a romp. The latter area, called Galaxy Pavilion, has an amazing line-up of high-tech virtual reality experiences, including incredibly realistic race car simulators, hang-gliding simulators, virtual mazes and a virtual reality "Jurassic Park" jeep ride (watch out for dinosaurs!).

Just be warned that none of these attractions come cheap. You'll pay $15 per person for an eight-lap race on the go-karts. Joining a five-minute laser shoot-out costs $10 per person. In both cases, you can buy a week-long pass for $199, and there's a similar pass available for the Galaxy Pavilion.

Norwegian Encore's sister ships — Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Escape — offer many of the same features, but the lineup varies from one vessel to the next. Only Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy have go-kart tracks, for instance, and their versions of the attraction aren't quite as big.

Where to find it: Norwegian Encore spends its winters sailing to the Caribbean out of Miami. During the summer, it says to Alaska out of Seattle.

Line: Carnival Cruise Line

Similar sister ships: Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee

Leave it to the so-called Fun Ship line to come up with what just may be the ultimate playground at sea for people who never want to grow up. Unveiled in 2021, this 17-deck-high megacruiser, the new flagship for Carnival, has all sorts of deck-top amusements, including — we kid you not — a full-blown roller coaster.

Dubbed Bolt: Ultimate Sea Coaster, the first-ever roller coaster at sea is far from the biggest roller coaster in the world, with just under 800 feet of track. The coaster vehicles — which hold two people each — only will reach speeds of 40 miles per hour. But you've got to give Carnival top marks for chutzpah.

Other fun-focused diversions on the top deck of Mardi Gras include one of Carnival's signature WaterWorks waterparks with multiple waterslides, a miniature golf course, a basketball court and a suspended-in-the-sky ropes course.

Mardi Gras was the first of a new series of bigger Carnival ships designed to take the line's Fun Ship shtick to a new level, and it has since been joined by two more vessels in the, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee.

In addition to a deck top full of amusements, it also has a far broader array of suites than earlier Carnival vessels and new dining venues such as the first Emeril Lagasse restaurant at sea. It's also notable as the first ship from a North America-based line designed to operate on liquid natural gas. The fuel is touted as being cleaner than traditional ship fuel.

At around 180,000 tons, Mardi Gras and its sisters Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee are each nearly 35% bigger than Carnival's next-bigger ship, Carnival Panorama , and one of the biggest new ships to debut in the last two years.

Where to find it: Mardi Gras sails to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of Port Canaveral.

MSC Meraviglia

Line: MSC Cruises

Similar sister ships: MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa

Fast-growing MSC Cruises jumped into the activity-packed megaship game in a big way in 2017 with the debut of the U.S.-based MSC Meraviglia. At 171,598 tons, the 15-deck-high MSC Cruises vessel is one of the 20 biggest cruise ships in the world, and it offers such deck-top diversions as a polar-themed waterpark with three waterslides.

There's also a suspended-in-the-sky ropes course called Himalayan Bridge — the latter also has a polar theme.

Still, it's not just deck-top activities on MSC Meraviglia that will set off your fun meter. The interior of the vessel is home to one of the coolest virtual reality play zones at sea. Among its highlights: Two of the most sophisticated Formula 1 race car simulators anywhere.

MSC Meraviglia also houses a multisensory, motion-simulating XD theater. For something a little less hardcore, there also are two full-size bowling lanes.

Designed to hold 4,488 passengers at double occupancy, MSC Meraviglia also offers a dozen dining venues, a spa, a casino and a custom-built, high-tech, 450-seat theater that houses exclusive Cirque du Soleil shows.

A nearly identical sister ship to MSC Meraviglia, the MSC Bellissima has a similar array of attractions, as do the slightly bigger MSC Grandiosa and MSC Virtuosa. Of the four vessels, MSC Meraviglia is the most appealing to the North American market as it's based year round in the U.S.

Where to find it: MSC Meraviglia sails year-round out of New York.

Bottom line

You don't have to be a kid to enjoy the wild array of attractions on the new crop of floating megaresorts. If it's carefree fun you're after in a vacation, a cruise on one of the giant vessels of Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Norwegian or Carnival may be the perfect choice.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 best cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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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Fun Cruise Experiences: Unleashing the Fun on the High Seas

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

Imagine sailing on the vast expanse of the shimmering ocean, with a cocktail in one hand and the gentle sea breeze tousling your hair.

Now, add a dash of adrenaline-pumping water slides, soul-soothing jazz performances, gourmet feasts, and starlit dance parties. Welcome aboard the world of “fun cruises”!

Evolution of the ‘Fun Cruise’: A Brief History

Ahoy! Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of today’s exhilarating cruise experiences, let’s cast an anchor into the past to understand where it all began.

The Classic Cruises of Yore

In the early days, cruising was a mode of transport rather than a leisurely escape. Transatlantic journeys aboard magnificent ships were all about luxury and class.

Picture the “Titanic” (minus the iceberg), where the rich and famous dined in splendor, indulging in caviar and champagne. These cruises were a statement of elegance and sophistication.

The Shift to Leisure and Entertainment

As air travel became more accessible in the mid-20th century, cruising underwent a transformation. With airplanes taking over long-distance travel, cruise ships adapted to survive. Instead of being mere transport vessels, they became floating resorts.

By the late 1970s and early 1980s, cruises started offering a plethora of onboard activities – think casinos, live entertainment, and more!

The Birth of the ‘Fun Cruise’

Enter the 1990s, and cruise ships evolved yet again. They became larger, more extravagant, and aimed to offer passengers an experience like no other.

This era witnessed the emergence of the ‘fun cruise’ concept. Companies began marketing their cruises as fun-filled vacations, introducing innovative activities like rock climbing walls, zip lines, and even onboard surfing!

The Modern-Day Fun Cruise

Fast forward to today, and the ‘fun cruise’ has become a universe unto itself. Ships are like floating cities, boasting of activities ranging from Broadway-style shows to robot bartenders.

Themes and niche cruises have cropped up, catering to specific interests like music genres, wellness, or even comic book fandom!

In essence, the transformation from the solemn, grand voyages of the early 1900s to today’s vibrant, action-packed fun cruises is nothing short of remarkable. The emphasis now is on ensuring every passenger, regardless of age or interest, has an unforgettable time aboard.

The Anatomy of a Fun Cruise: Key Features to Look For

All aboard the fun train—or in this case, the fun ship! So, you’ve decided to embrace the high seas and dive into the world of fun cruises, but where do you begin?

With the sheer variety of options out there, it might feel a tad overwhelming. Fear not, my sea-faring friend, we’re here to break down the essential features of a fun cruise to guide your choice.

Splash-tastic Water Adventures

Most modern cruises boast incredible water parks on their upper decks. We’re talking massive slides that twist and turn, splash zones for the little ones, and even surf simulators for those who want to catch a wave without jumping overboard.

Culinary Delights Around the Clock

Ah, the joy of midnight munchies on the open sea! Fun cruises pride themselves on a range of dining options. From 24/7 pizza joints to upscale celebrity chef restaurants, there’s a flavor for every palate.

