underwater cruise ship

Blue Eye, Ponant underwater lounge revealed

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Details of the new Ponant underwater lounge called Blue Eye have been revealed, including two giant eye-shaped portholes beneath the waves.

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Details of the worlds first underwater lounge on a cruise liner have been revealed today by luxury small ship operator Ponant . The Ponant underwater lounge will be called Blue Eye and feature two giant portholes beneath the waves.

French-owned Ponant, renowned for it’s pioneering spirit, will install the remarkable subaquatic lounges on each of their four new 92-cabin Explorer class ships. Le Lapérouse, currently under construction, will be the first cruise ship on Earth to be equipped with one of these new multi-sensory underwater spaces. It will be located within the hull and below the water line.

Portholes beneath the waves on Le Lapérouse.

The giant portholes in the Blue Eye Ponant underwater lounge are shaped like the eye of a cetacean and will look directly out below the waves. Ponant tell us they will enable guests to observe the fauna and flora of this sub-aquatic universe, particularly when these small ships manoeuvre close to shore.

There will also be integrated digital screens in the Blue Lounge which will project images filmed by three live underwater cameras placed at strategic points around the ship. These cameras will enable guests to see natural spectacles like dolphins playing in the bow waves.

Guests can also plug into the sound of the underwater world too thanks to hydrophones, developed in consultation with specialists from the French Research Institute for the Exploitation of the Sea (IFREMER), that will be integrated beneath the keel.

Sounds from up to 5-kilometres away will be transmitted live to the Blue Eye lounge’s unique Body Listening sofas that not only allow guests to hear, but also feel the symphony of life below the waves.

The first two Ponant Explorers to feature the Blue Eye lounge, Le Lapérouse and sister-ship Le Champlain, will be operational from mid-2018.

Construction of the remaining two Ponant Explorers is now also underway with the cutting of the first steel for Le Bougainville and Le Dumont-d’Urville. These are both due to be delivered in 2019.

About the Author: Jason Kerr

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Ponant Unveils the First Underwater Cruise Lounge

By Jennifer M. Wood

From bungee jumps to water flumes, it might seem as if the cruise industry has run out of ideas for over-the-top amenities . But one onboard concept that has never been attempted has been right under their noses—and vessels—the entire time: an underwater bar. Last week, Ponant unveiled designs for “Blue Eye,” a multi-sensory underwater lounge that will take travelers under the sea on four of its new Ponant Explorer ships, which will launch over the next two years.

The spaces—which will sit beneath the water line on the new vessels—features two glass portholes meant to mimic the eyes of a whale looking out into the water, a series of digital screens projecting live images of the sea around them, and a soothing soundtrack courtesy of what the company describes as “the natural symphony of the sea across a three-mile radius,” which will be piped into the space via hydrophones. Cruisers can kick back on one of Blue Eye’s “Body Listening Sofas,” which vibrate in sync with the acoustics. Basically, it’s like a deep-sea dive where you don’t have to worry about your body getting wet or your cocktail glass running dry.

The design and features further evoke marine life.

Blue Eye is the result of a collaboration between Ponant and architect/oceanographer Jacques Rougerie , who has dedicated much of his career to building underwater museums and other habitats around the world.

“In my work, I have always had my heart set on making people aware of the role that the sea has played in the history of humanity,” Rougerie explained in a press statement . “I designed this multisensory underwater lounge in order for it to become enshrined at the heart of the Ponant philosophy. I set out to discover this fragile and exciting ocean world, which covers 71 percent of the planet’s surface and remains a huge mystery for mankind.”

While cruisers love to hit the open seas, Rougerie is right that they don’t often get to interact with the thriving subterranean world beneath those state rooms and sundecks. “The state-of-the-art technology developed with Ponant lets guests become modern-day explorers, following in the wake of Jules Verne, Jacques-Yves Cousteau, and the great adventurers,” according to Rougerie.

Le Lapérouse will be the first cruise ship to feature the "Blue Eye" lounge when it launches in 2018, followed later in the year by Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, and Le Dumont-d’Urville in 2019.

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Exclusive Announcement: Introducing the World’s First Underwater Roller Coaster!

Attention all thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts! Get ready to experience a whole new level of excitement as we proudly announce the world’s first underwater roller coaster at sea!

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Our underwater roller coaster will offer the perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping excitement and awe-inspiring beauty. Riders will have the unique opportunity to experience the wonders of the ocean like never before, all while enjoying the exhilaration of a world-class roller coaster.

