Cunard offers many voyages, from Transatlantic crossings to World Voyages encompassing multiple continents. They cruise to popular destinations in the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Africa, and Asia.

What sets Cunard apart is its focus on traditional cruise elegance. Expect formal evenings, impeccable service, gourmet dining, and a sophisticated atmosphere.

Cunard Line Ships Listed by Size

Cunard has a fleet of ships that can be classified into different classes. Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth are part of the Vista class, while Queen Mary 2 is part of the more exclusive Pinnacle class. Cunard’s upcoming ship, Queen Anne, will be positioned in between these two classes.

In this article, we’ve compiled an overview of all ships in the Cunard Line fleet, organized from smallest to largest by gross registered tonnage.

What is gross registered tonnage?

Gross registered tonnage (GRT) is not a measure of a cruise ship’s weight. It is a measure of the ship’s internal space that generates revenue. One “ton” is equal to 100 cubic feet inside the vessel. A higher GRT indicates more cabins, restaurants, entertainment spots, and potentially more passengers.

Queen Victoria

Cunard’s smallest ship, the Queen Victoria, measures in at 90,049 GRT and can welcome 2,061 passengers aboard. This vessel reflects a storied history reminiscent of classic transatlantic voyages and continues to serve as an upscale option for Mediterranean and Northern Europe cruises.

Key Features: Commodore Club, Hemispheres, The Grills Lounge, Cunardia, Grand Lobby, Queen’s Room, Royal Court Theatre, Winter Garden, Yacht Club, Teen Zone, The Play Zone, Grills Terrace, Pavillion Pool, Royal Fitness Centre, and Royal Arcade

Queen Elizabeth

Sitting comfortably between the smallest and the largest liners, Queen Elizabeth stakes its claim with a GRT of 90,901. She bridges traditional ocean liner adventures and modern luxury cruising, offering itineraries that explore from the Caribbean to Norway, heralding the Vista-class identity with every voyage.

Key Features: Commodore Club, The Grills Lounge, Empire Casino, Britannia Club, Grand Lobby, Queen’s Room, Royal Court Theatre, The Play Zone, Admiral’s Lounge, Cunarders’ Gallery, Hydropool, Queen’s Arcade, and Royal Spa and Fitness Centre

Queen Anne

Key Features: Admiral’s Lounge, Churchill’s, Commodore Club and Bar, Empire Casino Bar, Midship’s Lounge, Queen’s Room, Royal Court Theatre, The Zone, Grand Lobby, Grills Terrace, Hydro Pool, Royal Arcade, and The Pavillion Wellness Studio

Queen Mary 2

The Queen Mary 2 is Cunard’s largest ocean liner at 151,400 GRT. This vessel specializes in transatlantic crossings, offering passengers a unique blend of stately elegance and classic grandeur. As the pinnacle-class ship in Cunard’s fleet, the QM2 upholds the line’s longstanding reputation for safety, comfort, and adventure.

Key Features: Champagne Bar, Chart Room, Commodore Club, Terrace Bar, Empire Casino, Queens Room, Atlantic Room, Deck Games, G32, Grand Lobby, Illuminations, Royal Court Theatre, The Play Zone, Winter Garden, Minnows Pool, Splash Pool, and Therapy Pool

From the grandeur of their newest additions to the charm of their classic vessels, the company has strategically expanded its offerings to cater to the diverse preferences of travelers across the globe. 

MSC Cruise Ships Listed by Age

The table below shows the ship’s name, class, age, gross registered tonnage, and how many guests it carries at double occupancy.

In this article, we’ve compiled an overview of all ships in the MSC Cruises fleet, organized from newest to oldest, along with some key features.

MSC Cruise Ships by Class

The Lirica Class represents the oldest, with a traditional cruising experience, while the Musica Class steps up with more features and a slightly larger design.

The Fantasia Class and Meraviglia Class ships introduce a higher passenger capacity and more luxurious facilities, each incrementally building on the last in terms of innovations and size. The most recent, the Seaside and World Class showcases MSC’s commitment to cutting-edge technology and guest amenities.

Notably, the World Class ships are set to redefine the future of cruising with environmental sustainability at the forefront.

MSC Euribia

Key Features: Doremi Castle, Jungle Splash, Teen Club 13-17, Family Game Shows, L’Atelier Teatro, Hola! Tacos, Champagne Bar, Horizon Bar, Carousel Lounge, MSC Aurea Spa, MSC Gym, Adults-Only Sundeck, Bamboo Pool, Zen Garden, LED Promenade, and MSC Yacht Club

MSC World Europa

MSC introduced the MSC World Europa, marking a step forward in maritime architecture and environmental friendliness. This ship set a new standard for modern cruising with its innovative design for less fuel consumption and greener sailing.

Key Features: The Venom Drop @ The Spiral 11-story slide, Chef’s Garden Kitchen Restaurant, seven swimming pools, Aurora Borealis Aquapark, Coffee Emporium, MSC Yacht Club complex, Raj Polo Tea House, bumper cars, Pescadaria Seafood Restaurant, Zest – Juice Bar, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse, a rollerblading arena, The Gin Project, and kids’ and teens’ clubs

MSC Seascape

Key Features: ROBOTRON amusement top-deck ride, Kaito Teppanyaki, main pool with a water fountain island, Pirates Cove Aquapark, the Bridge of Sighs glass walkway, Butcher’s Cut steakhouse with al fresco dining area, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, HOLA! Tacos and Cantina restaurant, aft infinity pool, MSC Yacht Club Complex, and Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar

MSC Virtuosa

Key Features: Starship Club with a humanoid robot bartender, Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café, Carousel Productions at Sea acrobatic shows, Indochine French-Vietnamese Restaurant, L’Atelier Bar & Art, five swimming pools, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, TV Studio & Bar, Savannah Aquapark, HOLA! Tacos & Cantina, MSC Yacht Club complex, Kaito Sushi Bar, and Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse

MSC Seashore

Key Features: Ocean Cay Seafood Restaurant, Wine Cave Bar, the Bridge of Sighs glass walkway, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite and outdoor space, Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar, kids’ and teens’ clubs, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse with al fresco dining area, aft infinity pool, MSC Yacht Club complex, HOLA! Tacos and Cantina Restaurant, Pirates Cove Aquapark, Kaito Teppanyaki, and Horizon Ice Cream Bar

MSC Grandiosa

Key Features: MSC Yacht Club complex, L’Atelier Bistrot French restaurant, kids’ and teens’ clubs, Formula 1 simulator, HOLA! Tapas Bar, a bowling alley, Safari Bar, Kaito Teppanyaki, Polar Aquapark, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse, Carousel Productions at Sea acrobatic shows, Attic Club Nightclub, and Jean-Philippe Crêpes & Gelato

MSC Bellissima

Key Features: MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, HOLA! Tapas Bar, Carousel Productions at Sea acrobatic shows, MSC Yacht Club complex, Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Polar Aquapark, Kaito Teppanyaki, Sportsplex activity space, Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café, Formula 1 Simulators, L’Atelier Bistrot French Restaurant, and Masters of the Sea pub

MSC Seaview

Key Features: Dual racing zip lines, The Bridge of Sighs glass walkway, Ocean Cay Seafood Restaurant, Waterfront Boardwalk outdoor promenade, MSC Yacht Club complex, a Formula 1 Simulator, Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, Pirates Cove Aquapark, kids’ and teens’ clubs, Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar, Asian Market Kitchen Restaurant, and the Jungle Beach Bar