Entertainment Galore

Who needs Broadway when you’ve got a fun cruise? With nightly live performances, comedy shows, dance troupes, and even ice skating performances on some ships, there’s never a dull moment.

Activities for Every Age

Whether you’re cruising with toddlers, teens, or seniors, fun cruises cater to every age group. Kiddie clubs, teen hangouts, adult-only retreats, and accessible activities ensure that everyone’s entertained.

Health & Wellness

Want to keep up with your fitness routine or indulge in some spa time? Fun cruises have got you covered. With state-of-the-art gyms, running tracks, and world-class spas, you can work out (or chill out) to your heart’s content.

Adventure on the High Seas

For those with a thirst for adventure, many fun cruises now offer skydiving simulators, zip lines across the ship, climbing walls, and even virtual reality experiences. Talk about an adrenaline rush!

Themed Cruises for Niche Interests

From Star Trek to 80’s rock bands, there’s a themed cruise out there for nearly every interest. These cruises offer specialized activities, shows, and guest appearances related to the theme, making for a truly unique experience.

In the vast ocean of cruise options, identifying these key features will help you find the one that promises the most fun for you and your companions. So, as you set sail on your fun cruise journey, remember to dive into as many of these activities as you can. After all, life’s too short for a boring cruise!

Top Fun Cruise Lines to Consider

Ahoy, fellow traveler! As we navigate the vast seas of cruising options, let’s drop anchor and focus on some of the best cruise lines renowned for maximum fun.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a newbie, there’s a perfect ship waiting for you. Here’s a roundup of some fan-favorite fun cruise lines:

Carnival Cruise Line: “The Fun Ships”

Rightly nicknamed, Carnival’s fleet is all about unbridled fun. From water slides to themed parties, and lip sync battles to comedy clubs, there’s never a dull moment aboard.

Highlights:

• Carnival Vista : Boasts an IMAX Theater and a thrilling SkyRide.
• Carnival Horizon : Dive-in movies and a Dr. Seuss-themed water park.

Royal Caribbean International

An industry giant, Royal Caribbean is known for its innovation and vast array of onboard activities. They upped the game with onboard surfing and skydiving simulators!

• Symphony of the Seas : Features the tallest slide at sea, The Ultimate Abyss.
• Quantum of the Seas : Brings you North Star, an observation capsule that gives panoramic sea views.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line prides itself on its freestyle cruising concept. No set dining times, a relaxed dress code, and a plethora of onboard entertainment options make it a top pick.

• Norwegian Bliss : Race around the largest racetrack at sea or unwind at the open-air laser tag course.
• Norwegian Encore : Broadway-caliber entertainment with shows like Kinky Boots.

Disney Cruise Line

Perfect for families and Disney aficionados alike, Disney Cruise Line brings the magic of Disney to the high seas. Character meets, themed dining, and first-run Disney movies are just the beginning.

• Disney Dream : Experience the AquaDuck, a water coaster that’s a first for cruise ships.
• Disney Fantasy : Dance with Star Wars or Marvel characters during their special days at sea.

MSC Cruises

A Mediterranean flair meets global cruising with MSC. With an emphasis on style, luxury, and diverse entertainment, MSC brings European elegance to the fun cruise realm.

• MSC Meraviglia : Revel in Cirque du Soleil at sea, a truly unique spectacle.
• MSC Seaside : A waterfront promenade wraps around the ship, offering a myriad of dining and entertainment choices.

So, which of these cruise lines is calling your name? Each boasts its own charm and signature experiences. The world is your oyster—or in this case, your ocean—so hop on board and set sail towards unforgettable memories!

Onboard Activities That Define a “Fun Cruise”

What exactly makes a cruise “fun”? Well, aside from the captivating destinations and the allure of the open sea, it’s the unforgettable onboard activities.

Here’s the inside scoop on some of the most exhilarating experiences awaiting you on a fun cruise:

Water Adventures

No fun cruise is complete without splashing around!

• Water Slides : From twisting multi-story slides to serene lazy rivers, these are the crown jewels of any cruise ship’s pool deck.
• FlowRider Surf Simulators : Offered on select Royal Caribbean ships , these let you hang ten without ever leaving the ship.
• Whirlpools with a View : Many cruise lines feature hot tubs extending over the side of the ship, giving you unparalleled ocean vistas.

Thrill Seeker Activities

If adrenaline is your thing, you’re in for a treat.

• Zip Lines : Soar high above the deck on ships like Oasis of the Seas.
• Rock Climbing Walls : Reach new heights and challenge yourself with climbing sessions available on various vessels.
• Ropes Courses : Like the SkyCourse on Carnival Breeze , these aerial challenges will test your balance and bravery.

Entertainment Extravaganzas

From Broadway-worthy shows to intimate cabarets, the spotlight’s always shining on fun cruises.

• Live Performances : Catch renowned shows like “Mamma Mia!” or “Grease” on select ships.
• Interactive Game Shows : Participate or watch as fellow cruisers take on challenges and win big.
• Live Music : Jazz clubs, poolside DJs, intimate lounges, or grand orchestras; there’s a rhythm for everyone.

Culinary Delights

Food and fun go hand in hand on these cruises!

• Themed Dining Nights : Pirate nights, formal dinners, or even a ’70s disco brunch – each meal is an event in itself.
• Cooking Classes : Learn from the pros and whip up gourmet dishes.
• Tasting Experiences : Whether it’s wine, whiskey, or chocolate, deepen your appreciation for fine delicacies.

Relax & Rejuvenate

It’s not all about the hustle and bustle. Find your zen, too, through mindful travel !

• Spa Days : Most ships feature state-of-the-art spas offering massages, facials, and more.
• Quiet Zones : Retreats like “Serenity” on Carnival ships offer an adults-only oasis of calm.
• Meditative Activities : Think morning yoga sessions overlooking the sunrise or pilates with an ocean view.

The beauty of a fun cruise? There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, a relaxation enthusiast, or all of the above. So, whatever your definition of “fun” is, rest assured, it’s waiting for you on the high seas.

Ports of Call: Diving into Fun Shore Excursions

When you hear the term “fun cruise,” don’t just think about the ship’s onboard amenities. Often, the real excitement begins when the ship docks at a new destination.

Shore excursions can be as much a part of the cruise experience as any onboard activity. Let’s explore some of the most entertaining ports of call and the adventures they promise:

Caribbean Escapades

• Ziplining in St. Lucia : Feel the rush as you zip through the rainforest canopy and enjoy stunning island views.
• Swimming with Stingrays in Grand Cayman : Dive into crystal-clear waters and make some aquatic friends!
• Cave Tubing in Belize : Float through ancient caves and soak up the region’s rich Mayan history.

Mediterranean Marvels

• Exploring the Ruins of Ephesus in Turkey : Travel back in time to an ancient Greek city that once rivalled Rome in importance.
• Tasting Tours in Santorini, Greece : Sip on world-famous wines while overlooking the caldera.
• Dune Buggy Adventures in Mallorca, Spain : Speed over sand dunes and dive into the local culture.

