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Norwegian Epic: Cruise Ship Overview [PHOTOS]

• December 21, 2021

Norwegian Epic sailed into the cruise world in 2010, bringing several innovative features onboard.

Staterooms for solo travelers, three bowling lanes, a 24-hour grill, large outdoor waterslides, and the elimination of oceanview staterooms created excitement for this new vessel, the third-largest cruise ship when it was launched.

The Haven, Norwegian’s popular ship-within-a-ship concept, originated on the Epic.

Norwegian Epic underwent its most recent renovation in 2020. One of the major rehabs took place in The Haven.

Taken down to the steel, The Haven transformed into a light, contemporary space that exudes luxury throughout. Elsewhere throughout the ship, many carpets were replaced, including in the stateroom hallways. Take a look at the new fish design leading the way to the front of the ship.

Navigating Norwegian Epic requires no special skills, but a few tips make it easier to get around.

Norwegian’s famous fish carpet helps guests navigate the stateroom hallways. Fish swim forward, so getting your bearings is simple enough. At the elevators, the bluish carpet indicates the starboard side of the ship and the orangish color indicates the port side.

There are elevators fore and aft, but no middle elevators. From Deck 15 there are two cylindrical elevators. The port side lift goes to The Haven and requires a keycard. The starboard elevator takes guests to the Deck 18 quiet area sundeck.

La Cucina is accessed most easily via a staircase on Deck 15 at the back of the Garden Café.

Most inside activities take place on Decks 5 to 7.

MORE: Bimini Cruise Port: Everything You Need To Know

Norwegian Epic Staterooms

Always an innovator of new ship concepts, Norwegian Cruise Line introduced The Haven and Studios on Epic.

Oceanview cabins are nonexistent on this ship, which offers many balconies and a renamed category of balcony, originally known as the Deluxe Balcony. These became the mini-suites, although they were just a larger balcony stateroom and not a suite at all.

The new iteration of these is the Club Balcony Suite, which — while still not a suite — comes with a few extra perks, such as pre-booking of onboard entertainment and dining as early as 125 days prior to sail date, complimentary treats delivered to your stateroom, a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, and a choice of one valet laundry or pressing service.

Curvaceous staterooms are the norm for the inside and balcony categories. The bathrooms have been controversial in these particular staterooms because they are an integral part of the cabin, with the shower on one side of the entry into the cabin and the toilet area across the aisle from the shower. Blackout curtains cover the balcony windows.

There are no USB ports, but those are on the schedule to be added. Balconies and above have coffee makers.

Some staterooms are of particular note:

The Haven includes a variety of staterooms within the actual keycard-access-only area, along with some staterooms outside of this enclosed compound. Recently updated, The Haven’s contemporary look is fresh and soothing.

All furniture and fabrics have been replaced to create a space that is both welcoming and luxurious. Even table settings and linens have been replaced and the staterooms have also been updated.

Guests in this area enjoy their own private dining area, pool area, and sundeck. Three bars are scattered throughout the different areas of The Haven. Butler and concierge service enhance The Haven experience. Toiletries in the staterooms are from L’Occitane.

The Studios

The Studios are located in the middle of the ship and take up two floors. All are inside with “windows” facing into the hallways.

At just 100 square feet in size, these efficiently laid out Studios are often at full capacity. Within the area, there is a central spot for meeting other solo guests who are booked in this enclave.

During non-COVID times, a host plans activities and events. A whiteboard serves as a message board for self-initiated activities or for requests for joining in meals, shore excursions, shows, or other onboard activities.

A bar is open during limited hours. Access to this area is by keycard only and exclusively for Studio guests.

Norwegian Epic provides plenty of dining options onboard ranging from quick snacks to multi-course meals. Garden Cafe on Deck 15 is the bright buffet that extends outside to The Great Outdoors during limited hours for late breakfast and a lunch grill.

During COVID, Garden Cafe is a full-service buffet where guests choose from the offerings and staff plate the selected items. Guests do not touch any serving items or food. Beverages are also served by the crew.

