cruise underwater room

Which Cruise Ships Have Underwater Rooms & Windows?

Have you ever wondered if any cruise ships have underwater rooms and if so do they have any windows?

This is quite a common question, and you can see why. The thought of seeing the underwater world so close up is seemingly pretty appealing.

Imagine seeing a shoal of fish, an octopus, a smack of jellyfish, or maybe even dolphins and whales.

But is it feasible in reality?

Do any cruise ships have them?

If they do, what can you see from them?

Let’s take a look.

Do Cruise Ships Have Underwater Rooms?

There are many underwater rooms on a cruise ship, although typically, they are not staterooms booked out to passengers.  They are generally rooms used by the cabin crew as well as rooms for running the ship, like the engine room and storage rooms.

Many rooms on the lower decks aren’t usually shown on deck plans that are out of bounds for passengers.

Even if some cruise lines start their deck numbers at Deck 1 for passengers, there will always be lower decks, some of which are underwater level.

The lowest passenger staterooms are usually on the deck just above the waterline.

Many of the rooms are geared around the actual all running of the ship providing sleeping and private socializing rooms for the crew, storage of all the food and drinks, and many engine and plumbing-related rooms.

The lower deck rooms underwater level include :

• Crew cabins
• Crew social and dining rooms
• Fridges for fresh food
• Freezers for frozen foods
• Wine Cellars
• Engine Rooms
• Laundry Rooms
• Brig (Jail)
• Medical Center

Under Water Rooms for Passengers on a Cruise?

There are no underwater rooms for passengers on any of the main cruise lines.  Only about 10% of a cruise ship is underwater and these lower decks are taken up with rooms and equipment required to keep the ship running as smoothly as possible and all out of sight of the passengers.

If cruise ships moved any of these rooms to higher decks, it might affect the passenger’s experiences in other ways, for example, who wants a brig or jail or cruise ship morgue on their deck.  

Or to be next to a loud laundry room .

Do Cruise Ships Have Underwater Windows?

There are no underwater windows on a cruise ship with all staterooms above the water level.

There are a few reasons for this.

Firstly, if you have ever been on a glass-bottomed boat, you would know that when the boat is moving, all that can be seen through the glass is the rushing water the boat is passing through.   Only when you stop the boat in calm waters can you see anything clearly.

It would be the same on a cruise, but tenfold when the cruise ship moves.   Even when the cruise ship stops, it would often be in port areas where ocean views are not maybe as idyllic as you might expect.   Also, that’s often when you will be getting off to explore.

There would also be issues of keeping the windows clear and clean, so you could see anything through them.

Another reason is that cruise ships are predominantly made of steel to withstand the pressures of powerful large waves, and replacing critical areas of the ship with much weaker glass, by comparison, starts becoming a potential safety issue.

Although when glass is used for underwater parts of the ship, it can be up to 18 layers thick as in the case of the Blue Eye Lounge.

The nearest you might get to an underwater window on a cruise ship is your stateroom is on a low deck in rough seas.

As you can see in the video below, taken from an Ocean View cabin on Carnival Pride.  The sea waves are so large they submerge part of the cruise ship up to cabin level.

As an example, this isn’t far off what you could expect to see even if your room window was below water at all times.  

Cruise Ship Underwater View

There is one new recent innovation by French luxury cruise company Ponant who recently launched six new explorer vessels featuring an underwater lounge in the hull of the ships below the waterline with windows offering a view of the water.

The 6 Ponant Explorers are:

• Le Bougainville 
• Le Champlain
• Le Dumont-d’Urville
• Le Jacques-Cartier
• Le Lapérouse

Underwater Blue Eyed Lounge Room

The whole idea behind the design of the Blue Eye Lounge is that you are actually inside a whale looking out through eye-like portholes.

While you can’t see much when the ship is moving as the sea hits the bow, being expedition cruise ships when they anchor in remote areas such as the tropics of Africa and the Caribbean, the ocean views can be stunning.

Inside the lounge area, giant hydrophones transmit the sounds from the seawater outside the lounge to give you a truly immersive experience.

At night the lighting is at its bluest, attracting inquisitive wildlife to the ship.

In the video below, you can see the two whale eye-like portholes. At first, you see the water passing by, but when the ship has stopped, you can see a guest watching penguins swimming past.

While you can’t see much when the ship is moving as the sea hits the bow.

However, the ships are expedition cruise ships when they anchor in remote areas in the tropics, such as Africa and the Caribbean.

Are There Any River Cruises with Underwater Rooms?

Underwater cabins are more common on river cruises.

Viva Cruise sare an example of a cruise ship with cabins below the water.

The windows are around head height for the average person when standing and are just above the waterline.

In this video, you can see the underwater room from the inside and the square windows from the outside, which overlook the river’s surface.

Although the rooms are underwater, it’s not the underwater experience most people are looking for, and hence why these types of rooms are usually one of the cheapest on a river cruise.

Are There Any Bedroom Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms?

The only underwater bedrooms on a cruise ship are for the crew, which, bearing in mind some ships have 800-1000+ crew members, requires a lot of rooms.

Even if there were underwater bedrooms for guests on a cruise, the lower decks are not the best place to be on a cruise ship.  

There would be all kinds of loud noises from engine rooms and all kinds of other machinery rooms to keep the ship running.

There are also things like being near the propellors, which are also very loud, or when the ships anchor drops.

While this might be okay for the crew, it would not be ideal for paying guests.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any luxury underwater cruise ship rooms.

The French luxury cruise company Ponant has six cruise ships that feature the Blue Eye Lounge.  This is an immersive underwater room and experience like no other.  

Limiting to a small number of people at any one time is a truly relaxing experience when the ship anchors and relaxing sounds are played. You can also hear the actual sounds from the ocean outside the two whale-eye-shaped port windows.

Is There an Underwater Room With Ocean View Cruise?

The Blue Eye Lounges are the only known underwater rooms with a view of the ocean.  While relaxing in this blue-lit room, you’ll hopefully be able to witness all types of sea life, including fish and various swimming mammals you might expect to find in tropical waters, dolphins, and even penguins.

Why Don’t Cruise Ships Have Underwater Views?

Cruise ships don’t offer rooms with underwater views for various reasons.  The main ones are that glass is not as strong as steel which is needed to withstand the constant pressures of the sea. 

Secondly, the underwater decks are already fully utilised and serve the mechanical and crew needs of the ships. 

Finally, for the vast majority of the time, there would be nothing to see other than passing water.  Even when docked, it’s likely the waters would be murky.  

So it wouldn’t be an experience worth marketing to a limited few.  

It would be far better to take advantage of the sea views from the decks or balconies and save underwater ocean views for ships designed explicitly with that in mind, like the Ponants or a small glass-bottomed boat trip.

Although underwater rooms are not available on the most commonly known ocean-going cruise ships, there are smaller luxury market expedition cruise ships that do offer an underwater room experience.

River cruises also have rooms below the waterline, but the windows are above the surface, so they are not as appealing.

Your best option for seeing life in the ocean might be to book a glass bottom boat excursion which is designed purposely for comfortably seeing sea life in ideal locations.

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What Are Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms and Are Passengers Allowed In?

I personally love cruising and have been on a ship a few times. But have you ever wondered whether cruise ships come with underwater rooms? 

The question is – what are they, and are you allowed in? Moreover, do they have panoramic windows to let you observe ocean wildlife?

Let’s try to figure out the answers, shall we?

Table of Content

• Crew cabins

Social and dining rooms for the crew

Fridges and freezers, engine rooms, laundry room, medical center, jail and morgue, why most cruise ships don’t have windows under water, can passengers book a room in the underwater part of a cruise ship , ponant le champlain, ponant le bellot, ponant le bougainville, ponant le dumont-d’urville , ponant le laperouse, over to you, what rooms can be found underwater in cruise ships.

Even if you’re not planning on spending time in the underwater cruise ship rooms, it still can be good to familiarize yourself with it. Learning about them can help you better understand how the ship functions. 

So here’s the list of the rooms:

• Crew cabins 
• Social and dining rooms for the crew 
• Fridges and freezers 
• Engine rooms 
• Laundry rooms
• Medical center 
• Jail and morgue 

Now let’s discuss their functions.

As you can guess, these rooms are where the crew members stay. Depending on the ship, cabins can be located below the waterline or totally submerged. 

But unlike the passenger rooms, the crew cabin isn’t spacious and fancy. Instead, these rooms are narrow and only include essential features. 

You can get an idea of how they look from this picture:

Here, crew members share dorm-like rooms based on their department. These crew cabins also have access to shared bars, eating rooms, and gyms. 

