Europe is the place where cruise ships are made. Many shipyards in Europe produce vessels that are tailored to specific markets and cater to a wide variety of customers. These shipyards are found in cities near the coast. While some are privately owned, most are state owned companies.
The construction of a modern cruise ship is a huge undertaking. It is similar to building a factory for automobile production. The steel plates that form the hull are made in sections. The sections are then joined by welding. This is done with a high level of precision.
Shipyards are able to build many types of ships including passenger ferries as well as container ships, Ro-Ro vessels and livestock ferries. European yards hold a clear advantage in building cruise ship ships.
France, Italy and Finland are the main European shipyards. Fincantieri is the largest cruise ship builder in the world. They have been constructing a large number of ships for Carnival, MSC Cruises, and Costa Cruises.
Since recent years, several Chinese cruise companies have been focusing on this market. Genting Cruise Lines (and Dream Cruises), both of which have since collapsed, were specifically designed to serve this market. Norwegian Joy, which reached China in 2017, was custom-designed to meet the Chinese market's needs. During the next two decades, the number of ships that were built to serve this market increased.
Many of today's ships were designed originally for mass cruising. These large, multi-story oceanliners were common. These cabins have a glass elevator and a lobby that spans several stories.
The ships being built in Europe are getting more modern. The Harmony of the Seas (the third ship in the Oasis-Class) is a 226-meter vessel with all the special features of Royal Caribbean. She has a 66-meter beam, which gives her a maximum capacity of 5,479 guests.
Commander Don Goldstein, a former employee of the company for more than 30 years, has seen first-hand the development and growth of the United States' cruise industry. According to Commander Don Goldstein, the United States added too many protectionist law since World War II. He claims that these laws have caused a lot damage to the U.S. Cruise Industry. However, one article in Los Angeles Times suggested that the laws have actually hindered U.S. Cruise Industry growth.
Europe is home to many of the most distinguished cruise ships around the globe. STX France is a European yard that provides vessels to South American and Asian markets. STX Norway is also a European yard. Fincantieri is a specialist in building luxury cruise liners and owns the Norwegian shipyards.
Although the cruise industry has seen tremendous growth, its dominance is still held by European shipyards. With the exception of the United States, which has its own shipyards, most cruise ships are foreign-flagged.
FAQ
Where do cruises get started?
Miami is the most popular destination for cruise vacations. It has both international ports and airports, so cruises leave from Miami. These two locations offer passengers the opportunity to explore South America or Europe.
Are there any disadvantages to cruising?
You should consider the pros and cons to cruising. Some people might not want to spend all of their vacation on a boat. Others might prefer to stay closer to shore or in a hotel. 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.
What is cruising?
The deposit, usually $50-$100, is required when you book a cruise. Your balance is due 30 days before departure. Check into your cabin after you arrive at port. You might then be able to take part in an onboard activity.
Statistics
- *20% Gratuities Apply on Free Unlimited Open Bar; Free Specialty Dining. (ncl.com)
- For an example of savings, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. (travel.usnews.com)
- You'll need to budget around $80 per person per day for this option – and an additional 18% gratuity. (travel.usnews.com)
- 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)
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How To
How to avoid being seasick while on a cruise
The best way to avoid seasickness on a cruise is by wearing a hat. A wide-brimmed cap helps to prevent motion sickness by keeping your head from moving too much.
Also, a cap keeps water off the skin and helps to reduce the moisture content of the air. People who feel dizzy from breathing in moist air can breathe easier.
Another tip: Drink lots of fluids. Avoid alcohol or caffeine. These drinks dehydrate the body causing more fluid to move around in the stomach. Drinking enough liquids will help reduce the amount of salt in the bloodstream. Salt causes the body and kidneys to retain water. This can lead to nausea.
You may feel nauseated if you eat something salty. Salty foods stimulate the stomach to produce higher levels of hydrochloric acid. This helps to break down food particles.
There are medication options available to help seasickness. Side effects of some medications include dry mouth, dry eyes, constipation and blurred vision.