Ponant Unveils the First Underwater Cruise Lounge

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From bungee jumps to water flumes, it might seem as if the cruise industry has run out of ideas for over-the-top amenities . But one onboard concept that has never been attempted has been right under their noses—and vessels—the entire time: an underwater bar. Last week, Ponant unveiled designs for “Blue Eye,” a multi-sensory underwater lounge that will take travelers under the sea on four of its new Ponant Explorer ships, which will launch over the next two years.

The spaces—which will sit beneath the water line on the new vessels—features two glass portholes meant to mimic the eyes of a whale looking out into the water, a series of digital screens projecting live images of the sea around them, and a soothing soundtrack courtesy of what the company describes as “the natural symphony of the sea across a three-mile radius,” which will be piped into the space via hydrophones. Cruisers can kick back on one of Blue Eye’s “Body Listening Sofas,” which vibrate in sync with the acoustics. Basically, it’s like a deep-sea dive where you don’t have to worry about your body getting wet or your cocktail glass running dry.

Ponant Cruise Ship Underwater Lounge

The design and features further evoke marine life.

Blue Eye is the result of a collaboration between Ponant and architect/oceanographer Jacques Rougerie , who has dedicated much of his career to building underwater museums and other habitats around the world.

“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,” Rougerie explained in a press statement . “I designed this multisensory 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 percent of the planet’s surface and remains a huge mystery for mankind.”

While cruisers love to hit the open seas, Rougerie is right that they don’t often get to interact with the thriving subterranean world beneath those state rooms and sundecks. “The state-of-the-art technology developed with Ponant lets guests become modern-day explorers, following in the wake of Jules Verne, Jacques-Yves Cousteau, and the great adventurers,” according to Rougerie.

Le Lapérouse will be the first cruise ship to feature the "Blue Eye" lounge when it launches in 2018, followed later in the year by Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, and Le Dumont-d’Urville in 2019.

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Blue Eye, Ponant underwater lounge revealed

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Details of the new Ponant underwater lounge called Blue Eye have been revealed, including two giant eye-shaped portholes beneath the waves.

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Details of the worlds first underwater lounge on a cruise liner have been revealed today by luxury small ship operator Ponant . The Ponant underwater lounge will be called Blue Eye and feature two giant portholes beneath the waves.

French-owned Ponant, renowned for it’s pioneering spirit, will install the remarkable subaquatic lounges on each of their four new 92-cabin Explorer class ships. Le Lapérouse, currently under construction, will be the first cruise ship on Earth to be equipped with one of these new multi-sensory underwater spaces. It will be located within the hull and below the water line.

Portholes beneath the waves on Le Lapérouse.

The giant portholes in the Blue Eye Ponant underwater lounge are shaped like the eye of a cetacean and will look directly out below the waves. Ponant tell us they will enable guests to observe the fauna and flora of this sub-aquatic universe, particularly when these small ships manoeuvre close to shore.

There will also be integrated digital screens in the Blue Lounge which will project images filmed by three live underwater cameras placed at strategic points around the ship. These cameras will enable guests to see natural spectacles like dolphins playing in the bow waves.

Guests can also plug into the sound of the underwater world too thanks to hydrophones, developed in consultation with specialists from the French Research Institute for the Exploitation of the Sea (IFREMER), that will be integrated beneath the keel.

Sounds from up to 5-kilometres away will be transmitted live to the Blue Eye lounge’s unique Body Listening sofas that not only allow guests to hear, but also feel the symphony of life below the waves.

The first two Ponant Explorers to feature the Blue Eye lounge, Le Lapérouse and sister-ship Le Champlain, will be operational from mid-2018.

Construction of the remaining two Ponant Explorers is now also underway with the cutting of the first steel for Le Bougainville and Le Dumont-d’Urville. These are both due to be delivered in 2019.

About the Author: Jason Kerr

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Meet The Cruise Ship With An Underwater Lounge

03 Oct 2017

underwater cruise ship

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.”

underwater cruise ship

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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Cruise Ship to Feature World’s First Underwater Lounge to View Ocean Life

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The cruise line is planning on debuting four new cruise ships that will have the ‘Blue Eye’ lounges that will enable passengers to not only see ocean life, but also to hear the sounds of the ocean and the animals that they see.

underwater cruise ship

Architect Jacques Rougerie said: “The sound system in the Blue Eye lounge will reveal to the guests the amazing listening capabilities of their bodies. For the first time in the world, the public, during a cruise, will be able to ‘feel’ and be at the heart of an underwater world. They will need to use all of their senses.”

