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Cruise Ship Construction Locations: Where Are Cruise Ships Built?

cruise ship construction locations

What Is a Shipyard, particularly one that constructs cruise ships?

A shipyard is a facility where ships are constructed and repaired. Shipyards are typically located in areas with large bodies of water, such as oceans, rivers, and lakes. Cruise ships, specifically, are large vessels typically built in dry docks with the help of large cranes.

Constructing a cruise ship begins with the raw materials being brought to the shipyard. After that, the raw materials are cut, welded, and assembled into the ship’s frame. The frame is then covered with panels, and the interior is built out. After this, the engines and other systems are installed. Finally, the ship is painted and tested before it can be released to the sea.

Shipyards can also repair existing ships by performing maintenance on engines, electrical systems, air conditioning systems, and hulls. Shipyards are essential for the global maritime industry as they provide necessary repairs and construction for ships.

Largest Ship Builders in the World

Fincantieri.

Fincantieri is one of the world’s largest ship builders and are based in Italy. It is renowned for its expertise in designing and building vessels, from yachts to naval ships. 

Founded in 1959 and based in Trieste, Italy, Fincantieri has grown to become one of the top shipbuilders in the world, with operations in the United States, Romania, Brazil, Norway, and other countries. With over 10,000 employees, the company has a reputation for quality and innovation.

Regarding cruise ships, Fincantieri has a long history of constructing vessels for some of the world’s most popular cruise lines. The company has built over 100 cruise ships since it first started production in the early 1990s. Some of their more recent projects include the launch of the MSC Seascape, as well as the construction of the Norwegian Prima. 

The company has designed and built several custom-made vessels for some of the world’s top cruise line brands, such as Royal Caribbean International, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise Line. Fincantieri builds approximately one-third of modern cruise ships.

Meyer-Werft

Meyer-Werft is one of the world’s leading shipbuilding companies and has been at the forefront of the cruise ship construction industry for decades. Based in Papenburg, Germany, Meyer-Werft has a long history of delivering innovative and quality ships to customers.

Meyer Werft is a major German shipyard founded in 1795 to build small wooden vessels. Nowadays, it has about 3300 employees and boasts the largest ship construction shed in the world.

It takes about 36 months to build a cruise ship. Many cruise ships, such as the Disney Treasure and Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas have been constructed by Meyer Werft over the years, demonstrating their commitment to producing quality vessels.

STX-Europe is one of the leading designers and suppliers of cruise ships, creating some of the world’s most remarkable vessels for the marine industry. The company has over 130 years of experience delivering top-quality shipbuilding projects to customers worldwide. STX-Europe has constructed a variety of luxury cruise ships, including Royal Caribbean International’s Harmony and Oasis class ships, as well as vessels for AIDA Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. Every ship they build is designed with customer comfort and safety while keeping up with modern technological advances.

The state-of-the-art facilities used by STX-Europe ensure that their designs are completed quickly and effectively; these premises allow them to construct vessels that exceed international standards.

Modular production line construction methods in cruise ship construction

Cruise ships are massive, complex vessels that take significant time and resources to construct. With so many pieces to assemble and intricate designs to create, modular production line construction methods are invaluable in building a cruise ship.

Modular production line construction involves constructing various components in a pre-defined order, in an assembly line style, which increases efficiency and speed in production. This construction method is used for many ships, including cruise ships.

The first step in constructing a cruise ship is to build the hull. This is the outermost layer of the ship that provides the necessary protection and structure to the vessel. The hull construction requires significant planning and precision, as this will be the base of the entire ship.

Once the hull is constructed, the next step in the modular production line construction process is manufacturing the ship’s cabins. These cabins are the individual rooms where passengers will stay during their cruise. Cruise ship cabins require significant interior design and construction, as they must be comfortable and attractive for passengers.

The final step in modular production line construction for a cruise ship is to construct the ship’s interior. This includes the galley, the hallways, and other common areas of the vessel. This process requires much attention to detail and careful planning to create a comfortable, inviting atmosphere for guests.

Are any cruise ships built in the U.S.?

Cruise ships are not built in the United States. This is due to a combination of labor costs, material costs, and regulations that make it difficult for cruise ship companies to build ships in the United States. 

The first issue is labor costs. Building a cruise ship requires a lot of manpower and skilled labor. The cost of labor in the United States is much higher than in other parts of the world, which makes it challenging to build ships profitably in the U.S.

The second issue is material costs. The U.S. is not the most cost-effective place to buy the materials needed to build cruise ships. This is because the U.S. has higher taxes and regulations, which drive up the cost of materials. 

The third issue is due to regulations such as The Merchant Marine Act of 1920. Commonly referred to as the “Jones Act,” only vessels that are registered in the United States may transport goods between two U.S. ports. Additionally, the act requires U.S. vessels to be constructed in the United States and operated by American citizens. This law was created to help ensure American shipping fleets remain competitive in the global market and that American shipbuilding, shipping, and boatbuilding jobs remain in the United States.

The Jones Act also significantly impacts the cruise ship industry, as many major cruise lines operate ships built in foreign countries. The law prevents the construction of new cruise ships in the United States, meaning that the industry must rely on foreign shipyards to make new vessels. It is a complex law and has a significant impact on the cruise ship industry. While it is designed to protect American shipping fleets and jobs, it also prevents cruise ships from being built in the United States and raises the cost of repairs and maintenance.

Cruise ships are built in specialized shipyards around the world. Several countries have shipbuilding industries that specialize in constructing large ships, including those in the cruise industry. While some shipyards are located in the United States, none are used for cruise ship construction. Instead, most of these ships are built in countries like Italy, Germany, Finland, and France. Each country’s shipyards feature advanced construction techniques and technologies that enable them to construct high-quality vessels. Ultimately, the global shipbuilding industry is responsible for creating the beautiful and luxurious vessels that sail millions of people every year.

A Cruising Couple

This Is Where Cruise Ships Are Built

by Contractor | Nov 12, 2020 | resources , Travel Tips | 0 comments

Over 21 million travelers take a cruise on an annual basis. With so many people taking cruises , it may make you curious about where these massive ships are being built, how they are being built, what it costs to build them, and finally, how they get to the water.

The three countries that produce the largest quantity of cruise ships are Italy, Germany, and South Korea. A cruise ship is built in a shipyard. Most shipyards are located on a tidal river or the ocean. There are other shipyards around the world, but these are the most prominent. 

Cruise shipbuilding has evolved immensely since 1900 when the first of its kind was built. Modern technology and luxuries have made seeing the world via cruise ship an extremely popular way to travel. More than 25 million people will travel via cruise ship each year. In this article, we’re going to explore more about the amazing cruise shipbuilding process.

where are cruise ships built

Where Cruise Ships Are Built

where are cruise ships built

Cruise ships are built in a shipyard, not to be confused with a dockyard. The main difference between the two is that a shipyard is where ships are actually built .

A dockyard is more of a storage facility or place for repairing ships and other water vessels. There are only four shipbuilding companies in the world that are large enough to produce a cruise ship.

The Top Ship Builders

The top four shipbuilders are:

  • Fincantieri  (Italy)
  • Meyer-Werft (Germany)
  • STX-Europe (South Korea, Brazil, Finland, France, Norway, and Romania)
  • Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (Japan)

Fincantieri

Established around 1790, Fincantieri has been building ships for almost 230 years.

The first cruise ship ever built was in the year 1900.  It was called “Prinzessin Victoria Luise” and was approximately 400 feet long and 50 feet wide. The first voyage was in 1905. The vessel held around 1,500 passengers. The Prinzessin Victoria Luise did not have a very long life because it ran aground in 1906 and could not be repaired.

Meyer-Werft

Established around 1795, Meyer-Werft has been a leading competitor in the ship building business. This German-based company’s first cruise ship was built in 1986 and was named the “Homeric,” which they re-named a few years later, the “Westerdam.”

It has a length of approximately 800 feet and 95 feet long and can carry a little more than 1,700 passengers.

In 2006 Aker Yards and Alstrom shipbuilding companies decided to come together, and thus, STX-Europe was formed to wind up creating high-quality, world-class, luxury cruise ships.

Since its inception, STX has grown to be one of the world’s top builders. Their classy, modern design, luxury, and comfort give the guest a fabulous place to relax and see the world.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries was established around the late 1800s and has been producing many different kinds of large ships since.

Due to financial losses in 2006, they discontinued making passenger cruise ships. They are still in operation today, but their primary focus is on cargo ships and naval ships for different countries.

NOT Made In The USA

You may have read through this list and realized that the United States of America is not on the list of where cruise ships are built. The main reason for this is because, in 1920, there was an act of legislation passed referred to as “The Merchant Marine Act,” also known as “The Jones Act.”

Senator Wesley Jones was the creator of this act, and it was primarily put into place to protect the merchant mariners and their jobs. Another reason the United States does not build cruise ships is because it is very costly to build them and requires highly skilled, experienced builders from other countries to help construct them, raising the cost of production.

How Cruise Ships Are Built

where are cruise ships built

On average, it takes about a year and a half to build a cruise ship.

By now, you are probably wondering how they can build such a large ship in dry dock and how on earth do they get into the water?

The second part of that question is easy.

As stated earlier, shipyards are built on tidal rivers or directly next to the ocean to allow for easy entry and access to the water.

Putting the Ship Puzzle Together

Most cruise ships are built in sections or pieces.

The cabins are usually built off location in a factory and brought to the shipyard when they’re ready. When the cabins arrive at the shipyard, a crane and giant magnet are used to install and fit them into the ship

The ship goes together like a set of children’s connecting blocks. The hull of the ship is the first part to be built. It takes extremely large cranes and equipment to put it together.

It is first constructed on dry land and then given multiple water tests. The builders can test it on dry land or in the water, depending on their needs.

How Long Does It Take?

The length of time it takes to build a cruise ship can vary greatly depending on the ship’s size. On average, it takes about a year and a half to build a cruise ship. Some smaller cruise ships may not take that long, but the larger luxury ships can take over two years.

