Princess Cruises has set a new Guinness World Record for the “World’s Largest Pizza Party,” celebrated across multiple venues aboard its fleet.
The event, in partnership with Chef Tony Gemignani, a 13-time World Pizza Champion, saw guests indulging in over 60,000 slices of pizza.
It was held across July 12th and 13th, across 16 ships in the fleet. This meant that the party was held across three continents at once, over eight different time zones.
Chef Tony Gemignani introduced two exclusive pizzas featuring ingredients like Soppressata sausage, hot honey, agave pesto, and fresh goat cheese. These gourmet pizzas were a highlight of the event.
Overall, the event involved over 6,500 lb of pizza dough and over 2,300 lb of cheese!
“Princess is about delivering great experiences, and there is no more important element than pizza. While Princess has long been known for having the best pizza at sea, we decided to take it up an entirely new level with legendary Tony Gemignani and also set a Guinness World Record title in the process.“
John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises
The event was verified by an adjudicator from Guinness World Records, meaning that it took the prize from the previous winner – a pizza party held in Tulsa, Oklahoma in early 2023.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Viking® (NYSE: VIK) has announced its newest ocean ship, the Viking Vesta®, was “floated out,” marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water. Classified as a small ship, as are all Viking ocean ships, the Viking Vestahas a gross tonnage of 54,300 tons, with 499 staterooms that can host 998 guests. The ship is scheduled to debut in July 2025 and will spend her inaugural season sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean and in Northern Europe.
Viking Vesta Floated Out
“It is always a good day when a new ship meets water for the first time,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “Over the last decade, we have built the world’s most elegant small ocean ships together with Fincantieri. As we prepare to welcome the Viking Vesta next summer, as well as her identical sister ship, the Viking Vela, this fall, we look forward to introducing even more curious travelers to the Viking way of exploration.”
The traditional float out ceremony took place at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona and is significant because it denotes a ship moving into its final stage of construction. The float out of the Viking Vestabegan on July 4 at approximately 11:00 a.m. local time when the Viking team cut a cord that signaled water to flow into the ship’s building dock. Following a two-day process that will set the Viking Vesta afloat, she will then be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior build-out.
With a clear focus on creating experiences for The Thinking Person, Viking does not try to be all things to all people. This approach has resonated with guests, and in 2023, Viking was rated #1 for Oceans, as well as #1 for Rivers and #1 for Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler in the most recent Readers’ Choice Awards.
Did You Know?
Viking (NYSE: VIK) was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person™.
Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers, #1 for Oceans and #1 for Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking is also rated at the top of its categories for rivers, oceans and expeditions by Travel + Leisure. No other travel company has simultaneously received the same honors by both publications.
For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com. For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv.
The vacation flipping the script on short getaways has arrived. Royal Caribbean International’s Utopia of the Seasmade its first appearance in Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, just a few days ahead of its official debut on Friday, July 19.
Utopia of the Seas Arrives In Her New Homeport
The ultimate short getaway was welcomed home as more than 2,000 crew members celebrated across Utopia’s vibrant Caribbean pool deck and thrills, from the longest dry slide at sea – The Ultimate Abyss – to the signature FlowRider surf simulator. Up next is a celebration fit for the getaway of all getaways that will feature Utopia’s newly revealed godmother, GRAMMY-winning artist and songwriter Meghan Trainor, as she takes center stage to name the new vacation and perform one hit after the next before it begins sailing 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday vacations.
Utopia brings unmatched weekend energy to everyone and every day of the week, with a combination of ways to celebrate any occasion or just getting away. On deck are more than 40 ways to dine, drink and party, including a lineup of parties only on Utopia, two casinos, a new Caribbean tiki bar – The Pesky Parrot, Royal Railway – Utopia Station, a first-of-its-kind immersive train car dining experience; more pools than the days to count; thrills and ways to chill; show-stopping entertainment across air, ice, water and stage; and more at Perfect Day at CocoCay.
For additional information or to book, vacationers can visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com, call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN or contact their travel advisor.
A cruise passenger has taken to TikTok to complain about their Celebrity cruise after the cruise line seemingly dropped her luggage in the sea, losing it.
The story began when Lindsey Hargesheimer, from Denver, Colorado, realised she hadn’t received her luggage when everyone else had.
She called a representative on the ship, only to be told that the cruise line couldn’t locate her bag.