But that’s not all – in true cruise ship fashion, our underwater roller coaster will also feature state-of-the-art technology, stunning design, and luxurious amenities to ensure that your experience is nothing short of unforgettable. From comfortable seating and smooth rides to immersive sound and visual effects, every aspect of our underwater coaster has been meticulously designed to provide the ultimate thrill ride experience.

So whether you’re a seasoned roller coaster enthusiast or just looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure, our underwater roller coaster is sure to take your breath away. Get ready to dive into a whole new world of excitement and wonder as you ride the world’s first underwater roller coaster on our cruise ships.

Don’t miss your chance to be among the first to experience this groundbreaking attraction. Stay tuned for more details and be prepared to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Get ready to experience the thrill of a lifetime on our world’s first underwater roller coaster.

Just kidding – April Fools! While the idea of an underwater roller coaster may be a dream for some, for now, you’ll have to stick to traditional coasters on dry land. But hey, you never know what the future holds!

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What Are Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms and Are Passengers Allowed In?

I personally love cruising and have been on a ship a few times. But have you ever wondered whether cruise ships come with underwater rooms? 

The question is – what are they, and are you allowed in? Moreover, do they have panoramic windows to let you observe ocean wildlife?

Let’s try to figure out the answers, shall we?

Table of Content

• Crew cabins

Social and dining rooms for the crew

Fridges and freezers, engine rooms, laundry room, medical center, jail and morgue, why most cruise ships don’t have windows under water, can passengers book a room in the underwater part of a cruise ship , ponant le champlain, ponant le bellot, ponant le bougainville, ponant le dumont-d’urville , ponant le laperouse, over to you, what rooms can be found underwater in cruise ships.

Even if you’re not planning on spending time in the underwater cruise ship rooms, it still can be good to familiarize yourself with it. Learning about them can help you better understand how the ship functions. 

So here’s the list of the rooms:

• Crew cabins 
• Social and dining rooms for the crew 
• Fridges and freezers 
• Engine rooms 
• Laundry rooms
• Medical center 
• Jail and morgue 

Now let’s discuss their functions.

As you can guess, these rooms are where the crew members stay. Depending on the ship, cabins can be located below the waterline or totally submerged. 

But unlike the passenger rooms, the crew cabin isn’t spacious and fancy. Instead, these rooms are narrow and only include essential features. 

You can get an idea of how they look from this picture:

Here, crew members share dorm-like rooms based on their department. These crew cabins also have access to shared bars, eating rooms, and gyms. 

Usually, two members share one room, but bigger cabins for more individuals are also available. Bunk beds are the standard type of bedding as it enables more members to sleep within a confined space. So basically, each square foot matters on a ship. 

For privacy, some ships add curtains on the bunk beds. Other noteworthy characteristics are TVs, storage space, a private bathroom, shelves, and a cooler. 

The members with a higher rank have private cabins with windows and more amenities. 

More commonly known as crew messes, these rooms serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the crew members. Al their meals are made in the crew galley, which is on the same level.

This room is also a great opportunity for the staff to socialize and get a quick break from their duties.

Here’s what it looks like:

The crew members line up and choose the food they want, similar to a high school cafeteria. However, newer ships are progressing towards having seating booths that resemble a restaurant.

The dining room is also where the crew members can hang out. It is like a buffet and is usually pretty large. Just so you know, there are different places for the crew to eat, depending on their rank.

Finally, there’s usually a TV in the underwater dining room so the crew can catch up on their favorite shows while enjoying their meal.

Cruise ships usually have mini bars with fridges and freezers that store food and drinks. For example, some refrigerators are for beverages and snacks that passengers order for room service delivery.

On the other hand, some freezers are workstations for crew members. For instance, in the fish freezer, fishmongers are responsible for cleaning and cutting the fish, while butchers cut the meat from the beef freezer. 

You can see the freezer here:

The refrigerator system is truly critical as it carries refrigerated victuals and cargo for the passengers and crew members. Refrigeration ensures that food is fresh at all times. Plus, it prevents oxidation and the spread of germs. 

These underwater rooms are definitely the heart of a cruise ship. This is where the hammers, pistons, and crankshafts rotate to make the vessel progress ahead. 

No other room is as important as an engine room, which looks like this:

The engine room is located above the keel to ensure stability, which means that the ship’s lowest deck is completely dedicated to machinery.

Instead of a long hall spreading in the hull, the machinery of the engine room is segmented into tiny watertight departments. One area might feature air conditioning, whereas the other compartment can include main engines. That’s why engine rooms are a minimum of three decks high.