MSC Meraviglia

Key Features: Carousel Productions at Sea acrobatic shows, Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café, a bowling alley, Kaito Sushi Bar, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, Brass Anchor Pub, kids’ and teens’ clubs, Ocean Cay seafood restaurant, MSC Yacht Club Complex, Polar Aquapark, HOLA! Tapas Bar, Formula 1 simulator, and Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse

MSC Seaside

Key Features: The Bridge of Sighs glass walkway, MSC Yacht Club complex, Bistrot La Boheme French restaurant, Forest Aquaventure Park, two bowling alleys, Asian Market Kitchen restaurant, dual racing zip lines, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse, Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar, Teppanyaki Restaurant, Garage Club, and a Formula 1 Simulator

MSC Preziosa

Key Features: Doremi Castle kids’ aqua park with Vertigo high-speed waterslide, MSC Yacht Club Complex, the Green Sax Jazz Bar, Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, 4D cinema, kids’ and teens’ club, Galaxy Kaito Asian restaurant, a bowling alley, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, Safari Lounge, and La Locanda Pizzeria and Wine Bar

MSC Divina

Key Features: Swarovski crystal staircases, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse, an infinity pool, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, MSC Yacht Club complex, Black and White Lounge, Formula 1 Simulator, Galaxy Kaito Asian restaurant, Caffè Italia, a bowling alley, and La Luna Piano Bar

MSC Magnifica

Key Features: Underwater-themed kids’ play area, Cuba Lounge Cigar Room, 4D cinema, Tiger Bar, Atlantic City Casino, Purple Bar, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, Oriental Plaza Asian fusion restaurant, and T32 Disco

MSC Splendida

Key Features: Four swimming pools, Sea Pavilion Asian restaurant, Club 33 Disco, L’Espresso Coffee Bar, Royal Palm Casino, The Purple Jazz Bar, kids’ and teens’ clubs, Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, The Cigar Lounge, MSC Yacht Club complex, Tea House & Dim Sum, and MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar

MSC Fantasia

Key Features: Liquid Disco; Il Cappuccino Coffee Bar; MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar; Formula 1 Simulator; Il Transatlantico Piano Bar; 4D cinema; MSC Yacht Club “ship-within-a-ship” complex with its own restaurant, lounge, and pool deck; Sports Bar; and Top Sail Lounge

MSC Poesia

Key Features: Three pools and four hot tubs, Mojito Bar, The Hitchcock Lounge Cigar Room, a kids’ dinosaur-themed play area, S32 Disco, Poker Room, Kaito Sushi Bar, the Zebra Bar, and MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar

MSC Orchestra

Key Features: MSC Aurea Spa with Turkish baths and a sauna, La Cantinella Wine Bar, Shanghai Asian restaurant, The Savannah Bar, kids’ and teens’ clubs, R32 Disco, Palm Beach Casino, 4 Seasons Italian buffet restaurant, La Cubana Cigar Room, and Purple Bar

MSC Musica

Key Features: Waterfall in the atrium, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, Havana Club cigar lounge, Sanremo Casino, Kaito Sushi Bar, kids’ and teens’ clubs, Enoteca Wine Bar, and Q32 Disco

MSC Sinfonia

Key Features: MSC Aurea Spa, Sanremo Casino, Gelateria Italiana, Pasha Club Disco, Ambassador Cigar Room, Caffè del Mare, Shelagh’s House Irish Pub, kids’ clubs and water play area, Sinfonia Lounge & Library, and the Vitamin Bar

MSC Opera

Key Features: La Cabala Piano Bar, Gelateria Italiana, Byblos Disco, Il Patio Bar, kids’ clubs and water play area, Vitamin Bar, MSC Aurea Spa with sauna and Turkish bath, Aroma Coffee Bar, and Sottovento Pub

MSC Armonia

Key Features: Kids’ clubs and water play area, MSC Aurea Spa, White Lion Pub, a casino, Caffè San Marco, and The Red Bar

MSC Lirica

The Lirica class is renowned for its cozy ambiance and personal touch. The quartet ships’ manageable size supports a warm sense of community while offering key amenities like balconies on selected suites.

Key Features: Las Vegas Casino, The Coffee Corner, Blue Club Disco, a pirate-themed kids’ playroom, the Vitamin Bar, Kaito Sushi Bar, kids’ clubs and water play area, and L’Atmosphere piano bar

MSC Meraviglia Tour [VIDEO]

The table below shows the ship’s name, class, the Carnival cruise ship’s age, the gross registered tonnage, and how many guests it carries at double occupancy.

In this article, we’ve compiled an overview of all ships in the Carnival fleet, organized from newest to oldest, along with some key features.

You can also read about the history of Carnival Cruise Line from 1972 through today.

(Note: * denotes the year the ship debuted with the new Carnival name.)

Carnival Jubilee

Key Features: BOLT roller coaster, Shaq’s Big Chicken, WaterWorks aqua park, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse, adults-only Serenity Retreat sundeck, Excel suites with exclusive Loft 19 access, Seafood Shack, NASA-inspired Space Cruisers programming for kids, and Alchemy Bar

Carnival Venezia

Key Features: Venice-inspired atrium Piazza San Marco, Guy’s Burger Joint, WaterWorks aqua park, Bonsai Teppanyaki, adults-only Serenity Retreat sundeck, Tomodoro Mexican-Italian fusion restaurant, Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, Amari bar, Gondola Lounge, and Terrazza staterooms with exclusive access to outdoor deck Terrazza Carnevale

Carnival Celebration

Key Features: BOLT roller coaster, Family Feud Live, the travel-inspired Latitudes bar, WaterWorks aqua park, Excel suites with exclusive Loft 19 access, Bonsai Sushi, Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, Rudi’s Seagrill, Shaq’s Big Chicken, adults-only Serenity Retreat, and Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse

Carnival Luminosa

Key Features: RedFrog Rum Bar, Cloud 9 Spa, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Bonsai Sushi Express, JavaBlue Café, Camp Ocean kids’ clubs, Alchemy Bar, Cherry on Top, and Punchliner Comedy Club

Carnival Radiance

Key Features: Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, Shaq’s Big Chicken, Cloud 9 Spa, Cucina del Capitano, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Seafood Shack, RedFrog Pub, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, SkyCourse (a ropes course), and the Alchemy Bar

Mardi Gras

Key Features: First Carnival ship powered by Liquified Natural Gas, BOLT roller coaster, Family Feud Live, RedFrog Tiki Bar, WaterWorks aqua park, Excel suites with exclusive Loft 19 access, Chibang! Mexican and Chinese restaurant, revamped Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, Rudi’s Seagrill, Shaq’s Big Chicken, adults-only Serenity Retreat, a casino, and Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse

RELATED: Mardi Gras Dining Guide

Carnival Panorama 

Key Features: Sky Zone indoor trampoline park, Heroes Tribute Bar, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse, WaterWorks aqua park, Bonsai Teppanyaki, SkyRide cycling attraction, Cucina del Capitano, other specialty dining options, and the adults-only Serenity Retreat. This was Carnival’s first brand-new west coast ship debut in almost 20 years.