In addition to Garden Cafe, there are several additional complimentary dining venues, all of which offer sit-down service. These include the main restaurant, Manhattan, which is open for dinner only. Taste serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

For 24-hour service, O’Sheehan’s offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It does close for 30 minutes between breakfast and lunch.

Most specialty restaurants on Norwegian Epic incur additional fees, but one dinner venue, Shanghai, which as the name suggests, serves Asian dishes, and is complimentary.

Other specialty restaurants include Cagney’s, La Cucina, Le Bistro, Moderno Churrascaria, Teppanyaki, Yakitori and Sushi. Except for Moderno and Teppanyaki, which currently charge $39, the specialty restaurants are à la carte. Reservations are recommended.

Room service comes with a $9.95 delivery charge. SWIFT Delivery on Demand is a new concept and is available 24/7 and brings cocktails, wine, beer, soda, and snacks to your room. Cocktails are DIY and in limited varieties.

Wine is by the mini- or full-size bottle. A limited selection of snacks is also available. These beverages and snacks are not included in the beverage package. A menu and price list are in each stateroom. There is no delivery charge, but a 20 percent service charge will be added to your order.

MORE: 25 First Time Cruise Tips

Norwegian Epic Entertainment

Many of the venues onboard Norwegian Epic function differently throughout the day. The Cavern Club, Headliners, and Bliss Lounge host seminars, trivia, art auctions, socials, and other activities during the day.

Once evening comes, the Cavern Club becomes a music venue and, as its name suggests, features many Beatles-themed sessions.

The throbbing beats of piano music emanate from Headliners as Howl at the Moon dueling pianos take over that space several times during the cruise. On other evenings, a variety of comedy shows take place. Bliss Lounge draws the game show fans early in the evening, followed by the karaoke crowd.

The main Epic Theater provides more seating for larger production and music shows. Burn The Floor, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, comedy, and musical acts take place nightly in this venue. Spiegel Tent started life as the area for Cirque Dreams® and Dinner Show.

On Epic, the new show is Zambooka!, a show and dinner with a set meal. Zambooka! features performers culled from “Got Talent” who thrill the audience with their feats of strength and skill.

Public Areas and Watering Holes

The majority of public areas on Norwegian Epic include a bar, which attract a variety of guests not just to enjoy a beverage and socialize, but to also partake of liquor tastings, talks, and games.

Maltings and Shakers Martini Bar buzz throughout the evening and along with beverages, also come with entertainers who keep the crowds glued to their seats. In fact, these two bars are so popular that finding a seat during performance times may be impossible.

Sports fans will want to venture to the popular O’Sheehan’s Pub to grab a beverage and watch one of the multiple televisions tuned to sports channels.

In the Atrium, a big screen promotes Norwegian cruises throughout the day, but also shows movies at select times. The library and adjacent card room have limited hours due to COVID, but are also very popular.

Spice H2O is a modern-day version of a Roman Theater. Outdoors at the aft of the ship, this is an adults-only beach club with hot tubs, a bar, and a grill.

Late in the evening, the venue holds themed parties and dancing. It is the only bar open to all guests that serves the Sail and Sustain cocktail, a special concoction created to use some of the usually discarded parts of food on the ship.

For example, pulverized coffee grounds may be incorporated into a drink. This program is a small part of Norwegian Cruise Line’s commitment to the environment.

There are several decks for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the hot tubs. On the 18th deck, there is a quiet area for relaxing and enjoying the fresh sea air. Deck 15 is the place to be to enjoy pools, slides, and the rock climbing wall.

Originating on Norwegian Epic, the Ice Bar requires a bit of prep before entering. Guests choose from colorful insulated hooded capes (no evidence of the original silver capes) and spend as long as they can tolerate in an icy bar. Two drinks are included with the experience.

Fitness Center and Spa

Pulse Fitness Center impresses with its large area and variety of machines. In addition to weights and machines, there is a boxing area.