Usually, two members share one room, but bigger cabins for more individuals are also available. Bunk beds are the standard type of bedding as it enables more members to sleep within a confined space. So basically, each square foot matters on a ship. 

For privacy, some ships add curtains on the bunk beds. Other noteworthy characteristics are TVs, storage space, a private bathroom, shelves, and a cooler. 

The members with a higher rank have private cabins with windows and more amenities. 

More commonly known as crew messes, these rooms serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the crew members. Al their meals are made in the crew galley, which is on the same level.

This room is also a great opportunity for the staff to socialize and get a quick break from their duties.

Here’s what it looks like:

The crew members line up and choose the food they want, similar to a high school cafeteria. However, newer ships are progressing towards having seating booths that resemble a restaurant.

The dining room is also where the crew members can hang out. It is like a buffet and is usually pretty large. Just so you know, there are different places for the crew to eat, depending on their rank.

Finally, there’s usually a TV in the underwater dining room so the crew can catch up on their favorite shows while enjoying their meal.

Cruise ships usually have mini bars with fridges and freezers that store food and drinks. For example, some refrigerators are for beverages and snacks that passengers order for room service delivery.

On the other hand, some freezers are workstations for crew members. For instance, in the fish freezer, fishmongers are responsible for cleaning and cutting the fish, while butchers cut the meat from the beef freezer. 

You can see the freezer here:

The refrigerator system is truly critical as it carries refrigerated victuals and cargo for the passengers and crew members. Refrigeration ensures that food is fresh at all times. Plus, it prevents oxidation and the spread of germs. 

These underwater rooms are definitely the heart of a cruise ship. This is where the hammers, pistons, and crankshafts rotate to make the vessel progress ahead. 

No other room is as important as an engine room, which looks like this:

The engine room is located above the keel to ensure stability, which means that the ship’s lowest deck is completely dedicated to machinery.

Instead of a long hall spreading in the hull, the machinery of the engine room is segmented into tiny watertight departments. One area might feature air conditioning, whereas the other compartment can include main engines. That’s why engine rooms are a minimum of three decks high.

The laundry room is particularly useful for worldwide cruise travels, in which the individuals can wash, dry, and iron their clothes. Moreover, parents with children can also take advantage of these facilities. 

Here is what the room looks like:

All the leading cruise lines offer wash, press, and ironing facilities in the laundry cabin. These self-service launderettes are a one-stop destination for washing your clothes. 

Plus, laundry rooms are usually situated near passenger rooms, so you won’t have to lug a basket of clothes several decks down. 

We’re humans and can get sick anytime, even on the water. So what can passengers do in such an emergency? 

Worry not, as a separate medical center is available on all cruise ships for this purpose.

Here’s how they look:

With these medical centers on the ship, you’ll always have a team of professional medical personnel available to help you with whatever you need. They provide top-quality emergency medical care to all passengers. Most cruise ships include one or more doctors with nurses for their assistance. 

The medical center commonly includes beds and is situated on the lower decks, away from the crowds. Finally, the onboard medical care treats scrapes, sunburn, seasickness, and much more. 

Did you know that there’s a jail on the ship? Oh, yes! There’s a small jail on the vessel called the brig. Whoever becomes a threat to other passengers or violates the law will be sent to the cruise jail. 

Like the medical center, it’s also located away from the crowds – in the crew-only areas. 

Here’s what it looks like:

Brig guarantees passengers’ safety until law enforcement can tackle complicated issues once the ship arrives at the shore. 

And morgues also exist on these vessels, in case you were wondering.

Big ships include a designated morgue if a passenger passes away during traveling. Cruises are equipped to hold dead bodies until the ship arrives at a port big enough to return the deceased bodies to their homes.

Sorry to burst your bubble, but underwater cabins usually don’t come with windows, and let me tell you why. 

• The sea water isn’t very clear down there because of engines working and stirring up the water.
• Glass windows require continuous cleaning, which costs a lot. 
• With time, glass windows can get scratched. 

Due to these reasons, underwater windows are made of three-ply tempered glass laminate adept at tolerating pressure. 

As mentioned above, the lowest decks are primarily intended for crew members, who eat in the crew mess, manage the engine room, sleep in their designated cabin, and so on. 

All the rooms below the waterline are responsible for running the ship and account for 10% of the total area. 

However, underwater rooms for passengers are usually available on river cruise ships. The windows are at head height when travelers are standing and are only above the waterline.

You can grasp an idea of what these cabins look like from the video below:

These are the cheapest rooms on the ship, and some people call them aquarium class because it’s like you’re living in a fishbowl. 

Cruise Ships with Underwater Lounges

Even though I told you that most ships don’t have underwater rooms with panoramic windows available to the passengers, some explorer ships still offer that option. 

In particular, cruising company Ponant has introduced such vessels to its customers. They have underwater lounges below the water line, where you can observe the wildlife while enjoying a tasty drink. 

Sounds exciting, doesn’t it?

Now, let’s take a closer look at these ships. 

First up, Ponant Le Champlain belongs to the Ponant Explorer series, which unravels remote locations. Its sustainable and innovative infrastructure guarantees an elite atmosphere, so you can expect low-profile luxury.

Here are the core characteristics of this ship :

• Can accommodate184 guests.
• 92 staterooms & suites.
• 2 restaurants.
• An underwater bar.

In addition to the stunning views of ocean life, the underwater bar also offers a variety of delicious drinks and snacks. Whether you’re looking to relax with a cocktail or two or are interested in trying something new, trust me, this would be your favorite place to do it.

Check out this walk-through video to get an idea of how awesome it all looks:

This expert from Harr Travel points out that, although Le Champlain is a “smaller” ship, there is still plenty of room on board, and you won’t feel cramped or crowded, even during mealtimes or when you’re getting off the ship to explore.

Featuring the latest equipment, racing lines, a pleasant ambiance, and contemporary architecture, Ponant Le Bellot presents minimal cabins to maximize the best experience for all onboard.

Here are its prominent features:

• Eco-friendly sailing.
• Terrace or balcony with each unit.
• Spacious rooms.

There’s also the Blue Eye – a multi-sensorial underwater lounge that can simultaneously accommodate 40 passengers. You can take a closer look at it in this video:

This is the Blue Eye – a multi-sensorial underwater lounge that can simultaneously accommodate 40 passengers.

And if you want to learn more about what this ship features in general, check out this walk-through:

As the only flaw, the reviewer stated that the balconies do not have a glass fence like most other ships, so you cannot see through it. But on the other hand, when you get up from the chair, the view is enchanting!

The next on my list is Ponant Le Bougainville , which comes with the following features:

• Open-to-the-sea design.
• A marina to access the ship’s Zodiac inflatables easier.
• An outdoor pool. 
• An underwater lounge.

Speaking of the underwater lounge, this is a unique and exciting place to enjoy the underwater world and drink some tasty cocktails. It has a clear glass bottom that offers a stunning view of ocean life. 

And here’s a solid review of Ponant Le Bougainville by the passenger named Sheila:

According to Sheila, the ship offers minimum entertainment, so don’t expect a casino or many children amenities. But, on the other hand, she’s very pleased with the underwater lounge.

I couldn’t wait to present you a Ponant Le Dumont-d’Urville, which is a rare delight with its many on-site comforts, some of which are as follows:

• Hi-tech equipment. 
• A multi-sensorial underwater lounge. 
• Comfy bedding and armchairs. 

The underwater bar on this Ponant ship is a truly special experience. Guests can sit at the bar and watch the underwater world go by through the huge windows. So impressive, isn’t it?

Ponant Le Dumont-d’Urville has excellent onboard facilities that you’ll absolutely love. My best friend had her honeymoon here, and she can’t stop talking about it. 

I know you’re excited to see a walk-through video of this beauty (including the underwater bar), so there you go:

This video covers just about everything, including the cabins, which are very luxuriously decorated.

Finally, answer this question – can you imagine the highest luxury with cruise exploration?

This is what Ponant Le Laperouse can offer you – and even more than you can imagine!

These are its main features:

• A theatre, pool deck, panoramic lounge, and wellness center. 
• Terrace or balcony. 
• Tasteful interiors. 

The panoramic lounge is spacious and comfortable, and it has a bar where you can order drinks. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring the ship and enjoy watching the ocean’s flora and fauna.

And here’s a video of a happy passenger enjoying the lounge (and showing us the rest of the ship):

This passenger sailed on Ponant Le Laperouse around New Zealand and was impressed with such a rich offer. There are even 92 cabins – each one with a balcony and breathtaking views.

I hope you enjoyed learning about underwater rooms for passengers offered by cruise lines.