Carnival Sunrise

RELATED: 31 Carnival Sunrise Cruise Tips

Key Features: Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Seafood Shack, Cloud 9 Spa, Punchliner Comedy Club, Alchemy Bar, Cucina del Capitano, Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, BlueIguana Cantina

Carnival Horizon 

Key Features: WaterWorks aqua park, adults-only Serenity Retreat, SkyRide cycling attraction, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse, Bons

Carnival Vista

Key Features: SkyRide cycling attraction, RedFrog Pub & Brewery, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, IMAX movie theater, Havana Bar, JiJi Asian Kitchen, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Seafood Shack, Cucina del Capitano, and the WaterWorks aqua park. The is the first ship in Carnival’s three-ship Vista class.

Carnival Sunshine

Key Features: Havana Bar, WaterWorks aqua park, Punchliner Comedy Club, JiJi Asian Kitchen, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Guy’s Burger Joint, Cucina del Capitano, Camp Ocean kids’ club, and Guy’s Burger Joint

MORE: Everything You Need To Know About Carnival’s Drink Package

Carnival Breeze

Key Features: BlueIguana Tequila Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Cloud 9 Spa, Alchemy Bar, Cucina del Capitano, Bonsai Sushi, WaterWorks aqua park, adults-only Serenity Retreat, and Camp Ocean kids’ club

Carnival Magic

Key Features: WaterWorks aqua park, Guy’s Burger Joint, Cloud 9 Spa, Seafood Shack, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, BlueIguana Cantina, and the Alchemy Bar

Carnival Dream

Key Features:  Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, WaterWorks aqua park, Alchemy Bar, Seafood Shack, Cloud 9 Spa, Bonsai Sushi, Guy’s Burger Joint, Punchliner Comedy Club, and Lip Sync Battle: Carnival. This was the first ship in Carnival’s Dream class. 

This was the first Carnival ship to introduce the cove balcony concept. This is like a giant oval porthole type of balcony that is surrounded by steel and can close in case of bad weather. These balcony cabins are located on deck two.

Carnival Splendor

Key Features: Punchliner Comedy Club, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Guy’s Burger Joint, Cloud 9 Spa, Alchemy Bar, Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, RedFrog Pub, Seafood Shack, and BlueIguana Cantina

MORE: Carnival’s Mardi Gras: Is An Aft Excel Suite Worth The Price?

Carnival Freedom

Key Features: Seafood Shack, WaterWorks aqua park, BlueIguana Cantina, Punchliner Comedy Club, Alchemy Bar, Heroes Tribute Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, SkyBox Sports Bar, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, and Bonsai Sushi Express

Carnival Liberty

Key Features: Guy’s Burger Joint, SkyBox Sports Bar, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Alchemy Bar, Punchliner Comedy Club, Seafood Shack, BlueIguana Cantina, Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, and Spa Carnival

Carnival Valor

Key Features: Alchemy Bar, Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, Punchliner Comedy Club, Seafood Shack, Guy’s Burger Joint, adults-only Serenity Retreat, BlueIguana Cantina, RedFrog Pub, and Spa Carnival

Carnival Miracle

Key Features: WaterWorks aqua park, Alchemy Bar, Bonsai Sushi Express, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Guy’s Burger Joint, Punchliner Comedy Club, and BlueIguana Cantina

Carnival Glory

Key Features: WaterWorks aqua park, BlueIguana Cantina, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Alchemy Bar, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Guy’s Burger Joint, Seafood Shack, and Spa Carnival

Carnival Conquest

Key Features: Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Seafood Shack, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Alchemy Bar, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Punchliner Comedy Club, BlueIguana Cantina, and Guy’s Burger Joint. This is the first ship in the Carnival Conquest class. 

Carnival Pride

Key Features: Alchemy Bar, RedFrog Pub, Bonsai Sushi, Spa Carnival, Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, WaterWorks aqua park, Guy’s Burger Joint, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, BlueIguana Cantina, and Punchliner Comedy Club

Carnival Legend

Key Features: Camp Ocean kids’ club, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Guy’s Burger Joint, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Bonsai Sushi, WaterWorks aqua park, Punchliner Comedy Club, and BlueIguana Cantina

Carnival Spirit

Key Features: Alchemy Bar, Punchliner Comedy Club, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Seafood Shack, Spa Carnival, Bonsai Sushi, Guy’s Burger Joint, RedFrog Pub, and BlueIguana Tequila Bar. This was the first of four Spirit-class ships. 

Carnival Paradise

Key Features: Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, Punchliner Comedy Club, WaterWorks aqua park, Spa Carnival, BlueIguana Cantina, RedFrog Rum Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, and the adults-only Serenity Retreat

Carnival Elation

Key Features: Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, Punchliner Comedy Club, WaterWorks aqua park, Spa Carnival, BlueIguana Cantina, RedFrog Rum Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, and the adults-only Serenity Retreat

RELATED: Carnival Cruise Ships by Size: Biggest to Smallest

The fact is that all cruise lines take health, safety, and security very seriously. From complying with international rules and regulations to implementing rigorous inspections, cruise ships are designed to keep passengers and crew safe.

This article will explore the many safety measures to make your next cruise a worry-free experience.

What types of safety measures are taken on cruises?

Cruise lines prioritize the safety and well-being of their guests, crew, and vessels. These companies comply with strict international rules and regulations to ensure safe and secure voyages.

Security before and during your cruise

Cruise lines use cameras and security personnel to protect both passengers and crew. Security staff monitors public areas 24/7 in person and through security cameras to ensure that guests are safe and resolve issues if there are some.

They also have advanced maritime security systems to deter and detect unauthorized access to the ship.

The cruise line will also run the names of each passenger through a federal database to ensure the unauthorized person doesn’t board the cruise.

Health and hygiene measures

Cruise lines must follow guidelines set by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to prevent the spread of illnesses onboard. This includes regular inspections, sanitation procedures, and education for both passengers and crew.

Cruise lines are required to adhere to local and international policies, including regular inspection of vessels and the implementation of comprehensive sanitation procedures.

These procedures may include frequent cleaning and disinfecting of common areas, accommodations, and dining facilities, as well as providing hand sanitizing stations throughout the ship.

Do cruise ships have pirate attacks?

Despite concerns about pirate attacks, these incidents are very rare on cruises. Ports and waterways deemed high risk are usually avoided, and cruise ships can increase speed and change course if necessary.

Overall, cruise lines take a comprehensive approach to safety and security. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) conducts regular surveys to ensure that their members are following these protocols and providing a safe experience for guests.

Are there specific safety rules that passengers need to follow while onboard?

Yes, there are specific safety rules that passengers need to follow onboard a cruise ship. All guests are required to acknowledge and sign the passenger contract before boarding the ship.

Cruise lines must also adhere to international safety and security regulations set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention.

To ensure the safety of passengers, cruise ships are equipped with life-saving equipment such as life jackets, lifeboats, and life rafts.

Passengers are also required to attend or watch safety drills and familiarize themselves with the ship’s emergency procedures.

Are there medical personnel onboard cruises?

Yes, all cruise lines must have medical personnel onboard their vessels to ensure the health and safety of their passengers and crew members.

The number of medical staff members varies depending on the size of the vessel and the number of passengers onboard. The medical team generally consists of a doctor and several nurses.