Personal training and classes are offered. As the largest fitness center in the fleet, the size of Pulse along with plenty of equipment lessens the chances of having to wait for a certain machine or weight.

The entrance to Pulse is via Mandara Spa, which comprises multiple treatment rooms to accommodate the full menu of treatments. Many guests, including those who have access because they booked spa balconies, head to the Thermal Suite.

Heated loungers, a variety of different plunge pools, and a limited number of guests make this an ideal area for relaxation and renewal. Passes can also be purchased for a daily visit or for the entire cruise.

Closing Thoughts on Norwegian Epic

Norwegian Epic innovations started when it was first launched and many have been added to the newer ships in the Norwegian fleet. The ship looks almost like new; the most extensive renovations took place in The Haven — or underwater.

Having dined at most of the restaurants onboard, I can say that the quality of the food and the menu choices exceeded my expectations. The tastefully prepared dishes took the food on Norwegian Epic to a new level.

On my first sailing aboard  Epic many years ago, the headliner entertainment was Blue Man Group, so it should come as no surprise that the quality and variety of entertainment continues to impress.

A duo that played a variety of mostly international folk tunes on multiple instruments and a UK group that performed songs from the pop genre to opera were crowd-pleasers, consistently receiving standing ovations.

If I had to mention one aspect of the cruise that I know is on the list to be updated, it’s the lighting in the non-Haven staterooms. I definitely appreciate the low lights for a sleeping area, and the reading lights on both sides of the bed were useful.

But, it was difficult to see into an unlit closet, apply make-up, or read a book while seated on the sofa. I definitely recommend packing a clip-on light for reading or a stick-on light for the second closet.

It should be noted that due to COVID, several activities and areas are not functioning as usual. Those include the Splash Academy kids’ club, bowling, basketball games, and other high-touch, close-contact activities, so please keep current with what is offered on board.

The two weeks on Norwegian Epic passed quickly by, perhaps because of how enjoyable the cruise was. Attentive service by a friendly and dedicated crew, a clean and fresh ship, and an amazing itinerary added to the enjoyment of the cruise.

By Theresa Russell

READ NEXT: 12 Things to Know Before Sailing Norwegian Cruise Line

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Norway & Iceland Cruises

Lands of fire and ice.

Immerse yourself in true beauty on a Norway and Iceland cruise with Princess®. Sail past mountains, fjords and forest-lined valleys. Discover artifacts and architecture of medieval times. Or learn about legends from locals, whose stories have been passed down from generations before them. Between the rugged terrains and the Viking history, these lands echo the promise of adventure.

Featured Norway & Iceland Cruise Ports

Discover some of the world-renowned destinations that await you on an Norway & Iceland cruise with Princess.

• Grundarfjordur

Known to be the most pleasant town in Iceland, Akureyri is teeming with tranquility and beauty. On an Iceland cruise, take a dip in the Myvatn nature baths, known for their restorative powers. Or stroll through the Botanical Gardens, where you can admire over 2,000 species of flora from around the world. Experience the best of both fire and ice when you visit Akureyri with Princess.

Encounter beauty, history and culture when you visit Bergen on your Norway cruise. Marvel at the grandeur of Hardangerfjord, the third largest fjord in the world, on a scenic day tour. Or step into a medieval assembly room at the Schøtstuene Museum, and walk down Bryggen Wharf — a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves wooden buildings from the days of the Hanseatic League.

On a cruise to Iceland, unveil Grundarfjordur’s heroic past. Climb the "Holy Mountain," which once housed a temple dedicated to Thor. Tour the 4,000-year old lava fields of Berserkergata, and live through the stories of Iceland’s sagas — tales of migration, war, religion and mythology. Or spend the day birdwatching in the fishing village of Arnarstapi, where gulls, fulmars and kittiwakes reside.

