A cruise ship is meant for leisure trip on the waters.These types of ships are usually used for pleasure voyages wherein the voyage itself and the various amenities are an integral part of the experience.Over the years, cruising has become an important component of the tourism industry and has found much favor with the people who love to travel and enjoy the experience out on the huge water bodies.
Earlier the ships used to carry passengers to different destination but purely as a means of water transport.There were fewer amenities provided as compared to today.With the rapid growth and technological advancements, the cruise industry also saw major changes in terms of the ships used and the amenities and services being provided.It is easy to reach the farthest part of the globe on a cruise liner which is better equipped to carry long distance journeys.
The first vessel to be built exclusively for cruising was the Pinzessin Victoria Luise which was designed by Albert Ballin who was the General Manager of Hamburg-America Line.He was the first person to send his transatlantic ships on long southern cruises during the worst winter season.Others followed suit.Earlier the transatlantic crossings did not take less than four days.But it changed after the advent of such cruise liners.
Earlier the passenger ships did not have too much of amenities.But the competition to attract more and more passengers on board led to major changes and the ocean liners started adding many luxuries to it.One of the best examples of this is the Titanic, which had all the facilities for fine dining, luxurious staterooms and means of recreation and entertainment.
Until the late 80s, most of the cruise liners offered shuffleboard, deck chairs, drinks decorated exotically and little else.As of today, the ocean liners have become luxury hotels & resorts in themselves which give dozens of amenities.They are equipped with a complete hospitality staff in addition to the ship