To wrap up, these are the rooms in all underwater decks:

• Social and dining venues for crew members.
• Jail and morgue.
• Freezers and refrigerators.
• Medical center.
• Laundry rooms.
• Engine room.

Although most cruise ships don’t offer panoramic underwater lounges, there are some explorers, like the ones I’ve listed, that still let you enjoy the rich oceanic world.

Did you have fun reading this article? I have more of these on travel topics, so go check them out on my blog ! Thank you for reading!

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The First Underwater Cruise Ship Lounge Is the Newest Way to Enjoy the Ocean

It's better under the sea.

Cruise companies have been obsessed with firsts, as of late: Last year, Royal Caribbean debuted the world’s largest ship, Harmony of the Seas , while Regent Seven Seas Cruises launched the $450-million Seven Seas Explorer , the most expensive ship ever built.

And now, the French expedition cruise company Ponant is getting in on the game by launching the first-ever underwater lounge at sea. Blue Eye, a sleek, multi-sensory space, will be unveiled on the brand’s four new Ponant Explorers: Le Bougainville , Le Dumont-d'Urville , Le Lapérouse and Le Champlain.

On board each ship, passengers will be able to head beneath the water line to the Blue Eye lounge. There are two large glass portholes designed like the eyes of a whale that let passengers peer out into the depths below, digital screens that project live images filmed by three underwater cameras, marine surround-sound based on sounds in within a three-mile radius of the ship, and sofas that vibrate in unison with the sea.

The four yachts, which will be rolled out in 2018 and 2019, should prove to be popular, as the desire for expedition cruising — a method of travel that highlights small, hard-to-reach ports, immersive wildlife excursions, and on-board experts and naturalists — only continues to grow.

Other companies set to unveil next-gen expedition vessels include Silversea, which will refit the Silver Cloud to focus on polar sailings; Norwegian-line Hurtigruten; and Scenic, with its ultra-luxury expedition yacht, the Scenic Eclipse.

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Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms: Are They Real?

Imagine sailing in the open ocean, surrounded by nothing but azure waves and distant horizons. Now, picture going to bed and waking up beneath the water, greeted by a mesmerizing display of marine life swimming right past your window. Underwater cruise ship rooms take your cruise experience from the deck to the depths, offering a unique twist on traditional cruise accommodations.

But have you ever wondered what it’s like below deck? Understanding the layout of cruise ships below the waterline not only satiates your curiosity but also reveals a world you might never have known existed. So, come aboard as we delve into the enigmatic world of underwater cabins, lounges, and more.  

Do Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms Exist?

The concept of underwater cruise ship rooms often conjures images straight out of a science fiction movie—think luxurious suites surrounded by a 360-degree view of the ocean’s depths. However, let’s dispel the myths and unfold the reality. Contrary to popular belief, traditional ocean cruise ships generally don’t offer underwater rooms where you can sleep surrounded by marine life.

So, what’s actually below the waterline? Well, that would typically include engine rooms , storage rooms , and crew cabins . These essential areas keep the ship running smoothly and are far from the plush underwater suites one might imagine.

However, the industry is evolving, and some specialized cruise lines are pushing the envelope by offering underwater lounges like the Blue Eye Lounge where passengers can at least experience the underwater world without donning a scuba suit. While not a room to sleep in, these lounges do offer an enchanting glimpse of what lies beneath, filling the gap between fantasy and reality.

A Glimpse Below Deck: What Really Resides Underwater

Now that we’ve cleared the air—or rather, the water—about the existence of underwater cruise ship rooms, you might be wondering what actually exists below deck. The underbelly of a cruise ship is a hive of activity and essential services , all submerged beneath the ocean’s surface.

Understanding the elements below the waterline gives you a newfound appreciation for the intricate details that go into making your cruise experience smooth and enjoyable. So let’s set sail into the nitty-gritty of what resides underwater on these impressive maritime marvels.

What Proportion of a Cruise Ship Is Submerged in Water?

If you’re wondering how much of a cruise ship is actually underwater , it’s more than you might think. Generally, about 40% of the ship depending on the height of the ship (the larger, the lesser), is submerged below the water line , a vital area of a cruise vessel that supports the operations and well-being of everyone on board.

Cruise Rooms Below the Waterline

When the topic of underwater cruise ship rooms pops up, it’s easy to let your imagination run wild. However, what actually lies below the waterline is much more pragmatic than picturesque. The areas underneath are built for functionality and practicality, designed to keep the ship running smoothly. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll find:

Engine Rooms

The engine rooms serve as the beating heart of any cruise ship. This area is crucial for the ship’s overall operations , powering everything from the vessel’s propulsion systems to the electricity keeping the lights on and air conditioning running. Ensuring this space is functioning correctly is vital for the safety and enjoyment of both passengers and crew members alike.

Crew Cabins

Speaking of crew members , their accommodations, known as crew cabins, are usually situated below deck. Here, the various crew bar staff can rest and recharge after working tirelessly to provide guests with an unforgettable experience. These rooms are not designed for luxury but rather for utility, allowing the crew quick access to essential ship areas .

Storage Rooms

Next up are the storage rooms, the unsung heroes of the cruise ship. These spaces are extremely necessary for storing a range of products , including food, drinks, cleaning supplies, and replacement components. It’s these behind-the-scenes areas that ensure the ship stays well-stocked for the entirety of the journey.

Utility Rooms

Utility rooms class ships are a different beast altogether. These spaces house the technology and systems needed for water treatment, waste management , and other functionalities that help the ship stay environmentally responsible. By treating waste and purifying water, these rooms play a crucial role in minimizing the vessel’s impact on the marine environment.

Lower Decks

Last but not least, the lower decks are a combination of several of these elements. Often, you’ll find that these decks house not just engine rooms and other utility rooms and spaces but also communal areas for the crew, like crew bars , adding a little leisure to the mix of functionality.

So while the idea of underwater rooms for passengers may sound intriguing, the real story below deck is one of practicality and essential functions that keep the cruise ship operating seamlessly.

While you might not find the luxury of an underwater cruise ship room down here, you’ll find the backbone of what makes your above-water experience so seamless and enjoyable. As the industry innovates, who knows what could be next? Perhaps the vision of sleeping with fishes—figuratively, of course—might one day become a reality.

The Intricacies of Ship Design

While the notion of underwater cruise ship rooms may seem tantalizing, their absence in mainstream cruise line offerings is rooted in critical design intricacies that prioritize safety and structural integrity. Placing passenger rooms below the waterline could severely impact the ship’s overall balance and buoyancy, leading to navigation difficulties and safety risks.

Moreover, in the event of an emergency like a hull breach , underwater rooms could complicate rescue and evacuation efforts. Creating a stable, pressurized environment for such rooms would also pose additional engineering challenges that go far beyond conventional shipbuilding. For these reasons, cruise lines tend to focus on enhancing the onboard experience above the water, while reserving the area below for essential operational components.

Unique Exceptions: The Blue Eye Lounge 

While traditional underwater cabins may still be the stuff of dreams, there’s one notable exception that brings us a step closer to the underwater fantasy: the Blue Eye Lounge . This pioneering venture in maritime luxury offers passengers a rare glimpse into the underwater world without requiring them to leave the ship.

What sets the Blue Eye Lounge apart isn’t just its submerged locale; it’s the multisensory experience it offers. Imagine sitting in a state-of-the-art lounge with underwater windows that provide live images from three underwater cameras , strategically placed to capture the most awe-inspiring marine sights.

The Blue Eye experience goes beyond mere visual spectacle. It employs a marine surround sound system that pipes in the very sounds of the sea around you. Through hydrophones and specialized underwater microphones , the lounge captures the acoustic environment of the deep sea, allowing passengers to hear marine life such as dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.

From the visual brilliance of marine life from the underwater window to the auditory magic of the ocean’s depths, the Blue Eye Lounge offers an immersive underwater experience unlike any other, bridging the gap between our wildest imaginations and the compelling reality beneath the waves.

Underwater Options in River Cruises

When it comes to the allure of underwater accommodations, river cruises present a different set of opportunities and limitations compared to ocean cruises. While traditional ocean cruises generally shy away from underwater passenger spaces for many rooms the reasons we’ve discussed, river cruises offer something akin to the experience, albeit with a twist.

River Cruise Cabin Types

In river cruises, you’ll often find ‘river view’ rooms onboard accommodations that technically sit below the waterline but feature windows strategically positioned just above it. Take Viva Cruises , for instance, where cabins below the water level are not uncommon. While standing, the windows in these cabins would be around head height, giving passengers a unique viewpoint just above the water’s surface.