@throughlindseyslens Celebrity Cruises dropped my bag in the OCEAN! This was filmed on July 6th as we embarked on July 5th, I posted as soon as I had service. More updates to come. Please tag @Celebrity Cruises @Royal Caribbean so they can finally take accountability for their actions. *disclaimer: I understand that being on this trip is a privilege and I’m very grateful that me and my family are safe.* #lostatsea#celebritycruise#lostbaggage♬ original sound – linds | colorado photog
Hargesheimer had packed important medication in the suitcase, along with clothes and family jewellery. Cruise lines do advise that anything important like medication is packed in carry-on luggage, in case bags do go missing when checked.
Hargesheimer turned her phone signal back on while at sea, and almost immediately received a call from someone in Amsterdam, who had fished her suitcase out of the canals of Amsterdam, where it had apparently been carried by the waters.
It has been returned to the Port of Amsterdam but it has suffered water damage, and so won’t be returned to Hargesheimer until she completes her cruise and can inspect the bag alongside port authorities.
Initially, Celebrity were slow to offer much in the way of compensation until they did admit the bag had been lost in the sea.
At first, the cruise line offered her $400 onboard credit and two laundry vouchers, but they then upped their offer after meeting with Hargesheimer.
She has now been given $1,000 onboard credit, with the option to cash out anything she hasn’t spent by the end of the cruise.
She has also been given complimentary spa services, two free speciality dining meals, a free shore excursion, and the cruise line has sent flowers and chocolate-covered strawberries to her room.
Celebrity has apparently also said that they will replace the suitcase itself, though as of the last update Hargesheimer provided, she hadn’t yet received it.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
MSC Cruises has revealed a range of over 90 new shore excursion experiences, exclusively for guests in MSC Yacht Club suites.
The new excursions revealed so far are available in the Caribbean and Europe, with more to be made available worldwide in future.
The tours aim to give guests the best experiences possible, including culinary adventures, adventurous activities, private tours and more.
Guests who book onto the excursions will enjoy priority disembarkation on their day in port, and private transfers. All excursions will be run for small groups only.
Some examples include:
Perfume-making workshops in Cannes, France
Whisky tasting at a distillery in Invergordon, Scotland
A luxury catamaran and snorkelling experience in Cozumel, Mexico
Private cabana rentals in the forests by Martha Brae River in Falmouth, Jamaica
A pesto cooking class in Genoa, Italy
The new offering has come following customer feedback and a desire for a more exclusive experience for MSC Yacht Club guests. Guests will benefit from a seamless experience between the butlers’ service onboard and the excursion experts ashore as well as having the opportunity to relax and fully immerse themselves into each destination’s culture, cuisine and traditions.
Marialuisa Iaccarino, head of shore excursions, MSC Cruises
The MSC Yacht Club is the exclusive suite area onboard MSC ships, where guests can enjoy access to a private sundeck and pool, and an exclusive restaurant too. Guests enjoy special services including a dedicated concierge desk and a butler, available 24 hours a day.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
A new $35 million water park is to be built in Nassau in the Bahamas, offering an exciting new activity for cruise passengers.
The cruise port is getting a wider $330 million redevelopment, and the water park element is due to be completed by December 2025.
It will be built on the western side of the port, and while construction hasn’t yet started, a building permit is ready and just awaiting final approval.
Nassau is already the largest port in the Bahamas and has set several records for the most ships visiting in a single day or the most cruise passengers in a day, which stands at 29,316.
However, many passengers either pass through the port to reach private resorts, or find that the port isn’t the most fun for families, especially on repeat visits.
There is already a water park at Paradise Island’s Atlantic Resort near the Nassau port, which offers day passes for cruise guests from $255 for adults.
But the new water park at the port will be more convenient for cruise guests, and will offer exciting family activities ideal for guests of cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean or Disney Cruise Line, which often call at the port.
However Royal Caribbean is already building its Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island, which the cruise line is hoping will attract up to 2,700 guest per day.
This will also feature a (small) water park along with pools and a private beach area.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
While going on a road trip may seem like the best option with a student’s budget, cruise trips can also be a fantastic option. However, the assumption that cruise trips are often luxurious and expensive limits most students from going on their dream cruise vacations. Nonetheless, with proper planning, cruising on a budget is possible. Cutting down on costs during a cruise trip goes beyond getting the cheapest fare. You can save money during and after your cruise trips using the following tips.
Find Student Discounts
Most dealings involving students normally have student discounts. For instance, writing services like payforessay.net offer discounts to make it less burdensome for students to buy papers. So, before going on a cruise, look for discounts to help you cut costs. Most cruise ships may have discounts specifically for students. Additionally, travel agencies also have special discounted packages for students. Therefore, you visit various travel agencies or cruise ship websites and compare the prices and any offers available. Before settling for a travel date or the cruise ship, ensure you compare the prices and the offers available under the package to ensure you do not miss a better deal elsewhere. Furthermore, you can utilize loyalty programs to lower costs. If you take cruise trips frequently using a specific cruise line, you can sign up for their loyalty program to get discounted prices and other perks each time you want to travel.
