high seas cruise meaning

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for traveling on a budget

CruiseOverload

The 8 Roughest Seas For Cruise Ships (RANKED!)

Going on a cruise is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation, a chance to explore the world from the decks of luxury.

However, traveling by sea comes with unpredictable moods and the possibility of rough seas. Modern cruise ships are engineered to withstand rough conditions, but knowing which seas are notoriously turbulent can help in planning your journey.

For those that are prone to seasickness or nervous about a rough voyage, there are certain seas they may want to avoid.

From the swirling currents of the North Atlantic to the icy gusts of the Southern Ocean, we’ll guide you through the roughest seas that even experienced cruise ships respect…

Table of Contents

Roughest Seas For Cruise Ships

The Drake Passage

If you’re looking to cross off all seven continents, you’ll have to board an expedition ship to step foot on Antarctica, as mainstream cruise lines only traverse through the Drake Passage.

The Drake Passage is one of the roughest seas in the world, and it’s located between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands.

It’s the shortest crossing between Antarctica and the rest of the world, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

The area has no large landmasses, so there is a large, unimpeded flow of current that carries a huge volume of water through the passage.

When these strong currents meet high wind speeds, the result is a sea state that is notoriously rough. This combination of factors contributes to conditions where it is quite likely for passengers to encounter rough seas in this area.

These challenging conditions are a defining characteristic of Cape Horn, making it one of the most hostile waters for sea travel.

The Bay of Biscay

If you plan to take a European cruise, you should approach the Bay of Biscay with caution.

The Bay of Biscay is located off the west coast of France and the north of Spain.

The Bay of Biscay is home to parts of the continental shelf that extend far into the bay, resulting in some shallow waters.

This is an area that experiences the fiercest Atlantic weather, and the combination of powerful winds and a shallow seabed can produce large waves.

Traveling during the summer months can significantly enhance your chances of encountering smoother seas.

On the other hand, opting for a late spring journey may bring you face-to-face with the unique “June Gloom” phenomenon. This is characterized by a vast fog triangle that often envelops the southern part of the bay.

This seasonal atmospheric condition, most prevalent in June, results in a dense fog that adds a mystical ambiance to the area, though it doesn’t typically affect sea conditions significantly.

Cruises that often sail through the Bay of Biscay include those sailing from Southampton to Portugal and Spain. Transatlantic voyages that begin in the UK and Northern Europe will often sail south and visit the Azores before beginning to cross the ocean, too.

When cruising through the Bay of Biscay, be prepared for rough seas and pack accordingly. It is recommended to bring motion sickness medication and warm clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable.

The Gulf of Alaska

If you’re heading on a cruise around Alaska, you will be pleased to hear that most of the cruise will be spent on the beautiful calm waters of the Inside Passage, where a string of islands will provide shelter and a high chance of smooth sailing.

But, if you are heading for ports at Seward, Whittier, or Anchorage, you will have to cross the Gulf of Alaska.

These waters are much rougher than the protected waters of the Inside Passage due to strong surface currents and cold air.

This is a much rougher area where strong surface currents and cold arctic air meet to generate powerful storms that affect British Columbia and the western U.S. Storms can happen at any time, but the worst time is between October and February.

Note: the vast majority of Alaska cruises take place within the sheltered waters of the Inside Passage. If you want to avoid cruising through the Gulf of Alaska, consider a round-trip cruise from Seattle.

However, cruises that do traverse through the Gulf of Alaska tend to visit more remote parts of Alaska, providing a unique and adventurous experience.

The Atlantic Ocean

Whenever you cross a large body of water, you’re more likely to encounter some rough waves since there’s no land nearby to provide any protection.

The Atlantic Ocean is no exception. Transatlantic cruises tend to see their roughest waters in November, December, and February.

If you’re going to embark on a transatlantic cruise in the winter, it’ll most likely be on either a luxury cruise line like Oceania or Cunard from New York to Southampton and vice versa.

While the winter months are the most intense, it’s important to note that other times of the year can also be impacted, particularly during hurricane season.

It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.

If you’re concerned about rough waters, it’s best to stick to more protected areas of the Atlantic, such as the Caribbean or Mediterranean, where the waters are generally calmer.

The Mediterranean

If you’re looking to stay in the Mediterranean and visit culturally rich ports of call like Barcelona, Rome, Naples, then you’re in luck.

While the sea itself is relatively sheltered, It can be surprisingly rough, subject to rough waters in the fall and winter, as this is when the winds are the strongest.

Rough seas can happen at any time, though, and spring and summer cruise passengers might experience some rough seas.

Cruises in the Western Mediterranean, often embarking from ports like Barcelona or Rome, might encounter a unique weather phenomenon known as a “medicane.” This term, a blend of “Mediterranean” and “hurricane,” describes a rare but intense storm that shares characteristics with hurricanes and can impact this region.

These medicanes, though not as common as typical hurricanes, can still significantly influence sea conditions and cruise experiences in the Western Mediterranean.

This is a tropical storm that usually hits the region about once a year, most commonly in the autumn.

The Caribbean

The allure of the Caribbean as a cruising hotspot is undeniable, with its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and inviting tropical cocktails. It’s a destination that appeals all year round, offering a blend of relaxation and scenic beauty.

Yet, it’s important to note that the region does experience its share of stormy weather, particularly during the hurricane season, which spans from June to November.

The likelihood of encountering hurricanes and tropical storms is highest from August to September.

If the idea of navigating through larger waves or facing potential changes in your cruise itinerary is less appealing, it might be wise to plan your trip outside these months.

Additionally, in the Caribbean, where different bodies of water converge, such as the meeting point of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, there’s an increased likelihood of encountering rough seas, especially during the storm-prone months.

The South China Sea

If you’re planning on taking an Asian cruise, you may be curious about the South China Sea.

This region is becoming increasingly popular for mainstream cruise lines, with Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean both increasing their presence in Asia.

This area, part of the northwest Pacific Ocean, is known for its susceptibility to storms throughout the year, potentially leading to rough sea conditions.

Tropical typhoons and cyclones, most prevalent during the tropical storm season from July to November, are the primary causes of the biggest waves in this region. Storm activity tends to peak around late August and early September.

Key departure ports for cruises traversing this area include Singapore, along with other popular ports like Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, and Bangkok. Routes connecting China to destinations such as Vietnam, Cambodia, or the Philippines are particularly prone to typhoons, which can result in a turbulent journey and possible changes to port stops.

On top of this, the South China Sea encompasses a region known as “The Dangerous Ground.” This area is infamous for its hidden dangers, including low-lying islands and submerged reefs that can emerge unexpectedly from the depths.

Due to its complex geography and historical territorial disputes, this zone is typically avoided in Asian cruise itineraries, regardless of the starting port. This precaution is taken to ensure a safer and smoother cruising experience in the often unpredictable waters of the South China Sea.

The North Sea

If you’re planning a cruise to North Europe, the British Isles, or even Iceland, you’ll likely have to pass through the North Sea.

Sailing through the North Sea can be quite challenging due to its susceptibility to high winds and waves, which often result in rough waters and thick fogs.

Traveling through the North Sea, especially from ports like Southampton to destinations such as Edinburgh, cruisers may encounter rough conditions.

The waters here can get particularly choppy, causing ships to experience significant rocking, akin to the sensations of a roller coaster.

While modern cruise ships are designed to handle these rough seas, passengers should be prepared for potential changes in their itineraries.

What Is Considered Rough Seas For A Cruise Ship?

Rough seas for a cruise ship are typically characterized by high winds and significant wave heights, which can lead to noticeable ship movement and discomfort for passengers.

Generally, waves exceeding 7-8 feet (about 2-2.5 meters) are considered rough, but modern cruise ships are designed to handle much higher waves safely.

The Beaufort Wind Scale, which categorizes wind speed, is often used to gauge sea conditions; rough seas are usually indicated by wind speeds over 17 knots (about 20 mph or 31 km/h).

These conditions can cause a cruise ship to pitch (move up and down) or roll (tilt side to side), leading to a more turbulent experience on board.

The perception of roughness can can vary among passengers, depending on their susceptibility to seasickness and the design and size of the ship. Larger, more modern cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers that significantly reduce the rolling motion, making them more resilient to rough seas.

Despite this, in extremely high seas with waves reaching over 15 feet (4.5 meters) or in the case of severe storms, even large ships might experience noticeable movement.

Cruise lines closely monitor weather conditions and may alter itineraries to avoid rough seas for passenger comfort and safety.

What Time Of Year Are Seas The Roughest?

The roughest seas typically occur during the transition between seasons, particularly in regions prone to cyclones or hurricanes.

In the Atlantic and Caribbean, for instance, the hurricane season peaks from August to October, bringing turbulent seas with higher risks of storms and rough conditions.

Similarly, in the Pacific, typhoon season, which typically lasts from May to October, can lead to rough seas, especially around Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific.

In contrast, the Southern Hemisphere experiences its roughest seas during its winter months, from June to August. This is especially true in areas like the Southern Ocean, where cruises to destinations like Antarctica are affected.

The Drake Passage, known for some of the world’s most challenging sailing conditions, sees its roughest waters during this period.

On top of this, areas like the North Sea and the Mediterranean can also experience rougher conditions during the winter months.

Are Cruise Ships Safe in Rough Seas?

Yes, cruise ships are safe in rough seas. They are designed to withstand waves up to 15 feet high, and they have stabilizers to reduce the amount of rocking felt onboard. However, you may still feel the motion of the waves, especially if they are particularly large.

If the captain deems it necessary, they may order passengers to stay indoors. It is also a good idea to stay seated and take medication for motion sickness if necessary.

In extreme weather conditions, such as encountering 30-foot waves, cruise ships like the Anthem of the Seas have successfully navigated through with no major issues or injuries to passengers or crew.

Are Seas Rough in the Caribbean?

The Caribbean, renowned for its typically calm cruising conditions, does encounter rougher seas under certain circumstances.

The Atlantic hurricane season, spanning from June to November, presents the highest likelihood of experiencing turbulent waters in the Caribbean, particularly in zones where the Caribbean Sea converges with the Atlantic Ocean.

Despite these seasonal challenges, major cruise lines continue to operate numerous voyages to the Caribbean throughout the hurricane season.

They often modify their sailing routes to circumvent the most severe storms, which means that cruise itineraries may be more prone to alterations during these months.

Are Seas Rough On A Transatlantic Cruise?

Seas on a transatlantic cruise can indeed be rough at times, primarily due to the vast and open nature of the Atlantic Ocean. The experience of rough seas on such a cruise largely depends on the time of year and the specific route taken.

For example, during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November, there’s a higher chance of encountering rougher seas, particularly in the North Atlantic. This is due to the increased likelihood of storms and turbulent weather patterns.

Are Seas Rough Around Japan?

The seas around Japan can be rough at certain times of the year, influenced by the region’s specific climatic conditions. The most significant factor is the typhoon season, which typically runs from May to October.

During this period, the waters around Japan can become particularly turbulent due to the increased likelihood of typhoons and storms.

These weather events can lead to high waves and strong winds, creating challenging conditions for sea travel.

Are The Seas Rough Around Cape Horn?

The seas around Cape Horn, located at the southern tip of South America, are notorious for being some of the roughest in the world.

This reputation is largely due to the confluence of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in this region, combined with strong winds, large waves, and unpredictable weather patterns.

The area is known for its challenging sailing conditions, characterized by what sailors call the “Roaring Forties” and “Furious Fifties” — strong westerly winds found in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly between the latitudes of 40 and 50 degrees.

Similar Posts

5 Bizarre Cruise Ship Attractions You Won’t Believe Exist

Cheapest Cruises for Families: Top 10 Budget-Friendly Lines with Kids Sail Free

Front Or Back of Cruise Ship: Best Cabin Locations Explained!

How To Get Laid On A Cruise: Step-By-Step Guide

Do Cruise Ships Have WiFi (Yes, BUT…)

How Much Does A Cruise Ship Cost To Build? (SHOCKING AMOUNT!)

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Singapore Tourism
• Singapore Hotels
• Singapore Bed and Breakfast
• Singapore Holiday Rentals
• Flights to Singapore
• Singapore Restaurants
• Singapore Attractions
• Singapore Travel Forum
• Singapore Pictures
• Singapore Map
• All Singapore Hotels
• Singapore Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Singapore
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

High Sea Cruise- Is it worth it? - Singapore Forum

• Asia    
• Singapore    

High Sea Cruise- Is it worth it?

• Singapore Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• Singapore forums
• Singapore forum

We plan a vacation of 8 nights in S’pore and personally feel that instead of 2N cruise , we should stay in Sentosa for 2N as there is so much to see in Sentosa.

Whats your take on the above 2 options?

Agree with previous comment.

Also agree with post#1.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Where best to see MBS light show 09:19
• Recommended restaurant for a special meal. 08:35
• How to answer this questions on Singapore Visa Application? 07:08
• Looking for recommendations for Sunday Brunch with Champagne 02:00
• reservations now required 4 Sky Garden at CapitaSpring 01:53
• Sending luggage from Singapore to Malaysia 01:33
• Hotels today
• Best place to exchange currency in Singapore? today
• ATM fees in 2024 for European CC yesterday
• Airport/Jewel worth a visit on a separate day? yesterday
• Best day to visit Universal Studios? yesterday
• Affordable Hotels near great foods yesterday
• Art ten versus four seasons versus st Regis or Fullerton bay 02 May 2024
• Singapore itinerary 8 nights 02 May 2024
• Best High Tea in Singapore 8 replies
• Beware when booking with agoda 81 replies
• Singapore to tioman island 11 replies
• where to buy branded luggage at sale price? 25 replies
• Beware to MISA travel Singapore, they robbed their customer 24 replies
• best buffet at top hotel 29 replies
• Which airport terminal does Air Asia use? 4 replies
• Factory outlets for nike, asics or adidas 11 replies
• Bintan or Batam for a weekend get away? 9 replies
• Bus from Singapore to Malacca 11 replies

Singapore Hotels and Places to Stay

• >>> Show Top Questions about Singapore <<<

Cruise Ship Anchors: Everything You Need to Know

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Today’s massive cruise ships are some of the most technologically advanced vehicles on the planet. Yet, they still use the ancient invention, anchors.

You’d think that an invention dating back to 592 BC is out of the window, but anchors still play an essential role for cruise ships.

This article will show you everything you need to know about cruise ship anchors. We’ll compare them to the modern ship stabilizing thrusters, and we’ll also compare the size and weight of one of the most famous ships in the world.

Table of Contents

Cruise Ship Anchors

Cruise ships use anchors to hold the ship in place. Cruise ship anchors are commonly used in tender ports, where the ship cannot moor to a land-based dock.

The first known use of ship anchors dates back to Ancient Greece, around 592 BC.

Despite advances in technology, cruise ship anchors remain essential in ship construction.

Modern ships have advanced positioning systems that keep them in place using engines and thrusters. This allows ships to remain in place without drifting.

The technology uses GPS and the cruise ship’s engines to keep the vessel stationary and counter the ocean currents and waves. 

Dynamic positioning systems are commonly used when ships must remain in deep water , where an anchor may not be long enough. While the chain length limits the use of anchors, the dynamic positioning systems don’t have any limitations. They can be used in water of any depth and are often used to keep ships positioned in the deep ocean.

They also pose less risk to coral reefs, where an anchor might disturb the reef.

Despite the advantages of dynamic positioning systems, the new technology doesn’t eliminate the need for anchors.

Ship stabilizing thrusters consume fuel and are liable to malfunction and damage. While they don’t impact coral reefs like the anchor, burning fuel has its own environmental impact.

On the other hand, anchors are much more economical when keeping the ship in place since they consume no fuel.

How Do Cruise Ship Anchors Work?

Cruise ship anchors work by extending down to the seabed of shallow water and using their weight to hold the ship in position.

Anchors rest against the sea bed and utilize their heavy weight to keep the ship stationary. They counter the effect of currents and waves, holding the ship in its position.

Utilizing the sea bed is why cruise ships can’t rely on anchors in deep or open water. These anchors’ chains have a limited length; if the anchor can’t reach the sea bed, it can’t perform its function.

How Big Are Cruise Ship Anchors?

Cruise ship anchors range between 10–20 feet long and average 8–15 feet wide. An anchor’s size is directly proportional to the size of the vessel.

Larger and heavier ships require larger and heavier anchors.

The Titanic had an 18 foot 6 inches long main anchor, and it was the largest anchor made at the time.

Let’s not forget about the chains that hold these anchors. These chains have various lengths and thicknesses. The chains’ length depends on the anchor they’re supposed to carry, and the thickness depends on the ship they’re supposed to hold.

How Heavy Are Cruise Ship Anchors?

The average weight of cruise ship anchors ranges between 10–20 US tons . The weight can go considerably higher to accommodate the largest ships. However, it’s unlikely to go lower because it would be difficult for it to stabilize a ship with a lower weight.

The Titanic had an anchor that weighed around 16 US tons. Even back then, that was mighty impressive.

Despite the anchor’s weight, it merely acts as a point of contact with the seabed. The anchor’s chain is far heavier and vital in keeping the ship stationary.

Anchor Chains

Nautical engineers use various methods to calculate the chain length. Generally, heavier anchors require heavier chains.

The weight of the chain helps hold the cruise ship in place.

Longer chains can withstand more movement, unlike short chains, which can cause the anchor to lose contact with the seabed during rough seas.

When an anchor is lowered into the ocean, sufficient slack must be in the chain, which rests on the seabed. The slack provides a greater surface area of contact with the seabed, which absorbs more movement.

Here’s a sample table to show you the correlation between the lengths of chains based on their anchors’ weight.

Remember that we’ll use US tons, which are slightly lighter than metric tons. 1 US ton is around 907 kg.