However, it’s essential to set your expectations accordingly. These rooms offer views of the river’s surface but do not immerse you in an underwater world teeming with marine life. Because they don’t offer the full underwater spectacle, these rooms are often some of the most budget-friendly options available on a river cruise.

So, if you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of semi-submerged accommodations without breaking the bank, a river cruise might just offer the experience you’re after—even if it’s not quite the same as sleeping with the fishes.

Why Don’t More Cruise Ships Offer Underwater Views?

The allure of underwater cruise ship rooms is undeniable, but why isn’t this a standard offering across cruise lines? Several key factors contribute to the absence of these underwater wonders on most ships.

Technological and Safety Barriers

• Construction Costs : One of the primary hurdles is the enormous expense involved in developing underwater cabins. Beyond the regular construction of cruise ship rooms, underwater options would require specialized materials and technology to maintain structural integrity and safety.
• Safety Concerns : As discussed in earlier sections, situating rooms below the sea level or the water line poses significant safety risks. In the event of a hull breach, rooms located underwater would be extremely dangerous and complicate evacuation procedures. This is a significant concern for cruise lines and their crew members who are responsible for the safety of all passengers.
• Quality of the Underwater View : While the idea of being submerged might sound fascinating, the actual underwater view can often be less than spectacular, depending on the region, water clarity, and marine environment. Unlike the Blue Eye Lounge, which has the luxury of underwater cameras and hydrophones, an underwater room could offer little more than a murky view for most of the journey.
• Maintenance Issues : An often-overlooked concern is the maintenance required for these rooms. Whether it’s ensuring the structural integrity of underwater windows or the upkeep of the underwater lounge, the ongoing costs and efforts are substantial.

In summary, while underwater viewing options like the Blue Eye Lounge or certain river cruise rooms do exist, they are exceptions rather than the rule. The practical challenges and costs associated with underwater cabins remain high, explaining why they are not more commonly featured across cruise lines.

While the allure of underwater cruise ship rooms might captivate our imaginations, the reality is far more functional yet equally fascinating. From the engine rooms that power the vessel to the crew cabins where the staff rest, the underwater portions of cruise ships are built for practicality, not luxury. But don’t be disheartened—options like the Blue Eye Lounge offer unique glimpses into the underwater cruise lounge world , serving as exciting alternatives.

Understanding the ship’s design can greatly enrich your cruise experience, providing insights into the marvels of engineering and marine life that make your voyage possible. In essence, what lies below the deck may not be what you envisioned, but it’s certainly worth discovering.

Are there any rooms underwater on a cruise ship?

While the idea of underwater cruise ship rooms is captivating, they generally don’t exist. What you’ll find underwater are essential areas like engine rooms and crew cabins. Some ships offer specialized lounges like the Blue Eye Lounge for a quasi-underwater experience, but true underwater rooms are not common.

Are all rooms on a cruise ship above water?

Most passenger rooms or cabins on cruise ships are located above the waterline. Despite occasional news headlines, the occurrence of cruise ships sinking is exceedingly rare, thanks to rigorous safety measures and navigation protocols.

The areas one cruise line has below the waterline are typically reserved for practical operations like engine rooms, storage spaces, and crew cabins. Some river cruises offer “river view” rooms that are below but near the waterline.

How many floors are below water on a cruise ship?

Depending on the cruise ship’s architecture, there may be a different number of underwater floors. Generally, about 25-30% of a cruise ship is below the waterline. These lower decks house crucial elements like the engine room, utility rooms, and storage spaces that help keep the ship running smoothly.

Is deck 3 underwater?

The location of Deck 3 depends on the ship’s design, but it’s usually above or around the waterline. On most cruise ships, the first few decks are reserved for operational needs, and passenger decks start just above the waterline. Always check the ship’s specific layout to be sure.

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I’m Bobby Pham, but you can call me “Bobby on Cruise.” I’ve been cruising the high seas and exploring the world for years, and I’m thrilled to share my passion and expertise with you. When not cruising, I spend my time on growing my marketing agency.

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Meet The Cruise Ship With An Underwater Lounge

03 Oct 2017

When you set sail on a cruise ship, the last thing you really want to see is something below the waterline, but one cruise line is planning to change that mindset.

PONANT’s pioneering Explorer class of ships, which consists of Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville and Le Dumont-d’Urville, will be the first ships to ever have an underwater lounge.

The Blue Eye lounge, located within the hull beneath the water line, will amaze travellers with breathtaking views of underwater sea life. The lounge has subtle graphical references that evoke cetaceans and jellyfish. All focus is drawn towards the two giant portholes, shaped like the eye of a whale. Relax in the lounge with a drink in hand as whales and sea creatures swim by the large eye-shaped window. Live footage from three strategically-placed cameras around the ship will also capture underwater action, such as dolphins playing in the bow waves. These will be projected onto digital screens throughout the lounge.

French architect Jacques Rougerie, who designed the innovative lounge and is deeply passionate about the sea, explained: “In my work, I have always had my heart set on making people aware of the role that the sea has played in the history of humanity. I designed this multi-sensory underwater lounge in order for it to become enshrined at the heart of the PONANT philosophy. I set out to discover this fragile and exciting ocean world, which covers 71% of the planet’s surface and remains a huge mystery for mankind. The destiny of the civilisations to come will be born from the ocean.”

Offering a subtle blend of refinement, intimacy and comfort, the new ships will boast just 92 cabins and suites, elegantly designed, spacious and with lounge areas that open onto the outside. An infinity pool overlooks the well-equipped marina at the back of the ship which will offer a variety of water sport activities.

PONANT, the luxury expedition cruise line, is the only cruise line to fly the French flag. Currently operating five yacht-like ships (Le Ponant, Le Soleal, Le Lyrial, Le Boreal, L’Austral), the first of the new Explorer class of ships, Le Lapérouse will join the fleet in June 2018, followed by Le Champlain in September 2018. Le Bougainville and Le Dumont-d’Urville will join in 2019.

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Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms: Fact Or Fiction?

As a child, I used to imagine a world beneath the waves, where mermaids swam freely and colorful fish darted in and out of coral reefs. The idea of staying in a room with a window that looked out into the depths of the ocean seemed like a fantasy.

However, as an adult, I discovered that some river cruise ships offered cabins with windows above the waterline, but it wasn’t until the Ponant Explore class ships were introduced that I realized underwater rooms were a real possibility.

While the Blue Eye lounge on these ships offers a communal underwater experience, I couldn’t help but wonder why underwater rooms for passengers on larger cruise ships weren’t more common.

As I delved deeper into the topic, I discovered that the challenges of incorporating underwater rooms for passengers on larger cruise ships were much more complex than I had imagined.

In this article, I will explore the reality of underwater cruise ship rooms, their limitations, and why they may not be as common as some may think.

• Majority of cruise ships do not have underwater cabins for guests, and lower decks are generally not used for passenger cabins.
• Modern cruise ships have essential parts like engine room, water treatment, air conditioning, fuel bunkers, water storage tanks, and plumbing below waterline, making it difficult to incorporate underwater windows.
• River cruise ships have cabins below waterline with windows above surface, and some have an aquarium class or underwater lounge for viewing.
• Glass windows would be a weak spot and could be vulnerable in case of an accident, making the incorporation of underwater viewing lounges challenging on larger cruise ships.

Existence of Underwater Cabins

I’ve learned that while some river cruise ships have cabins below the waterline with windows above the surface, ocean-going cruise ships generally do not have underwater cabins for guests. This is due to the majority of space below the waterline being used for storage, utility rooms, and crew quarters. The feasibility of having underwater cabins is also a concern, as the pressure of water and maintenance required would make having underwater windows difficult.

Additionally, glass windows would be a weak spot and could be vulnerable in case of an accident. Despite these challenges, there are some potential advantages to having underwater cabins. They could provide a unique and immersive experience for guests who want to be completely surrounded by the ocean and its wildlife.

However, incorporating underwater cabins on larger cruise ships would be challenging, as they are well-balanced and perfectly designed for cruising from port to port. Overall, while underwater cabins may not be a common feature on most cruise ships, there are still options for guests who want to experience the ocean from below, such as the Blue Eye lounge on Ponant Explore class ships or river cruise cabins with windows above the surface.

Deck Layout and Usage

The lower decks of most cruise ships are typically reserved for crew quarters, storage rooms, and utility spaces, rather than passenger cabins. This is done to optimize the layout of the ship and ensure that passengers have easy access to the amenities and areas they desire.

While it may be tempting to place passenger cabins on the lower decks, doing so would limit the number of cabins with ocean views and balconies, which are often preferred by passengers. Passenger preferences play a significant role in the layout of cruise ships, as the ultimate goal is to provide an enjoyable and comfortable experience for guests.

