A cruise ship is a passenger ship used for pleasure voyages, where the voyage itself and the amenities of the ship are considered an essential part of the experience.
Cruising has become a major part of the tourism industry, with hundreds of thousands of passengers each year.
The history of leisure travel by boat or ship has its roots in the traditional transatlantic cruises of the late 19th century, when the ocean carriers discovered the business of taking wealthy passengers to the new world. Most cruise ships provide swimming pools, restaurants, bars and passenger accommodation.
Popular destinations are Alaska, the Antarctic, Caribbean and Mediterranean Sea, the Amazon River, Hawaii, Mexico and South America.
Video Highlights
This clip shows two Irish Ferries passenger ships in dry dock in Belfast.
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