The lounges will hold up to 40 passengers at a time and be equipped with non-intrusive underwater lights. This will allow the guests to observe the ocean floor, fish, and plant life.

Not only where there be will be two large oval shaped portholes for viewing ocean life, but the lounge will also have several high resolution screens that will show live feeds from underwater cameras that will be placed on the front, back, and center of the ship’s hull.

Guests will also be able to view the live underwater videos on the televisions in the comfort of their stateroom.

The first cruise ship to have a ‘Blue Eye” lounge will debut in 2018 with three more ships to follow.  Voyages will start at just under $7,000 per person.

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Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms – What Are They?

Most people don’t consider what is beneath the waterline of a cruise ship. However, for some, it may be a curiosity. The lower two decks are usually reserved for crew members only and areas off-limits to guests. So, what exactly are these underwater cruise ship rooms for?

In This Article…

How far below the waterline do cruise ships rest.

While cruise ship bottoms may appear wide, they are fairly narrow compared to the rest of the ship. They are generally no more than 30 feet or 9.1 meters below sea level, which is only 10% of the ship’s overall height.

Cruise ships are massive structures and are extremely heavy. Yet, the ship’s buoyancy and design cause it to rest primarily above water.

Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms

Underwater cruise lounge.

In 2019, Ponant, a French expedition company, launched the first underwater lounge. Blue Eye , designed by architect Jacques Rougerie, is a multi-sensory, sleek space on four vessels in their fleet: Le Dumont-d’Urville, Le Bougainville, Le Champlain, and Le Lapérouse.

While on board, guests can go underneath the water line to the lounge, where two oversized glass portholes appear like whales’ eyes, allowing passengers to get a unique ocean view, spotting exotic fish and other marine life.

These lounges also have digital screens projecting live images filmed by three underwater cameras and accompanied by marine surround sound. 

The sound is based on noises within a three-mile radius of the cruise ship. In addition, the couches in the lounge vibrate in unison with the sea, making you feel like a real part of the underwater world.

Crew Cabins

You’ll find accommodation for the crew on one of the crew decks. On some ships, they are under the water or below the water line.

Crew Cabins on Cruise Ship

Depending on the department, crew members share dorm-style rooms with access to common eating areas, bars, and gyms. 

The orlop is on the lowest four decks under sea level. It is the lowest deck of a cruise ship and is the farthest toward the rear of a ship. This area usually stores cables and ropes and may have received its name from overlapping cables that generally fill the space. 

The Brig or Jail

No cruise line likes to use the brig to contain guests, but there are situations when they find this necessary, specifically when someone has committed a serious offense or is in danger of harming themselves or others. Most of the time, passengers receive a reprimand or, in severe instances, may be forced to sign a contract to modify their behavior.

Carnival Cruise Ship Brig

If the offense is more serious, they are placed under cabin arrest and have two guards posted outside the door to prevent them from leaving. 

Brigs are steel rooms found at the bottom decks of a ship, typically by the security office. People don’t spend long in this area, as they are often turned over to authorities once the ship reaches port.

Cruise Ship Morgue

People often describe cruise ships as small, floating cities, so it makes sense that there are deaths aboard them. While it seems morbid and perhaps alarming, guests don’t need to be concerned. Most deaths occur from natural causes like strokes or heart attacks.  While a rare occurrence, there must be onboard accommodations to handle this situation.

Cruise Ship Morgue

The morgue only contains a few refrigerated compartments. The number of these compartments varies depending on the ship’s passenger capacity. Guests will never encounter it as the morgue is on crew-only lower decks.

Additionally, if the area is not in use, it can double as cold storage for flowers and other things. They do not use the morgue to store food. 

When chairs become damaged, varnishes wear off a table, or there are repairs to be made, cruise lines don’t replace the damaged item. Cruise ships often have a woodshop, with carpenters who spend the day replacing, fixing, and updating items found on the ship.

Read Also: How Much Do Cruise Ship Workers Make?