Reykjavik is the gateway to natural wonders. On an Iceland cruise, warm up with a dip in the city’s Blue Lagoon, and cool down on a glacier walk across jagged ice formations. Ride across the countryside by horseback, soar over volcanic craters during a helicopter ride or snorkel through the waters of Thingvellir National Park. See the beauty of Iceland’s capital for yourself when you sail with Princess.

Stavanger is a true icon of Norway. As the nation’s capital of cuisine, learn how to smoke and can sardines, and then taste them yourself. Attend a musical performance in the chapel of Utstein Kloster, a 12th-century abbey that was once home to Augustine monks. Or visit Old Stavanger during your Norway cruise, and enjoy an architectural tour through Europe’s largest collection of wooden buildings.

As one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, Tromsø is teeming with wonders from the skies above to the fjords below. On a Norway cruise, learn about the city’s history of Arctic hunting at the Polar Museum. Visit the Husky Wilderness Camp to meet championship dogs and hear about their racing careers. Or ride a cable car to the peak of Mt. Storsteinen for sweeping views of the city.

Why Cruise Norway & Iceland

The majestic beauty and natural phenomena of Northern Europe offers an adventure like no other.

Natural splendors

Natural splendors abound in Norway and Iceland. In Grundarfjördur, marvel at the seascapes, fjords and tidal currents within Breidafjordur Bay. Rejuvenate in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon in Reykjavik. Or fly over Godafoss Waterfall, the ‘Waterfall of the Gods,’ during a flightseeing tour in Akureyri. Come face-to-face with Mother Nature’s crown jewels — only on an Norway and Iceland cruise with Princess.

The search for phenomena

Travel to Alta, the "City of the Northern Lights," for a chance to see the sky painted lime green. Cruise to Iceland in June and bask in 24 hours of daylight during the summer solstice. Or visit Honningsvag for a glimpse of the Midnight Sun during your evening departure. While we can’t guarantee you’ll see these natural phenomena, we can promise that the journey is just as exciting as the wonders themselves.

Norway & Iceland excursions

Our award-winning Norway and Iceland cruise shore excursions bring you to natural wonders, wildlife and landmarks. Relax in Reykjavik’s Blue Lagoon while gazing at snowy landscapes. Get up close to Akureyri’s 35-foot waterfall that tumbles into the Skjálfandafljót River below. Or travel to the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Farm in Grundarfjordur to learn how to make hákarl, a 400-year old Icelandic delicacy.

More ashore

Enjoy even more marvels and mysteries with More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays. On a Norway cruise to Alta, search for the Aurora Borealis at midnight with a cup of hot chocolate in hand. Attend a summer concert at Tromsø’s Arctic Cathedral to welcome the return of the Midnight Sun. Or enjoy a 9-hour journey through Reykjavik’s landscapes on itineraries that depart later in the evening.

Norway & Iceland Cruise Onboard Experience

Curated comfort, world-class entertainment and international flavors await you.

Experience Norway and Iceland without ever stepping off the ship. Our onboard activities bring the diverse cultures of these regions directly to you. Sing, dance, feast and celebrate in a way that only Norway, Iceland and Princess know how.

Accomodations

Your home away from home

Your stateroom is where you rest and recharge between adventures. That’s why every room is equipped with the expertly designed Princess Luxury Bed, 100% Jacquard-woven cotton linens and our SLEEP program created by a board-certified sleep expert. From interior cabins to full suites, unwind in any of our staterooms, and enjoy peace of mind with the option of connected rooms for families of four or more traveling together.

Flavors that inspire

From savory Norwegian meatloaf to sweet Icelandic celebration cake, Northern Europe is bursting with flavor. Head ashore to enjoy Icelandic skyr with porridge for breakfast, and savor a Norwegian seafood dinner. Or embark on an all-encompassing culinary tour right on board with our Chef’s Table Lumiere. On a Norway and Iceland cruise with Princess, appease your appetite with one-of-a-kind dining on every itinerary.