The laundry room is particularly useful for worldwide cruise travels, in which the individuals can wash, dry, and iron their clothes. Moreover, parents with children can also take advantage of these facilities. 

Here is what the room looks like:

All the leading cruise lines offer wash, press, and ironing facilities in the laundry cabin. These self-service launderettes are a one-stop destination for washing your clothes. 

Plus, laundry rooms are usually situated near passenger rooms, so you won’t have to lug a basket of clothes several decks down. 

We’re humans and can get sick anytime, even on the water. So what can passengers do in such an emergency? 

Worry not, as a separate medical center is available on all cruise ships for this purpose.

Here’s how they look:

With these medical centers on the ship, you’ll always have a team of professional medical personnel available to help you with whatever you need. They provide top-quality emergency medical care to all passengers. Most cruise ships include one or more doctors with nurses for their assistance. 

The medical center commonly includes beds and is situated on the lower decks, away from the crowds. Finally, the onboard medical care treats scrapes, sunburn, seasickness, and much more. 

Did you know that there’s a jail on the ship? Oh, yes! There’s a small jail on the vessel called the brig. Whoever becomes a threat to other passengers or violates the law will be sent to the cruise jail. 

Like the medical center, it’s also located away from the crowds – in the crew-only areas. 

Here’s what it looks like:

Brig guarantees passengers’ safety until law enforcement can tackle complicated issues once the ship arrives at the shore. 

And morgues also exist on these vessels, in case you were wondering.

Big ships include a designated morgue if a passenger passes away during traveling. Cruises are equipped to hold dead bodies until the ship arrives at a port big enough to return the deceased bodies to their homes.

Sorry to burst your bubble, but underwater cabins usually don’t come with windows, and let me tell you why. 

• The sea water isn’t very clear down there because of engines working and stirring up the water.
• Glass windows require continuous cleaning, which costs a lot. 
• With time, glass windows can get scratched. 

Due to these reasons, underwater windows are made of three-ply tempered glass laminate adept at tolerating pressure. 

As mentioned above, the lowest decks are primarily intended for crew members, who eat in the crew mess, manage the engine room, sleep in their designated cabin, and so on. 

All the rooms below the waterline are responsible for running the ship and account for 10% of the total area. 

However, underwater rooms for passengers are usually available on river cruise ships. The windows are at head height when travelers are standing and are only above the waterline.

You can grasp an idea of what these cabins look like from the video below:

These are the cheapest rooms on the ship, and some people call them aquarium class because it’s like you’re living in a fishbowl. 

Cruise Ships with Underwater Lounges

Even though I told you that most ships don’t have underwater rooms with panoramic windows available to the passengers, some explorer ships still offer that option. 

In particular, cruising company Ponant has introduced such vessels to its customers. They have underwater lounges below the water line, where you can observe the wildlife while enjoying a tasty drink. 

Sounds exciting, doesn’t it?

Now, let’s take a closer look at these ships. 

First up, Ponant Le Champlain belongs to the Ponant Explorer series, which unravels remote locations. Its sustainable and innovative infrastructure guarantees an elite atmosphere, so you can expect low-profile luxury.

Here are the core characteristics of this ship :

• Can accommodate184 guests.
• 92 staterooms & suites.
• 2 restaurants.
• An underwater bar.

In addition to the stunning views of ocean life, the underwater bar also offers a variety of delicious drinks and snacks. Whether you’re looking to relax with a cocktail or two or are interested in trying something new, trust me, this would be your favorite place to do it.

Check out this walk-through video to get an idea of how awesome it all looks:

This expert from Harr Travel points out that, although Le Champlain is a “smaller” ship, there is still plenty of room on board, and you won’t feel cramped or crowded, even during mealtimes or when you’re getting off the ship to explore.

Featuring the latest equipment, racing lines, a pleasant ambiance, and contemporary architecture, Ponant Le Bellot presents minimal cabins to maximize the best experience for all onboard.

Here are its prominent features:

• Eco-friendly sailing.
• Terrace or balcony with each unit.
• Spacious rooms.

There’s also the Blue Eye – a multi-sensorial underwater lounge that can simultaneously accommodate 40 passengers. You can take a closer look at it in this video:

This is the Blue Eye – a multi-sensorial underwater lounge that can simultaneously accommodate 40 passengers.