Alaskan Adventures

• Dog Sledding in Juneau : Get to know the world of the Iditarod racers and their incredibly trained dogs.
• Whale Watching in Ketchikan : Witness the majestic breaching of humpbacks against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
• Ice Climbing on Glaciers : For the truly adventurous, gear up and take on ancient ice formations.

Asian Attractions

• Temple Hopping in Bali, Indonesia : Discover the spiritual side of this paradise island, from Uluwatu to Tanah Lot.
• Street Food Tours in Bangkok, Thailand : Dive into the vibrant flavors and spices of Thai cuisine.
• Samurai Experience in Tokyo, Japan : Learn the art of the samurai and get a glimpse of Japan’s warrior culture.

South Pacific Splendors

• Snorkeling in Bora Bora’s Blue Lagoon : Dive into an underwater world bursting with marine life and vibrant corals.
• Traditional Village Visits in Fiji : Experience a traditional kava ceremony and immerse yourself in Fijian culture.
• Rainforest Expeditions in Papua New Guinea : Journey into the heart of the jungle, meeting exotic animals and understanding the local ecosystem.

Shore excursions are the gateway to cultural immersion, thrilling activities, and unique memories.

Whether you’re seeking history, adventure, or local flavors, there’s a port of call waiting to be explored. And remember, while the ship might be a floating haven of fun, the real magic often happens when you step ashore.

Fun Nighttime Revelry: Cruising After Dark

Alright, all you night owls and party enthusiasts, this one’s for you! Sure, the sun-kissed days onboard a fun cruise are packed with activities and excursions.

But when the sun sets, these floating resorts transform into buzzing hubs of nighttime entertainment. Let’s uncover what awaits you as the stars come out:

Live Shows & Performances

• Broadway-style Productions : Some cruises showcase dazzling performances that rival the best theaters on land. From musicals to dramatic plays, there’s always something to keep you entertained.
• Magic Shows : Prepare to be mesmerized by world-class illusionists and magicians onboard.
• Acrobatic Performances : Inspired by Cirque du Soleil, these shows combine athleticism with artistry in a breath-taking display.
• Karaoke Night: Feeling up to perform yourself? Most fun cruise lines host open mic karaoke where you can show off all your vocal skills!

Dance the Night Away

• Themed Dance Parties : Whether it’s an 80s retro night or a masquerade ball, there’s a themed night waiting for you.
• Nightclubs and Lounges : With top DJs spinning tunes, cruise nightclubs offer a space to let loose and dance until the wee hours.

Casino Delights

• Table Games : Think you have a lucky hand? Try your hand at blackjack, poker, or roulette.
• Slot Machines : From old-school slots to the latest video versions, there’s a machine calling your name.
• Casino Tournaments : Join in on regular poker tournaments and see if you can outplay your fellow cruisers.

Specialty Bars and Lounges

• Craft Beer Bars : Taste a variety of craft beers from around the world.
• Wine Lounges : Delve into a rich collection of wines, curated by onboard sommeliers.
• Cocktail Bars : Witness mixologists create art in a glass with a range of innovative and classic cocktails.

Comedy Clubs

• Stand-up Comedy : From risqué adult-only shows to family-friendly fun, there’s a comedian bound to make you chuckle.
• Interactive Comedy : Get involved in the fun with comedians who love audience participation.

Cruise nights are anything but dull. With such a diverse range of activities and venues, there’s something for every kind of nightcrawler. Whether you’re looking to have a quiet evening or dance till dawn, your ship has got you covered. Just don’t forget, sunrise isn’t too far away, and there’s a whole new day of adventures waiting!

Fun Cruise for Families: Kid-Friendly Adventures

Parents, brace yourselves! If you thought fun cruises were just for the party-goers or honeymooners , think again.

Modern cruise ships cater to all age groups, and when it comes to keeping the little ones entertained, they pull out all the stops. Whether you are cruising with toddlers or spunky teens, let’s dive into the world of kiddo-approved fun:

Dedicated Kid’s Clubs

• For the Tiny Tots (Ages 3-5) : Soft play areas, story time sessions, and craft activities.
• Juniors (Ages 6-9) : Adventure games, treasure hunts, and interactive workshops.
• Pre-Teens (Ages 10-12) : Gaming tournaments, dance-offs, and DIY projects.
• Teens (Ages 13-17) : Teen lounges with DJ setups, movie nights, and organized social events.
• Splash Zones : Mini water parks with sprinklers, fountains, and mini-slides, ensuring hours of water-fueled fun.
• Family-friendly Pools : Large swimming areas where families can enjoy a splash together.

Learning and Exploration

• Nature Workshops : Discover the marine life, stars, or the next port’s history through interactive sessions.
• Arts and Crafts : From painting to pottery, kids get to unleash their inner artists.

Sports and Outdoor Activities

• Mini Golf : Let the friendly family competition begin on the greens.
• Basketball and Soccer Courts : Organized games or just a free play area for kids to blow off some steam.
• Rock Climbing Walls : For the more adventurous kids, supervised climbing sessions can be a real thrill.

Nighttime Fun

• Kid’s Sleepovers : Organized by the crew, these sleepovers let parents enjoy an evening to themselves.
• Family Movie Nights : Under the stars or in a theater, snuggle up for family movie time.

No longer will you hear the dreaded “I’m bored” on vacation. A fun cruise ensures every member of the family, no matter how young or old, is catered to.

So while the kids are busy making friends and having the time of their lives, parents can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Culinary Adventures on Fun Cruises

For many of us, trying new foods and indulging in culinary delights is an integral part of the vacation experience.

And trust me when I say this: fun cruises don’t disappoint. Let’s embark on a flavor-filled journey:

Diverse Dining Options

• Themed Restaurants : From classic Italian trattorias to sushi bars and Brazilian steakhouses, there’s a world of flavors aboard!
• Buffet Extravaganzas : An ever-changing menu ensures that there’s always something new and delicious to sample.

Special Culinary Events

• Chef’s Table Experience : An intimate, gourmet dinner where you can interact with the ship’s top chefs.
• Wine and Dine Nights : Perfectly paired wines with multi-course meals for an elevated dining experience.

Cooking Classes and Demos

• Mixology Sessions : Learn the art of cocktail-making from the ship’s best bartenders.
• Cooking Demonstrations : Witness chefs in action and pick up a few culinary tricks.

Foodie Shore Excursions

• Local Market Tours : Dive into the heart of a destination by visiting its bustling food markets.
• Cooking Classes on Land : Learn to whip up local dishes with expert chefs from the region.

24/7 Room Service

• Craving a midnight snack? Or fancy breakfast in bed? Your wish is their command.

Dietary and Lifestyle Menus

• Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free : Modern cruises are more accommodating than ever to various dietary needs.
• Healthy Eating Options : For those who want to keep it light and nutritious, there’s no shortage of healthy meal options.

With such an array of gastronomic experiences, there’s no doubt your taste buds will be on their own delightful journey. A fun cruise offers not just a visual feast but a literal one. So, bon appétit!