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Find your joy

Embark on adventures by day, and indulge in entertainment by night. Watch Movies Under the Stars® at our 300-square-foot outdoor theater. Attend original productions from Broadway legend Stephen Schwartz, composer of  Wicked . Or learn traditional moves, like Flamenco or Irish stepdance, and listen to popular music from the destinations on your itinerary. On a European cruise with Princess, the choice is yours.

Reset, recharge, relax

Your European cruise should be every bit as refreshing as it is inspiring. Unwind in the Sanctuary, a retreat just for adults, and relish in tranquility. Or book an appointment at the Lotus Spa®, named "Best Spa on a Cruise Ship" by Spafinder Wellness 365™. Enjoy relaxing treatments — like facials, hot stone massages and detoxifying wraps — that will leave you recharged for upcoming adventures.

Vegas hits the seas

Experience the thrill of cards, dice, roulette and blackjack at the casino onboard our European cruises. Learn from experts — like our staff or perhaps other guests nearby — and put your skills to the test. More casual players can pull up a seat at the slot machines for the same adrenaline at their own speed. For an afternoon full of games, join fellow travelers for Bingo, or compete in scheduled group tournaments.

Celebrations and Romance

Love blooms on the Love Boat

It's difficult to imagine something more romantic than sailing through the alluring cities and charming countryside of Europe. While on board your European cruise, we cater to your sentimental side with private dining on your balcony — like breakfast for two or a sunset dinner — honeymoon packages, flowers and chocolates delivered to your room and couples-only massages in the Sanctuary.

Ships sailing norway & Iceland cruises

Our Princess fleet includes ships that range from small to large. From a balcony stateroom, marvel at breathtaking shorelines passing by before enjoying international cuisine in one of our many eateries during your Norway and Iceland cruise.

European Cruise Articles

Read about storied attractions, charming history, diverse cultures and preparation advice for cruising Europe.

Explore Europe

Learn all about our exciting options to visit Europe from cruises to in-depth cruisetour vacations. 

The top ten things to do in Norway

Planning a holiday to Norway? Discover the best museums, restaurants, cafés, attractions and experiences in the Scandinavian country.

Must-do summertime activities in Scandinavia

Discover the best summer holiday activities in Scandinavia, including wild swimming in Stockholm and rooftop drinking in Oslo.

Five reasons to cruise from Southampton

Looking for a cruise vacation from Southampton? Set sail to Canada, the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, Florida and around the British Isles with Princess Cruises.

How to see Stockholm from a unique perspective

Ice bars, rooftop tours, meatballs and more – use our handy city guide to get a fresh view of Sweden’s brilliant capital.

Six places to see the Northern Lights in Norway

Hoping to see the Northern Lights in Norway? Discover the best places to try to catch a glimpse of Mother Nature's exceptional light show

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EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

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Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

Need help planning?

Princess Cruise Vacation Planners are a dedicated resource to help you every step of the way through the planning process of your cruise vacation. And the best part is, they are absolutely FREE!

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See Europe through our guests’ eyes.

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More From Forbes

A guide to haugesund, norway, for cruise ship visitors.

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Haugesund is one of Norway's most popular cruise destinations.

Located on the southwest coast of Norway, Haugesund is a historic town recognized as one of the country’s premier cruise ports. As a cruise port, it appeals as a gateway to exploring Norway's coastal landscapes and rich Viking heritage.

In 2023, the city welcomed 125 cruise ship visits, accommodating more than 370,000 passengers, thanks to its ability to handle some of the world’s largest vessels.

Among these, Iona , one of Britain’s largest ships with a capacity of 5,206 passengers, makes regular stops here as part of its P&O Cruises Norwegian fjords tour. European focused lines AIDA and Costa Cruises make occasional calls at Haugesund, as do Cunard and Fred Olsen Cruise Lines.

Visitors can explore ancient monuments like the Haraldshaugen, stroll along the bustling waterfront, or venture into the surrounding countryside to discover serene trails and traditional farms.

Despite the rising number of visitors, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore on your own, away from the typical cruise line excursions.