However, they don’t just fix furniture or wood items. They replace worn carpeting and broken tiles and refurbish areas of worn railings that harsh ocean elements have damaged. They also handle delicate items, like replacing chair fabrics and drapes. 

Crew Bar and OB

Cruise ships have areas where guests can sit back and relax. The crew has the same luxury. The OB or officer’s bar provides private space for officers, spa, cruise, and entertainment staff, while the crew bar is for anyone working on the vessel.

Carnival Valor

Drinks are cheaper in crew bars, and there are activities and music for staff to unwind during their time off. It’s often a place to stock up on cabin supplies.

Where does the newsletter that arrives at your cabin in the evening come from? While you may think they are created in advance, this is not the case.

If it were, ports missed due to turbulent weather or other situations which alter the itinerary wouldn’t make the newsletter possible. It would provide inaccurate and confusing information.

Each ship contains an underwater room with a print shop where news updates, daily planners, notes, and flyers are made.

While it sounds like a fast-paced highway, the I-95 resides below public decks. It is the main artery running forward to the aft. It gives crew members access to various areas of the ship.

Cruise Ship I-95

Over time, this busy area was dubbed the I-95 after the famous interstate running from the east coast of the U.S. and ending in Miami (which is, interestingly, the cruise ship capital). 

Its appearance is what you might expect. It looks like an extended hallway containing various storage spaces and doors leading to multiple areas. It’s an efficient design continually bustling with fast-paced action from moving staff and crew members.

If you ever wondered what the underwater cruise ship rooms are for, now you know. Although things may differ from one cruise line to another, these decks are generally for maintenance purposes, areas designated for crew members , and spaces that need to be kept out of the way of guests, like the brig or morgue.

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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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How Much Of A Cruise Ship Is Under Water? (& Other FAQs!)

Cruise ships are a marvel of modern engineering, defying the laws of physics to remain afloat and navigate even the most treacherous of waters.

But have you ever wondered how much of these colossal vessels are actually submerged beneath the waves?

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How Much of a Cruise Ship is Under Water

The larger or higher the ship, the less of it is in water. For example, the amount of cruise ship that is underwater ranges from 20 feet, for a smaller ship, to 31 feet for the largest vessels.

It means that only 10% to 13% of the ship’s hull and superstructure is underwater, which further reinforces how incredible the technology that marine engineers have developed.

Usually, about 10% of a cruise ship’s overall height is under the water. This equates to about 30ft for large cruise ships.

The underwater part of the ship’s hull is typically wide at the back narrowing towards the bow.

Some of the largest cruise ships in the world, like Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships, have a height above the waterline of around 72 meters (236ft 11in), and a draft below the water of around 9.3 meters (30ft 6in).

It’s important to note that the amount of the ship that is underwater can vary depending on a few different factors, such as the weight of the ship and the amount of fuel it’s carrying.

While the amount of a cruise ship that is underwater can vary, it’s generally around 10% of the ship’s overall height.

This is an impressive feat of engineering, and it’s a testament to the incredible technology that goes into designing and building these massive vessels.

What Keeps a Cruise Ship Afloat?

When you look at a massive cruise ship, it’s hard to imagine how it stays afloat in the water. Cruise ships are incredibly heavy, and most of their weight is below the waterline. So, what keeps them from sinking?

The reason a cruise ship stays afloat is buoyancy. Buoyancy is the upward force that a fluid exerts on an object that is immersed in it.

When a cruise ship is placed in water, it displaces an amount of water equal to its own weight. This displacement creates an upward force that counteracts the downward force of the ship’s weight, keeping it afloat.

The shape of the hull also plays a significant role in keeping a cruise ship afloat. The hull is designed to displace water efficiently and minimize resistance as the ship moves through the water.

The wider the hull, the more water it can displace, which creates a greater upward force.

Plus, cruise ships have a low center of gravity, which helps to keep them stable in the water. The weight of the ship is distributed over a large volume, including a wide hull and overall surface area, which spreads over a wider area of water and offers more of an upward force, keeping it afloat.

A combination of buoyancy, the shape of the hull, and the low center of gravity all work together to keep a cruise ship afloat.