Conclusion: Set Sail for Unforgettable Fun!

After navigating the vast ocean of information we’ve shared, one thing is crystal clear: the possibilities for fun on a cruise are as vast as the seas themselves.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser ready to embark on another adventure or a newbie curious about what the waves hold, there’s a slice of happiness awaiting everyone on board.

From the adrenaline-pumping activities to the serene moments watching the sunset from the deck, cruises offer a unique blend of experiences that land-based vacations just can’t rival.

And as the anchor drops on our fun cruise journey, we encourage you to set sail, dive into new adventures, and make waves of unforgettable memories. Bon voyage!

FAQs on Fun Cruises

1. What exactly is a “fun cruise”?

A fun cruise refers to cruises designed with a focus on entertainment, activities, and experiences that offer passengers a lively and enjoyable time aboard.

2. Are fun cruises suitable for families?

Absolutely! Many fun cruises offer a range of activities catered to all age groups, from kids’ clubs to adult-only retreats.

3. How do I know if a particular cruise will be fun for me?

Check the cruise itinerary, onboard activities, and entertainment options. Reviews and testimonials from past passengers can also offer insights into the fun quotient of the cruise.

4. Are fun cruises more expensive than regular ones?

Not necessarily. The cost of a fun cruise depends on its duration, amenities, and the cruise line. Some may offer competitive rates, especially during off-peak seasons.

5. What should I pack for a fun cruise?

Apart from the essentials , consider review our cruise packing tips for specific activities you’re interested in, such as swimwear for poolside fun, sportswear for onboard activities, or themed outfits for parties.

6. Can I find fun cruises for specific interests like music or comedy?

Yes! Themed cruises are becoming increasingly popular, with options focusing on specific genres of music, comedy shows, and even TV show-themed cruises.

7. Are there fun cruises designed specifically for adults or singles?

Yes, many cruise lines offer adults-only cruises or cruises tailored for singles looking to mingle and have fun.

8. How safe are the adventurous activities on fun cruises?

Cruise lines prioritize the safety of their passengers. Adventure activities are supervised by trained professionals, and safety guidelines are always in place.

9. Will there be enough opportunities to relax on a fun cruise?

Of course! While there are numerous activities available, you’re never obligated to participate. Many cruises offer spas, quiet zones, and other areas for relaxation.

10. Can I customize my experience on a fun cruise?

Most cruise lines allow you to pick and choose the activities you want to participate in, so you can curate your onboard experience to be as fun and personalized as you wish.

Remember, every cruise offers a unique experience, so it’s essential to do your research and choose one that aligns with what you’re looking for in terms of fun and entertainment. Happy cruising!

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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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15 fun facts about cruise ships.

Written by Kathrine Ott

Modified & Updated: 06 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Cruise ships have long captured the imagination of travelers worldwide. These floating marvels of engineering are not only a means of transportation but also an incredible hub of entertainment, luxury, and adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or just curious about these magnificent vessels, you’re in for a treat. In this article, we’re going to delve into 15 fascinating facts about cruise ships that will leave you amazed and itching to set sail on your next adventure. From mind-boggling ship dimensions to impressive onboard amenities and surprising environmental initiatives, cruise ships truly have it all. So, sit back , relax, and prepare to embark on a journey of discovery as we dive into the wonderful world of cruise ships.

Key Takeaways:

• Cruise ships are like floating cities, with their own power plants, medical facilities, and advanced navigation systems, offering a unique and memorable vacation experience for travelers of all ages.
• Cruise ships prioritize safety, sustainability, and passenger satisfaction, with state-of-the-art safety features, impressive recycling capabilities, and dedicated staff ensuring a fantastic voyage for all passengers.

Fun Cruise ships generate their own power!

Did you know that cruise ships have their own power plants on board? These impressive vessels have a combination of diesel engines and gas turbines that produce electricity to power everything, from the lights and air conditioning to the entertainment systems and propulsion.

Fun Cruise ships are like floating cities.

With their huge size and multiple decks, cruise ships are often compared to floating cities. And it’s not hard to see why! These magnificent ships can accommodate thousands of passengers and have a wide range of amenities, including restaurants, bars, swimming pools, theaters, casinos, gyms, and even shopping malls.

Fun Cruise ships have advanced wastewater treatment systems.

In order to protect the environment, cruise ships are equipped with advanced wastewater treatment systems. These systems treat and purify the ship’s wastewater before it is discharged into the sea, ensuring that harmful substances are removed and the water quality is maintained.

Fun Cruise ships have onboard medical facilities.

Cruise ships prioritize the well-being of their passengers and crew. That’s why they have fully-equipped medical facilities and trained medical staff on board. These facilities are capable of providing a wide range of medical services, from basic first aid to more advanced treatments.

Fun Cruise ships have their own navigation systems.

Cruise ships rely on advanced navigation systems to ensure smooth sailing and safe voyages. These systems include GPS (Global Positioning System), radar, and electronic chart displays, which help the ship’s crew navigate through the oceans and avoid potential hazards.

Fun Cruise ships produce a variety of delicious cuisines.

One of the highlights of a cruise ship experience is the incredible variety of delicious cuisines available on board. From international buffets to specialty restaurants serving gourmet meals, cruise ships offer an array of dining options to cater to every taste and preference.

Fun Cruise ships offer entertainment for all ages.

Whether you’re young or young at heart, cruise ships have something for everyone. From live shows and musical performances to water parks and kids’ clubs, these floating resorts offer a wide range of entertainment options to keep passengers of all ages entertained throughout their journey.

Fun Cruise ships have state-of-the-art safety features.

Cruise ships prioritize the safety of their passengers and crew. They are equipped with state-of-the-art safety features, including advanced fire detection and suppression systems, lifeboats and life rafts, and comprehensive emergency response plans.

Fun Cruise ships have dedicated areas for relaxation.

Who doesn’t love some relaxation during a vacation? Cruise ships ensure that passengers have plenty of peace and tranquility options with dedicated areas for spa treatments, yoga classes, and serene lounges where they can unwind and rejuvenate.

Fun Cruise ships are technological marvels.

Cruise ships are not just luxurious and entertaining; they are also technological marvels. These ships boast the latest advancements in engineering, including stabilizers that reduce motion, advanced HVAC systems, and even robotic bartenders.

Fun Cruise ships can accommodate unique onboard activities.

From rock climbing walls and zip lines to surf simulators and skydiving experiences, cruise ships offer thrilling and unique onboard activities that you might not expect to find on a floating vessel.

Fun Cruise ships have dedicated staff for passenger satisfaction.

Cruise ships strive to provide the best experience for their passengers. They employ dedicated staff members, including hospitality professionals and service-oriented crew members, who go above and beyond to ensure that every passenger’s needs are met.

Fun Cruise ships contribute to the local economies they visit.

When cruise ships visit ports of call, they have a positive impact on the local economies. Passengers often spend money on local tours, shopping, and dining, providing a boost to the tourism industry and supporting local businesses.

Fun Cruise ships have impressive recycling capabilities.

