A Guide to Cruise Ship Terminology

Navigating the World of Cruise Terminology

Cruise ships are floating cities, with all the amenities and activities you could ever want. But before you set sail, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with some basic cruise ship terminology.

Ship Structure and Facilities

The major parts of a cruise ship include the hull, which is the main body of the ship; the superstructure, which houses the passenger cabins and public areas; and the decks, which are the various levels of the ship.

Cruise ships also have a variety of facilities, such as restaurants, bars, swimming pools, fitness centers, and theaters. The largest cruise ship in service, Icon of the Seas, has a total of 28 restaurants, 23 bars, 4 swimming pools, and 3 theaters.

Booking and Planning

When booking your cruise, you'll need to choose your cabin type, as well as your dining and entertainment options. You'll also need to decide on your itinerary, which is the route your ship will take.

Once you've booked your cruise, you can start planning your itinerary. This includes deciding which activities you want to participate in, as well as which restaurants and bars you want to visit.