Materials Used in the Building Process

We have discussed how a cruise ship is made and how long it takes to build, but what materials are used to build them? The short answer is a combination of lightweight metals and super strong steel are used, which reduces the ship’s overall weight and helps with balance.

Reducing the ship’s weight also reduces the amount of fuel used, and in return, reduces the emissions, which lessens the ship’s effect on the environment.

The cabins’ interiors are made with high-quality fabric, finishes, and designs to emulate the feeling of being in a 5-star hotel.

Who Builds For Which Cruise Lines?

You may be wondering which shipbuilding company builds for each cruise line.

Some cruise lines use multiple builders; however, the cruise lines listed below are examples of the exclusive builders for certain lines:

  • Fincantieri (Disney Cruise Lines and Holland America)
  • STX-Europe (Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Princess Lines)
  • Meyer-Werft (Norwegian Cruise Lines and Viking Ocean Cruises)

Interesting Cruise Ship Facts

  • In France, “Harmony of the Seas” was built by over five-hundred-thousand builders and had an extensive team of world-class designers to decorate and style the entire ship to make you feel like you are in a 5-star hotel.
  • In Norway, a luxury cruise ship named “The World” was built with around 160 apartments and is owned cooperatively by its passengers who live on it full time.
  • An Australian billionaire named Clive Palmer has privately funded the making of a replica of the original Titanic. It is named the Titanic II and is expected to launch in 2022. The Titanic II will not be built by any of the above-mentioned shipyards; instead, it will be built in China at, Jingling shipyard.
  • South Korea, Japan, and China are the largest shipbuilding countries; however, European shipbuilders are still on top of the market for cruise ships, yachts, and military vessels.

Cruising to the Dock

where are cruise ships built

Although cruise ships are not built in The United States of America, there are many shipyards along our beautiful coasts that do allow tours of their facilities.

If you ever get the chance to tour a shipyard, it’s well worth your time. It is a very cool experience that you will never forget. Standing next to the massive cranes and ships that are being built, you will feel like the tiniest being on earth. Crowley Shipping and Logistics in Jacksonville, Florida, will not disappoint if you take time for a visit. It gives you insight into how things are made and transported globally.

( https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles.cfm?ID=3929 )

( https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/the-largest-cruise-ships-ever-built.html )

( https://cruisedeals.expert/how-much-does-a-cruise-ship-cost-to-build/# )

( https://www.thedailymeal.com/travel/20-crazy-facts-about-cruise-ships )

( https://www.crowley.com/ )

( https://www.quora.com/Why-are-cruise-ships-not-built-in-the-United-States )

( https://www.jonesactlaw.com/faqs/what-is-the-merchant-marine-act-of-1920/ )

( https://www.cruise1st.co.uk/blog/cruise-ships/how-are-cruise-ships-built/#whobuildscruiseships )

( https://www.kickassfacts.com/25-interesting-facts-about-cruise-ships/ )

( https://titanicll.wordpress.com/the-jinling-shipyard-what-do-we-know/#:~:text=Right%20from%20the%20outset%20of,built%20in%20China%27s%20Jingling%20shipyard .)

(statista.com/6558/cruise-shipbuilding-industry-worldwide/

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How a New Cruise Ship Is Built

Ramsey Qubein

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Cruise ship construction is an enormous undertaking that involves thousands of decisions and logistical planning protocols that must be precisely set and coordinated in just the right order.

Watching a ship come together is a fascinating process, and I was able to witness it firsthand in Saint-Nazaire, France, where the Celebrity Apex was being built as the second in a series of five Celebrity Edge ships at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard.

The scope of building a ship

The ship is actually built in stages, often in different locations before being put together like a jigsaw puzzle or a game of Legos. It comes together as the result of 1,000 key steps, 200,000 different tasks, and the involvement of 500 subcontractors and suppliers. According to shipyard officials, each shipyard completes the process a bit differently.

For the Celebrity Apex, it has taken one year to go from having its first pieces of steel cut and prepared to seeing the final touches added before its March 2020 delivery to Celebrity Cruises.

More than 1.5 million manpower hours are involved in putting such a large ship together. In fact, the building of the ship begins even while engineering work is still going on; such is the large-scale nature of this process.

3D imagery and virtual reality are used in creating the mockups and models, which allow interior designers to take tours of the ship before it is built. They can decide where to most efficiently install electrical outlets or piping, as well as how the style of the interiors will come to life. No one wants a power outlet on the ceiling!

This process also allows designers to work on various parts of the ship simultaneously instead of needing to have each be ready before another can start.

» Learn more: Does cruise travel fit into your points and miles strategy?

Starting construction

It takes six months to build the outer structure of the ship, which is then stocked with passenger cabins, restaurants, public areas, bathrooms, and hundreds of miles of electrical wires and plumbing pipes.

Large cranes capable of lifting 1,400 tons at a time put each of the pieces together into what we recognize as a cruise ship.

Stacking cabins like Legos

For me, the most surprising element of ship construction was that most of it is actually built elsewhere. The ship as a whole consists of dozens of smaller parts, including cabins, which are each built at an assembly line.

The assembly line includes the installation of almost all passenger amenities — light fixtures, wiring, power outlets, furniture, TVs, beds, bathroom fixtures and even trash cans — so that when cabins are stacked into the ship, their electrical wires and plumbing can be instantly connected to the rest of the vessel. There is little additional work that needs to be done once the cabin is loaded onto the ship.

In fact, more than 3,000 miles of electrical wires come affixed to the cabin; some suites have even more due to their more spacious quarters. Everything must arrive to the ship at the right time and at the right place.

where are cruise ships built

One installed in the ship, each cabin is furnished with decor and amenities in as few as 20 minutes, as staffers pass through installing facilities and cross-check one another's work.

where are cruise ships built

If you think about it, the cabins must come furnished because large items like beds and sofas would not fit through many ship doorways or hallways. Once the cabins are stacked across the previously built hull, the steel sides are wrapped around the vessel. Designers had left cutouts where the windows and balconies belong.

Altogether, more than 40 individual blocks and 500 panels — each constructed off-site — are eventually integrated into the ship’s frame, which composes 250,000 steel parts representing 25,000 tons of steel.

» Learn more: Our family vacation: A Mexican cruise for 5

Wood, weight and 'wow factor'

Wood is not allowed in the construction of the ship because it can easily burn. Those walls in your room might be covered by wallpaper and artwork, but they are actually made from metal and steel.

The weight of the ship must be balanced and optimized, with a focus on keeping the center of gravity low to the waterline. Celebrity Cruises has a team that manages the weight of everything aboard the ship. Once designers choose what they want to install on the ship, a separate team of engineers gets involved to see if there are more lightweight options to use.

It is a balancing act to reduce weight while also maintaining the overall design aesthetic and “wow factor” of the ship.

Heavier materials are less efficient at the top of the ship; no one wants a top-heavy ocean liner. Thus, the Celebrity Apex uses a more eco-friendly material that looks just like glass for the transparent atrium in the Solarium — though it weighs only 1% of what glass would weigh. Other materials like lightweight carbon fiber help offset the weight of steel and fuel tanks.

where are cruise ships built

Even the smallest details like room and public area signage is examined by a variety of teams from lawyers to marketing experts. To convey important messages, the cruise line wants to be informative without being stern.

For example, small placards by toilets in cabin bathrooms say, “Excuse me, only toilet paper please.” Throwing anything else into these vacuum toilets can cause plumbing stopups.

» Learn more: Should you insure your cruise?

What’s new on board

Adding new amenities for passengers can sometimes pose challenges for designers. New features like the Magic Carpet (also aboard sister ship the Celebrity Edge), required plenty of additional planning.

This cantilevered deck ascends the side of the ship between decks 2 and 16, allowing guests to dine or gather with panoramic views while more comfortably boarding smaller tender boats to go ashore when needed. It essentially is an external elevator on the side of the ship.

where are cruise ships built

In the trilevel Grand Plaza area, the Martini Bar features over 700 LED lights in crystallized lenses designed to dance in coordinated fashion for dramatic effect. If lined up on the ground, these lights would span more than half a mile.

where are cruise ships built

A Spa Thermal Suite adds eight different therapeutic experiences like a salt room, massaging Rainfall Water Therapy room, Iyashi Dome sauna (said to cleanse and detoxify the body), and new treatment tables. It also features the first F45 fitness classes at sea as well as a Kerastase Institute beauty salon.

Each of these elements requires significant plumbing and wiring design, which is different from the systematic approach found in cabins and must be integrated into the overall maze of pipes on the ship. The spa’s design, especially, requires unique setups for plumbing and piping.

where are cruise ships built

A 23-foot 4K LED screen curving around the main theater stage is fitted with laser projectors for wraparound lighting during stage shows.

And Eden, a combined dining and lounge space, features a canopy of leaves, which are more than decorative — they shield the view of electronic equipment and lighting.

» Learn more: I survived a cruise — and you can too

The bottom line

On this ship, I found everything seemed to fit together with precision and often served to function both for internal use and passenger appreciation.

The next time you travel aboard a new cruise ship, look closely to appreciate the myriad details that came together to create it.

Photos courtesy of Celebrity Cruises and Ramsey Qubein.

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where are cruise ships built

BeyondCruise

The Ten Stages of Building Cruise Ships

Symphony of the Seas in St. Nazaire, France

From steel-cutting to maritime traditions

It feels like a new ship is being launched every other month currently, and to be honest, you would be right.

The cruise industry is undergoing explosive growth right now and the thirst for bigger, better and more exciting ships has never been so great!

The Initial Order

Everything starts with an order. Although shipyards around the world are pretty busy, we’re not quite at a stage yet where rival cruise lines are buying construction slots “just in case” then selling them as airlines do with planes.

Generally, a shipyard will have several ships being built at the same time, all in various different stages and many ships placed in their order books as either confirmed or as ‘an option’ – which allows the cruise line to cancel or postpone the build if necessary.