Therefore, cabins with balconies and ocean views are typically placed on the higher decks, while interior cabins are located on lower decks. This allows passengers to take full advantage of the scenic views and natural beauty of the ocean, while also providing an affordable option for those who prefer to spend less on their accommodations.

Ultimately, the layout of the ship is carefully planned to balance the needs and desires of passengers with the practical considerations of ship design.

Underwater Decks and Areas

Interestingly enough, the majority of modern cruise ships have at least one or two decks located below the waterline, which are typically used for essential ship functions and are inaccessible to passengers. These underwater decks contain crucial components that make the cruise a success, such as the engine room, water treatment systems, air conditioning units, fuel bunkers, water storage tanks, and plumbing. However, the pressure of the water and maintenance difficulties make it challenging to have any areas accessible to passengers below the waterline.

To emphasize the pressure challenges and maintenance difficulties, consider the following table:

While the idea of having underwater cabins or lounges may seem appealing, the reality is that the logistics and safety concerns make it impractical for modern cruise ships. Instead, passengers can enjoy the beauty of the sea from their cabins with balconies or from communal areas with large windows and panoramic views.

Limitations of Underwater Windows

Having windows below waterline on a cruise ship may seem like a great idea for those seeking a unique underwater experience. However, it’s important to understand the limitations and challenges that come with incorporating such windows.

The pressure of water at great depths can pose significant challenges for maintaining the structural integrity of the window, as well as for the safety of passengers. Additionally, maintenance difficulties can arise due to the constant exposure to saltwater and the need to keep the window clean and free of debris.

Furthermore, the glass used for such windows can never be as strong as steel, making it a weak spot in the hull of the ship. In the unfortunate event of an accident, the window could be vulnerable and pose a significant threat to the safety of passengers.

Therefore, while underwater viewing lounges may sound appealing, it is essential to consider the pressure challenges and maintenance difficulties that come with incorporating such features on a cruise ship.

River Cruise Options

I’ve learned that river cruises offer different options for those seeking a unique view, including cabins located below the waterline with windows above the surface. These rooms are generally the least expensive on the ship and are sometimes referred to as ‘aquarium class’ due to their view of the water.

However, river cruise ships generally have fewer categories of cabins than their ocean-going counterparts, with cabins often being categorized as either window only or ‘river view’ rooms. Despite the limited options, river cruise amenities are still top-notch and offer a comfortable stay for passengers.

Cabin pricing varies depending on the size and location of the room, but generally, prices for river cruises are more affordable than ocean cruises. For those seeking a unique experience, the aquarium class cabins on river cruises offer an underwater view without the need for complex and costly engineering solutions.

Blue Eye Lounge

Moving on from river cruise options, let’s explore the world’s first underwater communal lounge – the Blue Eye Lounge on Ponant Explore class ships.

This unique lounge is designed by French architect and oceanographer Jacques Rougerie and provides a truly immersive experience for guests. The lounge features huge windows that allow guests to view the underwater world, and also has underwater cameras and microphones outside that pipe in the sounds of the sea, creating a multi-sensory experience that is truly unforgettable.

If you’re interested in experiencing the Blue Eye Lounge for yourself, here are three things you should know. Firstly, the lounge is only available on Ponant Explore class ships, so you’ll need to book a cruise on one of these ships if you want to experience it. Secondly, the lounge is designed to be a communal space, so you’ll be sharing the experience with other guests. Finally, the lounge is located on the lower deck of the ship, so it’s close to the waterline and provides a truly unique perspective on the underwater world.

Challenges for Larger Ships

As a cruise enthusiast, it’s fascinating to consider the challenges that larger ships face when it comes to incorporating unique features like underwater viewing lounges.

While smaller river cruise ships have successfully implemented cabins below waterline with windows above the surface, larger ocean cruise ships pose design limitations and safety concerns.

The majority of space below waterline on ocean cruise ships is already used for storage, utility rooms, and crew quarters. Incorporating an underwater viewing lounge would require a significant redesign of the ship’s infrastructure.

Additionally, glass windows would be a weak spot in the hull, making the ship more vulnerable in case of an accident. As much as we would love to experience the ocean’s depths from the comfort of our cabins, it is important to prioritize safety and maintain the ship’s structural integrity.

Expert Insights

According to cruise industry expert Mike Schimdt, incorporating underwater viewing lounges on larger ocean cruise ships poses significant challenges due to design limitations and safety concerns. Cruise ship design is well-balanced and perfectly optimized for cruising from port to port. Any modifications that affect the balance or weight distribution of the ship could compromise its safety and seaworthiness.

Moreover, guest preferences for cabin location above the waterline also play a significant role in the decision not to include underwater cabins. Most passengers prefer cabins that are higher above the water with a balcony or at least a window for a view of the sea.

While some river cruise ships have cabins below the waterline, ocean cruise ships generally do not. Instead, the majority of the space below the waterline is used for storage, utility rooms, and crew quarters.

Are there any cruise ships with fully underwater cabins for guests?

Currently, there are no cruise ships with fully underwater cabins for guests. However, future possibilities exist with advancements in technology and engineering. Environmental concerns and safety considerations must be taken into account before implementing such designs.

What is the typical layout of the lower decks on a cruise ship?

Did you know that the majority of lower decks on cruise ships are used for crew quarters, storage, and utility rooms? Design trends and technological advancements prioritize efficiency and safety over underwater windows for guests.

What types of areas are typically located on the underwater decks of a cruise ship?

Underwater areas on a cruise ship typically house essential engineering components such as the engine room, water treatment, and plumbing. Incorporating underwater amenities poses engineering challenges due to the pressure of water, making it difficult to have windows.

What are some of the limitations of having underwater windows on a cruise ship?

While underwater windows on cruise ships offer a unique perspective, challenges like maintenance, pressure, and vulnerability in case of accidents limit their feasibility. Innovations like multi-sensory lounges offer a safer alternative.

Are there any other options for experiencing underwater views on a cruise ship besides the Blue Eye lounge and river cruise cabins?

Alternative options for experiencing underwater views on a cruise ship besides Blue Eye lounge and river cruise cabins are limited due to feasibility concerns. However, some ships offer submarine excursions or glass-bottom boat tours for a glimpse of marine life.

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Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms – Discover the World Under the Sea

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to explore the world under the sea, With underwater cruise ship rooms , you can do just that! These rooms let you experience everything from coral reefs to schools of fish without having to get wet. Plus, they’re a great way to add a little excitement to your vacation. So if you’re looking for a unique and adventurous travel experience, check some of the best ship rooms out there. You won’t regret it!

What are underwater cruise ship rooms?

The majority of people do not consider what’s underneath the waters of cruise ships. But for certain, it might be an interesting thing to look at. The two lower decks are typically restricted to crew only and rooms aren’t accessible to visitors. What exactly are these submerged rooms on cruise ships for?

While the bottoms of cruise ships may appear to be wide, they’re actually quite narrow in comparison to the rest of the vessel. They generally are no greater than 30 feet or 9.1 meters below sea level, which is less than 10 percent of the overall height.

Rooms for Cruise Ships in the Underwater

You can now enjoy all the wonders of the sea without even getting wet! Underwater cruise ship rooms are typically located near the ship’s hull, providing guests with a stunning view of the marine life swimming by.

Imagine swimming in the ocean and then coming up to your room to find a bed, TV, and mini-bar waiting for you. 

Many rooms also feature large windows that let in natural light, providing a bright and airy space to relax in. Cruise lines are now offering Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms that let you experience the beauty of the sea while lying in bed.

And don’t worry – these rooms are fully equipped with all the amenities you need, including air conditioning and private bathrooms. 

So whether you’re an experienced scuba diver or simply looking to explore the world beneath the waves, underwater cruise ship rooms are sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Some of these rooms even have large windows that give you a perfect view of the marine life swimming around you.

Underwater Cruise Lounge

In the year 2019 Ponant the French expedition company, unveiled the world’s first underwater lounge. Blue Eye created by the architect Jacques Rougerie, is a spacious, multi-sensory space set that is on four vessels of the fleet of Le Dumont-d’Urville, Le Bougainville , Le Champlain, and Le Laperouse.

Onboard, passengers can walk under the waterline to the lounge. Two huge glass portholes resemble the eyes of whales, allowing passengers to enjoy a stunning ocean view while spotting the exotic species of marine life and different marine animals.

The lounges also have digital screens that show live images that were recorded using three cameras underwater and they are accompanied by underwater surround sound.

The sound originates from noises that occur within a radius of three miles from the ship. The couches of the lounge vibrate in sync with the sea and make you feel as if you are being a part of the ocean.

