Top 10 Engineering Achievements in the Cruise Industry

Cruise ships are a unique combination of hotel, entertainment, and transportation industries all rolled into one. Over the years, cruise ships have brought about remarkable innovations that have redefined the way we move around the world and experience different cultures. Perhaps the greatest achievement of all is that even in today's global pandemic, cruise ships remain a symbol of human ingenuity and hope. Here's a compilation of the top 10 engineering achievements in the cruise industry that have been made over the past decades.

1. Mega-ships

The world's largest cruise ship, Symphony of the Seas, is over 1148 feet long and can accommodate up to 5,518 guests. These mega-ships, built by shipyards like Fincantieri, Meyer Werft, and STX France, have revolutionized the industry by providing guests with luxurious amenities such as ice skating rinks, multiple restaurants and lounges, and even zip lines.

2. Onboard Entertainment

Cruise ships have evolved from being a form of transport with limited amenities to providing world-class entertainment. The installation of high-tech sound and lighting systems enhance elaborate Broadway shows, comedy clubs, live music, and interactive games. The Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas has a 3D movie theatre while MSC Cruises ships feature Formula One simulators.

3. State-of-the-art Propulsion

Cruise ships have to cover thousands of nautical miles for weeks without refueling. Efficient propulsion systems are crucial in achieving this goal. The use of azipod propulsion systems on the 160,000 GT Norwegian Bliss and the Msc Seaside provides a stable ride and greater fuel efficiency. The Celebrity Edge, a 129,500 GT cruise ship, is powered by the innovative ABB Azipod propulsion system. This system enables the Celebrity Edge to have high maneuverability and reduces air and vibration noise.

4. Environmentally Friendly Technology

The global cruise industry is cognizant of its environmental impact and has taken strides to reduce its carbon footprint. MSC Cruises' MSC Grandiosa is the first ship to deploy a selective catalytic reduction system and reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Encore uses exhaust gas cleaning technology to capture sulfur dioxide and reduces carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide emissions by up to 99%.

5. Enriching Shore Excursions

The purpose of a cruise vacation is to explore new destinations while enjoying the comfort of the ship. Cruise lines have partnered with local tour operators to enrich shore excursions. Viking Cruises' destination-focused approach involves seasoned guides that teach passengers about the history and culture of each destination. Holland America Line has also partnered with BBC Earth to provide "live nature" shore excursions.

6. Iconic Attractions at Sea

Cruise ships are renowned for their state-of-the-art amenities, and the latest attraction to join the list is the North Star, by Royal Caribbean. North Star is a vessel that rises over 300ft from sea level and provides passengers with panoramic views of the ocean. The Carnival Vista has the first-ever IMAX Theatre at sea, while Quantum of the Seas has a skydiving simulator.

7. On-board Augmented Reality

A Norwegian cruise line's CruiseliFit utilizes augmented reality technology and provides guests with interactive workouts, allowing passengers to enhance their fitness experience. The MSC Virtuosa is equipped with a digital cruise assistant-Zoe- which provides guests with recommendations on activities, facilitates dinner reservations, and helps plan shore excursions.

8. Virtual Balcony

Virtual balconies on interior cabins have brought the thrill of having an ocean view to more cruisers. Royal Caribbean's Quantum Class features virtual balconies on interior staterooms that provide passengers with real-time views of the ocean.

9. Smart Rooms

Cruise lines are utilizing the Internet of Things (IoT) to transform the cruise experience. Holland America Line's Koningsdam features Connected Staterooms, where guests control lighting, temperature, and the availability of housekeeping services via a tablet. Princess Cruises' OceanMedallion provides guests with a wearable device that acts as a room key and enables contactless ordering of room service, shore excursions, and entertainment.

10. World-class Culinary Experience

Cruise lines have partnered with world-renowned chefs to bring guests a world-class dining experience. Atul Kochhar, Michelin-starred chef, has partnered with P&O Cruises to open Sindhu, a Southeast Asian restaurant aboard the Britannia. The Oceania Regatta has been renovated to include a Culinary Center that provides guests with hands-on cooking classes taught by master chefs.

FAQs

Q. Are there any environmentally hazardous methods used in the cruise industry?
A. Many cruise lines are making strides toward environmentally friendly technology, such as exhaust-gas cleaning technology and the use of a selective catalytic reduction system.

Q. Are there any limitations as to how much you can take with you on a cruise?
A. Yes. Cruise ship cabins have limited storage space, and there are luggage weight and size limitations. Always check with your chosen cruise line's guidelines when packing.

Q. Are there any medical facilities onboard in case of an emergency?
A. Yes. All the ships have a medical center onboard for passengers to seek medical attention. Medical emergencies are taken very seriously and are attended to promptly.

Q. When is the best time to book a cruise, and why?
A. The best time to book a cruise is six to 12 months before the sail date. This is because prices are lower, and cabins are more likely to be available.

Q. What should passengers pack for a cruise?
A. It is essential to pack clothes that are appropriate for the destination, comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, medication, and any necessary travel documents such as passports or visas.