While they may not be able to conduct surgery onboard, they have a direct line of communication with medical teams and virtual examinations for second opinions. The infirmary also has a direct line to the U.S. Coast Guard, or equivalent, depending on where the ship is sailing.

These medical professionals are equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, from minor illnesses to more serious injuries.

In addition to medical staff, many cruise lines also have well-stocked medical facilities that can provide treatment for a variety of medical issues.

Do cruises have protocols to respond to accidents or emergencies?

Cruise lines have rigid and comprehensive protocols for responding to accidents or emergencies. They take all necessary measures to ensure the protection of everyone onboard.

One of the keys to ensuring safety on board is implementing international rules and regulations. The International Maritime Organization has established the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, which sets out minimum safety standards for vessels, including cruise ships.

Cruise lines are required to comply with these standards, which cover everything from fire safety to equipment and machinery maintenance.

In addition to these international regulations, cruise lines have safety precautions and security policies in place. They conduct regular safety drills and inspections, and crew members are trained to respond to different emergencies.

Dedicated security teams also monitor the vessel and respond to threats or incidents.

In an emergency, cruise lines have emergency response plans designed to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers and crew. These plans set clear procedures for evacuating the vessel, providing medical assistance, and communicating with authorities and loved ones on shore.

Are there rescue boats available in case of emergency?

Are there enough lifeboats? Yes.

Cruise lines are required to provide rescue boats and emergency equipment onboard to ensure the safety of their customers in case of an emergency. These boats are equipped with life-saving equipment, including life jackets, life rafts, first aid kits, and other medical supplies.

Cruise lines prioritize the safety and security of their customers and have comprehensive safety protocols in place to deal with any emergency that may arise. These protocols are regularly reviewed and updated by international rules.

To maintain safety on board, vessels undergo regular inspections by maritime authorities to check if they meet the required safety standards. Cruise lines also conduct regular safety drills to ensure that their crew members are well-equipped to handle emergencies.

While any form of travel involves a degree of risk, cruising is considered a safe mode of travel. According to a recent survey conducted by CLIA, 94 percent of customers who took a cruise felt it was a safe vacation option.

Cruise lines continue to prioritize safety and security measures, making cruising a safe and enjoyable way to travel.

Is there a system of communication in place in case of an emergency?

Yes, cruise lines have a comprehensive system of communication in place in case of emergencies. The safety of passengers and crew is the number one priority for all cruise lines, and they take extensive measures to ensure that their vessels are equipped to handle any situation.

Cruise lines use various communication methods to keep passengers and crew informed during an emergency. This includes public address announcements, emergency drills, and detailed safety briefings at the beginning of the voyage.

In addition to these communication methods, cruise ships are equipped with state-of-the-art communication technology to stay in touch with other vessels, shore-based emergency services, and even satellite systems. This ensures that help can be quickly dispatched in case of an emergency.

Cruise lines must also have emergency plans that outline procedures for dealing with a range of emergency scenarios, including medical emergencies, fires, and even pirate attacks.

These plans are also regularly reviewed and updated to ensure effectiveness.

Final Thoughts

Equipped with advanced communication technology, cruise ships can easily communicate with other vessels, emergency services on land, and even satellite systems to ensure rapid assistance in case of an emergency.

Additionally, cruise lines must have emergency plans that outline procedures for handling various emergencies, including medical crises, fires, and pirate attacks. These plans are reviewed and updated regularly to ensure their effectiveness.

The cruise industry takes safety and security seriously and strives to provide guests with a peaceful and enjoyable cruise vacation.

While there may be risks associated with any form of travel, cruising remains a safe option. By following the safety rules and procedures, passengers can enjoy their time at sea with peace of mind.

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This guide discusses the best time to cruise Alaska and everything you should know before sailing to this stunning state.

The peak season for Alaska cruises (May-September)

The summer months of May through September make up the peak season for Alaska cruises.

You’ll experience the best weather and wildlife sightings during this time, with higher temperatures and more daylight hours.

This is also the busiest time of year—so if you want to avoid larger crowds, consider traveling outside the peak months.

The first cruise ships typically begin arriving in Alaska in the last week of April or the first week of May. The entire Alaska-based fleet will arrive by mid-May.

Then at the end of the season, cruise ships begin repositioning to other destinations around the first week of September, with the last cruises sailing by late September (this varies by the cruise line).

Once the Alaska season ends, the ships return to different regions, including Asia, Australia, the Mexican Riviera, and the Caribbean.

Best weather months in Alaska

One of the many misconceptions about Alaska is its cold weather. However, the summer months see a temperature range from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

It does rain almost every day in mid-summer along Alaska’s coast. It surprises first-time cruisers, seeing the southeast quadrant of the state can be a coastal temperate rainforest. The wettest month is August.

RELATED: Why You Should Buy Travel Insurance

Late April to mid-May can be cool, with snow caps still visible on the mountain peaks.

September is also cooler, but thanks to the occasional drop of rain and daily average temperature, it becomes much damper, colder, and less pleasant than earlier in the summer.

Pro Tip: For the best weather to cruise Alaska, you’ll want to consider mid-May to late July, with the late June to mid-July period being the ultimate choice.

Best time to cruise Alaska for nature viewing

If you cruise early (late April, early May) or very late (September) in the Alaska season, you may miss out on excursions, shopping, or experiences. Longer days in mid-June give you the most daylight to explore.

Most glaciers can be calving in August as the temperatures peak, but you’ll likely experience the fantastic phenomenon during the season.

Glacier Bay National Park is the most popular glacier viewing opportunity, so look for an itinerary that includes this stop.

For wildlife viewing in Alaska, you’ll want to consider mid-July to mid-August. These are the months when salmon spawn and the bears are feasting.

If you prefer whale watching, visit Alaska along the coast during August. Birds, including bald eagles, are visible all summer, but their activity declines when the cool September weather sets in.

Pro Tip: For the best time to cruise Alaska to see wildlife, you’ll want to cruise in early August when bear and whale sightings are at their peak.

Editor’s pick

What’s important to you and your family can significantly impact the best time to cruise Alaska. If we have to pick, we’d recommend the experience of Alaska in June. Who would want summer crowds, a rainy season, and high prices during peak times?

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To make things more complicated, each cruise line has its own requirements, recommendations, and onboard guidelines. To help, we’ve put together a general list to help you prepare to sail in 2021.

1. Know the cancellation policies before you book.

Most of the major cruise lines have had some sort of flexible cancellation policy in place since early 2020. A good example is the “Cruise with Confidence” program offered by Royal Caribbean and Celebrity. Cruise with Confidence allows you to cancel your cruise at least 48 hours prior to sailing and receive a Future Cruise Credit for non-refundable penalties. This gives cruisers amazing flexibility during these unprecedented times.

However, some lines, like Carnival, don’t have these types of policies in place, and regular cancellation penalties will apply if you can’t or don’t want to sail. And keep in mind that the Future Cruise Credits you’ll receive under Cruise with Confidence and similar programs have specific book-by and sail-by dates.

Make sure you understand and are comfortable with the cancellation options you have before you book so that there are no surprises later on.

2. Buy travel insurance.

Travel insurance is always a wise investment when you’re on vacation, and that’s true now more than ever. With both the increased risk of travel disruptions and the potential that you might need medical care during your trip, travel insurance is an essential purchase for every traveler.