The Shape of the Cruise Ship’s Hull

Featured In: How much of a cruise ship is under water

The hull of a cruise ship is the most important part of the vessel, as it is responsible for keeping the ship afloat and stable in the water. The shape of the hull is designed to minimize resistance and maximize efficiency, allowing the ship to move through the water with ease.

Most modern cruise ships have a deep V-shaped hull, which is the most efficient shape for cutting through the water.

This design allows the ship to move quickly and smoothly while minimizing the amount of fuel needed to power the engines.

The V-shaped hull is also designed to reduce the amount of rolling and pitching that the ship experiences in rough seas.

The shape of the hull helps to distribute the weight of the ship evenly, keeping it stable and balanced even in choppy waters.

In addition to the V-shaped hull, many cruise ships also have a bulbous bow. This is a bulb-shaped extension at the front of the ship that helps to reduce drag and increase efficiency.

The bulbous bow helps to push water out of the way as the ship moves through the water, reducing resistance and making the ship easier to maneuver.

Overall, the shape of the hull is a critical factor in the performance of a cruise ship. The V-shaped hull and bulbous bow work together to make the ship more efficient, stable, and maneuverable, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride for passengers.

Hull Shape and Design

The hull of a cruise ship is a critical component of its design. It is responsible for providing stability, buoyancy, and resistance to the water.

Cruise ships typically have a V or U-shaped hull at the front, which helps to displace water and reduce drag.

The hull is flatter at the back, which helps to reduce the wake and increase speed.

The hull of a cruise ship is designed to withstand the forces of the ocean. It is made from heavy steel panels that are welded together to create a watertight outer skin.

The design of the hull is based on the classification society rules, which ensure that the ship is safe and seaworthy.

The hull of a cruise ship is also designed to reduce the impact of waves and wind. The shape of the hull helps to deflect waves and reduce the amount of water that comes over the bow of the ship.

The design of the hull also helps to reduce the amount of wind resistance, which increases the speed and efficiency of the ship.

On top of the shape of the hull, the design of the ship’s keel is also important. The keel is a structural component that runs along the bottom of the ship.

It helps to provide stability and prevents the ship from rolling over.

The depth of the keel is determined by the size and weight of the ship, as well as the depth of the water it will be sailing in.

Overall, the shape and design of the hull of a cruise ship are critical to its safety, stability, and efficiency.

The hull is designed to withstand the forces of the ocean and reduce the impact of waves and wind.

The shape of the hull helps to displace water and reduce drag, while the keel provides stability and prevents the ship from rolling over.

How Deep Do Cruise Ships Sit in the Water?

Cruise view overhead - Featured In: How much of a cruise ship is under water

Generally speaking, smaller cruise ships tend to sit lower in the water than larger ones. This is because they have less buoyancy and are more susceptible to being swamped by waves.

Larger ships, on the other hand, tend to sit higher in the water, thanks in part to their greater size and capacity for buoyancy materials.

The depth at which a cruise ship sits in the water is an important factor for both its design and operation. Cruise ships typically sit between twelve and fifteen feet below sea level when fully loaded with cargo, fuel, and passengers.

This helps them remain stable while providing enough buoyancy for them to float.

It’s worth noting that the depth at which a cruise ship sits in the water can vary depending on the conditions.

For example, if the ship is sailing in rough seas, it may sit deeper in the water to provide greater stability.

Similarly, if the ship is carrying a particularly heavy load, it may sit deeper in the water to compensate.

How Many Decks are Underwater on a Cruise Ship?

Depending on the size and type of the cruise ship, there are typically one or sometimes two decks underwater.

These will not be deck names or numbers you’ll see on a deck plan because they are out of bounds for passengers.

The decks that are underwater are usually crew quarters, storage rooms, and machinery spaces.

These areas are not accessible to passengers and are designed to be watertight in case of an emergency.

The crew quarters are located near the bottom of the ship because they are less affected by motion and noise.

It’s important to note that the decks that are underwater do not contribute to the overall height of the ship.

The height of a cruise ship is measured from the waterline to the highest point on the ship. The decks that are underwater are not included in this measurement.

Do Cruise Ships Have Staterooms Underwater?

Cruise ships do not have staterooms underwater. While it might seem like an exciting and unique experience to stay in a room below sea level, there are several reasons why this isn’t possible.