Book the Inside Cabins
While having the ocean view from your room may be nice, you can still have a swell time with an interior cabin. You will rarely be in the room since they will only be for changing and sleeping, and you may not enjoy the balcony or ocean view from your room as much despite the cost. If you are going on a cruise trip with your friends, it is best to get the interior cabin since most of the time will be spent exploring other amenities and socializing. However, check various cruise ship deals before booking since you can find affordable deals on balcony rooms.
Buy Things for Something Other Than the Cruise Trip
Looking good and taking pictures for your socials during a cruise trip is essential, but do not break the bank by buying new outfits and accessories for your trip. Instead, you can work with what you have in your wardrobe to cut down on costs. If you do not have a cocktail dress for the cruise dinner, the logical step is to find an alternative formal attire to suit the occasion. Setting aside a whole shopping budget can be costly and may limit your expenditure during your cruise trip.
Pack Smart
When packing for your cruise trip, ensure you include all essential items to avoid making purchases on the cruise ship. Some of the prices of items sold on the ship may be exorbitant and may overstretch your budget. Make a packing list to ensure you do not forget items such as toiletries, first aid kits, and attires for themed nights.
Additionally, if you often struggle with seasickness, it is essential to carry enough medication to last the duration you will be on the cruise ship. Some cruise lines also allow travelers to bring limited non-alcoholic drinks, wine, or champagne. You should take advantage of such offers to avoid buying expensive beverages on the cruise ship. If you are going on the boat with your friends, ensure each of you carries at least two bottles of wine to ensure you have enough supply to last through the cruise trip period.
Be Smart About the Excursions
The excursions on a cruise trip usually wrap up the experience, so you cannot afford to miss out on them. However, some are generally expensive and may overstretch your budget; thus, you need to be smart about how you go about them. The best way to save money on excursions is by paying for them independently instead of using the cruise line, but ensure you return to the ship on time. Additionally, carry your kits for different activities. For example, having snorkeling gear will help you cut costs on renting one on the beach, which usually costs almost the same as buying a new one in the stores.
Choose Off-Peak Travel
Budget-Friendly Cruise Tips for Students 7
Traveling during the off-peak season is an old trick that always works. During off-peak travel, prices usually drop, and you can go for your dream cruise trip at an affordable cost. Some of the best periods to go on a cruise trip are early spring or late fall. During this time, students are either winding up their semester or preparing for a new academic year, and thus, you will find that not many people are traveling. During summer, however, most people are on break from school and prefer to go on vacation. Going for your cruise trip during the off-peak season allows you to enjoy the best amenities at an affordable price.
Take Advantage of Free Activities
The Disney Dream docks at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the tropical waters of the Bahamas, reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests. In a setting of crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white-sand beaches and lush landscapes, the 1,000-acre island offers one-of-a-kind areas and activities for every member of the family. (David Roark, photographer)
When you want to buy essay, one hack for reducing the cost of the paper is to pick a service that offers freebies like free revisions. Apply the same trick when cruising to minimize costs. Cruise ships often offer some complimentary services for every guest. Therefore, before settling in, it is best to inquire if there are some free activities you can indulge in to ensure you do not leave the ship to pay for them elsewhere. For example, pool and gym access are usually accessible on most ships. Utilizing these complimentary amenities will help you save, and you can redirect the money to other aspects of your vacation, such as exciting excursions.
Parting Shot
You should not anticipate an extraordinary experience during your cruise; instead, aim to have fun, relax, and get a little sun.
Having high expectations often makes one stretch their budget. Going on a cruise trip isn’t as unattainable as most students would assume. Proper budgeting allows you to enjoy a cruise trip without breaking the bank. From making early bookings to taking advantage of student discounts, you can enjoy your trip without overstretching.
Most ships make money from people’s purchases, hence the exorbitant prices. Therefore, pack all the essentials to ensure you do not spend much money buying basic items.
As we know, the cruise industry took a bit of a hit from 2020 until 2021, but the recovery has been pretty remarkable. 2022 and 2023 saw the cruise market boom once again, helped by a number of new ship launches
In this updated guide, I’ve got some key cruise stats that help show you the state of the current cruise industry, including key info from the last couple of years and a preview of what’s to come in 2024.
2024 Cruise Industry Statistics
1. In 2023, the Cruise Market Recovered to Record Levels
31.7 million people enjoyed a cruise in 2023 – record levels that surpass even the numbers before the global shutdown.
According to the latest state of cruising report by the Cruise Line International Association, around 35 million passengers are expected to embark on a cruise in 2024.