Crew Cabins

There is a place for the staff on the decks for the crew. On certain vessels, they’re either beneath the water or just below the waterline. The department that they are in will determine whether the crew members are in dorms and have the ability to access typical eating places, bars, and gyms.

The orlop is one of the It is on the lower of the four floors beneath sea level. This is considered to be the bottom deck on a cruise vessel and is the most distant from the rear of the ship. The space is typically used for the storage of cables and ropes and might have earned its name because of the cables that typically cover the space.

Although it may sound like an incredibly fast-paced road, I-95 is located below decks for public use. It is the primary route that runs from the forward side towards the Aft. It provides crew members with access to the various areas of the vessel.

In the course of time, this bustling region was named I-95. I-95 in honor of the famed interstate which runs along the East Coast to the U.S. and ends in Miami (which is, in a way the capital of cruise ships).

Its look is similar to what you would think. It appears to be an extended hallway with storage spaces and doors that lead to various spaces. It’s a well-designed layout that is constantly busy with the fast-paced actions of employees and personnel.

Crew Bar and the OB

Cruise ships have lounges where guests can relax and take a break and relax. The crew can enjoy the same amenities. Its OB (or officer’s bar) offers exclusive space for officers’ spas, cruise, and entertainment personnel.

The bar for crew members is open to anyone employed at the ship. Drinks are less expensive in the crew bars, and there are activities and music to relax during their downtime. It’s a popular spot to buy things for your cabin.

If there were ports that were not able to be reached due to weather storms or other events that affect the itinerary won’t allow the newsletter to be published. This would give inaccurate and misleading information.

Every ship has an underwater space that has a print shop in which news announcements, daily planners, notes, and flyers are made.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a new and adventurous way to travel, consider an underwater cruise ship room. You’ll be able to see the world in a whole new light – quite literally. So if you’re interested in adding a little excitement to your next vacation, book some underwater cruise ship rooms today!

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Best Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms

Underwater cruise ship rooms have become a fascinating trend in the world of luxury travel. These unique accommodations take passengers on a surreal journey beneath the ocean’s surface, providing breathtaking views of marine life and underwater landscapes. With their growing popularity, more cruise lines are now incorporating these extraordinary rooms into their ships, offering passengers an unparalleled experience of sleeping beneath the sea. As travelers seek new and immersive adventures, underwater cruise ship rooms have emerged as a captivating option for those with a penchant for the extraordinary. In this article, we will delve into the allure and appeal of these underwater accommodations, exploring the reasons behind their increasing popularity.

What are underwater cruise ship rooms?

Underwater cruise ship rooms are luxurious accommodations situated below the waterline of a cruise ship, providing guests with a unique and captivating experience. These specially designed rooms allow guests to submerge themselves in the wonders of the underwater world while enjoying their stay onboard.

Features of underwater cruise ship rooms

One of the key features of underwater cruise ship rooms are their expansive windows or glass walls. These large openings provide uninterrupted panoramic views of the mesmerizing marine life and enchanting underwater landscapes. Guests can relax in their rooms and witness the beauty of colorful coral reefs, schools of fish, and other exotic sea creatures right outside their windows.

Benefits of staying in underwater cruise ship rooms

Staying in underwater cruise ship rooms offers guests a unique and unforgettable experience, providing a sense of connection with the ocean and its biodiversity. From the moment they step foot into their room, guests are mesmerized by the breathtaking views that unfold before their eyes.

Uninterrupted views of marine life

Imagine waking up to the sight of colorful fish gracefully swimming by or witnessing the vibrant coral reefs just beyond your window. In underwater cruise ship rooms, you don’t need to step out of your room to immerse yourself in the wonders of the underwater world. The glass walls of these rooms offer uninterrupted views, allowing you to watch the mesmerizing marine life in action from the comfort and privacy of your own space.

As you relax on your bed or sip a refreshing drink while lounging on your private balcony, you can witness the dance of marine creatures unfolding before your eyes. Transition words like “Additionally” or “Moreover” can also be used to enhance the flow of the article and provide additional information or examples.

Current underwater cruise ship room designs

Today, there is an impressive range of designs available for underwater cruise ship rooms. One popular option is semi-submerged suites, which provide guests with the unique experience of sleeping partially underwater. These rooms usually feature large windows above and below the waterline, allowing guests to observe marine life while maintaining a comfortable living space.

In addition, panoramic rooms are becoming increasingly popular. These rooms are typically located on the upper decks of the ship, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean. With floor-to-ceiling windows, guests can immerse themselves in the underwater world while still enjoying the comforts of their luxurious floating accommodation.

For those seeking a truly immersive experience, fully underwater suites are the ultimate choice. These suites are entirely submerged beneath the water’s surface, providing guests with unrestricted 360-degree views of the marine environment. With state-of-the-art technology and design, these suites offer an unparalleled connection to the ocean, making for an unforgettable underwater adventure.

Sustainability considerations

As the popularity of underwater cruise ship rooms continues to grow, designers are increasingly prioritizing sustainability in their designs. Eco-friendly materials, such as recyclable and low-impact materials, are being utilized to reduce the environmental footprint of these rooms. Additionally, measures are being implemented to minimize the impact on marine ecosystems, such as using non-toxic coatings and ensuring responsible waste management practices onboard.

By combining luxury and sustainability, designers are striving to create underwater cruise ship rooms that offer a truly immersive experience while respecting and preserving the fragile marine ecosystems they call home. In doing so, they are paving the way for a more eco-conscious and responsible approach to underwater tourism.

Notable underwater cruise ship room destinations

Several destinations around the world offer impressive underwater cruise ship room experiences, providing guests with the unique opportunity to sleep and unwind beneath the ocean’s surface. One such destination is the Maldives, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs. Another popular choice is Dubai, where guests can enjoy the modern and luxurious underwater suites that offer breathtaking views of marine life. Additionally, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia features exceptional underwater accommodations, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant and diverse marine ecosystem.

Additional attractions and activities

Aside from the incredible experience of staying in underwater rooms, these destinations offer an array of additional attractions and activities to further enhance guests’ underwater adventures. Snorkeling is a popular choice, allowing visitors to explore the stunning coral gardens and encounter colorful fish up close. For those seeking a more immersive experience, scuba diving is available, granting guests the opportunity to dive deeper and witness the wonders of underwater life firsthand. With the presence of professional instructors and guides, guests can safely embark on these water-based activities and create unforgettable memories beneath the surface.

In conclusion, the rise in popularity of underwater cruise ship rooms can be attributed to the growing desire for unique and immersive travel experiences. These rooms offer a truly captivating opportunity for travelers to connect with the marine life and explore the wonders of the underwater world. The enchantment of being able to witness the beauty of the ocean while onboard a luxurious cruise ship is a dream come true for many adventurers. With the increasing demand for these rooms, cruise companies are continuously expanding their offerings to meet the desires of their guests. As underwater rooms become more accessible and affordable, they are becoming a must-try experience for travelers seeking unforgettable memories.

In conclusion, embarking on a journey to explore the depths of the ocean in an underwater cruise ship room is a truly magical and enchanting experience. These innovative underwater accommodations offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature and witness the mesmerizing beauty that lies beneath the waves. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, the allure of underwater cruise ship rooms will undoubtedly captivate your imagination and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So, gather your sense of adventure and set sail on a remarkable cruise, where the tranquil waters and stunning marine life await you. Dive into this extraordinary world and embark on an unforgettable underwater escapade.

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About the project.

• Arrive at your unique accommodation via a scenic cruise through the Whitsundays
• Two underwater rooms available (king double or twin single options)
• Each room features premium bedding, glass-walled en suite and floor-to-ceiling views of the spectacular underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef
• All meals including breakfast, morning and afternoon teas, lunch and dinner
• All beverages including beer and wine (cocktails and spirits at an additional cost)
• Spectacular dining experience under the stars
• Activities at the reef including a private guided snorkelling tour and semi-submarine tour
• Access to the underwater observatory
• Optional activities (own expense): scuba diving

• Small overnight bag
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• Protective clothing, hat and sunscreen
• Light jacket or sweater for cool or windy days
• Cash / credit card for optional activities

Still have questions? See how Reefsuites FAQ page below.

To ensure your stay at Reefsuites is as comfortable as possible, we ask you fill out the medical disclosure form.

The refurbishment of the Reefworld pontoon is proudly supported by the Queensland Government’s Growing Tourism Infrastructure Fund.

Cruise Whitsundays is proud to support the region’s unique natural environment in delivering this Australian-first tourism experience.