Cruise ships are committed to sustainability and have implemented impressive recycling capabilities. They have recycling programs in place to recycle paper, plastic, glass, and even cooking oil, reducing their environmental footprint.

Fun Cruise ships offer breathtaking views from their decks.

One of the best parts of being on a cruise ship is the stunning views. Whether it’s cruising through crystal-clear waters, witnessing beautiful sunsets, or approaching magnificent coastal landscapes, the decks of a cruise ship provide passengers with unforgettable panoramic views.

In conclusion, cruise ships are not only a mode of transportation but also a hub of excitement, luxury, and leisure. These impressive vessels are packed with fascinating features and amenities that make for an unforgettable vacation experience. From their immense size to their impressive engineering, there’s always something intriguing about these floating cities.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, these fun facts about cruise ships will surely pique your interest. From the largest cruise ship in the world to the incredible dining options and activities available onboard, there’s no shortage of surprises waiting to be discovered.

So, next time you set sail on a cruise vacation, impress your fellow passengers with these fun facts and enhance your cruising knowledge. Bon voyage!

1. How big are cruise ships?

Cruise ships can vary in size, but some of the largest ones can be over 1,100 feet long and accommodate thousands of passengers and crew members.

2. How many decks are there on a typical cruise ship?

A typical cruise ship has around 13 to 16 decks, including passenger decks, crew decks, and specialty decks for entertainment and amenities.

3. Can I bring my own food on a cruise ship?

Most cruise lines do not allow passengers to bring their own food onboard, as they provide a wide range of dining options to cater to different preferences and dietary needs.

4. Are there medical facilities available on cruise ships?

Yes, cruise ships have medical facilities equipped with trained medical staff to handle any medical emergencies or minor illnesses that may occur during the voyage.

5. Do cruise ships have Wi-Fi?

Yes, most cruise ships offer Wi-Fi services for passengers to stay connected with their loved ones or browse the internet, although it may come at an additional cost.

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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

Caribbean cruise packing list

Mediterranean cruise packing list

Mexico cruise packing list

Bermuda Cruise Packing List

British Isle Cruise Packing List

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

The post 21 Fascinating Cruise Facts that Will Surprise You appeared first on Suburbs 101 .

Wow-Worthy Facts About Wonder of the Seas

The world’s largest cruise ship adds up to be the ultimate vacation..

Wonder of the Seas is the ultimate vacation for all ages. With 18 decks, eight unique neighborhoods, adventures of all kinds, a wide variety of food and drink, and jaw-dropping entertainment, the world’s largest cruise ship has something for everyone.

The fifth in the Oasis Class, Wonder is the next in a revolutionary lineup of ships known for the never-before-seen thrills and returning favorites featured across distinct neighborhoods—like Wonder ’s brand-new Suite Neighborhood. The newcomer is just about as long as four football pitches, and every inch offers an array of ways to make memories.

Curious about how the world’s newest wonder stacks up? We’ve gathered several of the most wow-worthy facts for you.

Click through this list for exclusive, fun details about Royal Caribbean’s newest ship.

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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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THE 10 BEST Moscow Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in moscow.

• Boat Rentals
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Water Sports
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
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• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
• Garden Ring
• District Northern (SAO)
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Flotilla Radisson Royal

2. Moscow River Boat Tours

3. Sup-Club

4. Akvanavt Diving Centre

5. Diving Center Crocus City Oceanarium

6. CheapRussia Tours

7. Kite School Kiteclass

8. SUP Center

9. Erwin. Reka

11. Easy Russia Tour Guide

12. Lovely Russia Tours

13. Capital River Boat Tours - Moscow Centre

14. Alfa Centr

15. Diving Club Divers

16. Sup Outdoor

17. MORE MOSCOW

19. Soho Sailing Style

20. Diving Center Crocodile

21. Mosparokhodstvo

22. Dive-Project

24. Kosinskiy Children Marine Club

25. Kayak Moscow

26. DIVECLUB CHE

27. Moswake

28. FLOW Moscow

29. Morskiye Volki

30. S-cruises

What travelers are saying

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I tried Holland America's 'Have It All' package. For just $55 a day, my cruise felt way more luxurious.

• I tried Holland America Line 's Have It All package on a recent cruise to Alaska.
• For $55 per person per day, we got complimentary drinks, special meals, and other perks.
• The price was so worth it we already booked this package for future cruises. 

Cruise bookings are predicted to reach record levels this year, and travelers are especially interested in luxurious sailings.

But as many of us know, luxury doesn't always equate to value, even when it comes to upgrades and special packages.

So, on our recent cruise to Alaska, my husband and I put one of many cruise packages to the test: Holland America Line's "Have It All" package, which costs $55 per person per day.

It includes perks like a beverage package, ship credit for shore excursions, onboard WiFi, and dinner at specialty restaurants.

Here's why we found it to be such a great value we're going to add it to future cruises.

The beverage package was great, and it included special drinks without alcohol

The biggest perk of the "Have It All" package was the ability to order drinks without worrying about the bill at the end of the cruise.

Our previous cruises had us drinking only tap water, drip coffee, tea, and an occasional glass of wine with dinner to avoid any sticker shock at the end of the trip. We felt restricted in enjoying our vacation.

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But this time, we had the freedom to enjoy ourselves. The "Have It All" package we booked came with 15 drinks a day under $11. If you want a drink over $11, you only pay the difference.

The beverage package also covers non-alcoholic drinks. It was perfect for when we wanted espresso drinks for cold Alaska days or a bottle of water for a shore excursion.

The shore-excursion credit helped push us to have more fun

We knew we had to do a whale-watching excursion in Alaska, but didn't consider booking other excursions due to price. Many of the ones we were interested in cost over $100 per person.

But with the package, we each got credits to use toward shore excursions during our cruise. The value of the credit varies depending on the duration of your cruise — ours was less than 10 days, so we each got a $100 credit.

The $200 worth of credits made us feel more comfortable booking an incredible excursion to kayak the wild waters of Sitka.

We probably would've hesitated to book an excursion and missed an incredible experience if we hadn't felt compelled to use the credits in the package.

Specialty dining helped us celebrate our anniversary

Our "Have it All" packages each included at least one dinner at one of the ship's specialty restaurants. If you're on a longer cruise, this package would get you access to more dinners.

We used our credits to eat at the Pinnacle Grill, known for its premium steaks and intimate dining experience. Our anniversary dinner was extra special because of the access to premium dishes unavailable in the main dining room, five-star service, and a luxurious setting.

WiFi kept us connected

The package included WiFi, which really came in handy as we shared photos with friends and family throughout our trip.

We were able to use the internet to search for whatever we needed and research the highlights to visit at the next port of call.

We've already booked the package for future cruises

For less than what a few drinks cost per day, the package helped us relax, have fun, and enjoy each port of call with a shore excursion. Plus, we got to indulge in the ship's specialty restaurants.

We loved it so much we've already purchased this same package for three future cruises.

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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Colts and ‘The Beast’: Dream picks, sleepers and fun facts about Indy’s top targets

Dane Brugler can finally sleep.