Regarding thickness, there are three primary sizes of chains.

Smaller vessels use 1/4 inch thick chains, medium ships use 5/18 inch chains, and the biggest cruise ships use 3/8 inch chains.

How Many Anchors Do Cruise Ships Have?

Most modern cruise ships have two anchors, with one on the port side and the other on the ship’s starboard side.

Cruise ships occasionally use both anchors if the waters are rough or there’s a strong current. Most of the time, however, the cruise ship uses only one anchor and keeps the other one for backup.

Some larger cruise ships are equipped with a third backup anchor . The third anchor is often smaller and weighs less than the primary two anchors. It’s primarily used as a backup if one of the primary anchors breaks or malfunctions.

Can a Cruise Ship Stay Idle Without Anchors?

It’s unlikely for a modern cruise ship to lose its anchors. Many cruise ships also have two anchors. So, if one becomes unusable for some reason, the second will act as backup .

If, for some reason, the ship loses all functioning anchors; it can still rely on its thrusters to keep it stable.

In the improbable scenario that both the anchors and dynamic positioning systems also get damaged, the cruise ship will be at the mercy of the moving water as long as it’s not sailing.

In other words, the cruise ship could still get from point A to point B, but it won’t manage to stay idle without anchors or dynamic positioning systems.

The only solution would be to dock and have the issues repaired.

Do Cruise Ships Still Use Anchors?

Cruise ships generally avoid using the anchor due to the environmental impact on coral reefs and the seabed.

But dropping anchor also impacts guests.

Staterooms located near the ship’s bow are some of the worst on a cruise ship. One reason is the sound of the chain when the ship drops anchor.

Cruise ships often arrive at ports of call in the early morning. And no guest wants to be woken by what sounds like a freight train at 5 am while the ship drops anchor.

So what do cruise ships do instead?

Some cruise ports, such as Labedee, Haiti, offer fixed mooring points . The mooring points allow ships to remain stationary at sea within a reasonable distance of the port. This allows the vessel to remain idle without using the anchor.

If no fixed mooring points are available, some cruise lines will opt to use dynamic positioning systems to keep the ship idle using the ship’s engines . The bridge simply inputs the coordinates, and the system takes care of the rest.

But, dynamic positioning systems come at a cost .

They require significant amounts of fuel to power the engines. Not only are fuel costs a primary consideration for cruise lines, but they also impact the environment.

Some cruise ports have local laws prohibiting the use of anchors to protect coral reefs. But if there are no laws regarding anchors, it’s up to the captain to decide whether to use the dynamic positioning system or drop anchor.

Below is a visible of the cruise ship Island Princess dropping anchor.

Final Thoughts

Cruise ships are built with impressive engineering and enriched with fantastic technology, but they’re still humble enough to remain loyal to their anchors.

Anchors excel in stabilizing large cruise ships in shallow waters as long as they’re heavy enough to do the job. They’re also a great backup solution if modern positioning systems cease to function for any reason.

However, anchors can only work if their chains are long enough for them to reach the seabed, rendering them useless in open water.

Marcello De Lio

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Trending now

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Plan Your Trip

What Is Considered Rough Seas For A Cruise Ship

Published: December 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Hermina Walz

• Sustainability

Introduction

Welcome aboard the exciting world of cruise ship travel! Cruising offers a unique and unforgettable vacation experience, with luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and an array of entertainment options. However, just like any other form of travel, cruises are subject to the forces of nature, including the unpredictable seas.

While cruising may conjure up images of calm seas and gentle breezes, it’s important to remember that the ocean can sometimes be a bit rough. Rough seas, also known as choppy or turbulent seas, occur when there are strong winds and high waves. These conditions can make the voyage a bit more challenging for both the cruise ship crew and the passengers.

In this article, we will explore what exactly constitutes rough seas for a cruise ship, the impact it can have on the ship and its passengers, and the safety measures that are in place to mitigate any potential risks. We will also delve into the passengers’ experience during rough seas and the strategies employed by cruise ship navigators to navigate safely through these challenging conditions.

Join us as we embark on an enlightening journey to discover what happens when a cruise ship encounters rough seas and how it all adds to the excitement and adventure of your cruise vacation.

Definition of Rough Seas

Rough seas can be described as ocean conditions characterized by choppy waves and strong winds. These conditions can make the surface of the water uneven and create a challenging environment for cruise ships to navigate through. While there is no specific threshold for what constitutes rough seas, it is generally considered as conditions where the wave height is around 4-8 feet or more, accompanied by winds of 20-30 knots.

The severity of rough seas can vary depending on various factors such as the location of the cruise ship, the weather patterns, and the size and stability of the vessel. In some cases, rough seas may be caused by storms or hurricanes, while in other instances, they may be the result of strong winds blowing across open water.

When a cruise ship encounters rough seas, it can lead to a range of physical movements and sensations. The ship may pitch, roll, and sway as it rides the waves, which can cause passengers and crew members to feel a sense of instability and motion. While these movements can add to the thrill and excitement of a cruise, they may also cause discomfort and seasickness for some individuals.

It’s important to note that rough seas are a normal part of the cruising experience and that cruise ships are designed and equipped to handle these conditions safely. Cruise lines closely monitor weather forecasts and work closely with onboard navigational teams to determine the best course of action when rough seas are anticipated.

Now that we have a clearer understanding of what constitutes rough seas, let’s explore the impact it can have on both the cruise ship and its passengers.

Impact of Rough Seas on Cruise Ship

Rough seas can have various impacts on a cruise ship, both in terms of its physical structure and the overall experience for passengers and crew members. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key impacts:

1. Ship Stability: Rough seas can cause a cruise ship to pitch (movement along the vertical axis) and roll (movement along the lateral axis), which can affect its stability. Modern cruise ships are designed with stabilizers, which are retractable fins or wings located near the waterline that help to reduce the rolling and pitching motion. These stabilizers help to minimize the effects of rough seas on the ship’s stability and keep it more balanced.

2. Comfort and Safety: The rolling and pitching motion of a cruise ship in rough seas can lead to discomfort and potentially increase the risk of accidents. It is crucial for passengers and crew members to follow safety protocols, such as holding onto handrails and being cautious when moving around the ship. Cruise lines also have strict safety procedures in place to ensure the well-being of everyone onboard during rough seas.

3. Mechanical Stress: The constant movement and vibration of a cruise ship in rough seas can put additional stress on its mechanical systems. The engines, propellers, and other components have to work harder to maintain stability and control in challenging conditions. Cruise ships undergo regular maintenance and testing to ensure that they can withstand the forces exerted by rough seas.

4. Water Ingress: In extreme cases, when a cruise ship encounters particularly rough seas or weather conditions, there is a small risk of water ingress. However, cruise ships are constructed with multiple watertight compartments to prevent large-scale flooding and maintain buoyancy. Additionally, advanced monitoring systems are in place to detect and address any potential water ingress swiftly.

5. Itinerary Changes: In some cases, when the sea conditions are extremely rough or dangerous, cruise itineraries may be altered to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers and crew. Ports of call may be skipped or replaced, and alternative routes or destinations may be chosen to avoid the worst of the rough seas. These itinerary changes are made with careful consideration of the current and forecasted weather conditions.

Overall, while rough seas can present challenges for a cruise ship, modern vessels are designed and equipped to handle these conditions safely. Understanding the impact of rough seas on the ship is essential for both passengers and crew members to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruising experience.

Safety Measures during Rough Seas

When a cruise ship encounters rough seas, the safety and wellbeing of passengers and crew members become a top priority. Cruise lines have stringent safety protocols in place to ensure that everyone onboard remains safe and secure. Here are some of the key safety measures implemented during rough seas:

1. Mandatory Safety Briefings: Before the ship sets sail, passengers are required to attend a mandatory safety briefing, often known as the muster drill. This drill familiarizes passengers with important safety information, including how to don a life jacket and the location of emergency exits and assembly stations. Knowing these procedures is crucial in the event of an emergency, including rough seas.

2. Well-Trained Crew: Cruise ship crew members are extensively trained in safety procedures and are prepared to handle various situations, including rough seas. They undergo rigorous training to efficiently respond to emergencies, assist passengers, and maintain order during challenging conditions.

3. Enhanced Stability Measures: Modern cruise ships are built with advanced stability systems to minimize the effects of rough seas. These include the aforementioned stabilizers, as well as ballast systems that can be adjusted to optimize stability. By ensuring the ship maintains its balance, these measures enhance the safety and comfort of passengers and crew members.

4. Increased Surveillance: During rough seas, cruise ships have heightened surveillance to monitor conditions both inside and outside of the ship. This includes regular monitoring of weather updates, sea state, and any potential hazards. By staying informed, the crew can make informed decisions to ensure the safety of everyone onboard.

5. Securing Loose Items: In preparation for rough seas, crew members secure loose items throughout the ship. This includes securing tables, chairs, and other movable objects to prevent them from becoming hazards in the event of sudden movements. Passengers are also encouraged to secure their personal belongings in their cabins.

6. Restraint Systems: In areas where rough seas are expected or during turbulent conditions, cruise ships may implement the use of restraint systems. These can include handrails, ropes, or safety nets in public spaces and outdoor areas to prevent passengers from being swept away or injured by sudden movements.

7. Communication and Updates: Cruise ship staff maintain consistent communication with passengers, providing updates on weather conditions and any necessary precautions. This ensures that everyone is informed and aware of the current situation, fostering a sense of transparency and reassurance during rough seas.

By implementing these safety measures, cruise lines aim to create a secure environment for passengers and crew members, even during challenging conditions. It is important to follow the instructions of the crew and adhere to safety protocols to ensure a smooth and protected sailing experience.

Passengers’ Experience during Rough Seas

Experiencing rough seas during a cruise can be both thrilling and unsettling for passengers. The degree of impact can vary depending on the severity of the rough seas and individual tolerance levels. Here are some common experiences that passengers may encounter:

1. Sensation of Motion: As the cruise ship navigates through rough seas, passengers may feel various movements, such as rocking, swaying, and pitching. These movements can be disorienting, especially for individuals who are not accustomed to being on a vessel in challenging conditions. It is important to stay aware of your surroundings and use handrails for stability when moving around the ship.

2. Discomfort and Seasickness: Rough seas can lead to feelings of discomfort and seasickness for some passengers. Symptoms may include nausea, dizziness, headaches, and fatigue. Cruise lines provide over-the-counter medications and remedies to alleviate seasickness, and there are also natural methods such as acupressure wristbands and ginger supplements that may help reduce symptoms.

3. Adjusting Activities: During rough seas, passengers may need to adjust their planned activities or participate in alternative onboard entertainment options. Outdoor decks and pools may be less accessible, and certain activities like water sports and outdoor dining may be temporarily suspended for safety purposes.

4. Increased Social Interactions: Rough seas can bring passengers together as they share their experiences and support one another. It is common to find fellow passengers engaging in conversations about the movement of the ship and providing reassurance and tips for managing any discomfort.

5. Appreciation of Ship’s Stability: While the motion of rough seas can be unsettling, experiencing the resilience and stability of a cruise ship can foster a sense of awe and admiration. Passengers often gain a deeper appreciation for the engineering and design of the vessel, knowing that it is built to withstand and navigate through challenging conditions.

6. Captivating Ocean Views: Despite the rough seas, some passengers find beauty in the dramatic waves and changing colors of the ocean during turbulent conditions. The power and grandeur of the sea can make for captivating and memorable moments, especially when viewed from the ship’s vantage points.

It’s important to note that the majority of cruise ship voyages experience calm seas, and rough seas are relatively rare occurrences. Cruise lines continually monitor weather conditions and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety and comfort of their passengers. If you do encounter rough seas during your cruise, embrace the experience and make the most of the onboard facilities and entertainment options while staying aware of personal comfort levels.

Cruise Ship Navigation during Rough Seas

Navigating a cruise ship through rough seas requires skill, experience, and careful planning. Cruise ship captains and navigational teams are trained to handle these challenging conditions while ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers and crew members. Here’s a glimpse into how cruise ships navigate during rough seas:

1. Weather Monitoring: Cruise ships rely on advanced weather tracking systems and satellite communication to continuously monitor weather conditions. This allows the crew to anticipate rough seas and make informed decisions regarding the ship’s route and speed to minimize the impact of adverse weather conditions.

2. Altering Course: In response to rough seas, cruise ship captains have the authority to alter the ship’s course to avoid the worst of the rough conditions. This may involve navigating around storms or choosing alternative routes that provide smoother sailing. The safety and comfort of passengers are of paramount concern when deciding on course adjustments.

3. Speed Adjustments: Cruise ships have the flexibility to adjust their speed to mitigate the effects of rough seas. Reducing speed can help minimize the impact of wave energy on the ship, resulting in a smoother sailing experience for passengers. However, it is essential to strike a balance between ensuring comfort and maintaining the stability of the vessel.

4. Following Navigational Guidelines: Cruise ships adhere to strict navigational guidelines, including maintaining a safe distance from hazards such as rocks, reefs, and other vessels. Even during rough seas, these guidelines are followed to ensure the overall safety of the ship and its passengers.

5. Cooperation with Port Authorities: Cruise ships have well-established relationships with port authorities and harbor masters along their routes. If rough seas are anticipated, the captain may coordinate with these authorities to determine the best course of action, including potentially delaying arrival or departure to avoid hazardous conditions.

6. Communication with Passengers: Cruise ship captains and crew make regular announcements to keep passengers informed about the sea conditions, any necessary adjustments to the itinerary, and safety precautions. Open and transparent communication helps to maintain trust and reassures passengers during rough seas.

7. Continuous Monitoring: The navigational team maintains constant monitoring of the ship’s conditions, including the ship’s movements, stability, and response to rough seas. This allows them to make real-time adjustments and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone onboard.

Cruise ships are designed and built to withstand challenging sea conditions, and every effort is made to ensure a smooth and enjoyable voyage for passengers. While rough seas can present temporary challenges, the experience and expertise of the navigational team help to minimize any potential impact and navigate the ship with utmost care and precision.

Strategies to Minimize Discomfort during Rough Seas

Rough seas can sometimes cause discomfort and seasickness for passengers onboard a cruise ship. However, there are several strategies and remedies that can help minimize these effects and ensure a more pleasant experience. Here are some effective ways to reduce discomfort during rough seas:

1. Medications and Remedies: Over-the-counter medications such as motion sickness pills can be effective in alleviating seasickness symptoms. These medications are designed to help reduce nausea and dizziness. It’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider or the ship’s medical staff before taking any medications.

2. Acupressure Bands: Acupressure wristbands, commonly known as ‘sea bands,’ apply pressure on specific acupoints on the wrist, which can help alleviate nausea and dizziness associated with motion sickness. These bands are drug-free and can provide relief for some individuals.

3. Ginger Remedies: Ginger has long been used as a natural remedy for motion sickness. Consuming ginger in various forms, such as ginger candies, ginger ale, or ginger capsules, can help reduce nausea and soothe the stomach during rough seas. Many cruise ships offer ginger-based remedies or snacks onboard.

4. Stay Hydrated: It is important to stay hydrated during rough seas to prevent dehydration, which can worsen the symptoms of seasickness. Sipping on water, clear broth, or herbal tea can help keep you hydrated and maintain your overall well-being.

5. Fresh Air and Natural Light: Stepping out onto open decks and breathing in fresh air can help alleviate feelings of motion sickness. Similarly, exposing yourself to natural light can help recalibrate your senses and reduce feelings of discomfort. Spending time in well-ventilated areas can also contribute to overall comfort.

6. Avoid Reading or Staring at Electronic Screens: Focusing on a book, smartphone, or tablet can increase the risk of motion sickness. Instead, try to engage in activities that do not require you to fixate your eyes on a specific point, such as listening to music, watching the horizon, or engaging in light conversation.

7. Eat Light and Choose the Right Foods: Opt for light, easily digestible meals and snacks during rough seas. Avoid heavy, greasy, and spicy foods that can exacerbate the sensation of nausea. Stick to bland, non-greasy options like crackers, toast, fruit, or yogurt.

8. Relaxation Techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or listening to calming music, can help reduce stress and minimize discomfort during rough seas. Finding a quiet spot on the ship or participating in onboard yoga or stretching classes can also promote relaxation.

9. Seek Medical Assistance if Needed: If symptoms of seasickness persist or become severe, it is essential to seek medical assistance. The ship’s medical staff can provide additional treatments, such as prescription medications or intravenous fluids, to help alleviate symptoms and ensure your well-being.

By employing these strategies and remedies, you can significantly reduce discomfort and make your journey through rough seas more enjoyable. Remember to listen to your body, take necessary precautions, and seek assistance when needed to ensure a comfortable and memorable cruising experience.

Rough seas are an inevitable part of the cruising experience, adding a touch of adventure and excitement to your voyage. Understanding what constitutes rough seas, the impact it can have on a cruise ship, and the safety measures in place is crucial for both passengers and crew members.

Cruise ship captains and navigational teams are skilled at navigating through challenging conditions, utilizing advanced technology and careful planning to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone onboard. Cruise lines also implement various safety measures, including mandatory safety briefings, well-trained crew members, enhanced stability systems, and continuous monitoring of weather conditions.

Passengers may encounter various experiences during rough seas, from sensations of motion and discomfort to increased social interactions and appreciation for the ship’s stability. It is important to embrace the experience and follow the strategies to minimize discomfort, such as taking medications or remedies, staying hydrated, seeking fresh air, and avoiding activities that can worsen symptoms of seasickness.

Ultimately, while rough seas can present temporary challenges, cruise ships are designed and equipped to handle these conditions safely. Cruise lines prioritize the comfort and well-being of their passengers, offering various amenities and services to ensure an enjoyable and memorable cruising experience.