We love where we live and work, so it’s our aim to ensure the Great Barrier Reef can be explored and enjoyed for generations to come.

Our team is working hand-in-hand with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority to ensure all elements of this project are approached in a sustainable and environmentally conscious manner.

Once work is completed later this year, the refurbished pontoon featuring two Reefsuites will be returned to its former location on Hardy Reef, thus minimising impact on the surrounding marine environment.

In working with the relevant environmental agencies during this project, we are proud to have achieved the largest natural coral transplant ever to be undertaken on the Great Barrier Reef.

More than 4000 pieces of coral have been sustainably removed from old moorings and successfully replanted onto the existing reef wall to rejuvenate the local environment. As part of this, we’ve also established a coral farm to encourage further growth in the area.

Our commitment to the marine environment continues well beyond the launch of this exciting project. The new pontoon will be a hub for public education, providing accurate reef knowledge and conservation guidance to our many visitors.

We look forward to sharing the incredible stories of the Great Barrier Reef with you.

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The Underwater Room

Anchored in an ocean floor anomaly we call the blue hole, the floating underwater room tops almost anything. Encapsulated within a turquoise blue bubble, watching shoals of reef fish swim by – sometimes in three or four layers of different species, this is a truly heart-stopping, yet awakening, experience. The floating structure, Swedish engineered, provides three levels, above the water clad in local hardwood is a lounge, bathroom below a stargazing, sun tanning bed. Each one worthy of its own story.

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Reefsuites - Australia's First Underwater Accommodation

Spend a magical night in Australia’s first underwater accommodation

Have a front row seat to the dazzling underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Be prepared for an intimate experience that will stay with you forever.  Departing from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island.

Moored offshore at Hardy Reef, 40 nautical miles from Airlie Beach, Reefworld is the setting for your spectacular overnight Reefsuite experience. The revamped pontoon hosts day trippers, on-deck Reefsleep guests and a lucky few who’ll head below deck for a private, all-inclusive Reefsuite experience.

Begin your journey with a cruise through the Whitsunday Islands to Hardy Reef onboard our high-speed vessel, arriving at the reef around 11am. After lunch, guests can snorkel, dive, swim or take a scenic helicopter flight to see famous Heart Reef (additional cost). Day visitors depart mid-afternoon and then overnight guests have Hardy Reef and Reefworld all to themselves.

Watch a stunning sunset with a drink in hand before enjoying a starlit long-table dinner on the pontoon’s upper deck. After dinner, Reefsuite guests can retreat to the privacy of their undersea accommodation. Sit back, relax and watch as the reef comes to life through the floor to ceiling windows.

Reefsuites give a whole new meaning to ‘a room with a view’ and you’ll awake to see the marine life going about another day on the world-heritage listed reef they call home. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and an exclusive morning on the reef before heading home in the afternoon with memories that will stay with you forever.

REEFSUITE PRICING

• SINGLE $1970
• DOUBLE $1095

Pricing is per person. Great Barrier Reef Environmental Management Charge (EMC): Included in your cruise fare is a per head fee which goes to the Government. The money collected is used by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) for the management and protection of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

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A brand-new naked cruise will be launching in 2025

The trip has been marketed as ‘an an 11-day adventure back to Bare-adise’

Some of us opt to explore the world by foot , car or train , but plenty of travellers are partial to bobbing between destinations aboard a cruise. And there are loads to choose from, from pickleball or Star Trek-themed voyages to trips based around murder mysteries, Irish music or Taylor Swift . 

But would you ever board a nude cruise? Well, now’s your chance. Norwegian Cruise Line have paired up with nudist travel company Bare Necessities to launch a trip described as ‘an 11-day adventure back to Bare-adise’, according to the Independent . 

The cruise, which will depart from Miami  on February 3, 2025 will journey around destinations including the Bahamas , St Lucia  and Puerto Rico , before returning on February 14. 

While that’s already a rather heavenly itinerary, the Norwegian Pearl cruise ship also has plenty on board to keep you entertained while you’re letting it all hang loose. There’s open deck space, 14 restaurants and 14 bars, a large buffet area, a casino, spa and several nightlife options. 

But don’t disrobe just yet – there are a few rules to bear in mind before you wander the starboard starkers. Cruise rules apparently require passengers to be clothed during the Captain’s reception and introduction, at all times in the main and speciality dining rooms and while docked in port. 

You’ve also gotta put a towel down before perching in the stateroom, pool deck, and buffet area, and you can’t be nude in front of other ships in port, and absolutely no ‘fondling or inappropriate touching’. 

Totally horrified or irresistibly intrigued? Prices start at $2,000 (£1,592, €1,862) for a two-person cabin, but soar up to $33,155 (£26,400, €29,590) for a three-person ‘garden villa’. You can have a look at the Bare Necessities website here . 

Did you see that there could be an underwater tunnel linking Europe and Africa by 2030 ?

Plus: A Japanese town is building a wall to block tourists from seeing a popular Mount Fuji view . 

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• Liv Kelly Contributing Writer

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Emily Blunt Says Her Kids Cried Seeing Her ‘Trapped’ and 'in Peril’ Underwater in Jungle Cruise (Exclusive)

Emily Blunt and John Krasinski’s daughters don’t want them to be “anything other than their parent,” she tells PEOPLE

Emily Blunt is recalling a family-friendly movie of hers that nevertheless traumatized her kids. 

“They don't love watching me on screen,” says Blunt, 41, of daughters Hazel, 9, and Violet, 7, who she shares with husband John Krasinski , 44. “Which I understand because I'm their mommy and it's very strange to see me play someone else.”

That’s true even for movies aimed toward kids, like Disney’s 2011 hit The Muppets , 2018’s Mary Poppins Returns , or 2021’s Jungle Cruise , she tells PEOPLE. The latter film, costarring Dwayne Johnson , actually turned out to be a distressing viewing experience for her little ones.

“They've only seen Jungle Cruise once,” the Oppenheimer Oscar nominee reveals. “They didn't like the underwater stuff where I'm trapped and I'm in peril.”

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Universal Pictures

In the action-comedy based on the Disneyland theme park ride of the same name, Blunt’s adventurer Dr. Lily Houghton professes that she can’t swim. The story takes place along the Amazon river where fantastically fearsome foes await, placing the character in several high-stakes underwater situations. 

Upon seeing her in danger, recalls Blunt with a frown, Hazel and Violet “started crying. They left the room.”

Ryan Gosling , Blunt’s costar in the stunt-heavy action-comedy The Fall Guy , agrees with their reaction. “I didn't like that, either,” he tells Blunt. “That was upsetting for me to watch you like that!”

Similarly, Gosling’s daughters Esmeralda Amada, 9, and Amada Lee, 8, who he shares with longtime partner Eva Mendes , have concerns about his strange line of work. Going into production on The Fall Guy , “My kids didn't want me to be set on fire ,” the Barbie star tells PEOPLE. “They were like, ‘No. No fire.’ So I didn't do it.”

In fact, he adds, his kids “don’t care” about the fact that he and Mendes, 50, appear on screen at all. “Eva was on an episode of Bluey ,” recalls Gosling. “We both thought it was going to be huge,” but instead, “They were like, ‘Fast-forward through that part!’”

Blunt nods. Kids, she says, “don't want you to be anything other than their parent.”

“They're not into it,” agrees Gosling.

Kevin Mazur/Getty

Of course, the stars themselves aren’t always thrilled about the potentially dangerous work sometimes required of moviemaking. Gosling admits that in The Fall Guy , he wore sunglasses during his scariest stunt — involving his character falling backwards on wires — to hide the genuine fear in his eyes. 

And family-friendly fare can involve wild stunt work, too, as Blunt reveals. “I did some wire stuff in Edge of Tomorrow , which was probably more dangerous, because I took some spills,” she reflects. “But with [ Mary Poppins Returns ], that entrance was very stressful for me.” 

The magical nanny’s entrance “had to start in the clouds and come all the way down” toward the ground, she explains. “And I'm supposed to walk effortlessly into my close-up as if it's nothing. And I did three takes — and then I felt my tolerance go, ‘Pfft!’ and that was it. I was done.”

The Fall Guy , directed by David Leitch and written by Drew Pearce, is in theaters now.

Related Articles

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

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If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

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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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Ukraine war latest: Ukraine sacks commander amid fierce battles with Russian forces; Putin reshuffle 'may hint he is preparing for future confrontation with NATO'

Fierce fighting is taking place in Ukraine's Kharkiv region, with Moscow claiming to have seized nine border villages in the area. And in Moscow, Vladimir Putin has replaced a long-time ally. Submit your question on the war for our experts below.