Firstly, cruise ships are designed to be stable above water, where the majority of their weight is located. Having staterooms underwater would make the ship top-heavy, leading to stability issues and potential safety hazards.

Secondly, the underwater environment is not suitable for human habitation. The pressure and lack of light would make it difficult to create comfortable living conditions, and there would be significant safety concerns in the event of an emergency.

Finally, the logistics of building and maintaining underwater staterooms would be incredibly challenging and expensive. It’s simply not practical for cruise lines to invest in this type of accommodation.

Why Don’t Cruise Ships Have Underwater Viewing Areas?

If you’ve ever been on a cruise, you may have wondered why there aren’t any underwater viewing areas on the ship. It would be amazing to see all the marine life and coral reefs as you sail through the ocean.

However, there are several reasons why cruise ships don’t have underwater viewing areas.

It’s important to note that glass is not as strong as steel, which is needed to withstand the constant pressures of the sea. The underwater decks of a cruise ship are already fully utilized and serve the mechanical and crew needs of the ship.

Therefore, adding an underwater viewing area would require significant structural changes and potentially compromise the safety of the ship.

Secondly, the windowed area would also need frequent cleaning due to the buildup of algae and other marine organisms. This would require additional maintenance and resources, which would be costly for a cruise line.

Also, the reality is that 99% of the time, you would see nothing but disturbed water from an underwater viewing area.

The windowed area isn’t as safe as steel in an accident or under pressure, which is a significant concern when the ship is traveling through the ocean.

Overall, while it would be amazing to have an underwater viewing area on a cruise ship, it’s just not practical or safe for companies to implement.

Instead, you can enjoy the beautiful ocean views from the upper decks of the ship and participate in snorkeling or diving excursions at the various ports of call.

How Far Can a Cruise Ship Tip Over?

Cruise in a storm - Featured In: How much of a cruise ship is under water

Cruise ships are built with a low center of gravity, which makes them less likely to tip over. The weight of the ship is distributed evenly, with the heaviest parts of the ship located at the bottom. This means that the ship is more stable and less likely to tip over, even in rough seas.

In fact, a cruise ship would have to tip over by more than 25 degrees before it becomes unstable . This is because the part of the hull below the surface of the water is made of much thicker, stronger, and heavier material than the superstructure. Even if the ship were to tip over, it would quickly right itself, thanks to the weight of the hull.

It’s important to note that cruise ships are also equipped with advanced stabilizers that help to reduce the amount of rolling and pitching in rough seas.

These stabilizers work by extending out from the side of the ship, creating a counterforce to the waves and reducing the amount of movement felt by passengers.

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The Family Cruise Companion

How Much Of A Cruise Ship Is Under Water? Don’t Worry! You Won’t Tip Over.

By: Author David Chapman

Posted on Last updated: October 14, 2023

Categories LEARN

When you stand on the shore and watch the massive ships slowly appear over the horizon, it seems improbable that they float and won’t capsize, even in low-sea states. You may wonder how much of a cruise ship is under water that allows it to handle ocean conditions like hurricanes (which they deliberately stay away from) with huge waves.

Let’s take a closer look at how much of a cruise ship is under water and how they are designed for a wide range of conditions.

So, Exactly How Much Of a Cruise Ship Is Under Water?

The amount of cruise ship that is underwater ranges from 20 feet, for a smaller ship, to 31 feet for the largest vessels. It means that only 13% of the ship’s hull and superstructure is underwater, which further reinforces how incredible the technology that marine engineers have developed.

The complete design of a cruise ship is built around the economics of the vessels and the needs, safety, and comfort of the passengers. All of the engineering decisions have been made with these factors in mind, and the results are the impressive cruise ships that travel the seas.

underwater cruise ship

The Depth A Cruise Ship Is Under Water

To calculate how much of a cruise ship is underwater, we want to take the measurement between the cruise ship’s keel (the lowest point of the hull) and the water’s surface; this is called the draught.

The depth of cruise ships’ draught ranges from approximately twenty for smaller ships to more than thirty-one feet for one of the largest cruise ships in the world like Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas.