So, embark on your next cruise with confidence, knowing that the cruise ship and its crew are well-prepared to navigate through rough seas and provide you with an unforgettable adventure on the high seas.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

• CRUISE TIPS
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Celebrity Cruise Line
• Disney Cruise Line
• Holland America Line
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Virgin Voyages
• Windstar Cruises
• Travel Deals
• CRUISE SHIP TRACKER
• Port Webcams

The question of “ how big is a cruise ship ?” touches on more than just numbers—it reveals a staggering evolution in maritime engineering and travel luxury. These floating giants push the limits regarding  cruise ship height  and breadth, allowing thousands of guests to explore the oceans while indulging in experiences once confined to land. How tall is a cruise ship compared to the skyscrapers dotting our urban landscapes, and what does that mean for those on board?

To understand the colossal nature of these vessels, we need to look at the benchmarks:  how big are cruise ships ? Imagine structures so vast that they seem like self-contained worlds, with amenities and venues that rival premier resorts. The question of how tall the average cruise ship is escalates into a deeper discussion of ship design and guest experience.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding the magnitude of cruise ships beyond mere numbers—envisioning floating metropolises.
• Exploring how the dimensions of cruise ships, such as height and length, impact the passenger experience.
• Discovering the multifaceted implications of a ship’s size, from onboard activities to port accessibility .
• Comparing cruise ship sizes to other massive structures, appreciating their engineering feats.
• Reflecting on personal preferences and how they direct the choice of cruise ship size for individual travelers.

How Big Is a Cruise Ship: Understanding the Dimensions

The magnificence of cruise ships is often intricate to fathom without delving into their actual dimensions. These floating behemoths are defined by their length, width, and height, which dictate the overall passenger experience from onboard activities to the visual dominance these vessels have in ports worldwide.

Length, Width, and Height: Measuring a Cruise Ship’s Proportions

To grasp the sheer size of these vessels, one must begin with their primary dimensions. The length of a cruise ship, from bow to stern, is a clear indicator of its scale. On average, contemporary cruise ships span well over 1,000 feet. Width, often called the beam, varies considerably but can surpass 100 feet for larger vessels, facilitating stability and space for onboard amenities. The wonder of engineering that is Royal Caribbean ‘s Wonder of the Seas stretches to a beam of 210 feet. Height is less frequently discussed but equally remarkable; mega-ships can tower above the waterline.

How Many Feet Is a Cruise Ship? Specific Measurements of Popular Liners

Regarding particular measurements, the lengths and widths of cruise ships serve as a testament to human engineering. The average cruise ship length is impressive, but certain vessels push these boundaries further. Below is a comparison table demonstrating the exact dimensions of some of the most renowned cruise ships.

The figures reflect the incredible diversity in cruise ship size. Mega-ships epitomize grandeur; for context, the length of the largest cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas, eclipses the Eiffel Tower if laid flat. As the size of vessels increases to cater to ever-growing demands for space and luxury , it’s clear that versatile architectural feats will continue to sail our seas.

Weight and Tonnage: The Scale of Modern Cruise Ships

The heft of today’s seafaring leviathans is a testament to maritime engineering. Answering questions like  how much cruise ships weigh and how much cruise ships weigh  gives us an introduction to the sheer scale of these floating resorts. With the  Allure of the Seas  tipping the scales at an impressive 225,282 Gross Tonnage (GT), the  Princess cruise ships  also boast a significant tonnage, marking them among the heavyweights of the oceanic fleet. Below is a comparative analysis of some of the major players in the cruise industry and their astounding measurements.

The table showcases not just the  weight and length of cruise ships but emphasizes the monumental growth and development within the cruise industry. The leap from the renowned  Allure of the Seas  to the groundbreaking  Icon of the Seas  highlights the continuous pursuit of grandeur on the high seas. These vessels are not merely ships but colossal floating cities, offering a snapshot of humanity’s drive for exploration and comfort.

Passenger Capacity and Stateroom Varieties

Embarking on a cruise vacation offers a variety of choices when it comes to accommodations. From the practical interior cabins to the luxury of luxurious suites, there is something to meet every traveler’s desire for comfort and style. Understanding the cruise ship capacity average and stateroom options provides a glimpse into how each voyage is meticulously designed to cater to the anticipated number of guests. With modern cruise liners, the spatial innovation evident below the waterline is as impressive as the amenities above, ensuring the stability and safety of these floating resorts.

From Cozy Cabins to Opulent Suites: The Range of Accommodations

Whether you’re comparing the grandeur of Carnival’s fleet to the refined elegance of Holland America ships by size, the versatility in stateroom variety is a testament to the cruise industry’s commitment to passenger preference and satisfaction.

• Interior Cabins – Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, emphasizing affordability and comfort.
• Oceanview Cabins – Offering a glimpse of the ocean for those who desire a visual connection with the sea.
• Balcony Staterooms – Providing private outdoor space to bask in the beauty of the passing vistas.
• Suites – Additional amenities and space for a more luxurious cruising experience.

These choices ensure that guests can select their ideal cruise home base, balancing their expectations of size, sightlines, and luxury levels.

How Many People Can a Cruise Ship Hold?

Cruise ships are often admired for their size, and a significant aspect is their ability to accommodate thousands of guests. The average number of passengers on a cruise ship varies according to the vessel’s size and design. For instance, Wonder of the Seas sets the bar high with a staggering capacity of 6,988 passengers. At the same time, smaller luxury liners, such as those from Celebrity Cruises , can offer a more intimate experience for only a handful of guests.

Here lies the careful equilibrium between average cruise ship capacity and passenger experience, with each liner tailored to deliver a voyage that can either be bustling with activity or serene with exclusivity.

The ever-evolving cruise liner size comparison further showcases the diverse options available to travelers with cruise ships by size comparison charting vessels from ‘Cozy Yachts’ to ‘Floating Cities.’ Let’s take a closer look at how some of the industry leaders compare:

This diversity in capacity and onboard lodging allows guests to tailor their oceanic adventure , whether seeking the spirited life on one of the industry giants or the secluded elegance of a smaller vessel. The depth of this offering underscores that the average cruise ship capacity is more than just a number; it’s about matching the expansive force of the sea with an abundance of choice and luxury.

An impressive array of options unfolds as we compare Carnival ship sizes with those from Holland America and others. With the cruise industry’s continuous growth and evolution, passengers can look forward to an armada of ships, each designed with unique hallmark features to create unforgettable voyages on the high seas.

Cruise Ship or Aircraft Carrier: A Comparative Look at Size

When one measures the grandeur of cruise ships against the formidable might of an aircraft carrier, it becomes a fascinating study of function meeting luxury. The vastness of a mega cruise ship is not just about the journey; it’s about framing the ocean itself as a destination .

Considering the dimensions of these leviathans, the ocean liner size comparison with aircraft carriers paints a telling picture. Mega cruise ships, falling under ship size categories such as ‘Mega-Ship’ or even ‘Behemoth,’ often offer more voluminous and wider girths than their naval counterparts. These floating cities embody luxury and create landmark experiences housed within their vast hulls, rivaling the living spaces of the most advanced aircraft carriers.

To put these comparisons into perspective, a table delineating the size differences provides insight into how expansive cruise ships have become, affirming their status as the titans of maritime travel.

The marvels of engineering have enabled the cruise industry to construct vessels that are grand in scope and ambition. As we drift from port to port, these behemoths of the sea redefine our interpretation of travel . It’s no longer just a cruise ship or aircraft carrier size comparison—it’s about witnessing a renaissance in ocean travel, where each colossal liner is a statement of human achievement on the high seas.

Recreational Facilities: Just How Many Activities Can You Fit on a Ship?

The dimensions of these vessels allow for a staggering array of entertainment choices designed to maximize every inch of space aboard these colossal structures. Aboard the modern cruise ship, it becomes evident that the industry has ventured far beyond merely the concept of travel, creating a comprehensive environment of leisure and thrill.

@cruiseaddicts WHY JUST CRUISE? When you can also take a ride on Bolt – The Ultimate Sea Coaster aboard Carnival Cruise Line’s NEW Carnival Cruise Line. @carnival @mrscotteddy @carnivalcruiselineblog @eatsleepcruise @portholecruise @portmiami #CarnivalCelebration #carnivalcruise #BOLT #CarnivalCruiseLine #cruise #cruises #cruiseship #cruisevacation #travel #rollercoaster #thrillrides #instacruise #cruiseblogger #cruiselife #cruisevlogger #coasterenthusiasts ♬ Danger Zone (From “Top Gun” Original Soundtrack) – Kenny Loggins

• Surf simulators that capture the essence of ocean waves
• Roller Coaster rides and robotic thrill rides
• Ice skating rinks offer a frosty retreat atop the warm waters.
• High-rope courses that challenge and invigorate thrill-seekers
• Waterparks with record-breaking slides, leaving guests breathless with delight

For families and adventure enthusiasts, the sheer size of a cruise ship encompasses intricate designs that cater to the desires of every guest. Just imagine the floating metropolis of a cruise ship, providing a seamless blend of rest and play , all within the reach of a few steps.

The innovation we witness aboard a modern cruise ship is a testament to the incredible advancements in maritime engineering and hospitality design. It pushes the boundaries of what was once perceived as possible on a sea-bound vessel. These facilities remind us that our quest for enjoyment and relaxation knows no bounds, and even amid the ocean, our options remain limitless. Encompassing significant cruise ship dimensions, the essence of the cruise experience has evolved to be more than a journey — it is now a destination in its own right.

The Giants of the Seas: A Look at the World’s Largest Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean’s new Icon of the Seas and their Oasis-class ships are often the focus of attention. These massive vessels represent the pinnacle of cruise ship engineering and luxury. To truly grasp the scale of these behemoths, let’s compare cruise ship sizes and delve into the most significant cruise ship measurements.

The Oasis-class vessels include some of the most renowned names in maritime history. The Harmony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, and the record-breaking Wonder of the Seas have set new standards for the length of the biggest cruise ship. To illustrate, here’s a comparative view of their imposing dimensions and guest capacities.

These floating cities boast extraordinary sizes and offer an extensive cruise duration. Guests aboard these ships can embark on voyages lasting anywhere from a few days to several weeks, all while enjoying amenities that rival top resort destinations worldwide.

• Innovative “neighborhood” concepts
• Extensive dining options
• Aquatic parks, sports zones, and entertainment theaters

As the travel industry continues to stretch the limits of what is possible at sea, the size of mega cruise ships keeps reaching new heights. These vessels chart courses to some of the most enchanting destinations while providing unfathomable luxury and experiences that make the duration of the cruise feel like a journey in a parallel universe of indulgence.

Cruise Ship Safety: Navigating the Implications of Size

The focus on cruise ship safety has intensified as the cruise industry builds more extensive and more advanced vessels. The expansive  cruise liner length and width  are complemented by sophisticated engineering, which includes robust  cruise ship engine specs  designed for endurance and efficiency. With these grand dimensions come greater responsibilities to protect passengers and crew, and the maritime sector is rising to the challenge with remarkable safety solutions.

The sheer size of these maritime behemoths necessitates a complex array of safety mechanisms. In an emergency, the scale of operations ramps up, making it crucial to have a well-trained crew and state-of-the-art automation. Below, we delve into the various components that make up the safety strategy for modern liners:

• Advanced Navigation Systems: These systems utilize the latest in GPS and radar technology to maintain a safe and efficient course.
• Life-saving equipment: Lifeboats, rafts, and life vests can accommodate all passengers and crew.
• Fire Suppression Systems: High-tech solutions for preventing and managing onboard fires.
• Water-Tight Doors: Engineering designed to prevent flooding and maintain buoyancy.

International regulations such as the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention are crucial in standardizing these safety protocols. These guidelines ensure that no matter the  cruise liner’s length and width , the vessel is more than just a luxury experience—it’s a fortress at sea. The table below illustrates the correlation between vessel dimensions and the imperative safety features that accompany them.

The evolution of  cruise ship safety  protocols grows in parallel with the ships themselves, ensuring that sailing remains one of the safest modes of vacation travel . Despite the intricate  cruise ship engine specs  and vast spaces to oversee, these giants of the sea are constantly advancing their capabilities for secure and serene voyages across the oceans.

Final Thoughts

The panorama of cruise ships is evolving, markedly evidenced by the burgeoning vessel sizes designed to satiate the growing appetite for experiential and luxurious sea travel. The trend casts a spotlight on the future of maritime voyages, with predictions favoring a trajectory of enlargement—both in physical dimensions and in experiential offerings. The industry buoyantly navigates towards further amplifying cruise ship scale, aiming to deliver the drama and wonder comparable to the iconic and historical Titanic.

How Big is a Cruise Ship – FAQ

How big is the largest cruise ship in the world?

The largest cruise ship in the world is Icon of the Seas by Royal Caribbean, which is 1,198 feet long.

What is the average size of a cruise ship?

The average cruise ship is around 900 feet long, but sizes can vary greatly depending on the cruise line and specific ship.

How does the size of modern cruise ships compare to the Titanic?

Modern cruise ships like Symphony of the Seas are significantly larger than the Titanic, with some being over three times bigger in length and amenities.

What are some of the biggest cruise ships in the Caribbean?

Some of the biggest cruise ships in the Caribbean include Icon of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, and Allure of the Seas by Royal Caribbean.

What fuel is used in some of the newest luxury cruise ships?

Some of the newest luxury cruise ships now use Liquefied natural gas  ( LNG ).

What is the main dining room like on large cruise ships?

Large cruise ships typically have impressive main dining rooms offering a variety of culinary experiences and cuisines for guests to enjoy during their voyage.

• #cruiseship
• #cruiseships
• #CruiseTips

Related Articles

Top 10 virgin voyages balcony deals, top 10 celebrity cruises balcony deals, top 10 balcony cruise deals, get the cruise addicts newsletter free.

We'll send you the latest cruise news, tips, and reviews directly to your inbox.

Latest Articles

Top 10 msc cruises balcony deals, top 10 norwegian balcony cruise deals.

© Copyright 2024 - Cruise Addicts

• Affiliate Disclaimer
• Privacy Policy

What Is Considered Rough Seas For A Cruise Ship: A Clear Explanation

by Judith Eve | Aug 27, 2023 | Cruise Travel Tips

I have encountered rough seas on cruises before. I am grateful that I usually do not get seasick.

When planning a cruise, one of the concerns that passengers may have is the possibility of encountering rough seas. While cruise ships are designed to handle a variety of weather conditions, it is important to know what is considered rough seas and what to expect.

According to the Douglas Sea Scale, waves that are over eight feet (2.4m) are considered rough, while waves over 13 feet (4m) are classified as very rough. At a Beaufort scale of 7 or more, which corresponds to wind speeds of 32 to 38 mph and wave heights of 13 feet, the sea is also considered rough. During these conditions, sea heaps up and foam begins to streak, and whole trees may be in motion on land.

While rough seas can be uncomfortable for some passengers, it is important to note that cruise ships are designed to handle these conditions. The captain will do everything possible to avoid bad weather by steering the ship away from storms or rough seas when possible. However, it is not always possible to avoid these conditions, and passengers should be prepared for the possibility of rough seas during their cruise.

Understanding Rough Seas

Rough seas can be a challenge for cruise ships and their passengers. Understanding what is considered rough seas for a cruise ship is important to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone on board. Waves, wind, and other factors can create rough seas that can make a cruise uncomfortable or even dangerous.

The Douglas sea scale is a system that measures the height of waves. When waves reach a height of over eight feet (2.4m), the sea is considered to be 'rough'. If waves are over 13 feet (4m), then the sea is classified as 'very rough'. This scale is used by many cruise lines to determine when it is safe to sail and whether passengers should be advised to stay in their cabins.

While the Douglas sea scale is a useful tool, there are other factors that can contribute to rough seas. Wind speed and direction can affect the height and frequency of waves. The size and weight of the ship can also impact how it handles rough seas. A larger ship may be able to handle rough seas better than a smaller one.

When a cruise ship encounters rough seas, the crew will take steps to ensure the safety and comfort of the passengers. This may include adjusting the ship's speed or course to avoid the worst of the waves. They may also advise passengers to stay in their cabins or avoid certain areas of the ship.

It is important to note that rough seas are not always avoidable. The ocean can be unpredictable, and even the most experienced sailors can encounter rough waters. However, cruise ships are designed and built to withstand a wide range of conditions, including rough seas. By understanding what is considered rough seas for a cruise ship and how ships handle these conditions, passengers can feel confident and safe during their voyage.

Impact of Rough Seas on Cruise Ships

Cruise ships are designed to withstand rough seas and adverse weather conditions. However, when the seas become too rough, it can impact the comfort and safety of passengers and crew.

One of the main effects of rough seas on a cruise ship is the rolling and pitching motion. The ship may rock from side to side, causing discomfort and seasickness for some passengers. The rolling motion can also cause objects to shift and fall, leading to potential safety hazards.

To counteract the rolling and pitching motion, most modern cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers or stabilisers. These are fins or wings that extend from the sides of the ship and help reduce the rolling motion. The stabilizers work by creating resistance against the water, which helps keep the ship steady.

Despite the presence of stabilizers, extreme weather conditions can still cause a cruise ship to roll and pitch. In such cases, the captain may decide to alter the ship's course or reduce its speed to minimize the impact of the rough seas.

It is important to note that what constitutes rough seas is subjective and can vary depending on factors such as the size of the ship, the experience of the crew, and the weather conditions. However, in general, waves with a height of 8 to 13 feet can be considered rough for a cruise ship.

Geographical Considerations

When it comes to rough seas, the geographical location of a cruise ship plays a significant role in determining the level of roughness. Here are some of the areas that are known for rough seas:

Caribbean and Bahamas

The Caribbean and Bahamas are famous for their sunny weather and calm waters. However, during hurricane season, which runs from June to November, the region experiences rough seas due to the tropical storms and hurricanes that occur. The Bay of Biscay, located in the North Atlantic, is another area that can be rough due to the strong winds and currents.