2023 was the first year expected to be above 2019 passenger levels, with the industry recovering slowly from the global shutdown of 2020 – though not slow compared to some other travel industries.
2. Royal Caribbean Carried the Most Passengers of All Cruise Lines in 2023
(Individual cruise line reports)
Royal Caribbean carried more passengers than any other cruise line in 2023, with over 6 million passengers. However, the Carnival Corporation (including Carnival, Costa Cruises, Princess Cruises, AIDA, Holland America, and P&O) hasn’t yet announced its full statistics and it’s likely that the Group will have more passengers combined – it was 7.7 million in 2022.
3. 15 New Cruise Ships Were Delivered in 2023
The new cruise ships delivered in 2023 are shown in the following table…
In 2024, 11 new cruise ships are currently planned, including a brand-new biggest ship ever.
The ships due to be delivered in 2024 are:
Cruise Ship
Cruise Line
Capacity
Launch
Icon of the Seas
Royal Caribbean
7,600
January 2024
Sun Princess
Princess Cruises
4,300
February 2024
Brilliant Lady
Virgin Voyages
2,700
May 2024 TBC
Queen Anne
Cunard Line
3,000
May 2024
Mein Schiff 7
TUI Cruises
2,900
June 2024
Silver Ray
Silversea
728
June 2024
Utopia of the Seas
Royal Caribbean
5,668
July 2024
Explora II
Explora Journeys
922
August 2024
Viking Vela
Viking Ocean Cruises
998
December 2024
Disney Treasure
Disney Cruise Line
4,000
December 2024
Ilma
Ritz Carlton
448
TBC Summer 2024
5. More Than 50% Of All New Cruise Ships That Launched in 2022 or 2023 Are Powered by LNG Rather Than Diesel
(CLIA)
Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) is the cleanest fossil fuel and it represents an excellent alternative to diesel to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and compact climate change. LNG also has virtually zero sulphur emissions.
69% of diesel-powered ships have been fitted with exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS) which remove 98% of sulphur content from exhaust emissions. 96% of non-LNG new ships will have EGCS installed.
6. In 2023 There Were Over 300 Cruise Ships in the World
It’s not clear how many cruise ships are operating right now, because some of the smaller ships don’t always operate. There were believed to be 323 cruise ships by the end of 2022 and another 15 were added in 2023, but it’s not clear how many were sold or scrapped. It’s likely to be around 320 ships sailing right now.
According to CLIA this is still under 1% of the world’s commercial fleet of ships. 25% of ships are general cargo ships.
7. There Are More Than 50 Cruise Lines in the World
(CLIA, Maritime Executive)
There were more than 50 cruise lines operating in 2024, as recognised by the Cruise Lines International Association as well as some smaller brands.
The biggest additions to the cruise line world last year were Explora Journeys – a new luxury brand operated by MSC – and Crystal Cruises, which made its return after folding in 2022.
Explora Journeys was a new cruise line for 2023
8. An Exact Replica of the Titanic, Called Titanic II, Was Announced (Again) in 2024.
(Business Insider)
An Australian businessman has undertaken a $500 million project to build an exact replica of the Titanic cruise ship which sank in 1912.
The ship will feature modern-day navigation technology and safety systems and, unlike the original, it will have enough lifeboats and life jackets for all of the passengers.
You can learn more about Titanic II in this video…
The project was announced a long time ago, but only in early 2024 was an update given and it is still happening, though there is no timescale.
9. The First Cruise Ships Had Cows on Board To Provide Fresh Milk
(Associated Press, Cunard)
Cunard is one of the oldest cruise lines with a history dating back to 1840. On the earliest cruises, cows were kept on board to supply fresh milk before being slaughtered and eaten on the final day of the voyage.
These days, over 40,000 pints of milk are brought on to a cruise ship for a two-week cruise. To produce that amount of milk in two weeks would require 25 dairy cows.
10. 2024 Saw The New ‘Biggest Cruise Ship in the World’
Unlike previous new ‘biggest ship’ launches such as Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas, this is not a minor increase within the same class. This is a brand new Icon Class, which is significantly larger.
The previous biggest ship launched in 2022, and that was Wonder of the Seas. She had an internal volume of 236,857 gross tons and a maximum passenger capacity of 6,988.
Icon of the Seas exceeds those stats by some way, with a volume of 250,800 gross tons and a maximum passenger capacity of 7,600.
11. The Most Expensive Cruise Ships Are Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas… For Now
(Statista)
The most expensive cruise ships ever built are Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. These virtually-identical ships each cost around $1.4 billion when they were built in 2009 and 2010 respectively.