And if you want to learn more about what this ship features in general, check out this walk-through:

As the only flaw, the reviewer stated that the balconies do not have a glass fence like most other ships, so you cannot see through it. But on the other hand, when you get up from the chair, the view is enchanting!

The next on my list is Ponant Le Bougainville , which comes with the following features:

• Open-to-the-sea design.
• A marina to access the ship’s Zodiac inflatables easier.
• An outdoor pool. 
• An underwater lounge.

Speaking of the underwater lounge, this is a unique and exciting place to enjoy the underwater world and drink some tasty cocktails. It has a clear glass bottom that offers a stunning view of ocean life. 

And here’s a solid review of Ponant Le Bougainville by the passenger named Sheila:

According to Sheila, the ship offers minimum entertainment, so don’t expect a casino or many children amenities. But, on the other hand, she’s very pleased with the underwater lounge.

I couldn’t wait to present you a Ponant Le Dumont-d’Urville, which is a rare delight with its many on-site comforts, some of which are as follows:

• Hi-tech equipment. 
• A multi-sensorial underwater lounge. 
• Comfy bedding and armchairs. 

The underwater bar on this Ponant ship is a truly special experience. Guests can sit at the bar and watch the underwater world go by through the huge windows. So impressive, isn’t it?

Ponant Le Dumont-d’Urville has excellent onboard facilities that you’ll absolutely love. My best friend had her honeymoon here, and she can’t stop talking about it. 

I know you’re excited to see a walk-through video of this beauty (including the underwater bar), so there you go:

This video covers just about everything, including the cabins, which are very luxuriously decorated.

Finally, answer this question – can you imagine the highest luxury with cruise exploration?

This is what Ponant Le Laperouse can offer you – and even more than you can imagine!

These are its main features:

• A theatre, pool deck, panoramic lounge, and wellness center. 
• Terrace or balcony. 
• Tasteful interiors. 

The panoramic lounge is spacious and comfortable, and it has a bar where you can order drinks. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring the ship and enjoy watching the ocean’s flora and fauna.

And here’s a video of a happy passenger enjoying the lounge (and showing us the rest of the ship):

This passenger sailed on Ponant Le Laperouse around New Zealand and was impressed with such a rich offer. There are even 92 cabins – each one with a balcony and breathtaking views.

I hope you enjoyed learning about underwater rooms for passengers offered by cruise lines.

To wrap up, these are the rooms in all underwater decks:

• Social and dining venues for crew members.
• Jail and morgue.
• Freezers and refrigerators.
• Medical center.
• Laundry rooms.
• Engine room.

Although most cruise ships don’t offer panoramic underwater lounges, there are some explorers, like the ones I’ve listed, that still let you enjoy the rich oceanic world.

Did you have fun reading this article? I have more of these on travel topics, so go check them out on my blog ! Thank you for reading!

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Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms – Discover the World Under the Sea

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to explore the world under the sea, With underwater cruise ship rooms , you can do just that! These rooms let you experience everything from coral reefs to schools of fish without having to get wet. Plus, they’re a great way to add a little excitement to your vacation. So if you’re looking for a unique and adventurous travel experience, check some of the best ship rooms out there. You won’t regret it!

What are underwater cruise ship rooms?

The majority of people do not consider what’s underneath the waters of cruise ships. But for certain, it might be an interesting thing to look at. The two lower decks are typically restricted to crew only and rooms aren’t accessible to visitors. What exactly are these submerged rooms on cruise ships for?

While the bottoms of cruise ships may appear to be wide, they’re actually quite narrow in comparison to the rest of the vessel. They generally are no greater than 30 feet or 9.1 meters below sea level, which is less than 10 percent of the overall height.

Rooms for Cruise Ships in the Underwater

You can now enjoy all the wonders of the sea without even getting wet! Underwater cruise ship rooms are typically located near the ship’s hull, providing guests with a stunning view of the marine life swimming by.

Imagine swimming in the ocean and then coming up to your room to find a bed, TV, and mini-bar waiting for you. 

Many rooms also feature large windows that let in natural light, providing a bright and airy space to relax in. Cruise lines are now offering Underwater Cruise Ship Rooms that let you experience the beauty of the sea while lying in bed.

And don’t worry – these rooms are fully equipped with all the amenities you need, including air conditioning and private bathrooms. 

So whether you’re an experienced scuba diver or simply looking to explore the world beneath the waves, underwater cruise ship rooms are sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Some of these rooms even have large windows that give you a perfect view of the marine life swimming around you.