The measurement of the draught depends on the following factors:

  • The shape of the cruise ship’s hull
  • The weight of the cruise ship, including the engines, fuel tanks (whether it is full or not), the hull, superstructure, amenities, cabins, etc
  • The weight of the passengers and the luggage

Archimedes was a mathematician, scientist, philosopher, and inventor born in 212 BC and lived in the city of Syracuse in Sicily.

He developed the Archimedes principle ,  which states that the force needed to keep the cruise ship (or any other floating item) afloat in the water must equal the weight of the water it displaces.

Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-Class generally contains the world’s largest cruise ships, such as Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas . The Oasis-Class ships have a displacement tonnage of about 100,000 tons . So those ships will displace 100,000 tons of water. (Note that displacement tonnage differs from the typically reported “gross tonnage,” which is a volumetric-based measurement.)

So, for an Oasis-Class ship, the ship will float as long as the amount of force that the water exerts back onto the cruise ship is equal to or greater than 100,000 tons. 

The Shape Of The Cruise Ships Hull

The hull’s shape is a key determinant of how deep the cruise ships’ hulls are under the water (the draught).

The bigger the area of the hull which comes into contact with the water, the cruise ship bigger the surface area of the water and, therefore, the weight of the water.

As the ships do, in fact, float, it means that the upward force the water exerts on the boat is greater than the downward pressure it exerts on the water.

How Much Of A Cruise Ship Is Under Water

The Weight Of The Passengers

The weight of passengers on board also contributes to how much of a cruise ship is underwater.

For instance, the  Symphony of the Seas cruise ship can carry 9,000 people , including passengers and crew.

The average weight of US males is 199.8 pounds. The average weight of US females is 170.8 pounds.

Assume each passenger has 100 pounds of luggage.

Assuming the ship has an equal number of male and female passengers, the weight of the passengers will roughly equate to: 

  • Men 899,100 pounds (500 tons) 
  • Women 768,600 pounds. (384 tons)
  • Weight of baggage 900,000 pounds (450 tons)

The ship inhabitants, therefore, collectively weigh 1,334 tons. When the ship is completely loaded, it will sink into the water to a distance where the water weighs an additional 1,334 tons. 

The effect is that the ship will sit 0.6% (or 0.72 inches) deeper.

What Facilities Are In A Cruise Ship Under Water?

In modern cruise ships, most of the “backroom” functions, and weight, are placed below the waterline and include the following:

  • The engine room
  • The water treatment plants (clean and dirty)
  • Air conditioning units
  • The fuel bunkers
  • Water storage tanks
  • The massive plumbing units
  • Many crew cabins (Senior officers and staff are usually housed on higher decks) 

On most ships, Deck 2 is the first deck fully above the water line (it may be numbered differently from one cruise line and class of class to the next) but is generally the reception area which the passengers embark and disembark from.

That deck is commonly fitted out with the food galleys and storage area, and dining room where the crew eats (the mess).

What Stops A Cruise Ship From Sinking?

The below deck areas serve two purposes regarding the ship’s flotation.

The Cruise Ship Stability

The below desk area ensures that the volumetric weight of water displaced is greater than the weight of the ship itself (Archimedes principle)

While cruise ships appear top heavy with a very small, the superstructure is relatively light, and all the heaviest equipment is placed below deck, which results in the ship being “bottom heavy” and, therefore, less prone to wild swaying or even capsizing.

They Provide Protection If The Side Of The Ship Is Holed

The ships are designed to provide a bigger buoyancy area to ensure “ two-compartment damage stability .”

It means that even if any two adjacent compartments are open to the sea, there will still be enough buoyancy to ensure that the ship will not sink. 

While this is a design requirement, the ship will actually cope with worse damage.

Why Don’t Cruise Ships Have Underwater Viewing Areas?

For several reasons, it would not be realistic to have glass windows below the surface.

  • Most of the time, the only view would be of disturbed water (wake), and there would be little to see.
  • Even bulletproof glass would present a greater hazard of being damaged than a steel hull.
  • The windowed area would also need frequent maintenance, and the cost-benefit analysis would make it uneconomic.

Closing Thoughts

Cruise ships are truly feats of engineering. How much of a cruise ship sits underwater ranges from 20 to 31 feet, depending on the size of the vessel. However, the safety and stability of a cruise ship aren’t due to the depth that it’s submerged, but rather a combination of factors such as the shape of the hull.