North Atlantic and Bermuda

The North Atlantic and Bermuda are known for their unpredictable weather patterns, which can lead to rough seas. The area is prone to storms and gales that can cause large waves and choppy waters.

Mediterranean

The Mediterranean is generally calm, but it can experience rough seas during the winter months due to strong winds. The region is also known for its sudden and unpredictable storms.

Alaska and Gulf of Alaska

Alaska and the Gulf of Alaska are known for their cold waters and rough seas. The area is prone to storms, and the strong currents and winds can cause large waves that can be challenging for cruise ships to navigate.

Drake Passage and Antarctica

The Drake Passage, located between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands, is notorious for its rough seas. The passage is the shortest crossing between Antarctica and the rest of the world, and it connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The area is known for its strong winds and currents that can cause large waves.

South China Sea

The South China Sea is prone to typhoons, which can cause rough seas and high waves. The area is also known for its sudden storms, which can be challenging for cruise ships to navigate.

Open water, such as the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, can also experience rough seas due to storms and strong winds. However, modern cruise ships are equipped with advanced stabilizers that can minimize the impact of rough seas.

Overall, the level of roughness at sea is affected by various factors such as wind speed, wave size, and currents. It is essential for cruise ships to be equipped with advanced technology that can help them navigate through rough seas safely.

Time of Year and Weather Conditions

When it comes to determining what is considered rough seas for a cruise ship, the time of year and weather conditions play a significant role. Certain times of the year are more prone to rough seas due to weather patterns and seasonal changes.

Winter months, especially from May through July, tend to experience the most frequent gale-strength winds. The currents, combined with the directional shift in the landmass from south to east, create rocky seas year-round. However, rough seas can still be possible in the Mediterranean and other regions during the early spring months.

Hurricane season, which typically runs from June through November in the Atlantic, can also create poor weather conditions and rough seas. It is important to note that while hurricanes can pose a significant threat to cruise ships, cruise lines closely monitor weather patterns and will alter their routes to avoid severe weather conditions.

Wind speeds can also contribute to rough seas. When waves reach a height of over eight feet (2.4m), the sea is considered to be "rough." If waves are over 13 feet (4m), then the sea is classified as "very rough." The Douglas sea scale is a system for measuring the height of waves and is used to determine the severity of sea conditions.

Cruise Ship Safety Measures

Cruise ships are some of the safest modes of transportation available. Cruise lines must follow a surprising number of rules and regulations to protect their passengers. They take safety very seriously, and their ships are equipped with the latest technology to ensure a safe voyage.

The captain of a cruise ship is responsible for the safety of all passengers and crew. They have the authority to make decisions regarding the itinerary and the ship's operations, including changes due to bad weather. They are trained to handle all kinds of situations, including rough seas, and will take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of everyone on board.

Cruise ships are designed with safety in mind. They have advanced stabilizers that help to reduce the ship's movement in rough seas, making for a smoother ride. In addition, they are equipped with the latest in weather tracking technology to avoid bad weather and rough seas whenever possible.

Cruise lines also have strict safety protocols in place. They conduct regular safety drills to ensure that passengers and crew know what to do in case of an emergency. Lifeboats and life jackets are readily available, and passengers are required to attend a safety briefing before the ship sets sail.

In the event of bad weather, the captain may make changes to the itinerary to avoid rough seas. This may include changing the route or delaying the ship's departure. Passengers should always listen to the captain's instructions and exercise caution when walking around the ship during rough seas.

Overall, cruise ship safety is taken very seriously, and passengers can feel confident that they are in good hands. With advanced technology, trained crew members, and strict safety protocols, cruise lines do everything they can to ensure a safe and enjoyable voyage for everyone on board.

Dealing with Seasickness

Seasickness, also known as motion sickness, is a common concern for many cruise ship passengers. It is caused by the motion of the ship on the water, which can cause the inner ear to sense movement that the eyes cannot see. Symptoms of seasickness include nausea, dizziness, and vomiting.

Fortunately, there are several ways to deal with seasickness. One option is medication. Over-the-counter pills such as Dramamine or Bonine can help alleviate symptoms. Prescription medications such as scopolamine patches can also be effective.

Some people prefer natural remedies, such as eating green apples or using acupressure wristbands. While there is little scientific evidence to support these methods, some people find them helpful.

In addition to medication and natural remedies, there are several other strategies for dealing with seasickness. One is to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol, which can make symptoms worse. Another is to focus on the horizon or other stable objects to help the brain adjust to the motion of the ship.

Cruising Experiences

When it comes to cruising, rough seas can be a concern for many passengers. While some may enjoy the thrill of a bit of rocking and rolling, others may feel uneasy or even seasick. So, what exactly is considered rough seas for a cruise ship?

According to the Douglas Sea Scale, which is a system for measuring the height of waves, a sea is considered rough when waves reach a height of over eight feet (2.4m). If waves are over 13 feet (4m), then the sea is classified as very rough. However, it's important to note that other factors, such as wind and weather conditions, can also impact the roughness of the sea.

Cruising experiences can vary greatly depending on the destination and season. For example, Antarctica cruises and Alaska cruises may encounter rough seas due to their remote locations and unpredictable weather patterns. Transatlantic and transpacific cruises, which cross large bodies of water, may also experience rough seas at certain times of the year.

When it comes to choosing a cabin, some passengers may prefer to book a balcony room to enjoy the view, while others may opt for a lower deck to minimize the effects of rough seas. It's important to note that even on a lower deck, passengers may still feel some movement, but it may be less noticeable.

Overall, cruising experiences with rough seas can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors. While it's impossible to predict the exact conditions of the sea, cruise lines typically monitor weather patterns and adjust itineraries accordingly to ensure the safety and comfort of their passengers.

While I have experienced rough seas on cruises, it usually does not last long, and the majority of the cruise is usually smooth sailing.

Judith Eve, loves to write riveting articles on crusingtonpost.com. She hails from the sun-kissed regions of South Florida, residing within a stone’s throw of the bustling Fort Lauderdale and Miami cruise ports. As a native Floridian, Judith’s love for the ocean and cruising extends as far back as her memory can recall.

Her lifelong passion for travel has taken her to countless destinations around the globe, but cruising, undeniably, holds a special place in her heart. Judith has embraced the elegance of luxury liners, relished the intimacy of boutique ships, and marveled at the innovation found on the newest megaships. This varied experience makes her a well-rounded and knowledgeable commentator on everything cruise-related.

Balancing her writing career and family life with effortless grace, Judith is happily married, mother to two wonderful children, and a doting grandmother to three grandkids. Much like Judith, her family shares her enthusiasm for the sea, often accompanying her on cruise adventures and enriching her articles with their unique perspectives.

Her work for crusingtonpost.com provides readers with insightful, engaging narratives of her travels, from vivid descriptions of the picturesque locales she visits to in-depth reviews of the cruise lines she travels with. Her writing is not only an exploration of travel and cruising; it is a testament to her zest for life, her commitment to family, and her love for the ocean.

Endearing herself to readers with her warm, personable writing style, Judith has become a trusted voice in the cruising community. She is the go-to source for tips, advice, and comprehensive information on cruising. As a tireless explorer and devoted family woman, Judith Eve embodies the essence of the adventurous spirit, inspiring readers to set sail and create their own sea stories.

Luxury Antarctic Expedition Cruises for Wildlife Enthusiasts: Experience the Ultimate Adventure

Luxury Antarctic expedition cruises for wildlife enthusiasts offer a unique opportunity to explore one of the last...

Affordable River Cruises in Europe for Couples: A Budget-Friendly Guide

River cruises in Europe can be an excellent way for couples to explore the continent's most beautiful destinations....

Historical Sightseeing Cruises in the Mediterranean: Explore the Rich History of the Region

The Mediterranean is renowned for its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, making it an ideal destination for...

Don't Miss Out on Cruise info!

The latest Cruisington Post news delivered to your inbox.

Contact Us - Disclaimer - Curation Policy - Amazon Affiliate Disclosure - Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy

I went on 2 of Royal Caribbean's largest and newest cruise ships. I enjoyed them, but they're not for everyone.

• I've sailed on Royal Caribbean's largest cruise ships , Wonder of the Seas and Icon of the Seas.
• Both megaships are jam-packed with people, amenities, and dining options.
• But if you want a quiet cruise to unique destinations, they might not be for you.

Before booking a vacation at sea, travelers should always research the best cruise line and ship for their needs.

If you're looking for a cheap and fast trip, try Margaritaville at Sea . Craving something more upscale? Consider Oceania Cruises.

But if you're looking for high-end sailing to unique destinations, I'd suggest avoiding Royal Caribbean's megaships .

Royal Caribbean has become synonymous with giant, family-friendly cruise ships

By 2028, Royal Caribbean wants one-third of its fleet to be megaships.

The latest addition, the 1,196-foot-long and 248,663-gross-ton Icon of the Seas, entered service in January, unseating Wonder of the Seas as the world's largest cruise liner.

Together, the two vessels can fit over 19,000 people — about 4,500 crew and 14,500 guests. Each ship has eight neighborhoods and there are 29 bars and 48 eateries between them.

I've attended complimentary sailings on both Wonder and Icon, the longest of which was three nights on the latter. From their colorful pool decks to the inescapable crowds, as a solo-adult traveler, I was equal parts entertained, overwhelmed, and overstimulated.

Related stories

But admittedly, I had fun. I do love a good waterslide; Wonder has three of them and Icon has six.

If you want to go on a cruise with your children — and if they, like me, love activities like rock climbing and mini golf — Royal Caribbean's megaships could be your best option.

Wonder and Icon are jam-packed with activity spaces like ice-skating rinks and ziplines.

But don't expect a peaceful retreat. The rowdy, bar-hopping adults and screaming children at the water playground aren't conducive to a relaxing vacation.

Megavessels might not be for you if you want a quiet cruise

If you want a relaxing vacation — maybe one that doesn't involve crowds of children — you shouldn't stay on either Royal Caribbean yacht.

There are many ways to have a luxury vacation on Icon of the Seas . But unless you want to pay for upcharged amenities at every turn, you'd be better off spending more upfront to reserve a premium cruise line — especially if you're interested in cruising for the destinations, not the ships.

After all, like most of Royal Caribbean's largest vessels, Icon and Wonder exclusively sail in the Caribbean.

Some destinations, such as French Polynesia, have set restrictions on which cruises can travel there amid concerns about pollution and overcrowding.

If stopping at these ports — or, really, anywhere outside the Caribbean — is at the top of your vacation wish list, you'll have to travel on a smaller Royal Caribbean ship or go with a different cruise line like Oceania , Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas.

You might not get a waterpark, but you'll get a quieter vacation to locations no megaship will likely be allowed to visit.

Watch: Inside the world's biggest cruise ship that just set sail

• Main content

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I change or modify my reservation?

Everything You Need To Know About Halloween On The High Seas – Disney Cruise Line

This article is your complete guide to Disney Cruise Line’s H alloween on the High Seas  specialty cruises! During the Halloween season, Disney is known for going all out. From specialty park celebrations like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party in Disney World, to original content on Disney+. And the Disney Cruise Line is not immune to the celebration! Beginning in early September through Halloween, you can embark on special Halloween-themed cruises on all of the ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. This Disney Halloween cruise is known as Halloween on the High Seas and is full of spell-binding enhancements to the ship!

We hope you find this post helpful! And if you are planning a trip on a Disney cruise, be sure to check out our other FREE vacation planning tools. Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time on your next vacation and find the best deals on Disney cruises!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Disney World check out our Disney Crowd calendar!

 Disney World Crowd Calendar

A Complete Guide on the Disney Halloween Cruise 

When sailing on a Disney ship, you are surrounded by the magic of Disney. From themed rooms and restaurants to specialty characters and even fireworks at sea! But something that makes sailing on a Disney ship even more unique is the themed cruises they offer! Guests can enjoy a Halloween on the High Seas , Very Merrytime Cruises, Pixar Day at Sea, Star Wars Day at Sea, and Marvel Day at Sea cruise. My very first Disney cruise was a Disney Halloween cruise  back in 2019! And as a former Cast Member and as someone who loves cheap tickets to Walt Disney World , it was the most magical vacation I’ve ever had. Below are some of my experiences on the Halloween Disney cruise , along with information to help you discover if a Halloween on the High Seas cruise is right for you!

What is Halloween on the High Seas?

• Halloween on the High Seas is a Disney Cruise Line exclusive Halloween-themed sailing. Setting sail in mid-September through October, this season of extra-special sailings will bring the fun of Halloween to guests on select cruises across the entire DCL fleet. Guests can dress up in their Halloween costumes and join Disney characters in theirs! You can also find dance parties throughout the ships; enjoy a variety of themed food and beverages; and immerse yourself in a ghostly ship takeover with elaborate décor and the magical Pumpkin Tree!

When looking closer at the specially themed cruises, Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime cruises are the only savings that completely change the cruise experience. The other special Days at Sea are just that, Days at Sea. So your entire cruise will not be themed around the day, it will just be one day of the sailing that will be a special theme.

Related Post: When is the Cheapest Time to Go on a Disney Cruise?

When is the Halloween on the High Seas Cruise Dates?

Now that we know what  D isney Halloween on the High Seas is, we can start to uncover more specifics on this spooktacular sailing! The Disney cruise Halloween on the High Seas sail dates are September 9th – October 31st, 2024. When booking a Disney Cruise , one of the first things you should look at is the sailing calendar. This will help determine where you’re sailing from, sailing to, and on what ship you’ll be sailing on. This is also where you can see if your vacation will line up with any specialty cruises!

What are Halloween on the High Seas Sail Dates?

• 2024 : September 9th – October 31st

Halloween Disney Cruise Ships 2024

Disney Magic:

• Sail Dates : September 13, 2024 – November 5, 2024
• Sailing From : Miami & San Diego
• Ports of Call : Nassau Bahamas, Disney Castaway Cay , Lighthouse Point, George Town Grand Cayman, Ensenada Mexico, Cabo San Lucas Mexico, & Cozumel Mexico

Disney Dream:

• Sail Dates :
• Sailing From  New York
• Ports of Call : King’s Wharf Bermuda, Saint John (New Brunswick) Canada,

Halloween on the Disney Fantasy:

• Sail Dates : September 14, 2024 – November 2, 2024
• Sailing From  Port Canaveral
• Ports of Call : Nassau Bahamas, Disney Castaway Cay,  Lighthouse Point , George Town Grand Cayman, Falmouth Jamaica, Cozumel Mexico, Tortola British Virgin Islands, St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands, Philipsburg St. Maarten, & San Juan Puerto Rico

Disney Wish:

• Sail Dates : September 13, 2024 – November 1, 2024
• Ports of Call : Nassau Bahamas, Disney Castaway Cay

Related Post: Discounted Disney Cruise Line Staterooms

How is a Halloween on the High Seas Cruise Different? – Activities on Board a Disney Halloween Cruise

The main way the  D isney Halloween cruises are different from non-themed cruises is that the entire ship receives an overhaul to fit with the theme. The only times of the year this happens are on Halloween for Halloween on the High Seas and at Christmas time for the Very Merrytime Cruises . All other sailings throughout the year will have no special theme which allows guests to take in the sheer beauty of the Disney fleet! And when I say complete overhaul for these special cruises, I mean it! Along with pumpkins, bats, and spider decorations, the ships also offer themed activities and specialty characters in Halloween-themed costumes! All of these enhancements are done on every ship that offers the event. Even the Disney Dream Halloween cruise.

What Activities Are on Disney’s Halloween on the High Seas Cruise?

• Mickey’s Mouse-charade – Shiver in delight during a scare-a-brain with some of your favorite Disney Pals bedecked in their Halloween finest. Do your ghoulish best and join in the fun!
• Awakening the Pumpkin Tree  – The centerpiece of H alloween on the High Seas Disney cruise . This tree is located in the main atrium and serves as the opening act for the entire Halloween on the High Seas celebration!
• Spine-Tingling Treats  – Enjoy unique Halloween-themed desserts, beverages and trick-or-treating!
• Movie Screenings – Watch all of your favorite Disney Halloween movies in the ship’s theaters or on the funnel vision display throughout your cruise. You can also catch world premiers of new Disney Halloween movies if you’re lucky!
• Friendly Ghost Stories – Guests can enjoy Haunted Stories of the Sea, told beneath the stars by a mysterious sea captain, and The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing and Scream, an interactive movie singalong.
• Adults-Only Halloween Dance Party – On the same night as the Mouse-masquerade dance party, adults have their dance party in the adult-only section of the ship! Come dressed to impress because you might run into some infamous Disney villains while you dance the night away.

Spooktacular Halloween Decorations Throughout the Ship

The ship is decorated from Bow to the Stern in garlands of autumn leaves, character-inspired pumpkins, and adorable jack-o-lantern stickers on portholes. Each ship gets a full H alloween Disney cruise  makeover with tons of beautiful touches that are sure to put you in the Halloween spirit !

Specialty Character Sightings and Unique Character Costumes

You can catch Micky, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, Daisy, and Pluto, along with Chip & Dale dressed up in their Halloween Best! In recent years Disney Cruise Line has gotten creative with the character costumes garnishing some much-deserved attention. In 2022, it was announced that Minnie, Daisy, and Clarabelle were going to dress in costume as the three Sanderson Sisters from the Disney cult classic, Hocus Pocus. This created so much buzz that the trio was also introduced to land lovers at Disneyland’s Oogie Boogie Bash.

Related Post: Disney Cruise Cost Per Person 

What is the Cost of Halloween at the High Seas vs. a Typical Disney Cruise?