Anthem of the Seas meeting and design choices

It is at this stage that the cruise line will announce they’ve placed an order for a new ship and it is usually around 3-4 years away. No name or any details is given at this stage, just the tonnage, possible class of ship (for example a sister ship or a brand new design) and usually the passenger capacity.

MSC Cruises World-class preview render

The Steel-Cutting Ceremony

By the time we get to the steel-cutting ceremony, the cruise line is starting to generate some press about their new ship. At this point, the ship is usually given a name publicly, although in some instances she may still only have a build number which is referenced on her hull. The first steel is cut in front of senior management from the cruise line, the shipyard and the press. What you’ll actually see doesn’t really resemble anything but laser-cut steel at this point!

Spectrum of the Seas steel cutting

This process continues for months as the shipyard creates lots of pieces of steel all cut into different shapes and sizes which are then welded together to make sections or ‘blocks’.

The Keel-Laying Ceremony

The next important part of building a ship is the laying of the keel. The keel is the lowest (or bottom) of any ship and will be part of the first block that is lowered by massive cranes into the dry dock or basin as it is sometimes called.

At this point, there is usually a coin laying ceremony . Specially commissioned gold coins are laid in the keel block to symbolise good luck. Sometimes they are welded in and at other times, they are just placed in and then retrieved later on and then used in a mast stepping ceremony, where the coins are welded under the bottom of the main ship’s mast. These days cruise ships don’t have a mast like sailing ships and therefore they are placed under or attached to the very bottom of the radar mast and left on display.

The coin ceremony is carried out by the Godmother ( Madrina ) of the ship. The Godmother at this point isn’t the same as the official Godmother that will name the ship when she is finished, instead, it may be someone important from the cruise line or occasionally two people, one from the shipyard and another from the cruise line.

MSC Grandiosa coin ceremony

The keel is then laid with exact precision, usually using GPS coordinates which are accurate to the centimetre. We now have (part) of the bottom of the new cruise ship!

Anthem of the Seas keel-laying

As modern ships are now built by block (like Lego!), there is an ongoing process in the shipyard. Engineers will construct new blocks in one area of the shipyard whilst in another area large cranes will lower completed blocks into the dry dock and more engineers will weld together the large sections. These sections can commonly weigh in at 150 tonnes or more with ease.

Symphony of the Seas under construction

Eventually, you end up with something on the outside looking like a cruise ship. Although the inside is generally bare at this point apart from structural things like decks and staircases. Temporary lifts will be fitted at the side of the ship and large equipment and more steel will be either lifted or craned onto the ship.   From the outside, your ship will look a familiar shape, but her paintwork will be patchy in places and she may not have any glass or outdoor facilities fitted yet.

MSC Meraviglia under construction

As the months progress the ship has her azipods fitted (propellers fitted to large shafts which can rotate 360 degrees allowing the ship to move in any direction) and she is now pretty much waterproof, at least from below.

Ovation of the Seas in dry dock

The Float Out

The Float Out is a large milestone in any ship’s build. At this point, there are 100s of workers working on every area of the ship, sometimes in rolling 24/7 shifts depending on how quick the cruise line wants their ship and how many ships the shipyard has on their order books!

By now, cabins – which are usually made in a factory nearby and prefabricated are literally craned or lifted onto the ship and then slotted in next to each other like jigsaw pieces. The plumbing and wiring are connected to each cabin or “pod” and it is ready to go – just needing bedding and other small furniture items adding!

Allure of the Seas awaiting cabins

The ship gets to a point where it is ready to be moved out of the dry dock for the first time. Press are gathered, cruise line management, workers who have helped build the ship and even some local dignitaries may also attend. There is a speech, generally by the Chief Engineer and he gives thanks to the builders and talks about the milestones they completed and then the shipyard and cruise line representatives also give speeches.

Then, the Godmother (still not the official one that will name it!) will smash a bottle of champagne over the bow of the ship and everyone will gather at the rear of the ship as the dry dock is flooded for the first time.

MSC Seaview float-out

Depending where the ship is being built, other maritime traditions may also take place – commonly a sample of the first water to touch the ship’s hull is collected and kept in a sealed bottle (called an ampoule) . It is then presented to the Captain of the ship who will have it on display in his office near the Bridge.

Captain Scala holding an ampoule containing the first water that touched MSC Seaview's hull

Now the ship is floated out it will be moved to another part of the shipyard for the rest of the fit-out.

MSC Bellissima float out

The fit-out can usually take months and the ship is usually alongside in the shipyard whilst the next ship to be built is being put together in the drydock. The shipyard operates like a game of chess as ships move in and out of the drydock area and alongside to maximise productivity.

Symphony of the Seas fit out

The Sea Trials

The ship still isn’t complete, glass and various other parts might be visibly missing from the ship. But it is now time to test the ship at sea. Commonly sea trials last from a day to several depending on how complex the ship is, especially if it is a new class. The ship will be loaded with the crew, shipyard officials and also representatives from the insurance companies and also people like the British MCA (Maritime & Coast Agency) who will certify the ship as seaworthy.

MSC Seaside performs sea trials

The ship will perform various manoeuvres including seeing how quick she can stop, a compass swing (to calibrate the ship’s compasses) and the crew will also get used to how she handles at different speeds. No two cruise ships are generally the same, especially when technology changes at such a fast pace, a ship built just a year later may benefit from better hull design or more efficient engines.

MSC Meraviglia sets off on her sea trials

After the sea trials, the ship is brought back alongside or even into a drydock again whilst her internal fit out is completed and her hull and the rest of her external paintwork is completed.

The Handover Ceremony

At the handover ceremony, senior representatives from the shipyard, the cruise line and the press are in attendance. At this point, the ship looks like a ship you could board tomorrow – however, it is probably empty of supplies and the majority of the crew will be flying in from all around the world to join the ship for the very first time.

MSC Seaview handover ceremony

The ship will load some basic supplies and may set sail to its homeport or wherever the naming ceremony is taking place.

The Shakedown Voyage

This voyage is nothing like a cruise you would want to experience! During this voyage, which may last anywhere from 1-7 days the ship will relocate from the shipyard to its new homeport for the season or where it will be named.

Anthem of the Seas arrives into Southampton after her shakedown voyage

The shakedown voyage will possibly include a full ship. Certainly, all crew will be on board, learning everything about their new workplaces. The passenger cabins may also be occupied with workmen from the shipyard installing and carrying out finishing touches around the ship. Additionally, marketing staff will join the ship at this point and take all those lovely photos and videos of the ship whilst everything is looking brand new and is free of passengers!

The Inaugural Voyage

Not all cruise lines do this, but some do sell a pre-maiden voyage if the ship is looking like it will be completed earlier than expected.

Quantum of the Seas inaugural voyage

The inaugural voyage is sometimes for members of the media and travel agents only. It can last anything from 1-3 nights and sometimes it might not even be a full voyage but could just be alongside in the homeport whilst invited guests come to visit and tour the ship.

The Christening Ceremony

This ceremony is the final milestone in the ship going to sea and starting its life with paying passengers. A large naming ceremony is very popular, with representatives from the cruise line, shipyard, cruise industry and the media all in attendance. Depending on the cruise line the Godmother might be someone who is famous, Royalty or tradition. It might even be someone who won a competition!

MSC Seaview Christening ceremony

The Godmother blesses the ship and smashes a bottle of champagne across her bow. The tradition goes if the bottle doesn’t break on the first time, it is bad luck!

Quantum of the Seas christening ceremony

The Maiden Voyage

This is what you all have been waiting for, right? The ship is now ready for paying passengers to enjoy the very first voyage on the ship – in restaurants that haven’t been eaten in and beds that haven’t been slept in! The Maiden Voyage is usually quite special and may actually be a repositioning voyage rather than a normal itinerary. The cruise line may choose to give everyone who travels special commemorative gifts to mark the maiden voyage. This can sometimes be drawn out to a Maiden Season as the ship visits new ports for the very first time on each cruise.

MSC Meraviglia Maiden Voyage

After this, the ship will keep on performing cruises day-in-day-out, without stopping until her next dry dock. Legally the ship must undergo a dry dock for a full hull inspection every five years, at that point cruise lines usually refurbish carpets, cabin materials and sometimes reconfigure bars or restaurants depending on the current trends. Sometimes some ships may perform a dry dock period sooner if the cruise line wants to increase the number of cabins or facilities onboard.

Anthem of the Seas arrives in New York

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Home » Cruise » Cruise Features » Where Are Cruise Ships Built?

Where Are Cruise Ships Built?

If you’ve ever been curious about these massive feats of engineering, we shed some light on where (and how) cruise ships are built.

Where Are Cruise Ships Built?

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Typically, cruisers are most concerned with where their cruise ship is going. However, some cruise fans are inquisitive enough to wonder not only where their ship came from but how it was built.

If you’ve ever been curious about how these massive feats of engineering are constructed — and by whom — this article will demystify all the nuts and bolts of where cruise ships are built.

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Where are Cruise Ships Built?

Shipyards are scattered across the globe, but there are a handful that specialize in passenger ships. These heavyweights of cruise ship construction are primarily clustered in Europe.

The following are the world’s most prominent shipyards specializing in cruise ship construction, along with which of your favorite floating resorts they have built.