The Athletic ’s draft guru released the “The Beast” on Wednesday, much to the delight of NFL fans worldwide. Brugler’s incredible draft guide features info on roughly 1,900 prospects, which all but ensures he will have covered every player who hears his name called when the 2024 NFL Draft begins on April 25.

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The Colts have one pick in each of the seven rounds of the draft, starting at No. 15. As I read through “The Beast” to get a better understanding of the players Indianapolis might select, I decided to try something new. Instead of dissecting each prospect , as I did in my two previous big boards and forthcoming seven-round mock draft, I pivoted to a more nontraditional approach.

The result? A list of nine prospects who play what I believe are the Colts’ three biggest positions of need: wide receiver, cornerback and edge rusher. I’ve split each position into three categories: Dream pick, sleeper pick and “Did you know?” Let’s dig in!

NFL Draft 2024 ‘The Beast’ Guide: Dane Brugler’s scouting reports and player rankings

Wide receiver

Dream pick: ohio state’s marvin harrison jr. | brugler’s wide receiver ranking: no. 1.

The Colts recently put together a Ring of Honor wall in their team practice facility, and at the top right is a photo of the greatest receiver in franchise history and one of the best to ever play the game: Marvin Harrison Sr. He spent 13 seasons starring in Indianapolis alongside Peyton Manning. Could his son do the same with Anthony Richardson ?

Once Harrison Jr. began playing football, his family understood the pressure that would accompany his career due to his name. But over the years, Harrison Jr. has proven his lineage hasn’t overhyped his ability. “He is among the best receiving prospects to enter the NFL in recent memory,” Brugler wrote in “The Beast.”

The former Ohio State superstar is rated as the top wide receiver in this year’s class, and it would be shocking if he isn’t selected in the top five picks. The only way for Indianapolis to land Harrison Jr. is to pay a pretty penny and trade up, which is not something GM Chris Ballard is fond of doing. Harrison Jr. following in his hall-of-fame father’s footsteps in Indianapolis remains unrealistic, regardless of how much owner Jim Irsay loves the Harrison family. However, linebacker Zaire Franklin gave a hilarious breakdown of how negotiations would go if the Colts actually pulled the trigger.

“If Marvin Harrison Jr. slides out of that top five, everything in Indiana that is not nailed down will be sent directly to whoever got the (expletive) pick to bring his ass to (the) Colts,” Franklin said on his podcast , “The Trenches Show.” “We’ll have Anthony and Marvin. No practice facility, no building.”

As Texans load up around C.J. Stroud, Colts are betting on Anthony Richardson to keep pace

Sleeper pick: South Carolina’s Xavier Legette | Brugler’s wide receiver ranking: No. 14

It all came together for Legette last year, when he erupted for career highs of 71 catches for 1,255 yards and seven TDs. His production in 2023 was more than his previous four seasons at South Carolina combined. What sets Legette apart is his explosiveness when he gets the ball in his hands. He averaged 17.7 yards per catch and 26.4 yards per kickoff return. Legette possesses a unique home run-hitting ability, further evidenced by his 4.39-second 40-yard dash, which could make him a game-changer at the next level. He needs to improve his footwork and route running to continue growing in the NFL, though his build and athleticism give Brugler “ DK Metcalf vibes.” Brugler projects Legette as a third-round pick.

#SouthCarolina WR Xavier Legette is having a breakout senior year and turning himself into an NFL draft pick. First 4 years at SC: 423 receiving yds First 4 gms of 2023: 556 receiving yds (No. 1 in FBS) He makes Mississippi State look slow on this 76-yd TD. pic.twitter.com/bpsePm3oWV — Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) September 25, 2023

Did you know: LSU’s Brian Thomas Jr. | Brugler’s wide receiver ranking: No. 4

I’ve written about Thomas a lot at this point because I think he’d be a great pick for the Colts at No. 15. He’s a dynamic player with tremendous upside, and his big-play prowess will appeal to many NFL teams. It’s hard for me to see an athlete like Thomas, who led the FBS with 17 receiving TDs last year, not succeeding in an offense led by Richardson and orchestrated by Colts coach Shane Steichen.

For as much as I thought I knew about Thomas, “The Beast” still had some fun nuggets. The most surprising was that Thomas, who played football as a youngster, actually didn’t play football as a freshman in high school because his father thought he was too skinny. Thomas instead focused on basketball and quickly emerged as a star, even playing for the AAU program of 2014 NBA lottery pick Elfrid Payton. Thomas eventually led Walker High School to its first Louisiana state championship in 2018 and probably could’ve played college basketball, but it didn’t take long for him to show his potential on the gridiron, too. Thomas caught just four passes when he resumed his football career as a sophomore in high school, but three of them went for TDs, and he averaged a ridiculous 69.5 yards per catch.

WR Brian Thomas Jr. had a career-best 150 yards vs. UF, but my favorite play wasn't one of his 6 catches. Starts bottom of the screen and then out-races everyone downfield to throw a key block. Big-time speed and effort for a 6-4 athlete. LSU Film Room: https://t.co/jFIlpNRIOE pic.twitter.com/Yt52WJ2h3x — Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) November 15, 2023

Dream pick: Alabama’s Terrion Arnold | Brugler’s cornerback rank: No. 1

Arnold is the total package. His size, speed, athleticism and ball skills make him a potential top-10 pick and likely Day 1 starter in the NFL. The Colts might need to trade up to land him, and as I’ve said before, that scenario seems unlikely. But it’s still fun to imagine what Arnold could bring to an Indianapolis cornerback group that I believe lacks one more true starting-caliber player alongside veteran Kenny Moore II and 2023 second-round pick JuJu Brents.

It also doesn’t hurt that Arnold has an infectious personality. He has the gift of gab and won me over during the NFL Scouting Combine by comparing his position as a cornerback to being a roofer like his grandfather.

“I like to correlate roofing to football,” Arnold said. “My grandad always told me, ‘On the roof, no one’s coming to save you. You know that if you lose confidence in yourself, you’re going to slip and fall.’ It’s the same way with playing corner and being a human being. If you don’t have that type of confidence to come in and take over a room and have that presence, nobody else is going to have that confidence in you.”

Here is your CB1 in the 2024 NFL draft. Terrion Arnold reminds me a lot of Chicago Bears CB Jaylon Johnson https://t.co/fPW3RyVXWT — Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) January 8, 2024

Sleeper pick: Rutgers’ Max Melton | Brugler’s cornerback rank: No. 11

Melton, who stands 5 foot 11, might be a bit undersized for Ballard’s liking, but depending on how the draft unfolds, I could still see Ballard taking a swing on Melton thanks to his “outstanding linear speed and explosion,” according to Brugler. Melton plays fast and ferociously, unafraid to make a play when the ball is in the air or if he’s one-on-one with a ball carrier in the open field.

He isn’t always the a sound tackler, sometimes relying on a second defender to help him bring a player down. Melton will need to improve his tackling as well as his hand placement in pass coverage so he doesn’t draw drive-extending penalties like he did last year (three pass interference, two holding flags in 2023, per Brugler) to succeed at the next level. Despite his flaws, Melton is still a promising prospect with starter potential. Brugler projects Melton, who can play inside or outside and adds value as a return man, as a Day 2 pick.