With all of the extra activities and perks of H alloween on the High Seas itinerary , you’re probably wondering if it’s more expensive than a normal sailing. And while themed cruises can be slightly more expensive in terms of cost, it depends on other factors of your cruise. When it comes to Disney Cruise Line, the factors that determine the price of your cruise are your sale date, ports of call, and occupancy. So it could work out that your  H alloween on the High Seas  sailing could be just as much or a little less than a normal sailing. Not so favorably, spooky season coincides with Hurricane Season. This is typically the time cruises are less booked and you can find a cheaper price.

What Disney Cruise Ships have Halloween on the High Seas?

Almost every ship in the Disney fleet has a H alloween on the High Seas itinerary . The only ship that doesn’t partake in the celebration is the Disney Wonder. This is because, during this time of the year, the ship is setting sail from different ports around Australia.

Related Post: What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship? 

Packing and Experience Tips & Tricks for a Disney Halloween Cruise

Knowing what to pack for a cruise is an essential part of going on one. Not only will you need your typical vacation items, but you’ll also need things like your passport, cash, a waterproof lanyard, and other items specific to a cruise. Now add in going on a H alloween Disney cruise  on top of that, and your list can get pretty long! Now we aren’t saying you need to bring an additional suitcase, but one must have in your suitcase for your  D isney Halloween cruise  is your costume!

Pack your Halloween Costume

Nothing screams Halloween like dressing up in a costume. And that’s no different on the Disney Cruise Line! Guests are encouraged to wear costumes to Halloween events throughout the sailing. If you’re wondering or concerned about a specific costume, you can find the DCL Costume Guide here . If you don’t have room in your bag for two costumes, don’t worry! There will still be a Pirate Night on H alloween on the High Seas  sailings. You can wear your pirate garb for both events!

Decorate your Stateroom Door with Halloween Themed Magnets

It is tradition to decorate your stateroom door for any Disney Cruise. However, with a D isney Halloween cruise , you can find doors decorated even more than normal! I have three words for you, go all out. If you think you’re doing too much, I promise you you’re not. There are even Facebook groups for individual sailings where you can connect with guests on your cruise to discuss door decor! Make sure to use magnets or bring them for your decorations as the stateroom doors are made of metal.

Related Post: Discounted Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Tickets

Disney Cruise Line’s Halloween on the High Seas FAQ

Q: Which Disney Ships have Halloween?

A: Almost every ship in the Disney fleet has a H alloween on the High Seas itinerary . You can set sail for Halloween on the Magic, Fantasy, Dream, and Wish. The only ship that doesn’t partake in the celebration is the Disney Wonder.

Q: Why doesn’t the Disney Wonder have Halloween on the High Seas?

A: During the Halloween season, Disney Wonder’s new global position is in Australia. September and October are the months this ship sets sail on the newest destinations in the Southern Hemisphere.

Q: Is Halloween on the High Seas Worth it?

A: This is completely up to you and based on individual vacation needs. But in my experience, it is completely worth it! The Disney Cruise Line fleet is beautiful and each ship is unique. There is nothing like having that beauty transformed for a special holiday. If your schedule allows for it, we highly recommend you try a Disney Halloween cruise .

Q: Do Halloween Cruises still have Pirate Night?

A: Yes! Every cruise will still have a Pirate Night regardless of its theme. On shorter sailings, Pirate Night can sometimes be held on the same night as another main event. For example, short Halloween sailings will take place on the same night as the main Halloween Mouse-quarade event.

When is The Best Time to Visit Disney World?

Our  Disney  World Crowd Calendar   is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We break down park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices, and average temperature. We also break down   the best time to visit Disney World   based on specific times of the year and special events.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Disney World Trip?

Are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World? Be sure to speak with a   Disney World Travel Agent   for the most recent deals and promotions. The Park Prodigy will provide a  Free Quote   for all   Disney World Vacation Packages .  The Park Prodigy can also help you save up to $20 per ticket when purchasing your   Walt Disney World Tickets ,  and we offer promotional discounts for special events such as   Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Tickets   and  Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets .

Don’t forget to check out our wonderful friends over at  Theme Park Today ,  as well!

Who We Recommend

Ticket Subtotal: $325.45

Ticket Price Including Tax:

* Your magic rewards program points are automatically calculated into all theme park ticket prices!

Kurt Gillman

Kurt is a former Disneyland Cast Member and seasoned explorer and is your trusted guide to the world of theme park travel. With countless visits to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Universal Hollywood, Tokyo Disneyland, and even aboard the Disney Cruise Line, Kurt's expertise and passion make him the perfect companion for your enchanting adventures. As the Multi-Media Manager, Content Creator and Writer for The Park Prodigy, Kurt hopes his experience and knowledge of the theme park industry can not only save people money, but give them the stress free vacation of their dreams. If he isn’t found trying the newest treats in Disneyland, Kurt enjoys relaxing at home with his dog Sam and playing video games with friends in his free time.

RELATED PRODUCTS

Walt Disney World Tickets

Save time and money on your next Walt Disney World vacation with The Park Prodigy. With our discounted Walt Disney World theme park tickets guests can choose from the following parks!

• Magic Kingdom Park
• Disney’s Holywood Studios
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Universal Orlando Tickets

Save up to three hours at Universal Orlando with free vacation planning tools and added benefits. With our Universal tickets guests can choose from the following parks!

• Universal Studios
• Islands of Adventure

Disneyland Tickets

Save time and money with our your next vacation with The Park Prodigy. With our discounted Disneyland tickets guests can choose from the following parks!

• Disney’s California Adventure Park

• Daily Crossword
• Word Puzzle
• Word Finder
• Word of the Day
• Synonym of the Day
• Word of the Year
• Language stories
• All featured
• Gender and sexuality
• All pop culture
• Grammar Coach ™
• Writing hub
• Grammar essentials
• Commonly confused
• All writing tips
• Pop culture
• Writing tips

Advertisement

plural noun

• sometimes singular the open seas of the world, outside the jurisdiction of any one nation

Discover More

Idioms and phrases, example sentences.

Only in the high seas are there still some habitats free of invasive species.

And only in the high seas do we find living organisms that are more than 8,000 years old, such as deep-sea corals.

They are crossing the borders of the United States and they are risking the high seas to reach Europe.

Gravy Boat Caity Weaver, Gawker My week on the high seas with Paula Deen.

War on the high seas of the Eastern Med is not inevitable, of course.

It is a naked truth that there was no law for boys who lived on the high seas until very recent years.

However, she served the purpose of displaying the Confederate States flag in a foreign port and on the high seas.

Christmas Day on the high seas off Adelie Land, everything wet and fairly miserable; incipient mal de mer, wind 55-60; snowing!

Before very long the restless Valbiorn was once more roaming alone on the high seas, spreading war and confusion in his wake.

I would as soon turn pirate on the high seas as to give my consent to any such arrangement.

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.

All About Halloween On The High Seas – Disney Cruise Line

A Disney cruise is amazing any time of year, but especially during spooky season. In September and October, guests can set sail for Halloween at the High Seas, a special themed cruise featuring everything from Disney characters in costume and trick-or-treating to autumn-inspired arts & crafts and an adults-only party guest-starring the Disney Villains.  

But what else does this frightfully fun cruise have in store, and is it worth it for your next family vacation? We booked a stateroom on the Disney Dream to find out. Put on your bewitching best and read on as we dig into all the treats a Disney Halloween cruise has to offer, as well as a few tricks to help you make the most of it.

Celebrating Halloween on the High Seas

So, which Disney cruise ship has Halloween on the High Seas? Where does a Halloween Disney cruise go? When do Disney Cruise Line Halloween festivities begin? Here are all the devilish details. 

Disney Cruise Ships With Halloween on the High Seas

While we got into the spooky spirit on the Disney Dream, every Disney cruise ship takes part in Halloween on the High Seas, even the all-new Disney Wish. Each ship has its own scream-worthy setting especially for the season, including a unique Pumpkin Tree that serves as the centerpiece of the festivities.  

Departure Ports & Destinations Visited on a Halloween on the High Seas Cruise

Think of Halloween on the High Seas more like a costume for your Disney cruise ship than a completely themed cruise. In other words, don’t expect a stop in Salem, Massachusetts, port adventures like ghost tours or a pop-up haunted house on Castaway Cay. 

Rather, Disney Halloween cruises depart from several of the same ports as regular Disney Cruise Line sailings, including Port Canaveral and Miami in Florida, San Diego in California, and New York City. Halloween on the High Seas cruises also visit many of Disney Cruise Line’s most popular destinations, from fair-weathered voyages to Bermuda, the Bahamas, Mexico, and the Eastern, Western and Southern Caribbean or through the Panama Canal to cold-weather cruises to Canada.

Cost of Halloween at the High Seas vs. a Typical Disney Cruise

You might be wondering if Halloween on the High Seas is more expensive than a typical Disney cruise. That depends on a few factors. While many themed Disney cruises can cost a little more than normal, factors like where you are sailing or which ship you are on can actually earn you a deal. 

With sailings departing in September and October, many of Disney’s Halloween on the High Seas cruises go to the Caribbean, where spooky season sadly coincides with hurricane season, in search of warmer weather. Fortunately, as long as you can get past the overall uncertainty that comes with cruising during this occasionally treacherous time, you can sail away with quite a savings . 

You may also notice that certain Disney cruise ships or ports are more in demand than others. As a result, Disney Cruise Line may drop the price for less popular departures, including Halloween on the High Seas sailings. So, you could save a buck or two if you are more flexible on the itinerary.  

Halloween on the High Seas Sail Dates 

Disney Cruise Line Halloween sailings start in mid-September and continue through the end of October, with the last cruises departing on October 31. Itineraries are offered from several different departure ports to a variety of popular destinations, from short 3-night jaunts to longer 5-night tours. 

Why Do a Disney Cruise, Halloween Style

A Disney Halloween on the High Seas cruise is as jam-packed with fun as a trick-or-treat bag bursting with candy. Once onboard, you’ll find enough autumn-inspired activities and enchanting events to keep you up long into the night – both from the Halloween candy sugar rush you’re sure to get and the sheer number of things that is available to do. 

Fang-tastic Halloween Decorations

One of the most charming parts about Halloween on the High Seas is the magical décor. From fiery garlands of autumn leaves to character-inspired pumpkins to adorable jack-o-lantern stickers on the ship’s massive portholes, each ship gets decked out with tons of boo-tiful touches that are sure to put you in the Halloween spirit. 

The highlight of these All Hallows’ Eve decorations, however, is each ship’s signature Pumpkin Tree. Designed to have its own unique face, personality and even name (the one on the Disney Dream is named Grim, while those on the Fantasy, Wonder and Magic are respectively called Mucklebones, Bog and Reap), the Pumpkin Trees are said to keep the spirit of Halloween.

With the introduction of the Disney Wish, this quartet of terrifying trees also got a sister. Named Boo, this elegant Pumpkin Tree has willowy branches heavy with glittering jack-o-lanterns, lighter bark and a graceful face, and once grew the fated gourd that would carry Cinderella to the ball. 

Tricks, Treats & Enchanted Entertainment

Halloween on the High Seas means all sorts of spirited special events, along with the many typical activities that are available on a regular Disney cruise. Cruising with Disney during spooky season can even mean double the fun, as many of these spine-tingling sailings also include the ever-popular Pirate Night in their itinerary. 

When you aren’t showing off your trivia skills, sunbathing by the pool or channeling your inner swashbuckler, here are the many haunted happenings you can enjoy during Halloween on the High Seas with Disney.

Awakening the Pumpkin Tree

The Pumpkin Tree on each Disney cruise ship is so much more than just an elaborate centerpiece. It also serves as the opening act for the entire Halloween on the High Seas celebration. On the first night, you’ll be treated to storytime by the tree’s caretaker, who tells the tale of the Pumpkin Tree. 

Then, it’s time to light the tree’s jack-o-lanterns, which continue to glow for the rest of the trip, making for a can’t-miss photo backdrop. This dazzling display sets the tone for the rest of the cruise’s Halloween festivities and shouldn’t be missed. 

Mickey’s Mouse-querade

It wouldn’t be Halloween with Disney without a costume party. Mickey’s Mouse-querade is a spooktacular scare-a-bration starring much-loved Disney characters in full Halloween costumes. If you’d rather not do meet-and-greets, this can be a great way to see your favorite characters show off their frightful finest without spending a ton of time waiting around in line. 

Equally as fun is seeing the many creative costumes donned by your fellow cruise guests. From jack-o-lantern t-shirts to clever DisneyBounding takes to extravagant group costumes, you’ll see it all. Make sure to wear your own costume and join the mouse-querade.

Halloween-Themed Disney Character Meet-and-Greets

Disney characters do meet-and-greets throughout your cruise and could even change outfits each time they appear. While it is possible to see your favorites in their bone-chilling best at other points during the cruise, the main time characters will wear their Halloween costumes is on the night of Mickey’s Mouse-querade. 

For character chasers, these meet-and-greets are a must. Thankfully, with the exception of characters like Minnie, Daisy and Clarabelle as the Sanderson Sisters of Hocus Pocus fame and The Nightmare Before Christmas ’s Jack and Sally, to a slightly lesser extent, meet-and-greet lines typically aren’t that long. That said, for these more popular characters, you may want to jump in line early or risk missing out if the line gets cut. 

Those dressing up like or who share a costume with a particular character definitely won’t want to give these meet-and-greets a miss. For our cruise, my sister, sister-in-law and I DisneyBounded as the Sanderson Sisters, so we made it a point to meet Minnie, Daisy and Clarabelle during their very first appearance. Without a doubt, the pantomimed conversations we had over our shared costumes were some of the most magical moments of our cruise. 

Spookalicious Sweet Treats and Other Festive Eats

No Halloween is complete without some trick-or-treating, and the same goes for Disney’s Halloween on the High Seas. On the Disney Dream, crew members passed out generous handfuls of the good stuff along a makeshift trick-or-treat trail through Cabanas. And don’t worry about needing to pack your own bag to store your stash – trick-or-treat bags are left in your stateroom earlier that day. 

But, those aren’t the only Halloween eats on offer during this cursed cruise. For dinner in the main dining rooms on the night of Mickey’s Mouse-querade, your table will even tuck into some Chocolate Spider Cake (don’t worry, it isn’t actually made of cocoa-y arachnids). 

Your cruise ship’s culinary team also cooks up a buffet of bewitching bites all cruise long. Spine-chilling sweets like cookies, cupcakes, meringues and more (hello, pumpkin spice!) are on offer at the ship’s casual buffet restaurant, certain lounges and the onboard sweetshop. Just keep an eye out for the special Halloween signs. 

Haunted Hands-On Activities

One of the best parts of Halloween is getting your hands dirty making jack-o-lanterns. In the spirit of this Halloween tradition, cruisers can also try their hand at a number of autumn-inspired activities. 

From creepy cooking demonstrations to arts & crafts to terrifying trivia, there’s something spooky to do for everyone. Little cruisers can even enjoy extra-special Halloween arts and crafts activities especially for them, such as face painting and pumpkin carving.

Spine-tingling Ghost Stories and Movie Screenings 

Does your family love a good ghost story? Or perhaps you can’t celebrate Halloween without watching the latest frightful flick? Well, you’re in luck. 

Along with showings of favorite Disney Halloween movies on the Funnel Vision screen – Hocus Pocus 2 had just premiered during our cruise and played multiple times during our trip – guests can also enjoy Haunted Stories of the Sea, told beneath the stars by a mysterious sea captain, and The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing and Scream, an interactive movie singalong. 

Exclusive Halloween on the High Seas Merchandise

Disney never misses out on a merchandising opportunity, Halloween on the High Seas included. In addition to regular Disney Cruise Line souvenirs, cruisers also have access to special Halloween-themed items created especially for the event, including apparel, pins, mugs and more. 

As a result, scary swag can be quite the hot ticket, and it isn’t unheard of for things to sell out before the cruise is through. So, if you see something you like, buy it sooner rather than later or risk missing out. 

Halloween Isn’t Just for Kids

Just like Disney Cruise Line isn’t only for families, you don’t need to be a kiddo to get into the spooky spirit during Halloween at the High Seas. On the night of Mickey’s Mouse-querade, the Disney Villains run amuck in the adults-only part of the ship during a ghoulishly grown-up Halloween party. 

Sadly, don’t expect them to hang around too long. After all, they’ve got places to be and people to terrorize. Still, their steamy dance appearance is sure to cast a spell. With the villains out of the way, it’s time for a comical (and highly competitive) costume party followed by music and dancing. 

On the Disney Dream, this was a silent dance party, which, if you’ve never experienced one before, is both weird and hilarious. Most people weren’t into it and, besides a few lurkers laughing at folks on the floor dancing like no one was watching, the place cleared out pretty quickly after the last award was announced. Still, the costume contest was a ton of fun. 

Packing Tips & Experience Tricks for a Spook-tacular Disney Halloween Cruise  

Hoping to make the most of your Halloween on the High Seas experience? These suggestions are sure to take your cruise from ordinary to hex-traordinary. 

Don’t Forget Your Costume

Dressing up in costume is a Halloween tradition for a reason – it’s undeniably fun! While you don’t need to don anything too extravagant (even a Halloween t-shirt or creative DisneyBound will do), getting in costume will help put you in the appropriate spirit. If you’re anything like us, you’ll also love seeing everyone else on the cruise in their frightening finery. 

Worried that you won’t have enough room in your suitcase for two costumes? Just double up and don your pirate attire twice – you’ll save space without having to skip out on the fun. Consider swapping out your swashbuckling accessories or trading with cabinmates to keep your costume feeling fresh. Just be sure that you follow the rules. Certain types of masks are prohibited, as are some prop weapons.