Princess Cruises Marks Next Milestone for Sun Princess

Fincantieri (Monfalcone, Italy)

For over 30 years, Italian shipyard Fincantieri has constructed more than 100 cruise ships across 18 brands. This includes:

  • 19 Princess Cruises ships (including Crown Princess in 1990)
  • 17 Holland America Line ships
  • 15 Carnival Cruise Line ships
  • 14 Costa ships
  • 11 Ponant ships
  • 10 Viking Ocean ships
  • Four Silversea ships
  • Four P&O Cruises ships
  • MSC Cruises’ Seaside Class, including MSC Seascape
  • Three Hapag-Lloyd cruise ships
  • Cunard’s Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth
  • Disney Magic and Disney Wonder
  • Oceania Riviera and Oceania Marina
  • Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Ovation
  • Regent’s Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor
  • Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady , and Resilient Lady
  • Hurtigruten’s Fram
  • Norwegian Prima and Viva

Chantiers de ‘lAtlantique (Saint-Nazaire, France)

Formerly STX Europe, the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France is responsible for more than a century of shipbuilding, beginning with the SS France in 1912. Today, its portfolio includes:

  • Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam and Noordam, in 1983 and 1984, respectively
  • 15 MSC Cruises ships
  • 11 ships for Royal Caribbean International , with Utopia of the Seas currently under construction
  • While Renaissance Cruises is no longer operating, the eight R-Class ships built here remain in service
  • Seven Celebrity Cruises vessels, including Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Apex
  • Norwegian Windward, Norwegian Dreamward, and Norwegian Epic
  • Coral Princess and Island Princess
  • Hapag-Lloyd’s Europa 2
  • Crystal Serenity (2003)
  • Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 ocean liner

where are cruise ships built

Meyer Group (Germany and Finland)

The Meyer family of Meyer Group shipyards have been in shipbuilding for an astounding seven generations and 225 years. There are three Meyer locations: Neptune Werft in Rostock, Germany; Meyer Turku in Turku, Finland; and Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, which is the largest.

Modern cruise ship building began for Meyer in the 1970s, with Royal Viking Line. Their ship, Royal Viking Star, has since been rechristened three times and operates today as Black Watch under British cruise line Fred. Olsen. To date, Viking Cruises has had more than 60 Viking river ships built at Neptune Werft.

The following are some more significant builds from these three related shipyards:

  • Royal Princess (1984) in Turku
  • Crown Odyssey (now Balmoral) at Meyer Werft in 1988
  • 22 Royal Caribbean ships, including Oasis and Icon of the Seas
  • Carnival Cruise Line’s Fantasy Class (eight ships), plus the newer Excel-class ships (Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration , and Carnival Jubilee)
  • 11 Norwegian Cruise Line ships, including Pride of America and Norwegian Encore
  • 10 AIDA (German) ships
  • Five ships for Celebrity Cruises
  • Disney Wish and Disney Treasure
  • Crystal Symphony (1995)
  • Silversea’s Silver Nova (2023) and Silver Ray (2024)

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How Are Cruise Ships Built?

When a cruise line decides to build a new cruise ship, they must award the contract to a shipyard. Some brands frequently use the same shipyard for all new-builds, while others might shop around depending on their needs (and the availability of the shipyard). Many times, cruise companies will stick with the same shipyard for an entire class of ships, given that construction should be similar.

Resilient Lady Completes Sea Trials

While the finer details will differ from ship to ship, the overall process of constructing a massive vessel like this is similar, regardless of the shipyard. Cruise ships are pieced together like a puzzle, with various components built in blocks and then fitted together. A watertight hull is the main building block upon which all other pieces rely.

It could take months between the planning and design phase to “cutting the steel”. This is considered the first milestone in cruise ship building. Once construction is underway in earnest, large cranes are used for some serious heavy lifting to move more than a thousand tons of cruise ship building blocks into place.

Most of these blocks, from staterooms and panels to furniture and bathroom fixtures, are built offsite before moving to be put in place at the shipyard. Cabins are actually constructed individually and then slid into the greater structure.

The shipbuilding process takes a year to 18 months on average to construct a modern cruise ship. According to major shipyard Fincantieri, it takes 135,000 hours of planning; and 2 million hours of work to build the average cruise ship.

Prior to its first cruise, a new ship undergoes a series of tests to determine if it is seaworthy. These are referred to as “sea trials” and include tests of safety systems, speed and propulsion, navigational systems, maneuverability as well as noise and vibrations onboard. 

MSC Euribia Completes Successful Sea Trials

What Are Cruise Ships Made of?

While cruise ship interiors vary widely in fabric choices, furnishings, and paint colors, the skeleton of any vessel is similarly constructed.

The exterior of a cruise ship is created using steel and aluminum alloys. Weight must always be kept in mind and properly balanced to keep the ship from being too top heavy or uneven. For that reason, lightweight carbon fiber is often employed to help offset the weight of the steel structure.

Of course, building a floating hotel is not the same as constructing a hotel or resort on land. Special considerations must be made regarding fire safety, so combustible materials like wood are never used. Every cruise ship has fire zones outfitted with fire doors, in case of emergency. Fire-resistant materials are also utilized throughout the vessel to reduce the chance of a widespread hazard.

In terms of sound and vibration, cruise ships are essentially insulated with shock-absorbing structures and materials to reduce rattling and prevent excessive movement while your ship rides the waves.

where are cruise ships built

How Often Are Cruise Ships Refurbished?

Cruise ships are regularly refurbished to keep them looking fresh as well as in good working order. Most ships go into what is called “ dry dock ” every few years for a variety of upgrades.

Refurbishments can be as simple as routine maintenance to touch up paint, replace carpeting, upholstery or soft furnishings, which might last a few days’ time. But refurbs can also include major overhauls of ship spaces lasting weeks or months. If a new feature (like a restaurant) is being rolled out across a fleet, it will be applied to older or existing vessels in the form of a dry dock.

When ships are due for a refurbishment, they don’t go back to their original shipyard. Instead, they head to a dockyard that specializes in this type of cruise ship work. These dockyards are also spread far and wide, from Brest, France and Cadiz, Spain to Freeport, Bahamas and even within the U.S., from Portland, Oregon to San Diego.

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Where Are Cruise Ships Built?

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Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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where are cruise ships built

First class travel for all

Meticulous, selective, dynamic and aimed at only a very few constructors: this is the global cruise ship business in which fincantieri is a leader and present in all segments of the cruise market. because our success consists of experiences and skills that arrive from across the sea..

where are cruise ships built

Whith over 100 ships

Built between 1990 and today.

where are cruise ships built

different brands served

where are cruise ships built

One in every three cruise passengers

Travels on a fincantieri ship.

where are cruise ships built

Consolidated technological

And project management capability, an innate ability to make all the difference.

Fincantieri and cruise ships: a success story from across the sea. By the beginning of the 20th century the Group was already making waves around the world for its skill in building ships that were unique in terms of design, elegance, interior design and engineering solutions. Its leadership was underpinned by its having built the best-known and most iconic Italian transatlantic liner: the Rex. Built at the Genoa shipyard, the Rex is remembered for winning the Blue Riband in 1933, having beaten the record for crossing the Atlantic. The Company was one of the first in the 1980s to take up the opportunity of the new trend in the cruise tourist industry and it approached the market by drawing on the experience it had acquired in previous decades as builder of transatlantic liners. It was at the start of the ’90s when the Crown Princess was delivered, a sparkling gem that was to become the stuff of legend, with its dolphin-like silhouette designed by Renzo Piano.

Today the Company is the undisputed leader in designing and building dream ships for the most important cruise line companies. With over 100 vessels built since 1990, Fincantieri is the increasingly important market leader in all segments, as the figures confirm: one third of the world's cruise ship fleet capability came out of our shipyards, and we carry 8 million passengers a year around the world, or one in every three cruisegoers.

To accomplish and keep up these record-breaking achievements we have focused on technological innovation and on our skill in ensuring that functionality and on-board pleasure are in perfect harmony, using novel forms and design. We can already see the future. We develop new generations of ships to respond to and anticipate demand from the world’s fleet owners.

where are cruise ships built

Princess Cruises

It was in 1990 that Fincantieri and Princess Cruises began a long partnership with an epoch-making ship – Crown Princess. More than fifteen vessels later, we are still sailing ahead together, broadening the horizons of the cruise market with latest-generation ships.

where are cruise ships built

  • Discovery Princess 2022
  • Enchanted Princess 2020
  • Sky Princess 2019
  • Majestic Princess 2017
  • Regal Princess 2014
  • Royal Princess 2013
  • Ruby Princess 2008
  • Emerald Princess 2007
  • Crown Princess 2006
  • Caribbean Princess 2004
  • Star Princess 2002
  • Golden Princess 2001
  • Ocean Princess 2000
  • Grand Princess 1998
  • Sea Princess 1998
  • Dawn Princess 1997
  • Sun Princess 1995
  • Regal Princess 1991
  • Crown Princess 1990

where are cruise ships built

Holland America Line

First, there was the Statendam, in 1993. Our debut ship for Holland America Line was step one in our contribution, ship by ship, to building a truly excellent premium-cruising brand. We have grown together. Now, we are working on other pages in this story.

where are cruise ships built

  • Rotterdam 2021
  • Nieuw Statendam 2018
  • Koningsdam 2016
  • Nieuw Amsterdam 2010
  • Eurodam 2008
  • Noordam 2006
  • Westerdam 2004
  • Oosterdam 2003
  • Zuiderdam 2002
  • Amsterdam 2000
  • Zaandam 2000
  • Volendam 1999
  • Rotterdam 1997
  • Veendam 1996
  • Ryndam 1994
  • Maasdam 1993
  • Statendam 1993

where are cruise ships built

Carnival Cruise Line

To amaze, please and, above all, entertain. Since 1996, we have been helping Carnival Cruise Lines to do just that. We have built more than ten units for them: the partnership continues. 

where are cruise ships built

  • Carnival Panorama 2019
  • Carnival Horizon 2018
  • Carnival Vista 2016
  • Carnival Breeze 2012
  • Carnival Magic 2011
  • Carnival Dream 2009
  • Carnival Splendor 2008
  • Carnival Freedom 2007
  • Carnival Liberty 2005
  • Carnival Valor 2004
  • Carnival Glory 2003
  • Carnival Conquest 2002
  • Carnival Victory 2000
  • Carnival Triumph 1999
  • Carnival Destiny 1996

where are cruise ships built

Costa Cruises

Fincantieri and Costa Crociere have a long history of success and innovation as ambassadors, in their respective fields, for the best that the Made in Italy brand has to offer.