Travel insurance might even be required. Some cruise lines may require certain unvaccinated passengers traveling from some ports to purchase an insurance policy that provides minimum levels of coverage for medical care and medical evacuation.

Not all travel insurance policies are created equal, so you’ll want to make sure you’re understanding what the policy you’re purchasing covers. Your travel agent can provide guidance, as can the experts at TripInsurance.com.

3. Plan to get a COVID-19 test before your cruise.

While things are changing rapidly, currently most major cruise lines are still requiring passengers to present a negative COVID-19 test result, taken within 48 to 72 hours of the sail date, and/or at the cruise terminal on embarkation day.

Start researching now what options you have for testing near your home and/or close to the cruise port, and contact those facilities to determine how long it takes to get results, find out if appointments are required, costs, etc. Make a plan now so you don’t have to scramble at the last minute to get tested.

Also, if you’re taking a cruise that requires all eligible passengers to be vaccinated but kids under 5 are welcome too, be sure to carefully read what is required for them, both before your cruise as well as protocols and expectations onboard.

READ MORE: The Pros and Cons of Future Cruise Credits

4. Begin the check-in process for your cruise ASAP.

Checking in online for your cruise used to be a convenience that saved you time at the terminal on embarkation day. Now, it’s mandatory.

Virtually every major cruise line is requiring all passengers to check-in online and select an embarkation window to prevent large crowds from forming in the cruise terminal. During the check-in process, or even before then, you’ll likely be asked to provide or confirm the vaccination status for the cruisers in your party, and get important information about onboard protocols.

The check-in timeline varies for each cruise line, but it’s a good idea to attempt to begin the check-in process as soon as you have your cruise line reservation number.

5. Stay informed.

Things are changing quickly right now, and staying informed is more important than ever.

In the last couple months, various cruise lines have implemented time-sensitive vaccine attestations, testing requirements, and changes to onboard protocols, all with little notice. We’ve heard stories of people being turned away from boarding at the port simply because they misunderstood or didn’t read the latest updates from their cruise line regarding things like pre-cruise testing.

Read every email you receive from your cruise line or travel agent, periodically check your cruise line’s website for any updates, and make sure you understand the information. If you have questions, ask.

6. Boost your family’s health.

Every family has different ways they boost their immune systems and make a conscious effort to stay healthy. This could include vitamins, greens smoothies, elderberry syrup, eating lots more veggies and less processed food, exercising regularly, etc. You don’t want a member of the family to come down with something just before you are set to leave for your cruise.

While this applied for pre-pandemic times too, it’s more important than ever now. A fever or cough could prevent your family from boarding the ship, or cause you to be flagged for additional screening at a port of call.

Make your best effort to stay healthy and especially boost your body before the trip, and your vacation will thank you.

7. Bring whatever you need to feel safe and healthy.

Your cruise line will provide plenty of hand sanitizer on board, and there will likely be masks available if you need one.

But you still might want to pack extra sanitizer, your own (cruise line approved) masks, sanitizer wipes for the cabin, a plastic bag to put TV remote in, etc. Having the supplies you need will provide a sense of comfort and peace of mind.

8. Pack some patience and expect the unexpected.

Things are changing quickly; some embarkation ports may be understaffed, and nearly every element of a cruise vacation has been examined, analyzed, and refined to provide a different, safer experience.

As a result, cruise lines are still trying to find their footing and will likely still be tweaking the onboard experience in the months to come. When you board your ship, expect a good time, but also be realistic and don’t expect a completely pre-pandemic experience.

Masks may be required at times, you may need to quarantine while waiting for a test result from someone who was near you and discovered via contact tracing, social distancing might be annoying, some activities might not be back yet, and some experiences may be different for now.

The only thing that’s going to be constant right now is change. Know that going in, and you’ll be ready for anything. Even if it’s not perfect, a day at sea will always be better than a day on land, pandemic or not.

This article was originally published in September 2021. It was updated and republished in February 2022.

READ NEXT: What You Need To Know About Cruise Travel Insurance

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The more you cruise, the more Carnival spoils you get. We’re talking complimentary drinks, free laundry service, priority boarding, guaranteed dining times, and even cabin upgrades. 

Read on to learn about the different tiers of Carnival’s VIFP loyalty program and the benefits you get to enjoy with each tier. 

How to Sign Up For VIFP

The VIFP Club is a point-based program. There are five levels: Blue, Red, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. Your level will increase as you complete more cruises, but first, you must enroll in the program. 

Long cruises and spontaneous getaways will get you to the next level quicker than cruising once yearly.

You’ll need a member number to join the VIFP Club. Before you book your first Carnival cruise, visit the Carnival VIFP Club website and click the ‘Join’ button. Provide your email address and create a password, and you’re in.

You can access your account information and profile once you’ve signed up for an account. You can also find out what benefits you’ll get based on how much you’ve cruised.

You’ll immediately start receiving cruise offers from Carnival by email, and you may be eligible for discounts or special offers on your first cruise but can opt out at any time.

How to earn VIFP Loyalty Points

The real benefits kick in once you’ve sailed your first cruise!

You’ll receive one (1) VIFP Club point for each day you cruise. On a three-night cruise to the Bahamas? That’s 3 points. Are you enjoying a 14-night Carnival Journey cruise to Hawaii? You just scored 14 VIFP Club points.

Note: In 2012, Carnival changed its program. It used to be one point per cruise, and 10 cruises would have you at Platinum status.

Sailing on the Carnival Cruise Line is the only way to earn VIFP points.

While Carnival Corporation owns and operates other cruise lines, VIFP Club points and benefits are not reciprocal to Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, or any other cruise brand in the portfolio. They have their own loyalty programs.

READ MORE: Best Cruise Line Loyalty Programs

VIFP Tiers and Benefits

The VIFP Club has five membership tiers. You’ll move up to a higher tier with more earned points and enjoy more benefits.

Note: Your Sail and Sign Card will reflect the color of your VIFP tier at the start of each cruise.

As you climb the VIFP loyalty program, your privileges and benefits will improve. Priority boarding and disembarkation are only the beginning.

You’ll be able to access VIP lounges, priority terminal access, priority Captain’s Lounge entry, and even free drinks at cocktail receptions and VIP parties.

Blue Level (First Cruise)

When you initially sign up for the VIFP Club, you’ll be known as a “Blue Card,” a first-time Carnival cruiser. You’ll receive Carnival’s VIFP Club newsletter at this level and qualify for special cruise offers.

Red Level (up to 24 points)

After you’ve sailed on your first Carnival cruise, you’ll be upgraded to Red. In addition to the VIFP Club newsletter and special offers, you’ll receive a complimentary 1-liter bottle of water that you can pick up from any bar on the ship.

Gold Level (25 to 74 points)

Once you’ve sailed on Carnival for at least 25 days, you’ll receive Carnival Gold status and be eligible for a complimentary appreciation drink on cruises of 5 nights or longer. 

You’ll receive a Gold VIFP pin on every cruise in addition to the Red benefits.

Platinum Level (75 to 199 points)

With increased cruise days come increased benefits, and this is where things start getting good.

Carnival Platinum benefits include a special event invitation to the Platinum and Diamond VIFP Party on cruises of 5 days or more, offering complimentary drinks and appetizers.

During the cruise, you’ll get a complimentary beverage at the Seaday Brunch. Do you love to indulge in chocolate while at sea? A complimentary chocolate delight will be delivered to your room on cruises for five nights or longer.