Give Your Door a Pixie-dusted Halloween Makeover 

Expert Disney cruisers decorate their stateroom doors. Not only does this make it easier to pick your room out of the lineup of generic doors, but the extra pixie dust is sure to put a smile on your face each time you return “home.” 

Stateroom doors are metal, so we recommend using magnets to create your décor. DIY your own or buy some premade off of Etsy – go for a Halloween theme or a general Disney design. If you forget to plan ahead, you might even be able to find some in one of the ship’s onboard gift shops. 

Dress Up Your Stateroom with Spell-binding Décor 

Don’t confine the Halloween vibes to your stateroom door. For the ultimate spine-chilling experience, consider decorating inside your room, too. If you don’t mind having to set it up, BYOD (bring your own decorations) and save some cash. Or, splurge and arrange to have Disney decorate your room for you. Sure, it’s expensive. But, the surprise of walking into your scream-worthy room for the very first time will be worth it. 

Commemorate Your Disney Halloween Cruise with Plenty of Pictures

You’ll find no shortage of photo opportunities on a Disney cruise. And with everyone all dressed up for Halloween with nowhere to go except around the ship, it’s the perfect time to strike a pose. 

Use the scream-worthy decorations as a festive photo backdrop, snap a pic alongside your favorite Disney characters in their Halloween best or take advantage of the ship’s dedicated photoshoot spots. Manned by professional photographers, these mini-photo studios boast bewitching backgrounds and monstrously fun Magic Shots for the cruise’s official Halloween party night. 

Refer to the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App for Daily Halloween Happenings 

There’s so much going on during your Halloween Disney cruise that it can be tricky to keep it all straight. To make things easy, take advantage of the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. Similar to My Disney Experience or the Disneyland app , the Navigator lists out the various activities that are available and lets you bookmark anything that sounds appealing. Then, simply wait for the reminder around 15 minutes before the event starts. 

Well, that wraps up our guide to Halloween on the High Seas with Disney Cruise Line. Have you been on a Disney Halloween cruise? What is your favorite part of this spirited sailing? Let us know in the comments! Then, learn how to save on your next Disney cruise.  

• Weird But True
• Sex & Relationships
• Viral Trends
• Human Interest
• Fashion & Beauty
• Food & Drink

trending now in Lifestyle

TikTokker reveals little-known detail in the 7-Eleven logo: 'How...

Sad state of Prince Harry and Kate Middleton’s relationship...

My daughter heard 'monsters' in the wall — what we discovered...

Hairstylist reveals the top 10 'icks' people do when they get...

A man sent me an unsolicited d--k pic, so I tricked him into...

I've been eating pizza every day for six years — people call...

NYC is having a thrilling steakhouse boom — and these are the...

I'm a dietitian — these 12 foods will give you a collagen boost

11-day nude cruise ready to set sail — but there’s one time everyone has to cover up.

• View Author Archive
• Email the Author
• Get author RSS feed

Contact The Author

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

You can pack light for this high-seas adventure.

An 11-day nude cruise is scheduled to set sail from Miami to the Caribbean next February — and you won’t even need an overstuffed suitcase.

Bare Necessities is partnering with Norwegian Cruise Line for the flesh-flashing event, which will see clothing-averse customers travel on board the Norwegian Pearl.

The 968-foot vessel, which can accommodate up to 2,300 passengers, has been renamed “The Big Nude Boat” for the journey.

“As always, it’s our pleasure to provide you with the luxury of deciding what NOT to wear,” a message on the Bare Necessities site reads.

The cruise will make stops in the Bahamas, Puerto Rico and St. Maarten, but customers will have to cover up if they disembark the ship to do any sightseeing.

Passengers are also subject to strict rules on board — most notably, they will be required to wear clothing while inside the vessel’s indoor dining rooms.

However, there will be a “large buffet area for nude outdoor dining.”

In order to maintain hygiene, nudists will also need to put a towel down before sitting “in the stateroom, pool deck and buffet area” if they’re baring their bottoms.

Bare Necessities also makes clear that “fondling or inappropriate touching is prohibited.”

Prices for the nude cruise start at around $2,000, but cashed-up nudists can fork out upwards of $33,000 for a deluxe three-bedroom villa.

Bare Necessities has already chartered more than 75 nude cruises in the past, with one prior passenger speaking out about the experience in a recent Reddit post.

“Cruises seem to be for people who like to eat and lie around, so there were a lot of large people,” the 67-year-old man admitted.

“Also, most people don’t seem to be comfortable being nude in public until later in life so the crowd was older. I’d say 20% attractive, 20% average, 60% unattractive,” he added.

Share this article:

Advertisement

share this!

May 1, 2024

This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

fact-checked

trusted source

written by researcher(s)

Rough seas or smooth sailing? The cruise industry is booming despite environmental concerns

by Frédéric Dimanche and Kelley A. McClinchey, The Conversation

Cruise ship season is officially underway in British Columbia. The season kicked off with the arrival of Norwegian Bliss on April 3—the first of 318 ships that are scheduled to dock in Victoria this year. Victoria saw a record 970,000 passengers arrive in 2023, with more expected in 2024.

The cruise industry was badly hit by the suspension of cruise operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Fueled by heavy consumer demand and industry innovation, cruising has made a comeback. It is now one of the fastest-growing sectors, rebounding even faster than international tourism.

While many predicted a difficult recovery , a recent industry report shows a remarkable post-pandemic rebound . Two million more people went on cruises in 2023 versus 2019, with demand predicted to top 35 million in 2024.

But environmental issues plague the sector's revival. Are they an indication of rough seas ahead? Or will a responsive industry mean smooth sailing?

Cruising has long been criticized for being Janus-faced : on the surface, cruises are convenient, exciting holidays with reputed economic benefits. But lurking underneath are its negative environmental and social impacts .

Unprecedented growth

Newly constructed mega-ships are part of the industry's unprecedented growth. Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world , with 18 decks, 5,600 passengers and 2,350 crew.

MSC World Europa with 6,700 passengers and 2,100 crew, P&O Arvia with 5,200 passengers and 1,800 crew, and Costa Smeralda with 6,600 passengers and 1,500 crew also claim mega-ship status.

Those sailing to and from Alaska via Victoria will be some of the estimated 700,000 passengers departing Seattle on massive ships three sport fields in length.

Baby boomers represent less than 25 percent of cruise clientele. Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z have more interest than ever in cruising, with these younger markets being targeted as the future of cruise passengers.

The Cruise Lines International Association asserts that 82 percent of those who have cruised will cruise again . To entice first-timers and meet the needs of repeat cruisers, companies are offering new itineraries and onboard activities, from simulated skydiving and bumper cars to pickleball and lawn bowling.

Solo cruise travel is also on the rise, and multi-generational family cruise travel is flourishing, explaining the extensive variety of cabin classes, activities and restaurants available on newly constructed and retrofitted ships.

However, only a few cruise ports are large enough to dock mega ships. Cruise lines are responding by offering off-beat experiences and catering more to the distinct desires of travelers.

In doing so, there is a move towards smaller vessels and luxury liners , river cruises and expedition cruising . Leveraging lesser-known ports that can only be accessed via compact luxury ships offers more mission-driven, catered experiences for the eco-minded traveler.

Cruising and environmental costs

Cruise ship visitors are known to negatively impact Marine World Heritage sites. While most sites regulate ballast water and wastewater discharge, there are concerns about ship air emissions and wildlife interactions .

Cruise ship journeys along Canada's west coast, for example, are leaving behind a trail of toxic waste . A study by environmental organization Friends of the Earth concluded that a cruise tourist generates eight times more carbon emissions per day than a land tourist in Seattle.

Also, a rise in expedition cruising means more negative impacts (long-haul flights to farther ports, less destination management in fragile ecosystems, last chance tourism ) and a rise in carbon dioxide emissions.

Toxic air pollutants from cruise ships around ports are higher than pre-pandemic levels, leaving Europe's port cities "choking on air pollution ." Last year, Europe's 218 cruise ships emitted as much sulfur oxides as one billion cars—a high number, considering the introduction of the International Maritime Organization's sulfur cap in 2020 .

Rough seas ahead or smooth sailing?

Royal Caribbean said its Icon of the Seas is designed to operate 24 percent more efficiently than the international standard for new ships. International Maritime Organization regulations must be 30 percent more energy-efficient than those built in 2014.

But despite the industry using liquefied natural gas instead of heavy fuel oil and electric shore power to turn off diesel engines when docking, industry critics still claim the cruise sector is greenwashing . As a result, some cities like Amsterdam, Barcelona and Venice are limiting or banning cruise ships .

Environmental critiques remain strong, especially for polar expeditions . The industry must respond and increase sustainability efforts , but their measures remain reactive (i.e., merely meeting international regulations) rather than proactive. In addition, by sailing their ships under flags of convenience , cruise companies evade taxes and demonstrate an unwillingness to abide by a nation's environmental, health and labor regulations.

In any case, environmental concerns are escalating along with the industry. Travel agents and industry figures are aware of these impacts and should help promote cruise lines that demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices.

Local residents need to expect more from port authorities and local governments in order to cope with cruise tourism . Cruise consumers should recognize the environmental costs of cruising, and demand accountability and transparency from cruise lines.

Provided by The Conversation

Explore further

Feedback to editors

Nanotech opens door to future of insulin medication

9 hours ago

How evolving landscapes impacted First Peoples' early migration patterns into Australia

12 hours ago

Saturday Citations: Parrots on the internet; a map of human wakefulness; the most useless rare-earth element

13 hours ago

When injecting pure spin into chiral materials, direction matters

18 hours ago

New quantum sensing scheme could lead to enhanced high-precision nanoscopic techniques

Boeing's Starliner finally ready for first crewed mission

Hungry, hungry white dwarfs: Solving the puzzle of stellar metal pollution

May 3, 2024

How E. coli get the power to cause urinary tract infections

Male or female? Scientists discover the genetic mechanism that determines sex development in butterflies

New study is first to use statistical physics to corroborate 1940s social balance theory

Relevant physicsforums posts, cover songs versus the original track, which ones are better.

2 hours ago

What are your favorite Disco "Classics"?

3 hours ago

Interesting anecdotes in the history of physics?

Why is two-tone ska rock popular on retro radio.

Apr 29, 2024

Biographies, history, personal accounts

Apr 28, 2024

History of Railroad Safety - Spotlight on current derailments

More from Art, Music, History, and Linguistics

Related Stories

Cdc extends cruise line health rules until mid-january.

Oct 26, 2021

More than 100 people got sick on a world cruise that just left Fort Lauderdale, CDC says

Feb 5, 2024

Norway clears cruise passengers after 2 tested for virus (Update)

Mar 3, 2020

Italy closes ports to cruise ships

Mar 20, 2020

CDC stops tracking COVID cases on cruise ships

Jul 20, 2022

CDC: Cruise ships can soon resume sailing in U.S. waters

May 3, 2021

Recommended for you

Ridesourcing platforms thrive on socio-economic inequality, say researchers

Apr 26, 2024

Which countries are more at risk in the global supply chain?

Apr 19, 2024

Study finds world economy already committed to income reduction of 19% due to climate change

Apr 17, 2024

Building footprints could help identify neighborhood sociodemographic traits

Apr 10, 2024

Can the bias in algorithms help us see our own?

Apr 9, 2024

Public transit agencies may need to adapt to the rise of remote work, says new study

Let us know if there is a problem with our content.

Use this form if you have come across a typo, inaccuracy or would like to send an edit request for the content on this page. For general inquiries, please use our contact form . For general feedback, use the public comments section below (please adhere to guidelines ).

Please select the most appropriate category to facilitate processing of your request

Thank you for taking time to provide your feedback to the editors.

Your feedback is important to us. However, we do not guarantee individual replies due to the high volume of messages.

E-mail the story

Your email address is used only to let the recipient know who sent the email. Neither your address nor the recipient's address will be used for any other purpose. The information you enter will appear in your e-mail message and is not retained by Phys.org in any form.

Newsletter sign up

Get weekly and/or daily updates delivered to your inbox. You can unsubscribe at any time and we'll never share your details to third parties.

More information Privacy policy

Donate and enjoy an ad-free experience

We keep our content available to everyone. Consider supporting Science X's mission by getting a premium account.

E-mail newsletter

• Action/Adventure
• Children's/Family
• Documentary/Reality
• Amazon Prime Video

More From Decider

Anne Hathaway's 'Tonight Show' Interview Hits An Awkward Snag After The...

11 Best New Movies on Netflix: May 2024's Freshest Films to Watch

John Green’s ‘Turtles All the Way Down’ Cameo Is a Treat for His...

Spider-Man Swings onto 'X-Men '97' — But This Isn't Just Any Spider-Man

'GMA' Weatherman Rob Marciano's Firing Sparked By "Heated Screaming Match"...

Huey Lewis Tells Drew Barrymore What He Learned About Bruce Springsteen...

Sydney Sweeney Sings “Unwritten” Into Glen Powell’s Butt in Iconic...

Holly Madison Calls Bob Guccione A "Horrible Person" For Publishing...

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to copy URL

Stream It Or Skip It: ‘High Seas’ On Netflix, A Spanish Postwar Murder Mystery On A Transatlantic Cruise

Where to stream:.

• High Seas ("Alta Mar")

We love mysteries. Love them; great pulpy mysteries like the ones Agatha Christie wrote. But we don’t see those kind of mysteries on TV anymore, ones where the people and setting are glamorous, and things are violent but not dark. The Spanish miniseries,  High Seas is that kind of mystery. Read on for more about this new Netflix series…

HIGH SEAS : STREAM IT OR SKIP IT?

Opening Shot: A ship’s captain writes in his log about the three murders that have already occurred in ten days “on this damned ship.”

The Gist:  The Villenueva sisters Eva (Ivana Baquero) and Carolina (Alejandra Onieva) are on their way to a cruise ship to take a one-way journey from Spain to Brazil. Why one way? Carolina is getting married on board and setting up a new life in Rio, while Eva, an author, is meeting a publisher who is interested in her work. As they approach the port, their car accidentally hits a young woman named Luisa (Manuela Vellés), who claims that “they’re going to kill me” if she’s caught. Eva, who’s trusting and empathetic almost to a fault, convinces Carolina to stow her in their steamer trunk and sneak her on board.

Eva is confident they can get Luisa on board because Carolina is marrying the ship’s owner, Fernando Fabregas (Eloy Azorin), so the trunk isn’t in storage. When they finally are able to get Luisa out, she says she’s running from her fiance, a powerful man who demands they get married. Carolina wants to tell Fernando, but Luisa begs her to wait until they’re at sea and she can’t be taken off the ship. Eva convinces her not to tell Fernando when the two of them visit him at his office — just as he gets a call to meet a mysterious person at midnight.

Everyone’s making a new start on this cruise: The sisters just lost their father, and their uncle Pedro (José Sacristán) has decided to sell the business they ran together when Carolina and Eva decided not to take over. The captain is leading his first cruise since his wife died, and he wants no part of superstition like an albatross hitting the bridge right before they set sail.  His first officer, Nicolas Vazquez (Jon Kortajarena), used to be a petty thief until the captain took him under his wing.

Luisa, having been taken down to the third class quarters of the sisters’ nanny Francisca and her daughter Victoria, knocks Francisca out, steals her key to the sisters’ cabin, and starts ransacking it, looking for something. As Eva gets cozy with Nicolas on the deck around midnight, though, she hears a woman scream and sees her fall from the ship. As the crew searches for the woman, both Eva and Carolina think that the woman who went overboard was Luisa, and they finally tell Fernando. But did the woman fall from the deck or was she pushed?

Our Take: High Seas  (original name:  Alta mar ) is created by Ramon Campos and Gema R. Neira ( Cocaine Coast ), and it’s an amazingly good-looking show. It’s post-WWII setting can not only be seen in the costumes and props like cameras and luggage, but the sets depicting the lavish, art deco-style hallways, ballrooms and staterooms of the luxury cruise ship the characters are on are a sight to see. Also, the costuming gives us little clues about the characters: Eva the independent artist, for instance, wears pants, which was just starting to be a thing in the late ’40s.

The story plays out like one of those potboiler mysteries that Agatha Christie might have written in that time period; lots of colorful characters, all with an agenda and a motive, populate the ship, and mysteries abound. Sometimes, we thought Campos and Neira were a bit too coy with some of the mysteries, as when the ship’s doctor has a cryptic conversation with Uncle Pedro about what they might be doing when they arrive in Rio. But, for the most part, the characters are well-drawn and the story is intriguing.

One of the other things we found fun about  High Seas is that the tone of the show isn’t dark, like some of the period mysteries we’ve seen of late have been. No, it takes an old-fashioned approach to the murder mystery, making the setting glamorous — even the third-class deck looks like a fun party instead of something resembling steerage — the characters witty and sophisticated, and the mystery the central part of the story, not blood and gore. We’re looking forward to seeing how this plays out over the series’ eight episodes.

Stream It Or Skip It: 'The Asunta Case' on Netflix, A True Crime Thriller About Two Parents Accused Of Killing Their 12-Year-Old Daughter

Stream it or skip it: 'see you in another life' on hulu, about a teen who participated in the 2004 madrid terror bombings, stream it or skip it: 'love, divided' on netflix, a sweet fantasy romance that seems to ask the question "what if amélie was a contestant on 'love is blind'", 11 best new shows on netflix: april 2024's top upcoming series to watch.

Sex and Skin: The first episode is pretty chaste, save for the ship’s lothario, Sebastian (Tamar Novas) lifting Victoria’s socks as a way of flirting.

Parting Shot: On the deck where the woman was thrown overboard, Eva finds an engineer’s pin, the same one Carolina gave Fernando just before the ship set sail.