Royal Caribbean’s newest Oasis-class ship, Wonder of the Seas, was slightly less expensive to build, with a cost of $1.3 billion.
But Icon of the Seas, that launched earlier in 2024, is estimated to have cost $2 billion. So the title may change hands very soon, once that figure is confirmed…
The average cruise duration is seven days. However, seven-day cruises account for only 40% of all cruises. 27% of cruises are 4-6 days in length, 15% are 8-13 days, 11% are up to 3 days and 4% are 14 days.
Cruise Port and Destination Statistics
13. There Are More Than 2,000 Cruise Ports To Explore
(CruiseMapper)
CruiseMapper has a database of 2,219 cruise ports. 587 of these are river ports and 1,632 are ocean ports.
Most cruise ports can only accommodate ships of a certain size – the smaller ones are only accessible by smaller cruise ships.
14. The World’s Busiest Cruise Port Is Port Canaveral
(Florida Ports Council)
The world’s busiest cruise port is Port Canaveral, which welcomed 6.8 million passengers in 2023 – a massive increase of over 2 million guests compared to 2022 (source).
Port Canaveral
15. The Average Cruise Passenger Spends $385 in Port Before Boarding a Cruise
(CLIA)
Most passengers will arrive in a port city at least one day before they embark on a cruise. During this time, they spend an average of $385 per person on things like accommodation, food and transport.
Passengers go on to spend an average of $100 in each port that they visit during the cruise.
16. The Preferred Destination of British and Irish Passengers Is the Mediterranean
(CLIA)
38.4% of cruises taken by British and Irish passengers were to the Mediterranean, significantly more than any other region. The second most popular destination was Northern Europe, with 29%, while 10.6% of passengers went to the Caribbean.
Of all passengers cruising anywhere in Europe in 2024, 29% came from the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Cruise Passenger Statistics
17. The Average Cruise Passenger Is 47 Years Old
(CLIA)
The average age of a cruise passenger is 46 years old. However, people in their forties make up only 15% of cruise passengers. Most cruises have a mix of all ages, from children to pensioners.
Here is the breakdown of cruisers by age:
12 and under – 9%
13 to 19 – 6%
20 to 29 – 9%
30 to 39 – 11%
40 to 49 – 15%
50 to 59 – 18%
60 to 69 – 19%
70 and over – 14%
World cruises have the oldest passengers, with an average age of 62. This is because there are few, if any, children on board and because it’s mostly retired people who can go away for 3 months at a time.
Caribbean cruises have the youngest passengers, with an average age of 43. This is because they are popular with families as well as those under 30 who like to take short party cruises from the US.
British passengers have an older average age than the global figures – it stands at 55.8 years.
We also know from the latest CLIA stats that more than a quarter of cruises taken by British and Irish guests in 2024 involved a travelling party of three or more generations. That’s a lot of people travelling with children, parents and/or grandparents (or even great-grandparents).
18. Half of All Cruise Passengers Reside in North America
(CLIA)
Around 50% of cruise passengers come from North America. 24% come from Western Europe, 15% from Asia and 11% from elsewhere.
The following table shows the number of cruise passengers in 2018 based on where they live:
Region of residence
Number of Passengers
% of all
North America
14,240,000
50%
Western Europe
6,731,000
24%
Asia
4,240,000
15%
Australasia
1,460,000
5%
South America
883,000
3%
Scandinavia
225,000
1%
Eastern Europe
213,000
1%
Africa
154,000
1%
Middle East
111,000
0%
Caribbean
56,000
0%
Central America
47,000
0%
19. Singaporean People Like to Cruise More Than Any Other Nation
(CLIA)
Cruising is very popular in Singapore, with 6.4% of Singaporeans taking a cruise in an average year. Other nationalities which like to cruise are Australians (5.4%), Americans (4%), Hong Kongers (3.3%), Brits (2.8%), Germans (2.7%) and Canadians (2.6%).
The following table shows how many people from each country took a cruise in 2018:
Country
Cruise passengers (2018)
Population
% of people cruising per year
Singapore
373,000
5,800,000
6.4%
Australia
1,345,000
25,000,000
5.4%
United States
13,091,000
331,000,000
4.0%
Hong Kong
250,000
7,500,000
3.3%
UK & Ireland
2,009,000
72,000,000
2.8%
Germany
2,233,000
83,800,000
2.7%
Canada
971,000
37,700,000
2.6%
New Zealand
112,000
4,800,000
2.3%
Norway
101,000
5,400,000
1.9%
Switzerland
154,000
8,654,622
1.8%
Taiwan
391,000
23,800,000
1.6%
Austria
136,000
9,000,000
1.5%
Italy
831,000
60,400,000
1.4%
Spain
530,000
46,700,000
1.1%
France
521,000
65,200,000
0.8%
Netherlands
113,000
17,100,000
0.7%
Malaysia
150,000
32,300,000
0.5%
Argentina
187,000
45,200,000
0.4%
South Africa
143,000
59,300,000
0.2%
Brazil
510,000
212,500,000
0.2%
Japan
266,000
126,400,000
0.2%
Mainland China
2,357,000
1,395,000,000
0.2%
Mexico
174,000
123,932,000
0.1%
India
221,000
1,380,000,000
0.0%
20. Three-Quarters of People Use a Travel Agent When Booking a Cruise
(CLIA)
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) recognises 13,000 travel agencies and 50,000 individual travel agents worldwide. Together, these book 75% of cruise vacations around the world.