A complimentary Carnival logo gift on every sailing and a collectible pin. Past gifts have been Bluetooth speakers, blankets, headphones, tote bags, and mugs.

You’ll also be provided with a dedicated toll-free number for reservations and access to many services onboard, including priority check-in and boarding, priority spa reservations, a priority line at the guest services desk, priority debarkation, complimentary wash and fold laundry service, and priority tender boarding (water shuttle).

You’ll also get a buy-one-get-one-free tournament entry for blackjack or slots in the casino.

Diamond Level (200+ points)

Carnival rolls out the Diamond carpet for their most loyal passengers (figuratively, of course), with all of the Platinum benefits plus a host of other perks.

The benefits are generous once you reach the Diamond level (200 cruise days or more). One of the most unique perks is a $100 donation made in your name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Other Diamond tier perks include:

• An invitation to a special event hosted by the Captain
• A one-time free cabin upgrade
• Priority reservations
• A one-time complimentary meal for two at a specialty restaurant of choice
• Priority specialty restaurant reservations
• Guaranteed seating time of choice in the main dining room
• VIFP Club luggage tag set 

You can get a detailed look at the VIFP program and unique perks here.

Cruise line loyalty programs are typically about “what’s in it for me?” but Diamond cruisers on Carnival can help others just by cruising.

Carnival VIFP Club Login

You can look up your Carnival VIFP Club number by logging into your account on the Carnival website. 

If you don’t know your login information or haven’t sailed on Carnival since the VIFP Club was created in 2012, you can access your account information by clicking here.

Tips to Maximize Your Perks With Carnival

Carnival makes it easy to earn VIFP points, where you get one point for each day sailed. That said, there are ways to accelerate the earning process and earn more perks!

• Take Longer Cruises: Booking cruises of 7 nights or longer will quickly boost your point total compared to taking only short weekend getaways. 
• Book Multiple Cruises Per Year: Cruising at least twice a year rather than just once can make a huge difference over time. 
• Join the Casino Program: Joining the Players Club casino program allows you to earn casino points. The more points you earn, the more benefits you get. 
• Check Out Cruise Packages: As a VIFP member, you can unlock big savings and add to your points by opting for trending and limited-time offers

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What happens if I reach a new VIFP tier in the middle of a cruise?

Guests who change to the next VIFP tier, even if it is the last sailing day, will be entitled to the perks associated with the new tier for the duration of the voyage. That means that if you were to go from Gold to Platinum during your voyage, your card would be Platinum for the entire voyage.

2. What kind of cruise deals will I receive with the VIFP Program?

Past guests will receive some special cruise rates, but those will vary from guest to guest. If you are enrolled in Carnival’s casino program Player’s Club, you should check to ensure there aren’t better deals.

3. Does the cruise fare I pay impact my VIFP points?

Most cruise fares will not impact the sailing days associated with the VIFP levels. The main exception is for those who have won a free cruise or are given a complimentary cruise for some special event/gathering onboard.

4. Is Carnival’s VIFP program worth it?

Yes! From complimentary drinks to priority check-in, boarding, and reservations, Carnival’s VIFP program is definitely worth it. And the best part about it is that it’s free to join, even for first-timer Carnival cruisers!

5. How do I check my Carnival VIFP status?

To check your Carnival VIFP status, simply log into your account, load your VIFP profile by clicking on “Your Name,” and then click on “My Cruises.” 

Your current VIFP level will be displayed, in addition to how many points you have and how many you need to get to the next level. 

Alternatively, you can check the color of your Sail and Sign Card as the start of each cruise. 

Final Thoughts

VIFP member Becky Smith says, “It is certainly nice not to have to pay for the Faster to the Fun program, as it is included as a platinum/diamond member.

And when on a longer voyage, having the complimentary laundry perk is a big help, as it lets you avoid having to spend money on having laundry done or going to the self-serve laundromats on the ships.”

She continued, “As a Diamond guest, sometimes there are “unofficial” perks that go along with it. It might be a special invitation to go up to the bridge [and] several other things that are not publicized. These will vary depending upon the ship and officers on board.”

Are you looking for another cruise line loyalty program? You can find a detailed overview of each cruise line program here.

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This article was initially published in October 2020. It was updated and republished in July 2023.

By sunrise the next morning, 32 passengers and crew had lost their lives, and the ship’s master, Francesco Schettino, faced not only questions about what happened but accusations that he abandoned command of the ship while passengers were still in danger.

In the coming years, new safety procedures would be introduced across the cruise industry as a result of that night’s tragedy.

Let’s look back at the events of that fateful and deadly Friday the 13th and their aftermath a decade later..

How did Costa Concordia Sink?

The Costa Concordia left Civitavecchia, Italy at 7 pm local time on a seven-night cruise bound for Savona. About two and a half hours into the voyage, the ship’s Captain, Francesco Schettino, ordered the ship to leave its intended course and head toward the small island of Giglio, Italy to perform what’s known as a “sail-by salute,” a maneuver intended to impress both passengers and local residents by sailing very close to the island.

At 9:45 pm, as the ship sailed perilously close to Giglio, the port side of the ship scraped a rock, breaching the ship’s hull and causing it to lurch violently and be plunged into darkness. The ship’s officers initially only communicated news of the power outage to passengers and the Italian Coast Guard, and assured both that the situation was under control.

Meanwhile, on the bridge and below decks, chaos ensued as officers and crew members tried desperately to contain flooding that ultimately impacted the engine room. A 167-foot-long opening was torn in the hull, and three of the ship’s watertight compartments were breached — a situation that would ultimately doom the vessel.

Over the ensuing hour, Concordia was free-floating, picked up the wind and tides. The ship was blown further north, and spun around, with the starboard side coming to rest against an underwater rock shelf, which caused the ship to lurch again and begin to roll over on its side.

At about 10:42 pm, Captain Schettino finally called a General Alarm, and a short while later, lifeboats were launched as passengers and crew started abandoning ship in what has been described as a chaotic process. The ship’s increasing list led to difficulty launching lifeboats and placed a large number of the life craft inaccessible or already submerged and unable to be launched.

MORE: 9 Cruise Line Private Islands and Where They Are Located

Timeline of Costa Concordia Sinking

Over 90 minutes after the first impact with the rocky island shore, Italian Coast Guard rescue teams begin to arrive.

Frustrated by unsuccessful efforts to reach Captain Schettino by radio, Gregorio De Falco, commander of the Livorno coast guard fleet, calls Schettino on his cell phone and is shocked to hear the Captain is on a lifeboat.

Here’s a partial transcript of one of their blistering conversations:

De Flaco: What are you doing Captain?

Schettino: I am here going with the lifeboat. I am here coordinating rescues.

DF: What are you coordinating from there? Schettino? Listen to me Schettino. There are people trapped on board. Now, you go with your lifeboat back on the ship… you tell me how many people there are. Is that clear? … You tell me if there are children, women, or people in need of assistance and tell me the number in each of these categories.

S: Commander, please.

DF: Are you refusing to go back on board, Captain? Tell me the reason why you are not going.

S: Do you realize it’s dark here and we can’t see anything

DF: What, do you want to go home, Schettino? It’s dark so you want to go home? Go back on the ship through the ladder and tell me what we can do. How many people there are and what do they need? Now! Schettino you might have saved yourself from the sea, but this is really bad. I’ll make you go through hell. Go the f –  – k on board!