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New apple id password reset issue hitting iphone ipad and macbook users, messi blocks fc barcelona star from joining inter miami reports el nacional, discover the vikings at avaldsnes.

For 3,000 years, nearby Avaldsnes was a pivotal Viking power center, dominating the essential "Nordvegen" sea route.

Actors play the roles of Viking Age people at the Avaldsnes Viking Farm.

Today, the Nordvegen History Center delves into its storied past, revealing rulers known from sagas, archaeological discoveries, and tales of the Norse gods. History here is preserved in an underground museum, brought to life through modern storytelling techniques.

A short walk from the visitor center, the Viking Farm transports you back to the Viking Age with live demonstrations inside and out of reconstructed buildings. The site is particularly engaging for families, offering a range of activities that bring history to life.

Local bus routes 209 and 210 serve Avaldsnes on Karmøy Island from the center of Haugesund, with a journey time of approximately 25 minutes. The history center is a 10-15 minute walk from Avaldsnes.

Download the Kolumbus app to pay the 45 kroner fare ($4) or pay by card at one of the ticket machines in the downtown area. Check timetable information with Kolumbus .

Visit Norway’s National Monument

Extend your Viking Age experience with a visit to Haraldshaugen, also known as the National Monument of Norway. This site commemorates the 9th-century unification of Norway under King Harald Fairhair, and is believed to be his burial place.

According to the medieval book of Norwegian royal sagas, King Harald Fairhair is said to be buried ... [+] here at the National Monument in Haugesund.

A scenic 45-minute walk from the cruise port through central Haugesund and its northern suburbs, the monument offers panoramic views of the North Sea and surrounding landscapes.

The area is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet picnic, absorbing the region’s historical significance at your own pace. On the way, be sure to stop by the statue of King Harald Fairhair, staring out to sea opposite the city park.

If time is short, you can take the five-minute ride on local bus 231 from central Haugesund to the ‘Gard A’ bus stop, just a few minutes walk from the monument.

Enjoy a Boat Trip to Røvær

Escape the crowds of your cruise ship and downtown Haugesund by taking an enjoyable boat trip to the islands of Røvær to discover Norwegian island life.

Several daily ferries make the journey easy, allowing you to explore the island's diverse natural beauty on foot.

Climb to Bråvarden, the island’s highest point, for breathtaking views, or stroll along ‘Proposal Road’ to the Bridge of Love, where couples leave padlocks as tokens of affection. For a more relaxing day, unwind at the small beach or visit the Viking Age graves at Grønasvika.

Røvær is a small group of picturesque islands, home to just over 100 people.

Ferry tickets cost just 70 Norwegian kroner ($6.50) each way. Just be sure to double check the ferry timetable with Kolumbus to make sure you can get back to Haugesund in good time.

Downtown Haugesund

If you find yourself wandering through downtown Haugesund with time to spare, make sure to visit Viking Planet . Here, Haugesund’s Viking Age history is brought to life through immersive virtual reality, 3D presentations, and other digital experiences.

Of course, there’s more to Haugesund’s history than just its Viking roots. Karmsund Folkemuseum reveals the stories of the city’s involvement with shipping, fishing, and agriculture, in the 1,000 years since the Viking Age.

Elsewhere in the city, Our Savior’s Church is a striking red-brick, new Gothic church with a notable tower and room for more than 1,000 people inside. The church is usually free to enter on cruise days, although donations are appreciated.

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Iconic Cruise Images, From its Golden Age to Now

Posted: July 5, 2023 | Last updated: July 5, 2023

Sailing through time

1830s: the very beginnings

1840s: the first pleasure cruises

1840s: a landmark in cruise-line history

1850–60s: early developments

Passenger cruising continued to develop through the mid-19th century, with luxuries like on-board lounges and simple entertainment emerging. Shown here, in 1856, is Cunard's RMS Persia, one of the largest ships of her time and an early Blue Riband winner (an award given for high-speed Atlantic crossings).