where are cruise ships built

  • Costa Diadema 2014
  • Costa Fascinosa 2012
  • Costa Favolosa 2011
  • Costa Deliziosa 2010
  • Costa Luminosa 2009
  • Costa Pacifica 2009
  • Costa Serena 2007
  • Costa Concordia 2006
  • Costa Magica 2004
  • Costa Fortuna 2003
  • Costa Romantica 1993
  • Costa Classica 1991

where are cruise ships built

P&O Cruises

Working with the world’s oldest cruise line, which tailors its products for the demanding British market and its long cruise tradition, is a great challenge that we relish. That is why we are especially proud of our partnership with P&O. We have built their new flagship, Britannia, the largest vessel ever built for the UK market.

where are cruise ships built

  • Britannia 2015
  • Ventura 2008
  • Arcadia 2005

where are cruise ships built

Ponant Cruises

Italian creativity and experience, French sophistication. Fincantieri’s partnership with Compagnie du Ponant began and keeps growing through a common commitment to set new standards in yacht and exploration cruising. Our series of intimate, luxurious ships exudes elegant, refined wellbeing and can reach destinations and ports that the larger ships cannot.

where are cruise ships built

  • Le Commandant Charcot 2021
  • Le Bellot 2020
  • Le Jacques Cartier 2020
  • Le Bougainville 2019
  • Le Dumont d’Urville 2019
  • Le Champlain 2018
  • Le Laperouse 2018
  • Le Lyrial 2015
  • Le Soleal 2013
  • L'Austral 2011
  • Le Boreal 2010

where are cruise ships built

Viking Ocean Cruises

Fincantieri started its partnership with Viking in 2012. Today, the cooperation, which first began with an order of two ships, has reached a total of 16 units. This is an all-time record, the largest number of ships built by a shipyard for one sole shipowner. The first of the series, “Viking Star”, has been built at the shipyard in Marghera and delivered in 2015, while the others has been built at the Ancona shipyard.

where are cruise ships built

  • Viking Neptune 2022
  • Viking Polaris 2022
  • Viking Octantis 2021
  • Viking Venus 2021
  • Viking Jupiter 2019
  • Viking Orion 2018
  • Viking Sky 2017
  • Viking Sun 2017
  • Viking Sea 2016
  • Viking Star 2015

where are cruise ships built

This is the story of the world’s most famous ocean liners: Cunard, the legendary name combining the glamour of the great voyages of yesteryear with the style, comfort, luxury and technology of today, has found in Fincantieri the perfect partner to scale the heights of excellence. Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth, the latest two of the three ships in Cunard’s current fleet, are both our creations.

where are cruise ships built

  • Queen Elizabeth 2010
  • Queen Victoria 2007

where are cruise ships built

Exclusivity and refinement, small size, itinerary precluded at larger vessels. These are the characteristics that make Seabourn an undisputed brand of ultra-luxury segment. Fincantieri build two ships for this brand characterized by the understated elegance, amenities, innovations and modern design that embody the hallmarks of Seabourn.

  • Seabourn Ovation 2018
  • Seabourn Encore 2016

where are cruise ships built

Msc Crociere

where are cruise ships built

  • MSC Seascape 2022
  • MSC Seashore 2021
  • MSC Seaview 2018
  • MSC Seaside 2017

where are cruise ships built

Doing things on a grand scale for a company that bases its exclusive world of ultra luxury on small, intimate elite ships demands experience, expertise and, above all, a sense of style and design that only few can possess. 

where are cruise ships built

  • Silver Dawn 2021
  • Silver Moon 2020
  • Silver muse 2017
  • Silver Spirit 2009

where are cruise ships built

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises is one of the most prestigious operators in the super-luxury cruising niche. Their partnership with Fincantieri has created something even more impressive, with the construction of the twin vessels Marina and Riviera, a new generation of ships offering a unique style of cruise – in the proud fleet owner’s words “the most sophisticated and elegant ships to debut in the past 50 years”.

where are cruise ships built

  • Riviera 2012
  • Marina 2011

where are cruise ships built

Disney Cruise Line

Think of a ship that is family-friendly down to the last detail but also offers a perfect holiday for guests of all ages. That is the mission that Disney Cruise Line entrusted to Fincantieri with two of the four ships in their fleet, in Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, twin gems whose unmistakable design evokes the classic ocean liners of the past.

where are cruise ships built

  • Disney Wonder 1999
  • Disney Magic 1998

where are cruise ships built

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

where are cruise ships built

  • Seven Seas Splendor 2020
  • Seven Seas Explorer 2016

where are cruise ships built

Building the flagship for the legendary Norwegian company and seeing her sail between the Antarctic and Greenland still gives us more than a frisson of pride. Fram – named after the ship that brought Roald Amundsen to the South Pole in 1911 for the first time – is further proof of Fincantieri’s ability to lead in every sector of the cruise market and to successfully complete the most challenging commissions.

where are cruise ships built

Virgin Voyages

Virgin ships will redefine the cruising experience for good, an experience for people who want a new way to cruise. Virgin Cruises is a new cruise line, it is part of Virgin Group, founded in 1970 by Sir Richard Branson.

  • Valiant Lady 2021
  • Scarlet Lady 2020

where are cruise ships built

Costa Asia is the Costa Crociere brand specially created to meet the ever-increasing demand of the Chinese cruise market, already served by the shipowner for over ten years. With Costa Asia, we bring a corner of home to China, delivering on Costa Cruises authentic Italian experience while also providing a unique vacation experience that will resonate with Chinese guests by being fully tailored to their travel preferences.

  • Costa Firenze 2020
  • Costa Venezia 2019

where are cruise ships built

Norwegian Cruise Line

A prestigious new brand in our client portfolio, NCL is part of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. a U.S. cruise group that is among the top in the world. It includes, in addition to NCL, the Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises brands, for which the group has built several ships in recent years.

where are cruise ships built

  • Norwegian Prima 2022

where are cruise ships built

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

where are cruise ships built

  • Hanseatic Spirit 2021
  • Hanseatic Inspiration 2019
  • Hanseatic Nature 2019

A market and technology leader in all segments

Premium/upper premium, luxury, the very finest details, contemporary, designed to offer the utmost in fun, exploration/niche, premium/upper premium, superior quality in grand style.

Ships for the most discerning passengers, with dedicated and exclusive areas and facilities.

Select ships on a more intimate scale offering exclusive destinations, services, décor and spaces, including generous cabins.

Spectacular vessels over 100,000 gross tons packed with amenities: the ship herself becomes the destination.

Exploration/Niche, the pleasure of exploring new frontiers

“Themed” ships for special cruises, by river or to the Antarctic, for travellers-cum-explorers.

COMPLEXITY BY NUMBER

What genereally needs on average to build a cruise ship, 22,000 .

m 2  of public rooms: enough to cover 3 football pitches

3,800  

km of cables: over 7 times the distance from Rome to Venice

hours of planning

working hours in the shipyard

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  • CruiseMapper
  • Ships and Lines

Newest Cruise Ships

CruiseMapper logo

Find here the answer to which is the newest cruise ships currently under construction or on order. You can jump directly to the lists of new vessels on order / under construction (2021-2028) , as well as new riverboats (2021-2026) and new cruiseferries (2021-2027).

Here you'll find them all - from small to big to the ever-largest passenger ships from the fleets of RCG-Royal Caribbean, Carnival Corporation, NCLH-Norwegian and MSC. We list also all the major cruise lines' orders for building new vessels (with GT/volume between ~2000 and ~240000 tons), with information on their design , building cost , passenger capacity , and builders/yards .

Newest Cruise Ships - CruiseMapper

Newest cruise vessels on order (2021-2028 deliveries)

NEW companies and brands on the market are Resorts World Cruises (2022/Genting), Virgin Voyages (2017), Ritz-Carlton (2017), Norwegian Yacht Voyages (2017), Adora Cruises/CSSC Carnival China (2018), Alteza Cruises (2017), Anteros Cruises (2017), Zen Cruises (2018/Essel Group India), Abou Merhi Cruises Lebanon (2018), Well Star Travel Cruise China (2018), Blue World Voyages (2019), Mystic Cruises USA (2019), TUI River Cruises (2019), Cruise Retirement (2019), Style Cruise China (2019), Diamond Cruise China (2020), Ocean Residences (2020), Storylines Residences (2020), Arctic Cruise Line (2021), Aroya Cruise Saudi (2021), Selectum Blu Cruises (2021/ANEX Tours Turkey).

The largest "small ship" companies are Viking and Ponant .

The industry's estimated revenue for 2018 was USD 40 billion, with projected growth to USD 59 billion (2027). In terms of source passengers, the largest markets are North America (50+%) and Europe (30+%). The fastest-growing market is luxury cruising, with the largest companies being Viking Ocean, Viking Expeditions, Silversea, MSC Expeditions (separate fleet), Ponant, Hapag-Lloyd, RSSC-Regent.

In 2022, the ship orders with deliveries planned in 2023-2028 were 72 (units) amounting to ~USD/EUR 46 billion.

In 2023, the number of cruise vessels (ordered and scheduled for launches in 2023-2028) was 56 (~USD/EUR 39 billion, average cost per unit ~USD/EUR 680M), including 19 (2023-inaugurated), 10 (2024/30,000+ berths), 19 (2025), and 20 (2026-2028).

By 2028, the new vessels (2023-28) add to the global fleet 129000+ berths.

New MSC ships 2017-2027

On March 20, 2014, MSC and STX France signed in Paris a letter of intent for building 2 new mega-liners with scheduled deliveries in 2017 (Meraviglia) and 2019 (Bellissima), each with GT 167,600 tons (slightly smaller than Quantum-class / 167,800 GT), but with bigger passenger capacity - 4500 (vs 4180).

MSC Meraviglia-class cruise ship

In February 2016, MSC ordered two "Meraviglia Plus" liners with max capacity 6300 passengers (200 more cabins, 16 m longer compared to Meraviglia-Class). The order made MSC France's largest private foreign investor - with USD 8,6+ billion in export contracts over a 5-year period. On April 6, 2016, MSC signed with STX France for the construction of up to four World-Class vessels - LNG-powered , with GT tonnage 250,000 tons and max passenger capacity 6800.