The Captain defied the order.

By 1 am, the last functional lifeboat pulled away from the ship, leaving over 100 still on board to be rescued by Coast Guard divers and choppers, and, later, by walking down a ladder on the side of the ship, holding hands.

The port side of the ship was nearly horizontal at that point, with some passengers climbing and clinging to the hull awaiting evacuation. The Coast Guard knew that people were falling, jumping or being pushed into the frigid water, an all but certain death sentence for those not able to be rescued or reach shore quickly.

Those lucky enough to make it off the ship were welcomed with open arms by Giglio’s residents who offered warn blankets, food and water, and accommodation in their homes.

As daylight broke, a massive search and rescue operation for about 100 missing passengers and crew grew larger. A week later, 20 people are still unaccounted for, with 12 confirmed to be dead, foreshadowing the final death toll of 32.

The body of one crew member was not recovered until after the ship was salvaged and being scrapped, over two and a half years later.

Schettino’s Fate

In the days following the tragedy, Captain Schettino was placed under house arrest, charged with manslaughter, abandoning the ship, and causing a shipwreck.

Rumors that the married 51-year-old Captain was entertaining a young, alleged mistress on the bridge, Moldovan dancer Domnica Cemortan, when the ship ran aground, took over the tabloid newspapers and Twitter.

Reports indicated the young woman was sailing as a guest of the captain and was not on passenger manifests. When audiotapes of Schettino’s conversation with De Falco of the Coast Guard were released, public sentiment in Italy turned further against the Captain.

In July 2013, Schettino’s trial began and was under intense media scrutiny. A key question at trial was who ordered the ship to sail close to Giglio: was it Costa Cruises leadership, or did the ‘rogue’ Captain Schettino make the call?

During testimony, Schettino admitted he did not inform the company of the deviation from the ship’s course, as it was not an official order.

Facing charges of abandoning the ship, Schettino claimed during the trial that he tripped and fell into a lifeboat and was forced to leave the ship. Video of him entering the lifeboat leisurely contradicts his assertion.

Schettino’s trial lasted 19 months, and he was ultimately sentenced to 16 years and one month of prison time. His appeal was not successful.

Five other crew members who had a role in the sail-by or who otherwise did not take appropriate action to prevent the tragedy took plea bargains for manslaughter but ultimately avoided prison time.

MORE: 18 New Cruise Ships Debuting in 2022

The Cruise Industry Refocuses on Safety

In the aftermath of Costa Concordia, both regulators and major players in the cruise industry revised safety guidelines within months, aiming to prevent a similar incident in the future.

Among the first changes implemented was making the muster drill mandatory for all passengers prior to the ship setting sail. Previously, passengers could muster up to 24 hours after boarding, which means some passengers who boarded Concordia in Civitavecchia on January 13 may not have completed their drill, meaning they did not know what to do or where to report in the event of an emergency.

In Italy, government officials instituted a “no salute” decree shortly after the incident, impacting navigation procedures in and around Venice.

Shipbuilders and cruise lines have made changes in ship design and operation to better accommodate evacuations under different contingencies.

Around the world, ports have assessed their ability to respond to a large-scale, mass-casualty like the Costa Concordia grounding and are better prepared in the event of an emergency.

Though cruise bookings dropped in the immediate aftermath of the Costa Concordia tragedy, they quickly recovered as images of the grounded ship faded from TV screens and newspaper pages.

READ NEXT: 11 Former Carnival Ships – Where Are They Now?

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Typically, it’s used by lazy journalists to instantly convey to the reader that the ships are breeding grounds for every disease known to mankind.

The only problem? As with most stereotype-based buzzwords, it’s part of a completely false narrative.

Having had it up to here (you’re going to need to imagine us using several fingers to dramatically indicate our level of fed-upness, which is right around the top of our eyeballs) with the comparison, we decided to address the topic head-on.

So, for any supposed journalists out there preparing to use the analogy in a future piece, let us offer up this simple (and yes, humorous) explanation as to why cruise ships and petri dishes have about as much in common as a dingy and a mega-ship.

1. Cruise ships were not invented by Julius Petri

Though the title of “first cruise ship” is somewhat in dispute, with nearly every major modern cruise line laying claim to creating the cruise phenomenon in one form or another, it’s clear the first pleasure cruise took place in the late 1960s or early 1970s.

Julius Richard Petri, a German scientist, invented the dish that bears his name between 1877 and 1879. Furthermore, Petri died in 1921, making it impossible for him to have invented a cruise ship, or even to have imagined what a modern cruiseliner might look like.

2. There is practically no physical similarity between the two.

Petri dishes are typically round containers that measure 200 millimeters wide or less. Cruise ships are somewhat rectangular-shaped objects, with most averaging over 1,000 feet long (that’s 304,800 millimeters).

Petri dishes are commonly made of glass, and in the last decade or so, plastic. While cruise ships feature glass and plastic accents, the ship itself is always made of steel.

Anyone who says a cruise ship resembles a Petri dish needs to have their eyes checked.

3. Petri dishes are inexpensive

It’s possible to purchase 50 Petri dishes on Amazon.com for as little as $15.95. A cruise ship, on the other hand, costs significantly more. The closest resemblance between a petri dish and something you’ll find on a ship that’s similarly priced is a cocktail at Carnival Cruise Line’s Alchemy Bar.

Their mixologists are pretty darn close to scientists and, like what’s often grown in petri dishes, they might just have the cure for what ails you.

4. The floor of a cruise ship isn’t coated with agar

The bottom of a Petri dish is typically coated with a thin layer of agar or agarose gel and left undisturbed for a lengthy period of time to allow germs to grow.

Cruise ship floors are usually made of tile or carpet, and they’re cleaned multiple times per day.

5. Cruise ships don’t live in a lab

Petri dishes rarely leave the laboratory, where scientists spend hours conducting studies and experiments. Cruise ships, on the other hand, spend all their time exploring the world, visiting a new port every day, and as an added bonus, taking a whole lot of happy people along for the ride.

6. There’s been no significant innovation in Petri dishes since they were invented

“The Petri dish has pretty much always stayed the same – there aren’t a lot of differences that you can make,” said Andrea Sella, an award-winning chemist, broadcaster, and classic science kit and equipment enthusiast.

On the other hand, every new modern cruise ship introduces something new to the mix.

Whether it’s the go karts zipping along the upper deck on Norwegian Bliss, the BOLT roller coaster which thrills guests on Mardi Gras, or the North Star observation pod which literally takes Anthem of the Seas guests to new heights, cruise ships are constantly evolving.

7. Nobody ever trash-talks petri dishes

Talk about irony! While you constantly hear cruise ships referred to as “floating petri dishes,” you never hear petri dishes referred to as laboratory-locked cruise ships. And really, for the first analogy to work, shouldn’t the reverse also hold true? Yet in all the years we’ve been covering the cruise industry, we’ve never once heard anyone — from CEO’s of major cruise lines to passengers — make a disparaging remark about petri dishes.

READ NEXT: Is a Short Cruise Right For You? 5 Reasons to Consider Booking One

This article was originally published on December 29, 2020.