If you are fascinated by cruise ship facts, you may also enjoy this post .

Keep up with the latest cruise tips and insights! Follow us on Pinterest:

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How Much of a Cruise Ship is Underwater?

When you see the size of some modern-day cruise ships, especially the mega cruise ships it’s common for people to wonder how much of the cruise ship is underwater compared to the huge amounts we see above the waterline.

The answer might come as a surprise because, in relation to the size of the cruise ship, surprisingly, little of the ship is actually underwater.

How Much of a Cruise Ship is Under water?

Usually, about 10% of a cruise ship’s overall height is under the water. This equates to about 30ft for large cruise ships.  The underwater part of the ship’s hull is typically wide at the back narrowing towards the bow.

It usually correlates proportionally that the larger the cruise ship is, the deeper the cruise ship drafts will be, but on average, this will still be around 10% of the ship’s total height.

How Deep in the Water is a crusie ship

For some, this begs the next question, how do cruise ships not tip over ?

While only 10% of the cruise ship is underwater, the bulk of the ship’s weight is contained with this lower portion ensuring a low center of gravity.

The larger the cruise ship and the more decks it has, all adding to the ship’s weight, the more you can expect it to sit in the water.

How Deep Do Cruise Ships Sit In The Water? 

For a cruise ship to float it must displace as much water equal to the weight of the cruise ship .  This typically equates to only 10% of a cruise ship’s total height sitting in the water.    

Depending on the size of the cruise ship this will be the range of 20ft to 30ft.  This is known as the draft and should be marked on the cruise ship’s hull, typically on the bow and the stern. 

This is a lot shallower than many other types of ships which are not as high but have deeper drafts.

The cruise ship draft is important because it determines which ports the cruise ship can enter safely without any part of the ship coming into contact with the floor of the docking area.  An accident no one onboard wants to experience.

Waterline Depth Indicators on the Cruise Ship

Draft mark measurement scale.

A draft mark measurement scale can be seen on either side of the ship’s bow and stern where the waterline is, indicating the current draft level.

Here you can find out more about draft marks .

Draft MArks

Plimsoll Lines

On the side of a cruise ship is what’s known as the Plimsoll Line.   When the water line is on the plimsole line, this represents the maximum amount of weight the ship can carry.

The Plimsoll lines indicate different waterline limits for various water conditions and water types.

Plimsoll Lines

How Many Decks are Underwater on a Cruise Ship?

Depending on the size and type of the cruise ship, there are typically one or sometimes two decks underwater.  These will not be deck names or numbers you’ll see on a deck plan because they are out of bounds for passengers.

Even if the deck plan of a cruise ship starts at Deck 1 , it doesn’t mean that it is the lowest deck on the ship. It’s just the lowest for passengers.

These lower decks will consist of hundreds of crew cabins to provide living and sleeping space for the staff who live onboard. 

The lower decks also need to house the following:

  • Various engine and mechanical rooms
  • Food storage units 
  • Medical Center
  • Crew-only social rooms

The Majority of Ships Weight is Underwater

The majority of the cruise ship’s weight is underwater, this maintains the ship’s low center of gravity which is a vital factor for keeping the ship stable and upright and preventing the cruise ship from tipping over.

Fuel and freshwater tanks can hold thousands of tonnes.    

Machinery and masses of plumbing in the engine rooms, as well as air conditioning, take up vast areas and add considerable weight to the lowest desks.

Do Cruise Ships Have Staterooms Underwater?

There are no staterooms under the water level on any cruise lines.  There are only cabins for crew members to live and sleep in.    These are quite small and windowless.

We have covered more depth here underwater rooms on a cruise ship , including rare occurrences that offer an ocean view.

Related Reads:

  • How Cruise Ships Get Launched into the Water

What Parts of a Cruise Ship Are Underwater?

On the bottom of a cruise ship , various features are out of sight when the cruise ship is underwater.

Bulbous Bow

At the bow, cruise ships have a bulbous bow, a large projection that extends out and modifies the water flowing down the side of the hull.

Bulbous Bow

At the stern, you will find the propellors designed to push through the water to propel forwards or even backward in some cases.