MSC Cruises World-Class ship

In November 2017 MSC ordered 2x "Seaside EVO" class ships from Fincantieri (contract value EUR 1,8 billion). The new ships are bigger (16 m longer, 17,330 GT tons heavier, with 200 more cabins / 467 more passengers) in comparison to Seaview and Seaside. Newbuilds' deliveries were scheduled for 2021 (Seashore) and 2022 (Seascape). With Seaside EVO, MSC had a total investment of EUR 10,5 billion into 12 new vessels with scheduled deliveries by 2026. The first of four "World Class" vessels will be delivered in 2022.

In October 2018, MSC and Fincantieri signed an MoA for 4x ultra-luxury expedition (total value EUR 2+ billion). The newbuilds (EXPLORA-class/first unit delivery in 2023-Q3) have GT tonnage 64,000 and 500 cabins. The remaining 3 units are due to enter service one per year (2024-2025-2026).

MSC Explora-Class ship (Explora Journeys)

In 2023, MSC's fleet had 21 liners.

New Carnival Corporation ships 2019-2024

In March 2015 Carnival Corporation ordered 9 vessels to be built by two different companies. Fincantieri SpA (Italy) constructs 5 units (at Monfalcone and Marghera yards), while Meyer Werft BmbH constructs the other 4 units in Germany (Papenburg) and Finland (Turku).

All new liners feature next-generation designs and marine architecture and technologies, each designed accordingly to the brand it serves (Costa, AIDA, Princess, Holland America, CCL-Carnival).

In 2019 was established CSSC Carnival China/ADORA CRUISES - a Chinese-American joint venture company with a separate fleet of 2x ex-Costa ships (Atlantica, Mediterranea) plus 2 newbuilds (2023, 2024).

The next video is about Ponant's new Explorer-Class ships.

New cruise ships (2021-2028) under construction and on order

New riverboats 2021-2026, new river cruise ships 2021-2026.

This survey shows the list of the newest river cruise ships and luxury boats. These are all newbuilds, so the list excludes boats that are chartered to other companies (thus only refurbished and renamed).

new Russian river cruise ship design

For all riverboats tracked at CruiseMapper, you can visit our River Cruises hub where are listed all river shipping companies and their fleets.

European river cruise ship design

New cruiseferries (2021-2027)

Here are listed large-sized new cruise ferries built between 2010-2024. RoRo vessels as types can be ferries (car and passenger ships), cruise ferries (with passenger cabins), cargo ships and freight barges.

At the following taglink are listed all CruiseMapper's news related to new ships .

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By contrast, the Empire accommodates just three dozen guests each evening, in a single two-and-a-half-hour seating, placing diners in the voyage’s top 0.5 percent. The dinner and show are a $200-per-person upsell. Even for occupants of Royal’s new over-the-top Star Class suites—which can rent for up to $100,000 a week—a reservation at the Empire is not among the panoply of carte-blanche “inclusions.” When we walked up to the front door, the maitre d’ already knew our faces and names.

“It’s not really a restaurant. It’s an experience,” says Jay Schneider, chief product innovation officer at Royal Caribbean, as he tours us around the ship during our three-night preview sail before its maiden voyage. “It’s something that people have to want to do.”  

Icon of the Seas

The supper club is one of many Royal “revolutions”—endeavors new to the brand that have been included onboard—that Schneider points out as we wander the ship’s 20 quarter-mile-long decks. Backed by consumer research, these upgrades are intended to elevate the onboard experience. The hope is to draw in elite guests from smaller boutique cruises, superyacht charters, or other trendy private vacation options to spend six-figures for seven nights onboard, while thousands in other “neighborhoods” have budget rooms that rent in the low four-figures.

In a long career covering travel and transportation, I’ve stayed in all manner of high-end resorts. But I’ve never done a cruise before and wanted to see how it compares to other five-star experiences, especially on a vessel as vast and multifaceted as Icon . Could it really deliver the exclusivity and intimacy of a small private island or superyacht charter, with 7,000 other souls aboard?

Icon of the Seas Royal Caribbean Surfside and The Grove

Certainly, Schneider’s team is aiming for that goal. His list of “small wows” include a walk-up Champagne bar in the lush Central Park, a doubling of the budget for custom artworks, a grab-and-go sushi window at the Izumi teppanyaki restaurant, and a sizable increase in spa offerings and amenities.

Then there are the “big wows.” Foremost among these is the Suite neighborhood on the ship’s uppermost decks. Here, in the Grove, a private bar, pool, café, sun deck, lounge, and two-story restaurant are available only to those in premium residences. “The intent was to go even further with this concept than we ever have before and really have a dedicated space for Suite guests,” Schneider says. 

The aesthetic up here differs greatly from the ersatz “Island Time” driftwood and pastels of other neighborhoods, such as the family-friendly Surfside and the waterpark-like Chill Island. In the Grove, teak-colored, metal-ribbed decking, neutral boucle cushions, glazed forest-green mosaic tiles, and fabric-covered pergolas all come together to signal its heightened taste.

Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas cruiseship

This reveals a core challenge for Royal, a company that prides itself, as Schneider says, on being an accessible, “E-for-Everyone company.” Can it really be all things to all people? If so, how can it elevate the experience for a select class of guests while remaining true to its egalitarian mission?

This is further complicated by one of Royal’s fundamental design goals with the Icon class of ships, which is enhancing the readily navigable connections between areas. “One of the things that we’ve been focused on is making sure that the flow of this ship, more than ever, is open, inviting, and easy to access for everyone,” Schneider says. This means ensuring guests can walk between decks and neighborhoods and major attractions without running into dead ends or having to double-back to the central elevators.  

Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas the Loft Suite.

The Suite neighborhood, comprising just 7 percent of the rooms aboard Icon, is separated. It sits among the ship’s highest levels. Smoked sliding-glass doors prevent access to its amenities unless your key card registers you as a resident. (We were also given access to the Suites and provided a Genie during our stay.) And the area overlooks, but doesn’t connect directly to, other popular locales, dramatically reducing foot traffic. “We’ve gone to great lengths to essentially remove this area from the flow of the ship,” Schneider says. “So much so that the average guest wouldn’t know it’s even here.”

Occupancy on our preview sailing was around 70 percent of capacity, or nearly 5,000 guests. Despite all the people, the Grove felt separate and tranquil, with only a smattering of guests, uninterrupted views of the ocean, wait-less and higher-quality food, less boisterous background music, and pleasant glimpses down into the ship’s hubbub.

Royal Caribbean Icon at Sea Loft Suites

When we docked for an excursion on the company’s synthetic island fun park, Coco Cay, a similar exclusive vibe persisted at its Coco Beach Club, another new, Suite-level “inclusion” (or $250 per person upsell.) It featured its own private pool, beach, restaurant, and over-water cabanas, all done up in a refined, Fiji-lite style. It wasn’t Caneel Bay in its heyday, but it certainly outclassed the nearby Hideaway Beach, with its throbbing dance music, DJ, swim-up bars, and brightly colored chaises.

Back at the Empire Supper Club, a chanteuse in a gold-sequined dress sang a series of New York-themed songs. The Moët flowed. The caviar, langoustines, filet, and branzino were served. The fresh nutmeg was grated atop the final craft cocktail pairing, a take on an espresso martini. Service from the gray tuxedoed waiters was attentive but not obsequious; the platings were creative and replete with “small wows;” and many of the dishes tasted fresh and carefully created. The ambiance felt genuine. Overall, the experience felt personalized and unhurried, perhaps the greatest luxury of all.

By the end of the cruise, I still wondered: Are these white-glove details enough to draw in high-end consumers?

Royal Caribbean Coco Cay

“Large cruise ships have always provided separate classes, but exclusive enclaves are more recent. And for those who like large vessels, and all the variety and space they deliver, it’s a great product,” says Milton Pedraza, founder and CEO of the Luxury Institute, a research and consulting practice.

Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas. Standup Comedy

My final opinion? Mixed. The overall experience is not exactly five-star—maybe more like four-and-change—and I’m not sure I’d attend another cruise. To be honest, we dislike crowds and prefer our travel and destinations to be more authentic. The artificial environments felt a bit like Disney World at sea. The Grove experience was certainly far more refined than I’d expected, and the efforts at upscaling and personalization were notable, and noticeable, throughout. But we couldn’t shake the fact that we were on a cruise ship with 5,000 other guests.

But, as Pedraza notes, there is an elite traveler who enjoys such opportunities. For its target ultrahigh-net-worth consumers, Royal’s strategies appear to be working. According to Schneider, sales on Icon are strong across the board, but the Suites have shown particular appeal. “I wouldn’t say [they’ve sold] more, because everything’s booked up,” he says. “I would say [they] sold first.”

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Florida-bound this fall, new Sun Princess cruise ship makes maiden voyage

P rincess Cruises welcomed passengers aboard the largest ship ever built for the cruise line as the Sun Princess made its maiden voyage from Rome.

The 177,882–gross-ton ship has a 4,314-passenger capacity based on double occupancy. It’s the first of the line’s new Sphere class of ships, the first to run on liquefied natural gas, part of parent company Carnival Corp.’s efforts to reduce emissions.

It’s a big jump in size from the Royal-class ships including 2022’s Discovery Princess, 2020’s Enchanted Princess and 2019’s Sky Princess, which come in at around 145,000 gross tons with about 3,660-passenger capacities.

It won’t call Port Everglades home until October and begins its spate of European voyages until then with a 10-night Grand Mediterranean cruise.

“This is an historic day as our new Sun Princess sets sail on her inaugural voyage, and our guests get to experience our sensational, next-level, Love Boat firsthand,” said Princess Cruises President John Padgett in a news release. “The ship is a magnificent showcase of advanced design, technology and craftsmanship, with elevated spaces and experiences all focused on taking the Princess vacation experience to a new level.”

Two features Padgett played up are the geodesic, glass space on the top deck called The Dome, inspired by the terraces of the Greek island Santorini. It features several levels that stair-step up adjacent to a main indoor/outdoor pool feature. At night, that gets covered to become a stage for an entertainment venue with a South Beach feel that will be home to an acrobatic performance called Cirque Éloize.