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1870s: the New World

1880s: lighting up the ocean

1890s: “floating palaces”

1900s: entering cruising’s golden age

At the turn of the century, there was still a frisson around cruising and large, buzzy crowds would often gather to see off the ships. This nostalgic photograph was snapped between 1900 and 1915, and shows large steam boats leaving from the White Star Line dock in Detroit, Michigan. Well-dressed passengers fill the ships' upper and lower decks too.

Discover where planes, trains, cruise ships and cars go to di e

1900s: the first purpose-built cruise ship

1910s: onboard entertainment

1910s: the Titanic disaster

One of the most famous and devastating events in cruise history occurred in this decade. Dubbed "unsinkable" by the White Star Line's vice-president, the Titanic set out from Southampton on her maiden voyage on 10 April 1912 to much applause. But just four days later, she collided with an iceberg in the North Atlantic: the compartments in her hull filled with water and she tragically sank. The disaster claimed the lives of more than 1,500 people.

We reveal the secrets of life onboard the Titanic

1910s: First World War

1920s: cruising’s golden age continued

1920s: setting the bar high

1920s: a festive feast

1920s: the first round-the-world cruise

Another major milestone came in the 1920s: the very first round-the-world cruise. The Cunard Line's RMS Laconia (pictured here leaving Liverpool circa 1920) sailed around the globe in 1922, calling at 22 ports along the way, and taking 450 lucky passengers with her.

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1930s: all games on deck

1930s: making a splash

1940s: post-war cruising

1950s: the post-war decades

Come the 1950s, cruise ships had another phenomenon to compete with: jet planes. Commercial air travel boomed in this decade, with comfier aircraft and improved routes enticing travelers into the skies. Many cruise liners underwent swish post-war refits in an attempt to stay afloat: this 1950s photo shows the opulent dining room of French liner SS Île de France after a dramatic post-war makeover.

1950s: going Down Under

1950s: the Blue Riband record breaker

Though formalized in the 1930s, the Blue Riband – the award for the passenger cruise liner with the fastest Atlantic-crossing time – has its roots right back in the 19th century. The record is still held by SS United States of United States Lines, which first sped across the Atlantic in 1952. She's pictured here on 9 July 1952, docking in Southampton.

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1960s: the Jet Age

1970s: The Love Boat

As flying became more commonplace, the popularity of cruising looked set to dwindle. However, one particular TV series is often credited with keeping travelers' passion for cruising alive. The Love Boat – aired from the 1970s – was a comedy series that followed the crew and passengers of luxury liner SS Pacific Princess. Such was its popularity, some say it brought cruising back into the mainstream once more. This shot shows Cunard Line's Queen Elizabeth 2 in 1975. 

1970s: cruising opens up to the masses

1980s: the cruise to nowhere

The 1980s is thought to be the decade that pioneered the "cruise to nowhere", where the ship really was the destination. The SS Norway (pictured) – a lavish mega ship with room for thousands of passengers and amenities like a casino – embarked on a no-docking cruise in this decade.

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1990s: Disney takes to the water

2000s: making waves in the modern world

The 2000s saw larger-than-life, no-expense-spared, mega cruise ships sail onto the scene. This sunset snap shows Cunard Line's Queen Mary II as she completes her first trans-Atlantic voyage in January 2004. At this time, she was the largest and most expensive cruise ship ever constructed with room for 2,200-plus passengers, a theater and even a planetarium, setting the bar for the ships of posterity. 

2010s: bigger, better and healthier

2020s: off to a rocky start

The 2020s got off to an eventful start. The COVID-19 pandemic halted almost all cruises, with some passengers and crew marooned onboard while testing and entry protocols were debated. In 2021 rife cancellations, last-minute border changes and variant outbreaks persisted. However, 2022 (and onwards) has indicated a return to pre-pandemic popularity, with 300 cruise ships departing in April 2022 – pretty impressive compared to just 22 departing in April 2021. Cruise lines have incorporated more health and safety protocols, such as advising passengers to control their TV, light and temperature via an app instead of touchpoints. 

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