Sleeper Star:  Kortajarena is intriguing as Nicolas. He has taken a liking to Eva, and their relationship on board will likely have a big influence on the mystery.

Most Pilot-y Line: Sebastian, after meeting Victoria: “I hate it when she goes, but I love watching her leave.” Funny line, of course, but also very cliche.

Our Call: STREAM IT.  High Seas is a good-looking, light mystery with performances that signal that they’re not taking things all that seriously, which is a good thing for a show like this.

Joel Keller ( @joelkeller ) writes about food, entertainment, parenting and tech, but he doesn’t kid himself: he’s a TV junkie. His writing has appeared in the New York Times, Slate, Salon, VanityFair.com, Playboy.com, Fast Company’s Co.Create and elsewhere.

Stream spain on Netflix

• Stream It Or Skip It

Does 'Yellowstone' Return Tonight? The Latest Updates On 'Yellowstone' Season 5, Part 2 Premiere Date

Jenna Bush Hager Embarrasses Hoda Kotb On 'Today' By Asking Her If She's "Recently" Made Out With Anybody In Public: "Don't Lie"

Anne Hathaway's 'Tonight Show' Interview Hits An Awkward Snag After The Audience Reacts In Silence To Her Question

When Will 'BMF' Season 3, Episode 10 Be On Starz?

'The View's Whoopi Goldberg "Enraged" After Donald Trump Claimed America Is "Anti-White": "Nobody In Your Family Was Hung"

Whoopi Goldberg Accuses 'The View' Producer Of "Side-Eyeing" Her After She Promised Not To Speak About Israel-Palestine Protests: "He's Starting To Get Annoyed"

• Your Profile
• Your Subscriptions
• Your Business
• Support Local News
• Payment History
• Sign up for Daily Headlines
• Sign up for Notifications

Sail on a huge luxury cruise ship from Vancouver to Hawaii at a steal

• Share by Email
• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share via Text Message

While a trip from Vancouver to Hawaii in luxury accommodation typically costs a pretty penny, cruising to the Aloha State offers the experience at a steal.

Royal Caribbean Cruises (RCL) will take guests from Vancouver to Honolulu, Hawaii on the awe-inspiring  Ovation of the Seas . The statuesque ship offers everything from casual bites to elevated, high-end dining experiences. Guests can also soak in the most breathtaking perspective at sea from the North Star — the highest vantage point on any cruise ship.

Not only is Honolulu famous for its breathtaking, crescent-shaped beach, but it also offers incredible nightlife, shopping and dining.

• Related:   Everything Vancouver travellers need to know to plan a trip to Hawaii

The cruise overnights in Vancouver on Friday, Oct. 4 before sailing across the Pacific on Saturday. While it spends four sea days before reaching Honolulu, guests won't run out of things to do and explore on the megaship. 

The first stop on the itinerary is Honolulu, Oahu on Thursday, Oct. 10. Guests will spend a full day in the city before departing at 7 p.m. The cruise spends another day at sea on Friday before stopping in the Napali Coast in Kauai on Saturday. 

The final stop on the cruise is in Honolulu on Sunday, Oct. 13. 

Cruise from Vancouver to Hawaii with Royal Caribbean International 

Travellers can take advantage of RCL's BOGO discounts with savings of up to $600 per person even for lead-in categories. 

An interior stateroom for two people costs US$976 (previously US$1,532) per person or C$1,335.30 (previously C$2,095.99). The total cost for an interior stateroom for two people is C$2670.60 (see slide three).

The total per-diem, per-person amount is C$133.53 for the 10-day sailing. 

Not only does that cost include your transportation on a beautiful five-star vessel, but it also includes meals, entertainment, snacks, and lodging. The only thing it doesn’t factor in is alcohol, but you may opt to purchase a drink package that can reduce the cost of your spending.

Also, families with kids are eligible for the "Kids Sail Free" promotion on this cruise.

The lead-in category on the Ovation is also more impressive than interior staterooms on other ships. While these staterooms don't have windows, guests can enjoy a "virtual balcony" with high-definition screens that bring "a live ocean view right to you." They don't pay an additional cost to have this option (see slide two).

Flights from Honolulu to Vancouver 

Travellers have several flight options depending on how long they want to stay post-cruise.

Cheap flights from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) to Vancouver International Airport (YVR) depart later on Sunday, Oct. 13, meaning travellers can leave on the same day they disembark the ship in Oahu.

It is recommended to book a flight that departs in the evening, such as the United Airlines flight at 8:15 p.m. that makes one stop in Denver before flying into Vancouver. The total cost of this option is $470 (see slide four). 

Travellers who prefer to stay one night in Hawaii have several options departing the following day, including one that costs about $200 less than the one on the previous day. 

A flight departing Honolulu at 10:45 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 14 makes one stop in Seattle before arriving in Vancouver around 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 15; it costs $257 (see slide five). 

• Oldest Newest

This has been shared 0 times

Featured Flyer

12 Themed Cruises You Should Have On Your Radar In 2024

T aking a cruise is an experience unlike anything else. Days at sea on a ship full of entertainment and relaxation make for a fantastic vacation. But what if you want even more from your cruise? A theme might be what's missing. In addition to all the usual cruise experiences, themed cruises allow fans of a particular artist, lifestyle, hobby (or even animal), to celebrate their passion on the high seas with activities, events, surprises, and sometimes special guests.

There are dozens of themed cruises on offer each year, usually hosted by major cruise lines like Norwegian , Carnival, and Royal Caribbean. But don't let their numbers fool you. According to  Business Insider , themed cruises are rapidly climbing in popularity, and some trips are selling out in record time. That means it's important to find your dream-themed cruise and reserve your tickets as early as possible.

Fortunately, even if they're sold out, most themed cruises will let you join a waiting list, so there's still hope! Here are 12 themed cruises that will set sail in 2024 and are well worth boarding, either now or the next time they hit the high seas.

Read more: Under-The-Radar Beaches You Need To Visit In The Caribbean

The Emo's Not Dead Cruise

If you truly know it's not a phase, the Emo's Not Dead Cruise is perfect for you. Gather with fellow emo fans for four days (and nights) of concerts, activities, and even a private party at Great Stirrup Kay in the Bahamas. Over a dozen bands will perform, including Yellowcard, Senses Fail, and Armor for Sleep. Alongside themed activities like a masquerade ball, cruisegoers can also enjoy surprisingly cheerful activities like a bellyflop competition in the ship's pool.

The first Emo's Not Dead cruise was in 2022. Cruisegoer and emo fan TheReelChris shared highlights on  YouTube , calling it "EPIC." Fans in the comments section agree, with Schecterplayer92 adding, "This was one of the best experiences of my life." With a killer lineup and entertaining activities scheduled, it seems like Emo's Not Dead 2024 will also be a rad experience. The cruise will be hosted on the Norwegian Pearl, leaving from Miami on February 26 and returning on March 1, 2024. But what would an emo-related cruise be without a little sadness? Unfortunately, the cruise is already sold out. If you're interested, you can  sign up for the waiting list  and hope.

Meow Meow Cruise

Some of us know that no matter how great a vacation might be, cats would make it even better. Meow Meow Cruise has solved that problem. While guests unfortunately aren't allowed to bring their own furry friends aboard Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady, the four-day cruise will give them their feline fix in plenty of other ways. 

Activities include cat-themed trivia and a scavenger hunt. But the best part may be communing with fellow cat people (many of whom stroll around the ship wearing cat ears). You'll also be able to mingle with real cats -- one of 2024's ports of call is Key West, where you'll find the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum and its community of about 60 friendly polydactyl kitties, many of them descended from one of the author's own pets.

It's hard to find reviews for Meow Meow Cruise, but the fact that this themed cruise has been going on annually since 2015 speaks for itself. The 2024 Meow Meow Cruise sets sail from Miami on February 21, with a return date of February 25. Tickets are still available, but to be sure you don't miss out, consider booking right now.

In My Cruise Era

Sure, cruises are great — and cruising is a multi-billion dollar industry — but is anything more popular than Taylor Swift? For those who can't imagine anyone saying "no" to that question, there's no better cruise than In My Cruise Era. While not officially affiliated with Taylor Swift, this themed cruise is a passionate fan homage. Swifties will be able to dress up in their favorite Taylor-inspired looks, exchange friendship bracelets, perform their idol's songs during karaoke sessions, and more. We're also guessing there will be of lots impromptu song breaks throughout the ship from Taylor's extensive catalog.

Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas will host this cruise, which sets sail from Miami on October 21, 2024 -- which, as People Magazine points out, is one day after the Eras Tour will be in the city. Fans lucky enough to attend the concert can continue their Taylor euphoria for four more days on the high seas. Since this is a new themed cruise, there aren't any reviews, but based on the positive fan vibes from Eras Tour concerts and movie viewings, among other events, we're guessing it's going to be a great time for Swifties. Swifties must agree, since the cruise is already sold out. Cancellations do happen, though, so hopeful fans can join the waiting list.  Contact the cruise's organizers to sign up.

Disney's Halloween On The High Seas

Go on just about any cruise-related blog or website and you'll see that Disney Cruise Line's Halloween-themed cruise, officially called Halloween on the High Seas, is a popular favorite. As you probably expect from Disney, this themed cruise is perfect for a family vacation , so it's not too scary. The cruise is hosted on multiple Disney Cruise Line ships, and each one is decorated with the care and attention to detail you'll find in most Disney-related enterprises. The Pumpkin Tree is the highlight of the decor, with pumpkins that eventually appear on its branches and transform into lit and unlit jack o'lanterns.

Halloween on the High Seas also features Halloween activities (including a trick-or-treating night) and exclusive Halloween-themed desserts. Disney cruises in general are known for their opportunities to meet the studio's beloved characters, and during the Halloween on the High Seas cruises, some of those characters are in costume. Notably, Disney Cruise Line's official site tells us, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow will be dressed as the Sanderson Sisters -- who wouldn't want to see that? 

This magical mixture of whimsy, fun, and exclusive opportunities is the perfect way to cast a spell on Disney fans of all ages. Luckily, Halloween on the High Seas is held during a number of different times in September and October, so you and your family should be able to find a place on board!

The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise

Sure, Hallmark Channel Christmas movies might be a little on the cheesy side, but let's be honest: lots of us dream of being in one in real life. You can get a little of the real-life Hallmark movie experience by visiting some of the movies' filming locations , but now there's a way to have an even more immersive experience: The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise.

Passengers will get to meet Hallmark Channel movie stars, attend panels and photo ops, and get to see a new Hallmark Christmas movie before its world premiere. Maybe best of all, passengers can take part in lots of Hallmark Christmas movie-inspired activities, including tree lighting and cookie decorating -- all while wearing their favorite ugly Christmas sweaters.

2024 is the first year of the Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise. It was originally intended to be just one cruise, but a second one was added after the first one sold out. As of now, two Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruises are scheduled for 2024. Both go from Miami to the Bahamas and back and last four days in November. ... And both are sold out. But Christmas is a time of miracles, so if a Hallmark Channel Christmas experience on the high seas sounds like your dream come true, sign up for the waiting list as soon as you can!

Hurtigruten Northern Lights Cruises

Themed cruises are often about fandoms and hobbies. But Norway-based cruise line Hurtigruten offers a themed cruise that's about something even bigger: the Northern Lights . There are several Northern Lights-themed cruises out there, including some luxurious options by Cunard. Unfortunately, the Northern Lights aren't always visible, but Hurtigruten stands out by offering a Northern Lights Promise for cruises scheduled between September 26 and March 31 and lasting longer than 11 days. If the Northern Lights aren't visible during your cruise, they'll give you another one. So if you're serious about seeing the Aurora Borealis, this is the company to choose.

The Northern Lights are the focus of Hurtigruten's eponymous cruises, but there are also other things to do on board, including scientific lectures and photography lessons. There are excursions, too -- notably a dog sledding option. Passengers who've taken one of Hurtigruten's cruises unanimously praise the stunning fjords and landscapes you can admire from the ship and during excursions, not to mention their experiences of seeing the Northern Lights. Some warn that the ships aren't as luxurious or modern as many other cruise ships, primarily because Hurtigruten's ships are also functional vessels intended to transport and deliver mail to various points on the Norwegian coast. Still,  Cruise Critic reviewers like cmolaison praise the friendly crew, the surprising level of comfort, and the "stunning vistas" you'll see, saying he and his family "highly recommend" taking a Hurtigruten cruise.

Cruise & Crop Crafting Cruises

If the perfect vacation for you is a combination of R&R and crafting, you're in luck! There are several crafting-themed cruises. One of the most popular is organized by Cruise & Crop, with ships around the world hosting different crafting- and arts-themed trips. This makes them the most accessible themed cruises on our list, with different price ranges, departure points, itineraries, and ports of call. One thing all crafting cruises have in common, though, is groups of like-minded people exploring their creativity amid the other joys of cruising.

For instance, one of Crop & Cruise's 2024 offerings is a Mexican Riviera cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas, featuring scrapbooking and other papercraft classes taught by artist Barb Warne. The ship departs from Los Angeles on April 19, returning April 26. Many Cruise & Crop cruises sell out quickly, so if this idea has sparked both your wanderlust and your creativity, be sure to check their list of 2024 cruises and reserve as soon as you can.

Star Trek: The Cruise

For seven days and nights every year, thousands of Star Trek fans gather to be a part of a fandom extravaganza at sea. Star Trek: The Cruise is an experience that features celebrities aboard (2024's guests include LeVar Burton and Wil Wheaton, among many others), costume and cosplay events, and lots of fun activities. 

But what makes Star Trek: The Cruise truly unique is that audience participation is very much encouraged. Passengers and celebrity guests are all considered the crew of one great, big, intergalactic vessel. Passengers get to interact with the guest stars in events like karaoke battles, and stars share parts of their earthly lives with Q&A sessions and even glimpses at other projects they may be involved in.

The first Star Trek: The Cruise was held in 2017 and since then it's been a fan favorite. Star Wars and cruising aficionado Aaron Bossig writes on  Trek Movie.com that many fans go on the cruise every year, and proudly wear t-shirts from the previous ones. He calls Star Trek: The Cruise "an extra special convention experience." 2024's edition will be held on the Mariner of the Seas, departing from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on February 22 and returning on February 29.

Literature Festival At Sea

Once a year, aboard the legendary Queen Mary 2, passengers can mingle with writers, poets, journalists, and critics in a full-blown literary festival in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Literature Festival at Sea invites writers in all genres to host round table discussions, participate in Q&As revolving around their work and areas of expertise, host workshops, and converse with passengers.

Whether passengers want to participate as much as possible or just attend a few events, the Festival seems to be an excellent addition to a typical Queen Mary 2 voyage. On TripAdvisor , passenger Artemis C writes of her experience at a previous Literature Festival at Sea that "the whole week was a joy". 

2024's lineup features crime novelists, journalists, historians, and more, for what's sure to be a fascinating week of discussion and discovery. If you'd like to combine an elegant transatlantic cruise and a literary experience, 2024's Literature Festival at Sea will take place from November 13-20, departing from Southampton, U.K., and arriving in New York. Cunard has also launched an Australian Literature Festival at Sea, scheduled from December 11-16, 2024, on the Queen Elizabeth, which departs from and returns to Sydney. 

Chefs Making Waves

Many cruise lines are proud of their food offerings. Some cruises feature dishes created by world-famous chefs, and others even host food and wine festivals. But no culinary cruise event seems quite as, well, fun, as Chefs Making Waves. This culinary-themed cruise will set sail for the first time in 2024. Onboard will be a number of beloved celebrity chefs, including Anne Burrell and the Cake Boss himself, Buddy Valastro. Cooking demos and, of course, food tastings of all kinds (including sit-down meals, desserts, and street food) are on the menu. Best of all, Chefs Making Waves is an all-inclusive cruise, so everyone can eat and drink without having to pay extra!

There will be all of the usual cruise-related fun, from swimming to excursions, to help you work up an appetite. There will also be unique games, with some of the chefs participating in events like bingo and a celebrity chef sing-off. If this sounds like an awesome cruise, you're not the only one who feels that way. Chefs Making Waves will take place from March 25-29, departing from Miami with excursions in Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau, Bahamas ... and it's already sold out. But you can still  sign up for the waiting list . With a little luck, you'll be able to enjoy this delicious, themed cruise experience.

Soul Train Cruise

Imagine a festival with a lineup featuring some of the best soul and R&B acts of all time. Now imagine it's on a relaxing cruise ship. This dream is actually reality -- it's called the Soul Train Cruise. The popular themed cruise will be celebrating its 11th year in 2024 and the lineup is on fire. Dozens of groups and artists will perform, including The Temptations, Boyz II Men, and En Vogue. Passengers can also learn how to dance like people did back in the old school days of Soul Train's TV show, with lessons from some of the show's actual dancers. There will also be wine tastings, Q&A's, comedy shows, and a lot more.

With all of this on offer, it's no surprise that the Soul Train Cruise is sold out. But sign up on the waiting list and keep your calendar free from January 27-February 3, and you may get lucky. If you do, the cruise leaves from Fort Lauderdale, with ports of call in Tortola (British Virgin Islands) and St. Maarten.

The Gothic Cruise

The Gothic Cruise is an annual event held on an ordinary cruise ship. Goths mingle with "norms" but have their own private events on board, mostly DJ sets and concerts. There's also a masquerade ball, with Goths decked out in their finest Victorian-style garb ... as long as it meets ship safety requirements, that is. The cruise's website specifies that simulated weapons aren't allowed and notes that hoop skirts are fine for the ball but not in the ship's dining areas, "due to the close proximity of the tables". And yet, the Goth community thrives on these cruises -- and even gains norm fans along the way. 