Colts pre-draft depth chart: 2024 roster looks like 2023 version; will running it back work?

Did you know: Clemson’s Nate Wiggins | Brugler’s cornerback rank: No. 3

Wiggins, who weighed in at just 173 pounds at the combine, doesn’t want to hear about how his weight could hold him back at the next level. He repeatedly dismissed the idea when speaking to the media at the combine and implored those asking to turn on the tape. To his credit, the film shows a player whose relentlessness may offset his slight frame. I still believe he needs to bulk up, but Wiggins is a dynamic athlete. His speed, evidenced by his 4.28-second 40-yard dash, gives him an uncanny ability to recover and make a play even when he’s initially beaten. All of that we already knew.

What we didn’t know is just how impressive Wiggins must’ve been as a youngster. He was so good as a kid in Atlanta that his No. 2 jersey was retired in both of the leagues he starred in, according to Brugler. That’s such a hilarious honor to me because Wiggins, who is 20, can’t even legally drink yet, but he’s already viewed as a legend in his hometown. If Indianapolis picks him, I can’t wait to hear Wiggins explain what he did that warranted such a unique honor before he even reached the NFL.

Edge rusher

Dream pick: alabama’s dallas turner | brugler’s edge rusher rank: no. 1.

Turner probably won’t join the Colts unless they trade up for him. He’s been the consensus top edge rusher in this year’s class for months now, and that won’t change with two weeks to go before the draft. Turner, the 2023 SEC Defensive Player of the Year, is long, powerful and bendy, all of which should help him morph into a star at the next level. The biggest drawback on Turner is his size. He weighed in at just 247 pounds during the combine and could get pushed around early in the NFL. He also needs to strengthen his lower body, according to Brugler, but he is a “freaky” athlete overall who Indianapolis and 31 other NFL teams would surely welcome.

What a 4th-down stop by Dallas Turner. Known more for his pass rush, Turner is a potential top-10 pick in April because he's a well-rounded player. Grades very well vs. the run also. pic.twitter.com/KOxFLLCSGz — Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) September 10, 2023

Sleeper pick: Alabama’s Chris Braswell | Brugler’s edge rusher rank: No. 8

Speaking of freaky athletes, Braswell made Bruce Feldman ’s annual “Freaks List” twice during his college career. He’s reached an in-game speed of 21.9 mph and has squatted 705 pounds, which I’m sure Ballard has taken note of. Braswell’s violent hands and tireless motor usually give him an advantage on the edge, despite being undersized at 6-foot-3 and 251 pounds. He’ll need to become more versatile to maintain his effectiveness in the NFL, per Brugler, but he has a solid foundation to build on. Braswell racked up career highs of 10.5 tackles for loss, eight sacks and three fumbles in 2023.

Did you know: Florida State’s Jared Verse: Brugler’s edge rusher rank: No. 2

Verse appears to be the more realistic high-end edge rusher in the Colts’ range with the No. 15 pick. He isn’t as long and bendy as Turner, but he still has big upside because of his violent hands and “sprinter mentality” when attacking the edge, according to Brugler. Verse totaled nine sacks in back-to-back seasons for the Seminoles in 2022 and 2023.

FSU's Jared Verse just had the best two-game stretch of his career the last two weeks vs. Florida and Louisville. Dominated both games. 17 pressures, 6.0 TFL, 4.5 sacks, 1 FF pic.twitter.com/fu0hdyRCX9 — Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) December 3, 2023

He does get himself into trouble by being overaggressive in some of his pass rush pursuits, which leads to missed tackles and being out-leveraged. Verse also isn’t the most fluid athlete, but considering his incredible rise the past few years, this all feels like nitpicking.

Verse is widely considered the second-best edge rusher in this year’s class, but unlike most of his peers, he was a no-star recruit coming out of high school in Pennsylvania. The NFL Draft seemed like it was a world away back then, but Verse parlayed his only scholarship offer from FCS Albany in 2019 into being a likely first-round pick in 2024. Wherever Verse ends up, his new team will get a player who knows a thing or two about perseverance.

“There’s dudes out here who are fast. There are dudes out here who are strong,” Verse said at the combine. “I think the only thing I have over all of these guys that I had to earn was my hardworking ability. Being at Albany is something that made me get that. Only having one offer out of high school is something that forced me to have that ability.”

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James Boyd is a Staff Writer for The Athletic covering the Indianapolis Colts. Before joining The Athletic, James was the Indiana Pacers beat writer for The Indianapolis Star. James is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and grew up in Romeoville, Illinois. Follow James on Twitter @ romeovillekid

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, how to help your kids enjoy the solar eclipse.

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Getting your kids ready to enjoy the eclipse? If you've got curious kiddos enjoying the eclipse today, here are some resources from the NPR Network to help get the most out of the experience:

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Amy Nickell with Dallas Arboretum helps Dani Turin, 5, look down the ruler at the sun and the moon to see the perspective of the eclipse Monday at Dallas Cotton Bowl Stadium. Yfat Yossifor/KERA hide caption

Amy Nickell with Dallas Arboretum helps Dani Turin, 5, look down the ruler at the sun and the moon to see the perspective of the eclipse Monday at Dallas Cotton Bowl Stadium.

Not able to get outside? Stream totality with your kiddo .

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Do some color-based experimentation! The celestial phenomena can alter the way we see colors, so keep an eye on reds and greens and how they change over the course of totality!

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And be prepared: As we found with kids who enjoyed the eclipse in 2017 , little ones may totally forget this celestial experience, so don't sweat it too much!

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‘Fallout’ Finds the Fun in an Apocalyptic Hellscape

TV’s latest big-ticket video game adaptation, from the creators of “Westworld,” takes a satirical, self-aware approach to the End Times.

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By Austin Considine

The scream was just right — bloodcurdling, if also very funny — and the practical effects crew had finally found the proper volume and trajectory of the water cannon. The idea was to film what might happen if you ripped a man from the throat of a mutant salamander, exploding its guts like a giant water balloon.

All that remained was to decide what color of bile to slather on the actor (Johnny Pemberton) and on the salamander’s many teeth, which nuclear radiation had transformed into rows of humanlike fingers.

Based on observations made during a visit to the Brooklyn set of “Fallout” in early 2023, Amazon had spared no expense to make the show, the latest genre-bending series from Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy, the creators of “Westworld.” So it was no surprise when Nolan, on set to direct that chilly afternoon, was presented with not one but some half-dozen buckets of bile to choose from, in a variety of revolting hues. He settled on a pukey pinkish yellow.

“This is the closest thing to comedy that I’ve worked on,” he said later by phone. With writing credits on films like “Memento,” “The Dark Knight” and “The Prestige,” Nolan has tended to skew dark. Comically exploding monster guts — this was new territory.

“It’s a lot of fun,” he said.

A fun apocalypse? Amid all the doom and gloom of most sci-fi spectacles and social media feeds? Yes, please.

