You have probably been on a cruise ship or sailed on one. If so, you may have wondered what happens when the ship is retired. These ships can be very large and served many passengers over their lifetimes. As they age, or become too expensive to operate, they are either sold to other companies or thrown out entirely.
What Happens to Old Cruise Ships
One of the most frightening aspects about cruise ships are the sheer number of ships abandoned by their owners, or simply sunk to make way for more profitable vessels. Some of these ships are actually still moored in port and used as tourist attractions, while others have been towed to ship breaking yards around the world where they are cut up for scrap.
Among the most infamous cases of this type of ship are the General Slocum, which was a coal-burning fireboat that burned down in the US during the war. It was later saved and displayed at New York's US National Maritime Museum.
The Queen Mary, a Long Beach ship that has been known to be a graveyard for cruise ships, is another. There is a permanent docking of the former cruise ship, and tours are available.
Repurposed ships can also be used for other purposes. Many of these ships can be turned into hotels or convention centers, as well as restaurants.
Some of these vessels were also turned into museums. Some are even repurposed to form artificial reefs, which provide habitat for marine species.
Retired cruise ships are a very different kind of holidayship
There are special programs offered by cruise lines that allow retired people to live onboard and have all the amenities of cruising. This includes rooms that can be used as a full-time residence with six-month or annual lease options. It also gives you access to all of your meals and other amenities onboard the ship.
These programs are not available on other cruise lines. However, some do offer condos or apartments that can be purchased at a premium cost. These rooms can be very luxurious and offer a great way for retirees to spend their days.
What Happens to Retired Cruise Ships
When a cruise ship begins to fall apart and cannot be repaired or kept up, it's often sent to a'ship breaking yard', which will take six months to eight months to dismantle. These yards are available all over the globe, including in India and Bangladesh.
Other than these "ship breaking yards", there are also shipwrecks which have been abandoned in open ocean. Many of these wrecks are a popular tourist destination, including the World Discoverer that struck a reef off the Solomon Islands and the Olympia that grounded off Amorgos Island in Greece.
FAQ
Are there any drawbacks to cruising
You should consider the pros and cons to cruising. Some people may not wish to spend their whole vacation on a boat. Others may prefer to stay near shore or in hotels. Still, others may feel uncomfortable being away from land for so long. However, choosing a cruise with plenty of time ashore can easily overcome these concerns.
Is a cruise a good holiday?
It's the best way to enjoy your vacations. A cruise is just what the doctor ordered!
How do you choose the right cruise ship?
It's easy to pick the right cruise ship. First, decide what type of cruise you would like to take. Do you want a small intimate cruise or one that has many passengers? Next, consider how much you are willing to spend. Look for cruises with all-inclusive packages if you're looking for something less expensive. These packages will save you the hassle of paying for extra food, drinks, entertainment, and so on. Make sure you have good family programs in place if your family is planning a cruise.
These four factors affect the cost of a cruise.
The main factors determining the price of a cruise are the length of time you want to spend on board, whether you would prefer an all-inclusive package, how many people you plan to take along, and what type of cabin you have booked.
What does a cruise vacation cost?
One person can cruise for $1,000 plus taxes and fees. The average price for a family of four is $4,200. This includes all meals, drinks and entertainment. It also includes port fees, gratuities, and other shipboard amenities.
How does cruising work
You pay a deposit of $50-$100 when you reserve a cabin on a cruise. Your balance is due 30 days before departure. When you arrive at the port, you check into your cabin. Afterward, you may participate in one of the many onboard activities.
Are cruise ships safe?
Yes, cruise ships can be very safe to travel on. Cruise ships are equipped to handle the most sophisticated technology and security measures. Cruise ships also follow strict safety standards. All crew members undergo extensive training and are required to pass background checks. All passengers are checked upon their arrival onboard the ship. Some cruise lines require passengers to provide proof of vaccinations against certain illnesses. If you have any questions about safety while aboard, contact customer service immediately.
Statistics
- For an example of savings, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. (travel.usnews.com)
- *20% Gratuities Apply on Free Unlimited Open Bar; Free Specialty Dining. (ncl.com)
- You can save 15% off the total price if you book in advance of your trip. (travel.usnews.com)
- In addition, 10 to 15 percent gratuity is typically added to bar bills — for alcohol and soft drinks — and gratuities are applied to spa treatments. (cruiseline.com)
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How To
How to book cruises
A travel agency is the best place to book a cruise. This service will include booking your cruise, organizing your flights and accommodations, handling insurance issues and making payment arrangements. You will be taken care of by the agent throughout the entire process to ensure that you get the best deal.
There are many ways to save money. Many people prefer to buy their tickets directly from the cruise line by going direct to them. This is a great way to compare prices with what you would be paying if you booked through an agent. A specialist online comparison site, such as CruiseCompare.com, is another option. The website allows you to enter your information and find the lowest price. You can then book the one that best suits your needs.
You have other options if your willing to do some digging. You could search online for a company that offers a package deal, where you can combine flight and accommodation. This type of package is offered by many websites.
You might also talk to your family about their experience with different cruise lines. They may be able to offer advice on how suitable a particular cruise is for your needs.