In a Porthole Magazine article about the Gothic Cruise, longtime attendee Spike Pittman says that many mainstream passengers are wary of the Goths at first, "But by the end they're begging to get into our private events." Some even book their future cruises to coincide with the Gothic Cruise, even if they don't plan on attending every event. 

The Gothic Cruise has been held since 1989. Cruising doesn't seem very Goth, but in the end, the article points out, it comes down to what all themed cruises offer: a sense of community (in this case, one that often stays up all night and sleeps during the day). If this moves your little black heart, the 2024 Gothic Cruise will be held on the Norwegian Escape (but book through the Gothic Cruise's website for private event access), departing from Orlando on March 2, and returning March 9.

Read the original article on Explore .

Where seas are rising at alarming speed

Scroll to continue

One of the most rapid sea level surges on Earth is besieging the American South, forcing a reckoning for coastal communities across eight U.S. states, a Washington Post analysis has found.

Recent sea level rise

2010 to 2023

At more than a dozen tide gauges spanning from Texas to North Carolina, sea levels are at least 6 inches higher than they were in 2010 — a change similar to what occurred over the previous five decades.

Scientists are documenting a barrage of impacts — ones, they say, that will confront an even larger swath of U.S. coastal communities in the coming decades — even as they try to decipher the precise causes of this recent surge.

The Gulf of Mexico has experienced twice the global average rate of sea level rise since 2010 , a Post analysis of satellite data shows. Few other places on the planet have seen similar rates of increase, such as the North Sea near the United Kingdom.

“Since 2010, it’s very abnormal and unprecedented,” said Jianjun Yin, a climate scientist at the University of Arizona who has studied the changes. While it is possible the swift rate of sea level rise could eventually taper, the higher water that has already arrived in recent years is here to stay.

“It’s irreversible,” he said.

As waters rise, Louisiana’s wetlands — the state’s natural barrier against major storms — are in a state of “drowning.” Choked septic systems are failing and threatening to contaminate waterways. Insurance companies are raising rates, limiting policies or even bailing in some places, casting uncertainty over future home values in flood-prone areas.

Roads increasingly are falling below the highest tides, leaving drivers stuck in repeated delays, or forcing them to slog through salt water to reach homes, schools, work and places of worship. In some communities, researchers and public officials fear, rising waters could periodically cut off some people from essential services such as medical aid.

The Drowning South

While much planning and money have gone toward blunting the impact of catastrophic hurricanes, experts say it is the accumulation of myriad smaller-scale impacts from rising water levels that is the newer, more insidious challenge — and the one that ultimately will become the most difficult to cope with.

“To me, here’s the story: We are preparing for the wrong disaster almost everywhere,” said Rob Young, a Western Carolina University professor and director of the Program for the Study of Developed Shorelines .

“These smaller changes will be a greater threat over time than the next hurricane, no question about it,” Young said.

In December, Charleston, S.C., saw its fourth-highest water level since measurements began in 1899. It was the first time on record that seas had been that high without a hurricane. A winter storm that coincided with the elevated ocean left dozens of streets closed. One resident drowned in her car. Hundreds of vehicles were damaged or destroyed, including some that were inundated in a cruise terminal parking lot.

The average sea level at Charleston has risen by 7 inches since 2010, four times the rate of the previous 30 years.

Jacksonville, Fla., where seas rose 6 inches in the past 14 years, recently studied its vulnerability. It found that more than a quarter of major roads have the potential to become inaccessible to emergency response vehicles amid flooding, and the number of residents who face flood risks could more than triple in coming decades.

Galveston, Tex., has experienced an extraordinary rate of sea level rise — 8 inches in 14 years. Experts say it has been exacerbated by fast-sinking land. High-tide floods have struck at least 141 times since 2015, and scientists project their frequency will grow rapidly. Officials are planning to install several huge pump stations in coming years, largely funded through federal grants. The city manager expects each pump to cost more than $60 million — a figure that could eclipse the city’s annual tax revenue.

For this analysis, The Post relied on tide gauge data, which reflects the rise in sea level and sinking of land. Satellite data, which solely measures the height of oceans, was used for global measurements.

“The phenomenon is so new, we still don’t necessarily even have the vocabulary for it,” Christopher Piecuch, a sea level scientist at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, said of the unrelenting nature of flooding confronting more and more communities. “This is something that quite literally didn’t happen two decades ago.”

But it undoubtedly is happening now. The number of high-tide floods is rapidly increasing in the region, with incidents happening five times as often as they did in 1990, said William Sweet, an oceanographer for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

“We’re seeing flooding in a way that we haven’t seen before,” said Sweet, who leads the agency’s high-tide flooding assessments. “That is just the statistics doing the talking.”

Projections suggest that the flooding of today will look modest compared with what lies ahead. High-tide floods in the region are expected to strike 15 times more frequently in 2050 than they did in 2020, Sweet said.

Here are glimpses at three spots along a roughly 200-mile stretch of the U.S. Gulf Coast that are already confronting this new reality:

St. Tammany

New Orleans

Mobile, Ala. , 5.9 inches of sea level rise since 2010

The inequity of rising water, ‘people of color are more likely to experience flooding’ — and the city is working to adapt..

The inequities of the past and the changing threats of the present are colliding in this centuries-old port city.

Here, as in other cities, the legacy of unequal federal housing policies dating to the 1930s, known as redlining — a discriminatory practice that in particular targeted Black Americans — left minority and low-income residents confined to certain areas. Over time, they faced the heavy burden of industrial pollution. Some of these same neighborhoods are now grappling with rising waters.

“The acknowledgment and acceptance of these historic inequities and their present-day impacts is a necessary, critical step,” city officials wrote in a recent report , adding: “[P]eople of color are more likely to experience flooding in Mobile.”

That’s partly due to relatively flat topography that allows higher water levels to travel farther inland and cause more severe flooding than in the past. The report said that many of the affected neighborhoods are low-lying and have decaying storm water systems, making them particularly vulnerable.

Rodneyka Lofton has lived in the same house on St. Emanuel Street, along a swath of Mobile’s heavily industrialized waterfront, for “a majority of my life,” she said.

“Sometimes, it makes me feel not safe,” Lofton said one morning of the floodwaters that often submerge her street and other roads that lie about a quarter-mile from the Mobile River near where it ends at Mobile Bay.

“On my street, and on the back street over there, it looks like a small lake. And a lot of cars get stuck,” said Lofton, a nursing assistant. Only a handful of residents remain here, amid rows of semitrailers, a junkyard and a large container facility.

Along some areas of the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, recent research suggests, low-income and minority residents are likely to face a deepening burden as climate change fuels rising seas and more intense rainfalls.

“Flood risk is not borne equally by all,” wrote the authors of a 2022 study in the journal Nature Climate Change . In particular, they wrote, “The future increase in risk will disproportionately impact Black communities , while remaining concentrated on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts.”

Near Lofton’s home, recent data suggest the burden already is increasing.

The tide gauge at the nearby Mobile State Docks has registered about 6 inches of sea level rise since 2010.

Texas Street, around the corner from Lofton’s home, was once again inundated one morning earlier this year. A car was inching through deep water.

Rain had fallen the previous night, but the flooding was destined to linger due to high seas. A coastal researcher from the University of South Alabama, Bret Webb, had recently outfitted a sensor in one of the street’s drains. It showed that the base of the drain is now frequently lower than the waters in the Mobile River, preventing drainage.

As Mobile’s chief resilience officer, Casi Callaway works to gird the city’s residents and its infrastructure for the growing stresses posed by climate change and other challenges. She said Mobile has been steadily upgrading roads and the pipes beneath them — and aims to do so near Lofton’s home.

But she said it will take at least $30 million to fix drainage problems in an area where some storm water pipes are over a century old and made of wood. The city has applied for several grants to perform the work but has not yet received funding.

“Every dollar we invest should be a dollar spent preparing for what is coming,” said Callaway, who previously headed a local environmental group.

Over a century of history and memory also lie in the path of floodwaters.

That is evident in the Old Plateau Cemetery in Africatown. The neighborhood in Mobile was founded by formerly enslaved people who arrived in 1860 on the Clotilda — the last known slave ship to leave Africa for the United States — and their descendants.

The historic burial ground dates to 1876, and appears to have been warped by sinking land and repeated flooding. Many graves now rest at angles. Some are sunken and fill regularly with rainwater, and those at the lowest-lying points are in disrepair.

While multiple factors probably play a role in the cemetery’s flooding problems, there are two ways rising seas can make them worse, said Alex Beebe, a geologist at the University of South Alabama who has studied the cemetery. As waters in Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico rise, the water flowing downhill through Africatown to the coast will have more trouble escaping, he said. A higher ocean is also causing groundwater tables to rise, making it harder for rainfall to penetrate the soil.

For Yuvonne Brazier, the flooding is just part of a bigger inequity in Africatown, which also is hemmed in by heavy industry.

Brazier’s grandfather and her sister, who died when she was young, are buried in the cemetery, along with many of the founders of the community.

But Brazier can no longer find the graves. She used to be able to sit on her mother’s front porch and see the cemetery where her loved ones were buried. That familiar landscape has grown less familiar over time.

“It’s all different now,” she said.

St. Tammany Parish, La. , 6.1 inches of sea level rise since 2010

A $5.9 billion plan to hold back water, the u.s. government wants to protect a fast-growing region from flooding. homeowners don’t agree on the plan..

Cody Bruhl looked out over the boat launch in Madisonville, which he had reached only after driving through a mile of flooded road in his pickup truck. Behind him, fish swam through a submerged parking lot.

Here on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, residents can drive 24 miles south across one of the world’s longest bridges to reach New Orleans. But they lack that city’s human-made protections against water. Now high tides had caused yet another flood, an increasingly common occurrence due to 6 inches of sea level rise in the lake — which is directly connected to the Gulf of Mexico — since 2010.

Bruhl, a 37-year-old avid duck hunter, loves this place. But he also worries about its future.

“That’s what I’m trying to get my own grip around for myself and my family,” said Bruhl, a member of the St. Tammany Levee, Drainage and Conservation District whose home flooded in 2021’s Hurricane Ida. “If we’re going to continue to live here, we’ve got to find a protection that can mitigate a lot of this, because at some point it becomes not sustainable anymore.”

It is a predicament reverberating throughout the vulnerable parish, home to about 275,000 people. A home building boom since Hurricane Katrina has replaced vast stretches of land with asphalt and other surfaces that can worsen flooding. Some communities, crisscrossed with canals, are difficult to defend. Mandeville has a sea wall and Slidell has a few inland levees. But it’s nothing like the protections engineered for New Orleans.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wants to change that. It has outlined plans to spend an estimated $5.9 billion protecting St. Tammany Parish alone.

Under the plans, which are years from becoming reality, Slidell would get its own nearly 19-mile-long levee and floodwall, and officials would raise parts of Interstate 10. A significant expenditure would go toward raising or flood-proofing more than 6,400 structures, mostly homes, in the parish. One of those, Bruhl said, would be his own.

The changes, the Corps has said, are aimed at mitigating repeated flood events that have “caused major disruptions, damages, and adverse economic impacts to the parish.” While the plan factors in sea level rise, it is centrally targeted at stopping hurricanes and river-driven floods — not necessarily the sunny-day flooding that happens with increased regularity.

In parts of St. Tammany, homeowners remain divided about the massive undertaking.

Donna and Kevin McDonald, who run a construction company in the Slidell area, are “on the fence” about the project, Donna said. They’re not sure it is the solution, but they certainly recognize the problem.

Part of the filming of “ Where the Crawdads Sing, ” a hit 2022 film set in North Carolina, took place in May 2021 behind their home on Bayou Liberty, where moss dangles over the dark waters from the branches of live oaks.

The film crew built a shack along the dock as part of a set that would represent the bait shop of Jumpin’, one of the film’s characters. But soon, heavy rains coincided with a days-long tidal surge in Lake Pontchartrain and the set was inundated, delaying production. The surge was the 10th-highest water level recorded at the tide gauge in New Orleans, and the highest that didn’t come from a hurricane or tropical storm.

It was just another reminder of how water — more and more of it — is altering life here.

Kevin McDonald has lived in this same house for all his 71 years. The home never flooded before 1995, he says. Not even in historic hurricanes like Camille and Betsy.

“Now,” he said, “we’ve flooded seven times.”

Pensacola, Fla. , 6.5 inches of sea level rise since 2010

Water with no place to go, the city is one of many in the region contending with outdated and overmatched infrastructure systems..

In the early morning, the rising tide in Pensacola Bay swallowed an outfall pipe that is supposed to empty water from a downtown neighborhood called the Tanyard.

Water sat near the tops of the drains along S. De Villiers Street — a telltale sign of the higher ocean creeping backward up pipes and a predicament plaguing a growing number of coastal communities.

“As far as the water’s ability to get out, it’s going to have to literally take on Pensacola Bay,” Brad Hinote, the city engineer, said as he surveyed the scene.

It wasn’t raining. But when it rains hard enough, waters swallow this street entirely.

Nearby residents know the unceasing battle better than anyone.

“The water tries to go down, but it has no place to go,” Gloria Horning said outside the home she has owned on S. De Villiers Street since 2016. “The infrastructure is so low, so old, it just explodes because it can’t take the water. And it doesn’t take but a couple of inches for that to happen every time.”

Horning has put up silt fencing along her property to try to stop the wake from the cars that drive through standing water, sending waves across her yard. A longtime environmental and social justice activist, Horning has focused on flooding issues since water first entered her home in 2016.

Horning said her home last flooded during a strong rainstorm in June. But it is the more incessant nuisance floods that keep her on edge.

“Now, when it rains, I’m getting up in the middle of the night, packing my dogs up and going,” said Horning, who has pushed for more stringent environmental and flood regulations in the city. “Because just a few inches of rain, and I’m sitting in water and sewage.”

Pensacola is hardly an outlier. As sea levels rise, experts say, there are many cities with outdated and overmatched infrastructure systems.

“Storm water flooding is getting worse and is unsustainable,” said Renee Collini, director of the Community Resilience Center at the Water Institute. “Almost all our systems are gravity fed, and they were built out a long time ago.”

Hinote, like his counterparts facing similar predicaments, has struggled with how best to solve the changes that are happening — and the even more dramatic ones scientists say are on the way.

“Everybody says, ‘Well, put in pumps.’ And that’s definitely a solution,” he said. But pumps can fail, especially in saltwater environments. And, he added, “they are exorbitantly expensive.”

Pensacola, one of the nation’s oldest cities, has offered some residents the opportunity to elevate their homes or take buyouts, Hinote said. It has considered elevating the roadway through the neighborhood, but that might only push more water toward nearby houses. And it has requested an engineering analysis to study solutions in the area — and their cost.

“It’s a difficult position to be in as a city official,” Hinote said. “My goal is to fix this situation.”

But, as he gazed over the flood-prone neighborhood , he saw no easy answers.

“When you’re up against an obstacle …” Hinote said as he looked down at an overmatched drain, “how do you overcome it?”

About this story

Jahi Chikwendiu contributed to this report.

Design and development by Emily Wright .

Photo editing by Sandra M. Stevenson and Amanda Voisard. Video editing by John Farrell . Design editing by Joseph Moore .

Editing by Anu Narayanswamy , Katie Zezima and Monica Ulmanu . Additional editing by Juliet Eilperin . Project editing by KC Schaper . Copy editing by Frances Moody.

Additional support from Jordan Melendrez, Erica Snow , Kathleen Floyd, Victoria Rossi and Ana Carano.

Methodology

The Washington Post used monthly tide gauge data for 127 gauges from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for relative mean sea levels in the United States. This is adjusted for seasonal signals for ocean temperature, currents, and other marine and atmospheric variables.

For its analysis, The Post relied on dozens of tide gauges along the coasts of the United States, measurements that are affected both by the rising ocean and slow but persistent movement of land. It also took into account satellite data for global sea level rise, which measures ocean heights independent of land movement.

Annual means for two time periods — 1980 to 2009 and 2010 to 2023 — were calculated. Only gauges that had at least eight months of data for a given year and 70 percent of the years were used. Three gauges used in this analysis are not currently in service but had sufficient data for the 1980 to 2023 time period to include in the analysis.

A linear regression model was applied to the annual means for each gauge to determine the trends for each time period and calculate an annual rate of relative mean sea level rise. Because readings from tide gauges are also influenced by the rising or sinking of land, these findings are referred to as changes in relative mean sea level.

To analyze changes in sea level around the globe, The Post used data based on satellite altimetry readings produced by NOAA. Annual means were calculated for 1993 through 2023 for the global data and for each ocean. The Post applied a linear regression model estimating the annual rates of change in mean sea level for each ocean and the global average. The data from the satellite altimeters are measures of ocean height independent of any land movement, or absolute means.

The Post is displaying data for tide gauges on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts that showed significant trends in mean sea level change from 2010 to 2023.

Scientists have studied regional trends in sea level rise, including Jianjun Yin and Sönke Dangendorf , among others. The Post’s analysis builds on this body of work and compares trends for the 2010-2023 and 1980-2009 time periods to drive home the rate of acceleration in recent years. The Post also presents the trends for each tide gauge included.

More on climate change

Understanding our climate: Global warming is a real phenomenon , and weather disasters are undeniably linked to it . As temperatures rise, heat waves are more often sweeping the globe — and parts of the world are becoming too hot to survive .

What can be done? The Post is tracking a variety of climate solutions , as well as the Biden administration’s actions on environmental issues . It can feel overwhelming facing the impacts of climate change, but there are ways to cope with climate anxiety .

Inventive solutions: Some people have built off-the-grid homes from trash to stand up to a changing climate. As seas rise, others are exploring how to harness marine energy .

What about your role in climate change? Our climate coach Michael J. Coren is answering questions about environmental choices in our everyday lives. Submit yours here. You can also sign up for our Climate Coach newsletter .