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21. More People Are Aware of the Environmental Impact of Cruising – And the Efforts To Improve Things
(CLIA)
CLIA’s latest information for British and Irish cruise passengers shows that 76% of passengers were either “more aware” or “much more aware” of environmental and sustainable tourism, while the cruise industry moves towards a target of net zero carbon cruising by 2050.
22. The Biggest Threat to Cruise Ship Safety Is Fire
(Tyco)
To ensure that any fires that occur on cruise ships can be quickly contained, the average 2,700-passenger cruise ship has 4,000 smoke detectors, 500 fire extinguishers, 5,000 sprinklers, six miles of fire hose and five specially-trained firefighting teams.
23. The Risk of Violent Crime on a Cruise Ship Is 95% Lower Than on Land
(CLIA)
A study of four years of violent crime data by renowned criminologist Dr James Alan Fox showed that the rate of violent crime on a cruise ship is 23.8 per 100,000 people, compared to 508 per 100,000 people in a typical city in the United States.
24. Most Cruise Ships Have Jails, Hospitals and Morgues on Board
Cruise ships need to be prepared for every eventuality. Cruise ship jails, hospitals and morgues will be found in the lower decks, away from the majority of passengers. Depending on the size of the cruise ship, the morgue usually holds thre to six bodies.
25. Many Cruise Ships Have Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Meetings on Board
As cruise ships have an abundance of alcohol on board, people suffering from addictions sometimes worry about being able to practice abstinence on board.
For this reason, many cruise ships have Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings on a daily basis. You’ll see these on the cruise daily schedule as ‘Friends of Bill W’ or ‘FOB’.
Bill Wilson is the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. Friends of Bill meetings on cruise ships may also be attended by members of similar support groups such as Overeaters Anonymous (OA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
Friends of Bill W meeting on the bulletin board
Weird Cruise Facts
26. The Church of Scientology Has Its Own Cruise Ship
(Scientology)
The Freewinds is a 540-passenger cruise ship belonging to the Church of Scientology. It is staffed by an unpaid crew known as Sea Org and sails out of Curaçao. The church describes the cruise ship as ‘the pinnacle of a deeply spiritual journey’.
27. Not All Cruise Ship Weddings Are Legally Recognised
(World of Cruising)
Cruise ship weddings may be legally-binding or just symbolic. If you want your cruise ship wedding to count as a legal marriage, you’ll need to choose a cruise ship that was registered in a country where the law allows marriages onboard a cruise ship.
Options for legally-binding cruise ship weddings include P&O Cruises, Cunard and Princess Cruises (which have ships registered in Bermuda), Celebrity Cruises (on ships registered in Malta) and Royal Caribbean (on ships registered in the Bahamas).
28. The Big X on Celebrity Cruises’ Ship Funnels Isn’t the Letter X
Each Celebrity Cruises ship has a big letter X on the funnel. While you may think that this is the letter X, it’s actually the Greek letter Chi and it stands for Chandris which is the group that founded Celebrity Cruises in 1988.
Service dogs such as guide dogs for visually impaired people and hearing dogs for the deaf are welcome on most cruise ships.
However, certain types of working dogs such as emotional support dogs are not recognised as official service dogs and are not allowed on board. The rules have become stricter since people began to bring untrained pet dogs on board under the guise of being assistance dogs.
Service dog toilet on the Disney Wish
Cat lovers may also be interested in the Meow Meow Cruise, a cat-themed cruise. Unfortunately, no cats are permitted onboard.
30. You Can See an Abandoned Cruise Ship Wreck on Google Maps
The MS World Discoverer is a cruise ship that struck a rock in the ocean off the Solomon Islands in April 2000. All passengers were transported to safety, but the ship remains there to this day, lying tipped to one side.
You can view the World Discoverer cruise ship on Google Maps here.