Another new feature for the ship is called the Piazza, which acts as the ship’s three-story atrium, a more spherical look than most, and apropos for the Sphere class. It offers views on either side of the ship to the sea plus a central LED screen that can be moved depending on what entertainment programming is in order.

The ship’s name may seem familiar to Princess Cruises fans. This is the third iteration of Sun Princess, the name was attached to ships that sailed for the line from 1974-1988 and 1995-2020. The pilot episode of “The Love Boat” TV series was shot on board the original Sun Princess in 1977.

The new version offers up 30 food and beverage venues including a thematic magic experience called Spellbound by Magic Castle with a sponsorship from the famous Hollywood, California venue.

Other unique venues are Kai Sushi by Makoto serving Edomae-style sushi from Chef Makoto Okuwa, Love by Britto featuring works by artist Romero Britto, and The Butcher’s Block by Dario from celebrity Italian butcher Dario Cecchini.

Other venues on board include another version of line mainstay The Catch by Rudi from Chef Rudi Sodamin and a cocktail lounge from celebrity mixologist Rob Floyd.

The three-deck Horizons Dining Room has inaugural menus created with the Culinary Institute of America.

The ship offers more for younger cruisers than previous ships including a family activity zone called Park19 that runs across the ship’s three top decks. That includes an adventurous ride that’s a mashup of a zipline and hang glider called the Sea Breeze as well as a climbing structure called Coastal Climb.

Its first trip from Florida will be a five-night voyage on Oct. 14 followed by mostly alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries through March 2025.

©2024 Orlando Sentinel. Visit at orlandosentinel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess cruise ship seen here during sea trials made its maiden voyage from Rome on Feb. 28, 2024.

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A Look at the Inaugural Deployment of the Carnival Firenze

  • March 10, 2024

Costa Firenze

Following the Carnival Venezia , the Carnival Firenze is set to become the second ship to showcase Carnival Cruise Line’s unique Italian-themed product.

As part of the company’s Carnival Fun Italian Style concept, the 2021-built ship is debuting in April , with a series of itineraries departing from Carnival’s private cruise terminal in Long Beach.

Cruise Industry News took a closer look at the ship’s deployment.

Seven-Night Cruise to the Mexican Riviera Date: Inaugural cruise in April, in addition to several departures between August and November Length: 7 nights Homeports: Long Beach (United States) Complete Itinerary: Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas and Mazatlán (Mexico)

For its maiden voyage, the Carnival Firenze is offering a traditional seven-night cruise to the Mexican Riviera. The itinerary features visits to Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, and Mazatlán after departing from the ship’s homeport in Long Beach on April 15.

The cruise is set to be repeated later this year, with several sailings scheduled to depart between late August and early November.

Five-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise Date: 24 departures between May and August, November and December Length: 5 nights Homeport: Long Beach (United States) Complete Itinerary: Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas (Mexico)

The Carnival Firenze is set to offer five-night cruises to the Mexican Riviera during most of its inaugural season. Following several departures between May and August, the itinerary is set to be offered again in November and December.

Sailing roundtrip from Carnival’s private cruise terminal in Long Beach, the cruise features visits to Ensenada and Long Beach, as well as two days at sea.

Four-Night Cruise to Baja Mexico Date: Nine departures scheduled between May and August, December Length: 4 nights Homeport: Long Beach (United States) Complete Itinerary: Ensenada (Mexico); and Catalina Island (United States)

The Carnival Firenze is also offering four-night cruises to Baja, Mexico, during its maiden program. In addition to Ensenada, the itineraries feature a visit to Catalina Island in Southern California.

These short getaway cruises will be offered during most of 2024, with a total of nine sailings scheduled for May, June, July, August and December.

Three-Night Cruise to Baja Mexico Date: November 29, 2024 Length: 3 nights Homeport: Long Beach (United States) Complete Itinerary: Ensenada (Mexico)

The shortest cruise of Carnival Firenze’s maiden season sets sail from Long Beach on November 29, 2024.

Cruising to Baja, Mexico, the three-night getaway trip will be offered once and features a visit to Ensenada, in addition to a full day cruising at the Pacific Ocean.

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Princess Cruises ships from newest to oldest — a complete list

Gene Sloan

What is the newest Princess Cruises ship? If you're in the market for a Princess cruise, it's something worth knowing.

The newest Princess cruise ship is typically also the Princess ship with the most up-to-date restaurants, bars, attractions and cabins. It's the one to choose if you want the very latest and greatest in a vessel for your Princess cruise vacation.

As of this year, the newest Princess cruise ship is Discovery Princess. It sailed on its maiden voyage in March 2022.

That said, Discovery Princess soon will be supplanted as the newest Princess Cruises vessel by Sun Princess — the first of a new class of vessels for the line. Sun Princess begins sailing in February 2024.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Other relatively new Princess ships include Enchanted Princess, Sky Princess and Majestic Princess. All began sailing in the last six years.

In all, Princess Cruises operates 15 vessels. On average, the line comes out with one new ship every two years or so, and it typically keeps vessels in its fleet for around 20 to 30 years before retiring them. The oldest Princess Cruises ship, Grand Princess, is 25 years old.

In general, Princess Cruises' newest ships are bigger and more venue-packed than its older ships. If you crave a lot of options for restaurants, bars and pool areas for your Princess cruise vacation, you'll want to stick to vessels built in the last 10 or so years.

Related: The 3 types of Princess Cruises ships, explained

The oldest Princess cruise ships — those built in the late 1990s and early 2000s — can be as much as 30% smaller than the line's newest vessels.

Here, every Princess ship currently in operation is ranked from newest to oldest:

1. Discovery Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 2022. Size: 145,000 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,660.

2. Enchanted Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 2020. Size: 144,650 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,660.

3. Sky Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 2019. Size: 144,650 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,660.

4. Majestic Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 2017. Size: 143,700 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,560.

5. Regal Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 2014. Size: 142,229 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,560.

6. Royal Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 2013. Size: 142,229 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,560.

7. Ruby Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 2008. Size: 113,561 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,080.

8. Emerald Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 2007. Size: 113,561 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,080.

9. Crown Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 2006. Size: 113,561 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,080.

10. Caribbean Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 2004. Size: 112,894 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,149.

11. Sapphire Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 2004. Size: 115,875 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,670.

12. Diamond Princess

where are cruise ships built

13. Island Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 2003. Size: 92,822 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,200.

14. Coral Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 2002. Size: 91,627 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,000.

15. Grand Princess

where are cruise ships built

Maiden voyage: 1998. Size: 107,517 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,600.

What is the newest Princess cruise ship?

The newest Princess cruise ship is Discovery Princess. As noted above, it debuted in March 2022.

Measuring 145,000 gross tons, Discovery Princess is the biggest Princess cruise ship ever built and has more restaurants, bars, showrooms and deck-top pool space than many older Princess ships.

Discovery Princess is part of Princess Cruises' six-ship Royal class of vessels, which is comprised of bigger ships than the line's earlier classes of vessels. The Royal class began debuting in 2013 and also includes Enchanted Princess, Sky Princess, Majestic Princess, Regal Princess and Royal Princess.

For more details on Discovery Princess, including what venues are on board and what it's like to sail on the vessel, see TPG's first impressions of Discovery Princess after an early sailing.

What is the oldest Princess cruise ship?

The oldest Princess cruise ship is Grand Princess. Unveiled way back in 1998, it's the namesake vessel for the line's Grand class of vessels, which remain at the core of the Princess fleet.

There are seven Grand-class vessels in the Princess fleet in all, making it the biggest grouping of ships at the line. Unveiled between 1998 and 2008, the Grand-class vessels are smaller than the Royal-class vessels at around 107,000 to 116,000 tons in size. This smaller size allows them to operate a wider range of itineraries than the Royal-class ships, as the vessels can access some smaller ports that aren't as accessible to the bigger ships.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises

Still, the Grand-class vessels are big enough to offer a lot of onboard venues. The Grand-class ships carry between 2,600 to 3,100 passengers at double occupancy.

What new Princess cruise ships are coming?

Princess currently has two new cruise ships on order. The first to arrive will be Sun Princess in February 2024. As noted above, it's the first of all-new Sphere-class series of vessels for the line that, as of now, will be made up of two ships (Princess could order more Sun-class ships in coming years — we'll see).

The second ship in the Sphere-class series, to be called Star Princess, is due to begin sailing in 2025.

The Sphere-class vessels are being built at the Fincantieri shipyard near Monfalcone, Italy.

TPG recently got a sneak peek at the most notable new features under development for Sun Princess during a visit to the partly completed vessel at the Fincantieri shipyard. They include The Dome, a glass dome-covered pool area with tiers of seating facing the bow that will turn into a nighttime entertainment zone with a stage at night.

What is the newest Princess cruise ship available for booking?

Sun Princess is the newest Princess cruise ship you can book right now. While the vessel isn't yet in operation, its initial sailings scheduled for February 2024 already are on sale, as are future voyages through March 2025. The one other Princess ship on order, Star Princess, has yet to open for bookings.

What is the newest class of Princess cruise ships?

The Sphere class is the newest class of Princess ships. It'll be made up of at least two vessels, the first of which (Sun Princess) is due to debut in February 2024.

At 175,500 tons, Sun Princess will be about 21% bigger than the biggest ships currently in the Princess fleet — a significant jump in size for the line. And yet, while it's 21% bigger, it's designed to hold just 17% more passengers.

In other words, its space-to-passenger ratio will be greater, making the ship feel roomier — if only modestly.

Related: Everything to know about Princess cabins and suites

In addition to being significantly bigger than past Princess ships, Sun Princess will also be the first Princess ship with suites that come with exclusive access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck — a sign Princess hopes to draw more upmarket travelers.

In all, the vessel is designed to hold 4,300 passengers at double occupancy.

What's the difference between newer and older Princess ships?

Newer Princess ships generally are bigger than older Princess ships and thus have more and bigger onboard venues than the line's older vessels.