Monday 13 May 2024 14:20, UK

• Big picture: Everything you need to know as war enters a new week
• Russia claims control of nine villages after shock advance
• Threat of fighting spreading, says Kharkiv governor | Commander sacked
• Moscow forces walked 'freely' across border, Ukrainian soldier claims
• Putin reshuffle indicates he may be preparing for future confrontation with NATO - analysts
• Eyewitness: Deborah Haynes reports from town 'flattened' in offensive
• Analysis:  Putin's 'baffling' reshuffle explained
• Who is Andrei Belousov, Putin's new pick for defence minister?
• Live reporting by  Brad Young

Ask a question or make a comment

Echoing the analysis we featured earlier from the Insitute for the Study of War (see our 11.18am post), a senior Ukrainian official has said Vladimir Putin's reshuffle shows he wants to scale up the war effort.

Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said: "Russia is finally isolating itself and will try to scale up the war, expand its formats while reconfiguring the economy."

In a surprise move, Vladimir Putin sacked his defence minister of 12 years Sergei Shoigu and named economist Adrei Belousov as Mr Shoigu's successor.

The Institute for the Study of War said Mr Belousov, who has no military experience, will be charged with integrating the defence industrial base into wider domestic policy, further placing Russia on a war footing.

It suggests the Kremlin is preparing for a protracted conflict with Ukraine - or even possibly a future confrontation with NATO, the ISW said.

Approximately 40 miles from the fighting in northeastern Kharkiv, children in the region's namesake city are undertaking their first lessons at an underground school.

The classrooms - the first of their kind - are heavily fortified in an effort to allow some pupils to return to in-person teaching out of reach of Russia's bombs.

Kharkiv's schools have been forced to teach online throughout the war as some Russian missiles can reach the city in under a minute.

Metro stations are playing host to dozens of classrooms, while others have been welded together from layers of steel reinforcing wire and poured cement.

Russia has been increasingly carrying out off-road motorbike attacks under the cover darkness, according to British intelligence.

Lighter, faster, all-terrain vehicles have highly likely been used since the start of this year to hit Ukrainian positions, transport personnel to the frontlines and conduct reconnaissance, the UK defence ministry has said.

It said Russia reportedly purchased 2,100 Chinese off-road vehicles named Desertcross 1000-3, some of which were personally inspected by Vladimir Putin in November.

"Since the start of 2024, Russia has highly likely increased its use of light vehicles, such as all-terrain vehicles and off-road motorbikes, to transport personnel to the frontlines and conduct attacks on Ukrainian positions, particularly at night."

But the army has sacrificed armour and firepower for mobility, with light vehicles "far more vulnerable than their armoured counterparts", the UK MoD said.

Ukrainian drones have "already demonstrated their ability to effectively target" the vehicles, it added.

As we covered in some detail here earlier this year, Sweden dropped more than two centuries of historic neutrality by joining NATO.

The Baltic Sea, which includes maritime access to the Russian city of St Petersburg and the Kaliningrad enclave, is now almost surrounded by members of the alliance.

Today, Swedish prime minister Ulf Kristersson said Nordic and Baltic cooperation was "deeper than at any time in modern times", underpinned by increasing security threats from Russia.

He is hosting German chancellor Olaf Scholtz and the prime ministers of Denmark, Norway, Finland and Iceland in Stockholm, with security policy and NATO's July summit in Washington topping the agenda.

"We have long appreciated our neighbours, but at the same time underestimated the importance of concrete, operational cooperation," Mr Kristersson wrote in an op-ed in Swedish business paper Dagens Industri.

Meanwhile, the three Baltic prime ministers have been meeting in Lithuania to reaffirm that Moscow's intimidation is not going to dissuade them from supporting Ukraine.

Estonia's prime minister Kaja Kallas said that "Russia has also intensified the shadow war against all of European countries. It wants to really scare and intimidate the free world to scare us away from helping Ukraine".

"We shouldn't be scared," she added.

With a second front opening in the war and a surprise reshuffle in Vladimir Putin's cabinet, it's been an important week for the war in Ukraine.

Readers have been sending in their questions to our senior correspondents and military experts for their take on the changing battlefield environment.

Today, Jeanie asked:

Is Russia taking advantage and conducting an offensive in the border region due to the fact that several Western countries don't allow their weapons to be used on Russian soil?

Military analyst Sean Bell had this to say...

Thanks, Jeanie, for this very topical question.

Russia claims to have seized nine border settlements as part of a major offensive in the Kharkiv region. Although Ukraine has known for months that Russia was amassing military forces in the region - between 30,000 to 50 000 troops - the scale and ferocity of the attack appears to have caught Ukraine by surprise.

Although only Vladimir Putin and his senior military leadership will know the details of Russia's military strategy, most military analysts believe that Russia does not have the military resources to mount a significant and enduring second front without compromising the offensive in the Donbas - widely believed to be Russia's main effort.

However, Putin is well aware that Russia has a window of opportunity to capitalise on Ukraine's shortage of weapons, and by opening a second front, it forces Ukraine to spread its resources even more thinly, leaving Ukraine more vulnerable on the frontline in the Donbas.

Russia's military objectives for this new offensive appear to be to create a "buffer zone" to protect the Russian border town of Belgorod. This logistics hub for the Russian military effort is just within artillery range of Ukraine, and Putin has long promised to push the Ukrainian forces outside artillery range - around 30km. 

In addition, Russia wants to threaten Kharkiv, so it's pushing forward to enable its own artillery to be within range of this major Ukrainian city.

Moving large quantities of military personnel and equipment from the frontline cannot easily be done discreetly - which under normal circumstances would leave Russian forces vulnerable to Ukrainian attack. 

However, in an effort to limit the potential for escalation, the West has precluded the use of Western-provided weapons to target Russian forces on Russian territory. This significantly limits Ukraine's ability to target Russia's forces as they prepare for a fresh offensive.

However, although we can speculate on Putin's objectives, a battlefield is a dynamic environment, and Russia has considerable forces in reserve to capitalise on any momentum achieved during its current offensive.

Vladimir Putin's surprise choice of new defence minister Andrei Belousov has been speaking to a parliamentary committee as part of his confirmation process.

In his first public comments since being appointed to the post, he called for greater care for soldiers, including better access to housing, hospitals and welfare benefits. 

State media quoted him as saying there was too much bureaucracy surrounding the payment of benefits to military personnel. 

"I think it's a mess when participants in the special military operation who come back on holiday are driven from civilian medical institutions to hospitals which are often simply overcrowded. This issue needs to be resolved," Mr Belousov said.

The comments appeared to be aimed at demonstrating to members of the armed forces that he understands their concerns and will work to improve their conditions. 

In recent days, some German politicians have been calling for a no-fly zone over Ukraine enforced by NATO.

A German government spokesperson has rejected the notion, saying its stance has not changed since the alliance last denied the request.

"We rejected that at the time and I think the same applies to the different requests that are now being made," the spokesperson said.

NATO rejected a Ukrainian request for the no-fly zone in March 2022, days after Russia's invasion began.

At the time, secretary general Jens Stoltenberg justified the decision on the basis that "we are not part of this conflict".

"We have a responsibility as NATO allies to prevent this war from escalating beyond Ukraine," he said.

Vladimir Putin's cabinet reshuffle could indicate he is preparing for any future confrontation with NATO, according to a US thinktank.

The replacement of defence minister Sergei Shoigu strongly suggests he is preparing the economy and military-industrial complex for a protracted war with Ukraine, the Institute for the Study of War says.

The ISW's analysis is based on the appointment of Adrei Belousov to the post - an economist with no military experience.

He has a reputation for being an effective technocrat who has been charged with integrating Russia's defence industrial base into wider domestic policy, the ISW says.

"These high-level reshuffles following the Russian presidential election strongly suggest that Putin is taking significant steps towards mobilising the Russian economy and defence industrial base to support a protracted war in Ukraine and possibly prepare for a future confrontation with NATO."

Mr Belousov has been focused on technological innovation and drone output, which is "likely to be extremely valuable to the Kremlin".

"The Kremlin has recently had to reckon with a gap between Russian drone production and contemporary battlefield realities," the ISW says.

Ukraine has sacked the commander responsible for Kharkiv, military command has said.

Nazar Voloshyn told RBC-Ukraine media a decision was made on Saturday to appoint Brigadier General Mykhailo Drapatyi to the position.

The day before, Russia launched an incursion across Ukraine's northeastern border into the Kharkiv region.

One soldier blamed poor fortifications at the border, telling Sky News the Russian army walked "freely" across it.

Fighting continues in villages nearby, with the region's governor warning earlier this morning that it could spread to new areas.

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