31. Most Cruise Ships Don’t Have a Deck 13
And yes, it’s for exactly the reason you think it is – superstition means that many cruise ships go straight from Deck 12 to Deck 14.
MSC Cruises is a little different – the number 17 is considered unlucky in Italian culture, and so instead MSC ships often skip from Deck 16 to Deck 18.
32. You Can Part-Own the Biggest Cruise Lines
Many of the biggest cruise lines in the world are public – meaning you can buy shares in them.
Not only that, but there are often rewards to owning a minimum number of shares, with perks given to you every time you cruise with that cruise line!
Read more:
The Bottom Line
The cruise industry is a huge contributor to the global economy. Following a year like no other, the cruise industry has been quick to engage experts and government authorities to strengthen its already robust public health measures.
Cruising resumed gradually from summer 2020 and the return has continued into 2021 and 2022. 2023 was then one of the strongest years in a long time.
With the pent-up demand for travel, I’m sure that the cruise industry will reach new heights in the years to come.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
From Poolside to Beach Party: Versatile Swimwear Styles for your Cruise
Summer spent on a cruise is a season of sun, sand, and endless fun by the water. Whether you’re lounging by the pool on deck or heading off on an excursion that takes you to the beach, the right swimwear can make or break your experience. Today’s swimwear designs go beyond the typical one-piece or simple bikini, offering styles that are versatile enough to transition smoothly from poolside relaxation to evenings spent indulging at the cruise spa. Below, we break down some of the most versatile swimwear styles that will have you looking fabulous in any setting.
The Classic Bikini
The classic bikini remains a staple in every woman’s swimwear collection. With the perfect blend of comfort and style, it’s no wonder bikinis have stood the test of time. A well-chosen womens bikini set can be easily dressed up or down, making it ideal for both lounging by the pool and heading to a more social, lively beach party on your shore excursions. You can play around with different colours, patterns, and fabrics to create a look that’s all your own. Opt for neutral tones for a sophisticated appearance or bold prints to make a splash.
The Versatile One-Piece
Don’t underestimate the power of a good one-piece swimsuit. While one-piece swimwear used to be seen as more conservative, modern designs have completely redefined this category. From plunging necklines and cut-outs to high-leg styles, the one-piece now comes in a variety of sexy and fashionable options. Pair it with a sarong or high-waisted shorts, and you’ve got a beach party-ready ensemble that exudes elegance and sophistication.
Tankinis and Alternatives
For those who want a bit more coverage but still crave versatility, tankinis are a fantastic option. Tankinis consist of a tank-style top and a bikini bottom, allowing for various customization options and a flattering fit for different body types. You can mix and match tops and bottoms to create a balanced look that suits your style and comfort needs. Additionally, high-neck bikinis and swim skirts also offer that extra coverage without compromising on style, making them perfect for daytime lounging or a night out on the town.
The Cover-Up Game Changer
An often overlooked aspect of swimwear versatility lies in the cover-up. A well-chosen cover-up can transform your swimwear into an outfit that’s ready for any social setting. Whether it’s a sheer maxi dress, a chic kimono, or a romper, a stylish cover-up adds an extra layer of sophistication and convenience. You can slip the cover-up on over your swimwear when you need to grab a bite to eat at the pool side bar or if the evening breeze gets a bit too chilly onboard. It also provides the modesty you might crave when moving from beach to bar.
Stylish Accessories
Accessories can make a world of difference when transitioning from a poolside setting to a lively beach party. Wide-brimmed hats, oversized sunglasses, and beaded jewellery can elevate your swimwear look and make it party-ready. Flip-flops might be perfect for the pool, but a pair of stylish espadrilles or wedges can change your whole outfit when attending an evening beach event. A trendy beach bag not only adds to your look but also allows you to carry essentials like sunscreen, a change of clothes, and a good book.
The Multifunctional Sarong
The sarong is perhaps the unsung hero of versatile swimwear. This large, lightweight piece of fabric can be manipulated into a skirt, dress, or even a wrap top. Easily packed and incredibly stylish, a sarong can turn a simple bikini into a chic outfit in a matter of seconds. This makes it perfect for anyone transitioning from a relaxed day in the sun to an occasion that calls for a bit more fashion finesse.
Mix and Match
One of the easiest ways to achieve versatility in your swimwear collection is by mixing and matching different pieces. An investment in a variety of tops and bottoms can provide multiple looks without the need for multiple swimsuits. By mixing patterns, colours, and styles, you can create an endless array of combinations that keep your swimwear fresh and exciting.