The organization also gave us, for the first time, a comprehensive look at the readiness state of the cruise industry and COVID-19 incidents over the summer as the ships resumed sailing from U.S. ports for the first time in over a year.

Let’s go inside the revised CSO and look at some of the most significant data and updates.

The CDC Has Identified 6 “Large” Outbreaks Since Late July

For the first time, the CSO extension offers some details on what the CDC refers to as 6 “large” COVID-19 outbreaks on cruise ships since passenger sailings resumed in late June.

While the reports lack a ship or cruise line name, they still offer interesting insight into conditions onboard.

• On July 24, one symptomatic passenger who tested positive for COVID-19 was epidemiologically-linked to 20 additional cases of the virus over two voyages, including 18 crew members and 2 passengers. The vaccination rate on what the CDC refers to as “Cruise Ship A” ranged between 99.8–100 percent for crew and 96.4–97.5 percent for passengers.
• Between July 24 and August 28, “Cruise Ship B” reported 58 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19, The vaccination rate on this ship ranged between 96.8–97.7 percent for passengers and averaged 100 percent for crew.
• From July 29 to 31, “Cruise Ship C” reported three symptomatic passengers who tested positive for COVID-19. Contact tracing identified 10 additional passengers and 2 crew members who tested positive. All crew members and 97 percent of passengers were vaccinated.
• Between July 26 and August 6, seven laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 were identified in passengers and crew aboard “Cruise Ship D.” 100 percent of crew and 96.8–97.7 percent of passengers were vaccinated.
• From August 19 to September 7, a total of 105 passengers and crew from four consecutive cruises aboard “Cruise Ship E” had laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases. All crew members and an average of 97 percent of passengers across the voyages were vaccinated.
• Between August 21 and September 7, “Cruise Ship F” reported a total of 112 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases among passengers and crew across four consecutive cruises. Fully 100 percent of passengers and crew aboard all four sailings were vaccinated.

Between June 26 and October 21, 49 hospitalizations and 38 medical evacuations from cruise ships related to COVID-19 were reported to the CDC.

While even a single case of COVID-19 on a cruise ship is concerning, the number of “large” outbreaks, hospitalizations and evacuations as reported by the CDC seem relatively low considering the hundreds of thousands of passengers who have enjoyed a cruise vacation in the four months since sailings have resumed.

Passengers are Lying About Their Symptoms

The CDC reports several instances of passengers who had COVID-19 symptoms at the time of embarkation or became symptomatic during their cruise who did not immediately report their symptoms to the medical center.

This resulted in extensive contact-tracing due to the presumed length of time since the first onset of infection and the large number of people they may have come in contact with.

The CDC cites a passenger on “Cruise Ship F” who was fully vaccinated and tested negative for COVID-19 three days prior to boarding, but was symptomatic at embarkation.

The passenger denied having symptoms when boarding the ship and died of illness related to COVID-19 three days later. This is the only COVID-19 related death cited by the CDC in the CSO extension.

As a result of this passenger’s deception, extensive steps were taken by the cruise line, as noted by the CDC:

• Contact tracing to identify exposed persons, which included interviews of passengers and crew, review of security footage, and analysis of wearable technology and other relevant location data;
• Notifications to close contacts to advise them to monitor for symptoms, and to federal, state, and local partners in two states;
• Screening testing to identify those who could have been infected;
• Isolation for close contacts who tested positive for COVID-19;
• Quarantine for close contacts who tested negative for COVID-19 but could have still developed the illness during the incubation period.

Based on these time-sensitive and labor-intensive public health actions, the cruise line identified over 30 close contacts from the one infected passenger.

The Cruise Industry Doesn’t Like the CSO

As part of the CSO process, the CDC solicited public comments from the cruise industry and its partners. The CDC reports that it received only 15 responses, 11 of which were cruise industry representatives.

The majority of responses indicated that industry-wide COVID-19 protocols were important and that continued communication and collaboration between the industry and the CDC was critical.

However, most industry representatives disagreed that the port agreements required under the CSO have value, and that most industry reps said the CDC’s “Cruise Ship Color” status webpage was not useful.

The CDC acknowledges that the sample size of survey responses is too low to draw meaningful conclusions and that additional feedback will be solicited prior to additional changes or extensions of the CSO.

MORE: Royal Caribbean Releases Protocols For Cruises From U.S. Through November

Over 50 Ships are Cleared to Sail

As of October 21, the CDC says that 53 cruise ships have received Conditional Sailing Certificates and are cleared to operate in U.S. waters.

The CDC’s Maritime Inspection Unit has inspected a total of 15 cruise ships, ranging from one-day inspections while the ship was in port, to multi-day investigations while the ship was sailing. The CDC notes that ships have worked closely with inspectors to quickly remedy any observed lapses in protocols or training onboard.

Cruise Lines Have Agreements with 17 U.S. Homeports

The CSO requires that cruise lines have technical agreements with any U.S. homeports they operate from, and the CDC notes that as of late October, cruise lines have signed such agreements with 17 U.S. homeports, covering all 83 cruise ships governed by the CSO, with 48 vessels approved to dock at more than one port.

Changes and Revisions Bring Added Flexibility to the Cruise Lines

As part of the CSO extension, the CDC made several modifications. While most of the updates are minor or administrative, several of them are more significant.

U.S.-Flagged Ships are Exempt

The CDC added “foreign flagged” to the generic term “cruise ships,” indicating that U.S. flagged ships over 250 passengers are no longer bound to the CSO.

Explained: The CDC Conditional Sailing Order for Cruise Ships

This clarification might as well have just read “excluding Pride of America,” as Norwegian’s U.S.-flagged ship that sails the Hawaiian islands is the only large, U.S.-flagged ship that will be impacted by this change.

Marketing Can be Warning-Free

Cruise lines will no longer be required to include CDC warnings, advisories, or recommendations in marketing material. While it’s unclear how closely this provision has been executed and enforced, as of November 1, cruise lines don’t need to include any cautions, though some may choose to do so.

Longer Cruises Are Allowed

The requirement that cruises be limited to seven nights or less will no longer apply as of November 1, meaning longer sailings are allowed.

Some cruise lines have longer cruises scheduled for 2022 and beyond, but very few cruise lines have extended cruises scheduled to leave from U.S. ports on the schedule in 2021, so this is unlikely to have much of an immediate effect.

If There’s a COVID-19 Outbreak, Your Cruise Might Continue

Previously, the CDC required that a ship with a significant COVID-19 outbreak onboard immediately end its cruise and return to port. Now, the CSO advises that ending the cruise in this scenario may occur.

There’s a Path to Transition from “Fully Vaccinated” Cruises

For the first time, the CDC has outlined a process for cruise ships that are sailing “fully vaccinated” — that’s ships that did not complete a “simulated voyage” and are cruising with  95 percent of crew and passengers vaccinated — to transition to cruises with fewer vaccinated passengers without having to go through a simulated voyage.

The new requirements involve the cruise line submitting operational plans to the CDC, and notify passengers who booked the sailing as “fully vaccinated” that it would no longer be operating as such. Similar requirements also apply to ships arriving in U.S. waters that have been successfully operating internationally.

While this might seem like just a small pivot, this new process has the potential to be a significant change that will give cruise lines tremendous flexibility in operating as the pandemic continues to evolve.

READ NEXT: 8 Tips For Preparing to Cruise in 2021