On the newest Princess vessels, the Royal-class vessels, for instance, you'll find the largest piazza-like central atriums in the Princess fleet surrounded by lots of bars and restaurants; multiple entertainment venues for live shows, comedy acts and more; and expansive pool decks with more space for sunning than you'll find on smaller Princess vessels.

You'll also find some only-on-the-Royal-class-ships extras, including, on some of the ships, a glass-floored "SeaWalk" that extends over the side of the vessel.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess ship

Princess' oldest cruise ships are significantly smaller than its newest ships and lack some of the above features. They have a more intimate feel, at least in the pantheon of relatively big, mass-market ships, and they hold fewer people. While Royal-class ships can hold more than 4,500 passengers with every berth full, the line's oldest vessels (particularly the relatively small Island Princess and Coral Princess) often sail with just 2,000 or so passengers on board.

That makes them a good choice for someone who wants to try Princess Cruises but isn't eager to travel with huge crowds. The oldest ships in the Princess fleet thus appeal to a subset of Princess fans who prefer more intimacy in a cruise vessel and don't mind giving up some onboard amenities to get it. They are also often less expensive to sail on, on a per-day basis.

Related: Don't miss out on these Princess loyalty perks

In addition, because of their size, the oldest ships at Princess Cruises are able to operate itineraries to places that aren't as easy for big ships to visit. Not all ports in the world can handle a ship the size of Discovery Princess.

Note that all Princess Cruises ships are renovated and upgraded on a regular schedule every few years, so even the oldest Princess vessels have newer carpeting, updated furniture, modern decor in cabins and other updates. In many cases, they also have had entire eateries and bars renovated over the years with concepts that first debuted on newer vessels.

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  4. How a Cruise Ship is Built Whats Inside a Cruise Ship

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  6. Cruise Ship Construction Locations: Where Are Cruise Ships Built

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  5. Making the Best Cruise ship Company Part 1

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COMMENTS

  1. Where Are Cruise Ships Built?

    STX Europe, Meyer Werft and Fincantieri are the main builders of cruise ships. STX Europe is responsible for Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas, which was built in Finland, while Celebrity Edge ...

  2. Where are cruise ships built?

    Since their launches in 2021 and 2022, Carnival Jubilee has set sail and also has a roller coaster on the top deck; however, this vessel was constructed at Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany. Additional ships built by Meyer Turku include Freedom, Oasis, and Allure of the Seas; Carnival Miracle, and Costa Toscana, among many, many others.

  3. Cruise Ship Construction Locations: Where Are Cruise Ships Built?

    Cruise ships are built in dry docks with the help of large cranes in various countries, such as Italy, Germany, and France. Learn about the history, process, and challenges of cruise ship construction, as well as the largest shipyards in the world and the modular production line method.

  4. Cruise Ship Design, Construction, Building

    Learn about the cruise ship building process, design, and cost. Find out where cruise ships are built, who are the major cruise shipbuilders/yards, and what are the features and innovations of cruise ships. See examples of shipbuilding techniques, such as pre-made sections, ice-class ships, and rock-climbing walls.

  5. This Is Where Cruise Ships Are Built

    Learn about the four top shipbuilders, the process of building cruise ships, and the materials used in this article. Find out why the United States does not build cruise ships and which cruise lines use different shipyards.

  6. How a New Cruise Ship Is Built

    The ship is actually built in stages, often in different locations before being put together like a jigsaw puzzle or a game of Legos. It comes together as the result of 1,000 key steps, 200,000 ...

  7. How are cruise ships built?

    How are cruise ships built? Today's mega cruise ships are engineering marvels. Onboard these floating cities, you can find anything from go-kart tracks to roller coasters, sky diving simulators, water parks, ropes courses, and more. On average, building a cruise ship takes two to three years, from the time the keel is laid to when the ship is ...

  8. The Ten Stages of Building Cruise Ships

    The cruise industry is undergoing explosive growth right now and the thirst for bigger, better and more exciting ships has never been so great! Building a cruise ship. From steel-cutting to maritime traditions. The Initial Order. The Steel-Cutting Ceremony. The Keel-Laying Ceremony. The Float Out.

  9. Where Are Ships Designed And Built For Cruise Lines?

    Shipyards are typically used for the construction of cruise ships. All ships, large and small, start their journeys at these industrial facilities, which generally are located in port cities along bodies of water, whether a river or close to the sea. Ships and boats are built from the ground up in a shipyard.

  10. Cruise ship

    History Origins RMS Strathaird, a P&O cruise ship of the early-20th century.The company began offering luxury cruise services in 1844. Italy, a traditional focus of the Grand Tour, offered an early cruise experience on the Francesco I, flying the flag of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.Built in 1831, the Francesco I sailed from Naples in early June 1833, preceded by an advertising campaign.

  11. Where Are Cruise Ships Built?

    Cruise ships are pieced together like a puzzle, with various components built in blocks and then fitted together. A watertight hull is the main building block upon which all other pieces rely. It could take months between the planning and design phase to "cutting the steel".

  12. How are Cruise Ships Built? Discover the Construction & Engineering

    The Components used for Construction of Cruise Ships. Every one of the heaviest sections of the ship like the powerplants, engines, ballast, water, and fuel tanks are kept at the lower part, 20% from the bottom of the ship in order to ensure the ship remains upright.

  13. Cruise ship

    The first cruise ship built solely for the purpose of leisure was produced by Albert Ballin of the German Hamburg-America Line company. Ballin spearheaded the development of the shipping company's cruise offerings, culminating in the construction of the cruise ship Prinzessin Victoria Luise. She was a 407-foot (124-metre), 4,419-ton vessel ...

  14. Why aren't cruise ships built in the United States?

    Foreign-flagged cruise ships. Since the cruise ships are built outside the United States, they cannot be flagged as an American vessel. American shipyards are not equipped with the experience building modern cruise ships, nor do they have the capacity or supply chain to assemble cruise ships. Cruise ships these days are almost all foreign ...

  15. Fincantieri

    Today the Company is the undisputed leader in designing and building dream ships for the most important cruise line companies. With over 100 vessels built since 1990, Fincantieri is the increasingly important market leader in all segments, as the figures confirm: one third of the world's cruise ship fleet capability came out of our shipyards ...

  16. Newest cruise ships 2021-2028 on order/under construction

    Find out the answer to which is the newest cruise ships currently under construction or on order from the fleets of RCG-Royal Caribbean, Carnival Corporation, NCLH-Norwegian and MSC. See the list of new vessels with design, building cost, passenger capacity, and builders (shipyards). Learn about the latest ship orders, deliveries, and inaugural cruises for each cruise line.

  17. The World's Largest Cruise Ship Has a Full Floor of Luxury Suites—Here

    City at sea: 'The Icon of the Seas' is the world's largest passenger cruiseship, with space for 7,000 passengers. Royal Caribbean. The supper club is one of many Royal "revolutions ...

  18. New Cruise Ships on Order

    Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady. Launch Date: TBA 2024. Tonnage: 110,000. Berths: 2,770. Richard Branson's adults-only (18+) cruise line will launch its fourth "Lady Ship" sometime in 2024 ...

  19. All Carnival Cruise Ships By Age: Newest to Oldest

    Tropical was the first new cruise ship built for Carnival Cruise Line in 1982. The new Holiday-class vessel also built for the cruise line helped grow the Fun ship fleet with Holiday arriving in ...

  20. Icon of the Seas

    Icon of the Seas on her first sea trial outside Turku, Finland in 2023. Icon of the Seas is a cruise ship built for Royal Caribbean International and is the lead ship of the Icon class. She entered service on 27 January 2024 out of the Port of Miami in the US. At 248,663 gross tonnage (GT), Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world.

  21. Royal Caribbean cruise ships by age

    The oldest Royal Caribbean ship, Grandeur of the Seas, is 27 years old. In general, Royal Caribbean's newest ships are far bigger and much more amenity-packed than its older ships. If you crave a lot of activities in a Royal Caribbean cruise vacation, you'll want to stick to vessels built in the last 15 or so years.

  22. Florida-bound this fall, new Sun Princess cruise ship makes ...

    Princess Cruises welcomed passengers aboard the largest ship ever built for the cruise line as the Sun Princess made its maiden voyage from Rome. The 177,882-gross-ton ship has a 4,314-passenger ...

  23. MSC Cruises ships from newest to oldest

    MSC Cruises typically keeps vessels in its fleet for around 20 to 25 years before retiring them from the fleet. The oldest MSC Cruises ship, MSC Armonia, is 22 years old. In general, the newest MSC Cruises ships are far bigger and much more amenity-packed than its older ships. If you crave a lot of activities in an MSC Cruises cruise vacation ...

  24. Seawise Giant vs Titanic: Comparing the Maritime Titans

    The giant ship had a gross tonnage of 260,941, compared to the Titanic, which was 46,329 gross tons. Seawise Giant was 1,504 feet in length compared to the length of the Titanic, which was 882 ...

  25. List of cruise ships

    Name Operator Began operation Tonnage Status Achille Lauro: StarLauro Cruises: 1947: 23,629: Sunk. Built between 1939 and 1947 as the Willem Ruys, a passenger liner for Rotterdamsche Lloyd.Began service as the Achille Lauro for StarLauro Cruises since 1965. She is most remembered for her 1985 hijacking.In 1994, the ship caught fire and sank in the Indian Ocean off Somalia.

  26. A Look at the Inaugural Deployment of the Carnival Firenze

    March 10, 2024. Following the Carnival Venezia, the Carnival Firenze is set to become the second ship to showcase Carnival Cruise Line's unique Italian-themed product. As part of the company's Carnival Fun Italian Style concept, the 2021-built ship is debuting in April, with a series of itineraries departing from Carnival's private cruise ...

  27. Princess Cruises ships from newest to oldest

    The oldest Princess Cruises ship, Grand Princess, is 25 years old. In general, Princess Cruises' newest ships are bigger and more venue-packed than its older ships. If you crave a lot of options for restaurants, bars and pool areas for your Princess cruise vacation, you'll want to stick to vessels built in the last 10 or so years. The oldest ...