If you have ever been on a cruise liner, it is likely that you are curious about what happens to an older cruise ship once it has finished its service. These ships are often large and have been used by many passengers. However, as they age or become too costly to operate they are sold to other companies or scrapped entirely.
What Happens to Old Cruise Ships
One of the most disturbing aspects of cruise ships is the large number of abandoned ships. Some of these ships still remain in port and are used for tourist attractions. Others are towed to scrap yards around the globe.
General Slocum was one of the most well-known examples of this ship type. It was a small, fireboat-powered boat that used coal to burn down in the US during World Wars II. Its hull was eventually salvaged and placed on display at New York's US National Maritime Museum.
Queen Mary in Long Beach is another ship known for being a cruise ship cemetery. As a tourist attraction, the Queen Mary is now permanently moored at Long Beach. Tours of the vessel can be arranged.
It is possible to repurpose ships that have been retired. Many of these ships can be turned into hotels or convention centers, as well as restaurants.
Some of these vessels can be turned into museums. Some are even repurposed to form artificial reefs, which provide habitat for marine species.
Retired Cruise Ships Make a Unique Type of Holidayship
Many cruise lines offer programs that allow retirees to live onboard the ship and take advantage of all that cruising has to offer. These rooms are designed for full-time living, with six-month and yearly lease options. You also have access all of the food items and amenities onboard the ship.
These programs are not available on other cruise lines. However, some do offer condos or apartments that can be purchased at a premium cost. These rooms can be very luxurious and offer a great way for retirees to spend their days.
What happens when a cruise ship is retired?
The ship is sent to a'ship breaking yard' when it begins to crumble and cannot be repaired. This can take six to eight weeks to demolish. These yards can be found all around the world, including those in India and Bangladesh.
These "ship breaking yards" aren't the only shipwrecks. Many others have been abandoned at sea. These wrecks are popular tourist destinations, including the World Discoverer which struck a reef off Solomon Islands and the Olympia which grounded off Amorgos Island, Greece.
FAQ
Is a cruise a good holiday?
When you can relax and enjoy yourself, it's one of the best places to go on vacation. A cruise is just what the doctor ordered!
Is a cruise boat all-inclusive or not?
The cruise ships do not offer all-inclusive meals as they do not provide any food for those with dietary restrictions. You will not find room service, laundry, or any other amenities like pools, gyms and spas on a cruise ship.
Some cruise lines offer "all-inclusive", which covers everything but alcohol. These packages typically include airfare, hotel accommodations and entertainment.
How do you choose the right cruise ship?
It is easy to find the best cruise line. First, choose the type of cruise that you wish to take. Do you want a small intimate cruise or one that has many passengers? You should also consider how much money your budget allows you to spend. If you are looking to save money, consider cruises that offer all-inclusive packages. These packages will save you the hassle of paying for extra food, drinks, entertainment, and so on. Make sure you have good family programs in place if your family is planning a cruise.
Statistics
- *20% Gratuities Apply on Free Unlimited Open Bar; Free Specialty Dining. (ncl.com)
- For an example of savings, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. (travel.usnews.com)
- If you're traveling alone, you may also need to factor in a single supplement, adding up to as much as 100% of the cruise fare. (travel.usnews.com)
- The line estimates savings of 50% when you purchase this bundle. (travel.usnews.com)
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How To
How to enjoy a cruise alone
A cruise is great for couples and singles looking to have fun with no hassle.
They let you explore another part of the planet while still having all the comforts that come with home.
You will be able to spend a lot of time on your own and not feel bored, as there are always exciting activities nearby.
You will find many amenities on cruise ships like bars, restaurants, swimming pool, gyms, spas, casinos, and more.
If you don’t have the time or desire to do anything, you can read books or just watch movies.
Sometimes, there are special events like concerts and shows that are free.
There are many choices for food, from buffets to fine dining restaurants.
You can eat whenever you want and wherever you want to.
You can sit next to someone or in your own cabin at the table.
Most cruises allow pets to travel with them to enjoy meals.
Some cruise liners have even swimming pools.
This allows you to spend the day relaxing or swimming in the pool.
A majority of cruise ships include saunas or steam rooms. These are great places where you can relax after a tiring day exploring the ports.
When you return to your room, you can freshen up before returning to the main area.
A cruise liner is a floating hotel, and you can treat it like one.
So a cruise is worth considering if you want to experience something new.
It's a good idea also to bring extra clothes when you board. This way you won't rush to get dressed once you reach your destination.