Best Swimsuit Styles for a Cruise
Going on a cruise calls for swimwear that is not only stylish but also practical and comfortable. Here are some of the best swimsuit styles for a cruise:
One-Piece Swimsuits
One-piece swimsuits are perfect for cruises as they offer great coverage and comfort. Look for designs with cut-outs or interesting patterns to keep your style chic and modern. One-piece swimsuits are also versatile enough to double as a top when paired with skirts or shorts for excursions onshore.
High-Waisted Bikinis
High-waisted bikinis are both trendy and flattering, providing extra support and coverage. They are perfect for lounging by the pool or engaging in cruise activities. Pair them with a matching or contrasting top to create a stylish look that stands out.
Rash Guards and Swim Shirts
If you plan to participate in water sports or need extra sun protection, rash guards and swim shirts are ideal. These pieces offer full coverage and are made from quick-drying, UV-protective fabrics. They can be worn over your swimsuit for added protection without compromising on style.
How to Style Swimsuits for a Cruise
Styling swimsuits for a cruise involves considering both functionality and fashion. Here are some tips to ensure you look your best while staying comfortable:
Layer with Light Fabrics
Layer your swimsuits with light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. A light tunic or kaftan can easily be thrown over your swimsuit for a casual yet elegant look that is perfect for dining or exploring the ship.
Use Statement Accessories
Accessories such as wide-brimmed hats, oversized sunglasses, and chunky jewellery can elevate your swimwear look. Choose pieces that are easy to pack and can be mixed and matched with different swimsuits.
Pack Versatile Footwear
Footwear is key when transitioning from poolside to other activities. Pack a pair of comfortable sandals for walking around the ship and a pair of dressier sandals or espadrilles for evening events. This ensures that you are always appropriately dressed for any occasion.
Showcasing Swimwear on Cruises
Cruises provide the perfect backdrop to showcase the latest swimwear trends while ensuring comfort and style throughout your journey. Here are additional opportunities to flaunt your swimwear on a cruise:
Poolside Glamour
Embrace poolside glamour by opting for swimwear that combines luxury with comfort. Designer one-pieces with embellishments or metallic finishes can make you stand out while you relax on deck chairs and enjoy the ocean view. Coordinating your swimwear with a glamorous robe or a sheer caftan can elevate your style quotient, making you the centre of attention at any poolside gathering.
Exciting Excursions
When the ship docks, be ready for adventure or relaxation with swimwear that suits the occasion. For water sports or snorkelling excursions, wear a durable, high-performance swimsuit like a rash guard or a sporty bikini that withstands the elements. For more laid-back activities, like a leisurely beach visit, a stylish bikini or a comfortable one-piece allows you to soak up the sun in style.
Evening Entertainment
Many cruises offer evening pool parties and other entertainment options where you can showcase your swimwear. Opt for swimwear with interesting details such as lace, ruffles, or unique back designs to catch the eye under the starry sky. Accessorizing with elegant jewellery and a sophisticated cover-up can transition your look seamlessly from day to night.
Conclusion
Finding the right swimwear is key to feeling confident and comfortable wherever your summer takes you. From the classic simplicity of a bikini to the sophistication of a one-piece and the multitude of options in between, versatile swimwear ensures you are ready for anything. With the right choices in swimwear and accessories, you can seamlessly transition from poolside relaxation to an unforgettable beach party, all while looking fabulous as you set sail to your next destination.
Villa Vie Residences’ CEO and Founder Mikael Petterson has released a video statement, after the company’s three-year cruise suffered yet more delays.
Villa Vie Odyssey was originally scheduled to depart on her incredible itinerary on 15th May 2024, but then suffered a series of delays, being ultimately rescheduled to 15th June 2024.
However, more delays meant that the ship was pushed back even further, and now Petterson has been forced to issue a statement to reassure guests and to set a new departure date of 20th July 2024.
In the update, Petterson explains that the problems are due to the rudder stocks on the ship. Everything internal is ready to go, but problems with the rudder stocks meant that they needed to be replaced.
Petterson admits that, when the company took ownership of the ship (the former Braemar for Fred. Olsen), they had no idea what condition it was in and that all maintenance records had been deleted.
He claimed that the wear and tear on the rudder stocks show that they’ve been deficient for at least 15 years, while sailing for Fred. Olsen, but now that Villa Vie Residences owns the ship, they’ve had to carry out the repairs.
It’s expected that the work will be completed and the ship floated out between 10th and 12th July, with additional time factored in in case of further delays.
“Things haven’t exactly gone perfectly, and this is still an older vessel”
Villa Vie Residences’ CEO and Founder Mikael Petterson
Several guests had already arrived in Belfast in May for the ship’s departure – it’s believed that the company has been paying for their accommodation in the meantime.
Here’s hoping the ship can finally embark on her epic journey and guests can enjoy three years of sailing around the world in luxurious comfort.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
