Europe is the place where cruise ships are made. Numerous shipyards are located in the region, producing vessels for niche markets and a broad range of customers. These shipyards can be found in ports close to the ocean. While some are privately owned, most are state owned companies.
The construction of a modern cruise ship is a huge undertaking. It is similar building an automobile manufacturing facility. The steel plates that form the hull are made in sections. These sections are then welded together. This is done with high precision.
Shipyards can build a variety of ships, including passenger ferries, container ships, Ro-Ro vessels, and livestock ferries. The European yards have a distinct advantage when it comes building cruise ships.
France, Italy and Finland are the main European shipyards. Fincantieri is the largest cruise ship builder in the world. They have built numerous ships for Carnival Cruises (MSC Cruises) and Costa Cruises (Costa Cruises).
In recent years, many Chinese-owned cruise lines have focused on this market. Genting Cruise Lines as well as Dream Cruises, which both collapsed, were designed specifically for this market. Norwegian Joy, which entered China's market in 2017, was a custom designed ship that met the requirements of the Chinese market. Over the next 20 years, more ships were built to service this market.
Many of the ships being built today were originally intended for mass cruising. Typically, these were large, multi-story, ocean liners. These ships have a glass elevator as well as a multi-story lobby and private balconies within the cabins.
Modern ships are being built in Europe. The Harmony of the Seas, the third Oasis-Class vessel, measures 226 meters. It boasts all the unique features of Royal Caribbean. She can accommodate up to 5,479 people with a beam of 66 m.
Commander Don Goldstein was in the business more than 30 years and witnessed first-hand how the United States cruise industry developed. He feels that the United States have added too many protectionist policies since World War II. He says that these laws have caused a lot of damage to the cruise industry in the U.S. One article published in the Los Angeles Times argued that the laws have actually hindered the growth of the cruise industry in the U.S.
Europe is the home of most of the world's most highly regarded cruise ships. STX France (and STX Norway) are both European yards that offer vessels to the Asian, and South American markets. Fincantieri, a company that specializes in luxury cruise liners, also owns the Norwegian shipyards.
While the cruise industry has improved and evolved tremendously, it is still dominated largely by European shipyards. Most cruise ships are foreign-flagged with the exception the United States, where it has its own shipyards.
FAQ
Do I have to dress up for a cruise or not?
No, you don't need to wear formal attire or anything fancy. Simply be comfortable and open to relaxation.
How do you choose the right cruise ship?
It is easy to find the best cruise line. The first step is to decide which type of cruise you'd like to take. Are you looking for a smaller, intimate cruise or one with many people? Then consider how much money you want to spend. You might be interested in cruises that include all-inclusive options if you are looking for something cheaper. This will mean that you won't need to pay extra for meals, drinks, entertainment or other amenities. You should also ensure that your cruise line offers good family programs if you're planning on a family trip.
To go on a cruise, do you need to have a passport?
A passport is necessary to travel all over the world. It lets you visit any country without requiring visas or any other paperwork.
You might not be allowed into certain countries if you don't have a passport. It also lets you stay longer when traveling abroad.
Is a cruise ship all-inclusive?
Because they don't offer meals for people with special dietary requirements, cruise ships aren't all-inclusive. You will not find room service, laundry, or any other amenities like pools, gyms and spas on a cruise ship.
However, some cruise lines offer "all-inclusive" packages which cover everything except alcohol. These packages generally include airfare, hotel accommodations or entertainment.
Statistics
- If you're traveling alone, you may also need to factor in a single supplement, adding up to as much as 100% of the cruise fare. (travel.usnews.com)
- *20% Gratuities Apply on Free Unlimited Open Bar; Free Specialty Dining. (ncl.com)
- The line estimates savings of 50% when you purchase this bundle. (travel.usnews.com)
- For an example of savings, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. (travel.usnews.com)
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How To
How to stay safe while aboard a cruise vessel
You need to know a lot before you set sail on your cruise. You must understand how to behave when onboard so you don't get into trouble. Here are some safety tips that will help you enjoy your trip.
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Pay attention to your surroundings at all costs. People are more likely to be together when they're eating on a cruise ship than anywhere else. You can easily become distracted by the chatter and food of others. This should not distract from what you are supposed do. If you witness someone smoking or drinking alcohol, please tell them politely that they must stop.
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When you board the ship, keep your room key close by and give it to the person checking in. You will be able to tell them where you are if they need you. Your passport is also important.
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Your valuables should be kept out of reach. Most cabins come equipped with drawers under the bed. That's a great place to store valuables such as passports, credit cards, and money. Also, make sure nothing valuable is visible in plain view. Place your bags in the closet.
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Hydrate. Even though cruise ships are well-stocked with water, it can sometimes be hard to remember how much. Get bottled water for free on the ship. Keep yourself hydrated. Dehydration makes you tired and cranky, leading to fights or accidents.
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Always pay attention to announcements. Announcements are posted everywhere, including on TV screens and public address systems. They include safety procedures, emergency exits, and even weather reports. Pay attention to these announcements. They might save your life!
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Do not leave your cabin without first locking the door. No matter how friendly or helpful a crewmember may appear, lock your cabin. Many thieves break into cabins by stealing the doors. Ask a crew member first if you need to use the bathroom.
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Avoid going alone overboard. The crew will need to wait for you to be rescued if you do fall overboard. You may attract sharks or other sea creatures to your body while you are still on the ship's crew. Waiting until help arrives is the best option.
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Do not smoke in an elevator. These elevators are pressurized and smoke can build up quickly. Get off immediately if you feel dizzy or lightheaded. You can still breathe even though it is outside fresh.
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The evacuation procedure. Every year, thousands die from being trapped in an elevator. Follow the instructions on screen if you are in an emergency.
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Be familiar with the fire drill. Fire drills take place regularly, almost every day. During a drill, everyone on deck has to evacuate. Follow the instructions of the crew members. Once the drill is complete, go back to your cabin and lock the door.
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Ask questions before accepting food or drinks. Cruisers frequently experience food poisoning. Many people are unaware that certain foods cannot be eaten aboard ships. Most cruise ships prohibit raw oysters. If you're unsure whether or not the food you've been offered is safe, politely refuse and look for another meal instead.
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Take care when you use the pool. Many people have fallen into the pools by accident. This is a common occurrence. It is also possible to slip on the ground. You should always wear good footwear and be aware of your surroundings.