“Fallout” premieres Wednesday on Prime Video, and at first it may sound familiar to viewers of a certain postapocalyptic HBO hit from last year, “The Last of Us.” Imagine: a sprawling, expensive adaptation of a beloved videogame franchise that features an unlikely duo — a nihilistic old gunslinger with a tortured past and a tough young woman whose mission overlaps with his. Together, they travel a lawless America plagued by criminals, fanatics, killer mutants and trigger-happy survivors.

But where “The Last of Us” had a decidedly serious and heartfelt tone, “Fallout,” in keeping with its source material, is satirical and self-aware, rich with ironic detail. Sets and costumes lovingly blend B-movie conventions from multiple genres, including westerns, horror and Atomic Age sci-fi. The violence is comically over-the-top.

That unlikely duo? The man (Walton Goggins) is a disfigured former western star who, among other things, puts the woman (Ella Purnell) on a leash and tries to hawk her organs. Their overlapping mission? To find a severed head.

“I am still wrapping my head around it to be quite honest with you,” Goggins said during a brief production break on set. He was dressed in the kind of immaculate Hollywood cowboy duds — think golden fringe and a tidy matching neckerchief — that a real cowboy might spit a beer on.

“It’s ‘The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’ meets. …” He paused, searched for the perfect comparison. “It’s ‘Strangelove’ meets the ‘Star Wars’ bar.”

Until recently, live-action video game adaptations were mostly a losing proposition for television. “The Last of Us” by most accounts broke the streak . A commercial and critical darling, it earned eight Primetime Emmys in January, and its 24 total nominations included one for best drama.

Such success seemed remote five years ago, when Nolan had his first conversations with Bethesda Game Studios, the company that owns the Fallout franchise. An avid gamer, Nolan had long been a fan. The original game, which debuted in 1997, established the premise: In an alternative America, the postwar optimism and kitschy aesthetics of the Eisenhower Era never ended, only evolved. There was no Vietnam, no Watergate, no Clinton-Lewinsky scandal. Then in 2077, a nuclear war between the United States and China wiped out modern civilization worldwide.

Those who could afford it retreated into vast underground networks of shelters, known as vaults, until it was safe to come out. The game begins in 2161 when a “vault-dweller,” who has never known anything but the Beaver Cleaver-ish culture preserved underground, ventures into the irradiated wastelands around Los Angeles on a vital mission. (Later games travel to other cities and times.)

Several Fallout adaptations had been aborted or turned down over the years, said Todd Howard, Bethesda’s executive producer, who is also an executive producer of the show. After seeing and loving “Westworld,” however, Howard approached Nolan and Joy. He had heard Nolan was a gamer.

“He had clearly played a lot,” Howard said — Fallout 3 especially. “He could speak to it with authenticity and had a view of what made it tick.” (“Fallout 3 was a game that you could play comfortably for 50 to 100 hours,” Nolan said.)

Bethesda’s priorities were twofold: A TV series had to stay true to the lore of the games but also be written like a whole new chapter, same as any game sequel.

“It was very important to us not to have a show that translated one particular game story but that told something original,” Howard said. “The main character in the Fallout series is the world of Fallout.”

Amazon signed on to produce in 2020, part of an overall deal with Nolan and Joy’s production company, Kilter Films. To begin building the Fallout world, Kilter brought in two creator-showrunners: One, Geneva Robertson-Dworet, had written scripts for big adaptations before, including “Tomb Raider” (2018) and “Captain Marvel” (2019); the other, Graham Wagner, was a TV comedy writer, with credits on “Baskets,” “Silicon Valley” and 50 episodes of “Portlandia.”

For them it was a “best of both worlds” situation. They had been given a trove of intellectual property to start with, already popular among millions. But they also had freedom to simply craft a good story without worrying so much about satisfying gamer fan police.

“The fans of the games want to hear us say that we take the I.P. seriously,” Wagner said in a joint interview with Robertson-Dworet. “Of course we do, because we like it. But you don’t want to let that burden make it feel like a job. Because then everyone’s watching you do a job, and then it just feels like work.”

Robertson-Dworet later added, laughing: “We talk a lot about the [expletive] we’re going to eat for the show. It’s going to be either too woke, too fascist, not fascist enough. … ” She trailed off. The possibilities were endless.

In a separate video call, Kyle MacLachlan, who plays a guest role in the show, didn’t seem worried. And he knows something about protective fan bases. (See: David Lynch’s “Dune.” Or David Lynch’s “Twin Peaks: The Return.”)

“I think it’s evident, when you look at the sets and the production value and the tone of the show, that they’re making a big effort to try to incorporate the reality of that world,” he said. “It’s a perfect place to put a story.”

For all the new material, fans of the game will find plenty that is familiar about the story. The show’s other male lead, Aaron Moten, plays an initiate of the Brotherhood of Steel, a fanatical warrior faction found in all of the games. (They suit up in Iron Man-like robotic armor that, 219 years after the end of modern civilization, is prone to breaking down.) Though Purnell’s character arrives over 130 years after the events of the first game, she draws heavily from it.

“She goes up to the wasteland, and she finds out that everything she ever believed is a lie,” Purnell said on a video call with Moten. “It makes her start to question everything,” she added. “And she has to make that choice, right? Adapt or die. Who’s she going to be?”

However fans respond to “Fallout,” no one can doubt the creators’ commitment. Back in Brooklyn in early 2023, a set tour with the show’s production designer, Howard Cummings, offered a glimpse of the massive scope. Indoors, a mazelike series of corridors and chambers amounted to a multilevel reproduction of the vaults. Outdoors, a ramshackle junk city included whole buses and the front end of a 747 jet, trucked in from California. The New York production alone had 35 welders working at once, Cummings said.

This was to say nothing of the location shoots in the Utah desert, or on the Skeleton Coast in Namibia , a stand-in for a postapocalyptic Pacific Palisades, all shot on widescreen film instead of digital. (“The power of dragging yourself to a beautiful and remote place to capture that beauty on film, it still works,” Nolan said. “It always works.”) Or of the 360-degree virtual soundstage, made up of thousands of LED tiles — for when you need the location to come to you.

“New York didn’t have one,” Cummings said. “But it does now!”

Unsurprisingly, “Fallout” looks great. Still, all the money in Amazon’s coffers can’t make a show good, and the streamer, which declined to share budget numbers, has reportedly spent hundreds of millions of dollars on large-scale series, like “Citadel” and “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power,” that have yet to make much of an impact with viewers or critics. Amid the glut of heavier end-times material out there, it seemed like a refreshing start, at least, that the “Fallout” creators’ goal was to entertain viewers, not pile onto them.

Nolan called making it an “expiating” experience: Coming out of a pandemic, amid global instability and a deterioration of political discourse, you had to laugh sometimes, he said.

“It’s the only way to make it through.”

Because of a surprise programming change by Amazon the night before publication, an earlier version of this article misstated the premiere date of “Fallout.” It is Wednesday, April 10, not Thursday.

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Austin Considine is The Times's assistant TV editor. More about Austin Considine

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