Propellers

Cruise ships tend to have wide U-shaped hulls that are under the water.  These displace large amounts of water which increases the buoyancy force required to keep such large, heavy vessels afloat .

How Much Water Does a Cruise Ship Need to Dock?

A cruise ship will generally need an extra 3 to 4 meters or 9 to 12 ft on top of the ship’s draft to dock.

If a cruise ship has a 30ft draft, it would need water depths of at least 40ft to sail safely.  The extra depth is to allow for the ships bouncing movement in the water.

Related Posts

What is a Ship Draft

What is the Draft of a Cruise Ship? (and Why Does it Matter?)

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How Many Doors on a Cruise Ship? (Yes, I Counted)

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    PONANT, a luxury cruise line that specializes in small ships, will debut the world's first underwater lounges on cruise ships that will allow passengers to view ocean life. The cruise line is ...

  12. Underwater Lounges, Go Karts, and 7 More Extremely Unique Cruise

    Here are nine unique cruise experiences you'll only find on a couple of ships: 1. A Hot Glass Show. Photo by Celebrity Cruises. Ships: Celebrity Equinox, Solstice, and Eclipse. The first three ships in Celebrity Cruises' Solstice class all feature a hot glass demonstration studio on the top deck, right next to the Lawn Club.

  13. Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms

    Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms Underwater Cruise Lounge. In 2019, Ponant, a French expedition company, launched the first underwater lounge. Blue Eye, designed by architect Jacques Rougerie, is a multi-sensory, sleek space on four vessels in their fleet: Le Dumont-d'Urville, Le Bougainville, Le Champlain, and Le Lapérouse.

  14. Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms: Are They Real?

    Conclusion. 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.

  15. How Much Of A Cruise Ship Is Under Water: The Ultimate Guide

    As I already mentioned, the cruise ship's underwater size is based on the Archimedes Principle, which explains the relation between the weight of an object and the fluid it displaces. To make it simpler in cruise ship terms, this principle states that the ship must displace an amount of water equal to its weight to maintain stability.

  16. Which Cruise Ships Have Underwater Rooms & Windows?

    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.

  17. Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms

    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 ...

  18. How Much Of A Cruise Ship Is Under Water? (& Other FAQs!)

    Usually, about 10% of a cruise ship's overall height is under the water. This equates to about 30ft for large cruise ships. The underwater part of the ship's hull is typically wide at the back narrowing towards the bow. Some of the largest cruise ships in the world, like Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class ships, have a height above the ...

  19. How Much Of A Cruise Ship Is Under Water? It's About 10%

    The answer to how much of a cruise ship that is underwater varies depending on several factors. It's all about the size of the ship and the amount of load being carried. But in general, it is around 10% of the ship's height or around 30 feet for the biggest cruise ships out there. The main thing to remember is that the amount of the ship ...

  20. How Much of a Cruise Ship Is Underwater?

    When cruise ships set sail and navigate deeper and perhaps more rapid waters, still, 40% sits underwater. Now you know the ins and outs of determining a cruise ship's displacement - and can ...

  21. How Much Of A Cruise Ship Is Under Water? Don't Worry! You Won't Tip Over

    The amount of cruise ship that is underwater ranges from 20 feet, for a smaller ship, to 31 feet for the largest vessels. It means that only 13% of the ship's hull and superstructure is underwater, which further reinforces how incredible the technology that marine engineers have developed. The complete design of a cruise ship is built around ...

  22. Best Cruise Vacations

    This Luxury Cruise Line Is Putting Its Best Ship on a 180-day World Cruise — and It Visits 43 Countries and 81 World Heritage Sites This 140-night World Cruise Stops at 71 Ports in 40 Countries ...

  23. How Much of a Cruise Ship is Underwater?

    The Majority of Ships Weight is Underwater. The majority of the cruise ship's weight is underwater, this maintains the ship's low center of gravity which is a vital factor for keeping the ship stable and upright and preventing the cruise ship from tipping over. Fuel and freshwater tanks can hold thousands of tonnes.

  24. 8 Night South Pacific Cruise

    Only accessible by cruise ship and the nearby inhabitants of Aneityum, you'll truly get to experience life on a deserted island. Cruise to Mystery Island and explore the white-sand shoreline and its warm waters — go for a snorkel and see an incredible underwater world untouched by human influence.