Underwater Cruise Lounge

In the year 2019 Ponant the French expedition company, unveiled the world’s first underwater lounge. Blue Eye created by the architect Jacques Rougerie, is a spacious, multi-sensory space set that is on four vessels of the fleet of Le Dumont-d’Urville, Le Bougainville , Le Champlain, and Le Laperouse.

Onboard, passengers can walk under the waterline to the lounge. Two huge glass portholes resemble the eyes of whales, allowing passengers to enjoy a stunning ocean view while spotting the exotic species of marine life and different marine animals.

The lounges also have digital screens that show live images that were recorded using three cameras underwater and they are accompanied by underwater surround sound.

The sound originates from noises that occur within a radius of three miles from the ship. The couches of the lounge vibrate in sync with the sea and make you feel as if you are being a part of the ocean.

Crew Cabins

There is a place for the staff on the decks for the crew. On certain vessels, they’re either beneath the water or just below the waterline. The department that they are in will determine whether the crew members are in dorms and have the ability to access typical eating places, bars, and gyms.

The orlop is one of the It is on the lower of the four floors beneath sea level. This is considered to be the bottom deck on a cruise vessel and is the most distant from the rear of the ship. The space is typically used for the storage of cables and ropes and might have earned its name because of the cables that typically cover the space.

Although it may sound like an incredibly fast-paced road, I-95 is located below decks for public use. It is the primary route that runs from the forward side towards the Aft. It provides crew members with access to the various areas of the vessel.

In the course of time, this bustling region was named I-95. I-95 in honor of the famed interstate which runs along the East Coast to the U.S. and ends in Miami (which is, in a way the capital of cruise ships).

Its look is similar to what you would think. It appears to be an extended hallway with storage spaces and doors that lead to various spaces. It’s a well-designed layout that is constantly busy with the fast-paced actions of employees and personnel.

Crew Bar and the OB

Cruise ships have lounges where guests can relax and take a break and relax. The crew can enjoy the same amenities. Its OB (or officer’s bar) offers exclusive space for officers’ spas, cruise, and entertainment personnel.

The bar for crew members is open to anyone employed at the ship. Drinks are less expensive in the crew bars, and there are activities and music to relax during their downtime. It’s a popular spot to buy things for your cabin.

If there were ports that were not able to be reached due to weather storms or other events that affect the itinerary won’t allow the newsletter to be published. This would give inaccurate and misleading information.

Every ship has an underwater space that has a print shop in which news announcements, daily planners, notes, and flyers are made.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a new and adventurous way to travel, consider an underwater cruise ship room. You’ll be able to see the world in a whole new light – quite literally. So if you’re interested in adding a little excitement to your next vacation, book some underwater cruise ship rooms today!

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Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

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For the first time, we’re spotlighting new cruise ships on Travel + Leisure ’s It List, as these exceptional vessels become more and more like floating resorts — celebrity chefs, crystal chandeliers, and Rolex boutiques included.

Explora Journeys’ Explora I

Paul Brady/Travel + Leisure

It’s not every day a new cruise line arrives. The debut of the remarkable Explora I was a moment years in the making for Explora Journeys , the upstart luxury operator that aims to bring a European sensibility to the world of vacations at sea. So far, the project is a smashing success, thanks to the ship’s low-key vibe, standout food and beverage, and intriguing itineraries that visit in-demand ports in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. My own August 2023 trip on Explora I , from Copenhagen to Hamburg, Germany, included fulfilling visits to places such as Oslo and the town of Stavanger, Norway, a gateway to adventurous hiking with a postcard-perfect Old Town. The ship itself was also a destination, with its abundance of outdoor space — including an alfresco fitness center — and pools at seemingly every turn. The 461 suites, all of them with balconies, are filled with luxurious touches such as Frette linens and robes, heated marble floors, and Dyson hair dryers. But Explora I truly shines when it comes to food: During the week I was aboard, it was impossible to find a bad meal — and I was often astonished at the quality of, in particular, the pasta served in the Emporium Marketplace and the sushi on offer at Sakura, two of the nine restaurants aboard. The most ambitious of them all is Anthology, a rotating-chef concept that has seen a residency from seafood whiz Mario Ulaissi, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant on Italy's Adriatic coast, and that recently welcomed Emma Bengtsson, from Aquavit , in New York City. Much has been made of Explora I ’s Rolex boutique — the first on any cruise ship — but for my money, the other shops on board were more interesting: The company has tapped family-owned businesses around the world to create capsule collections of resort wear, handbags, fragrances, sunglasses, and beautiful gifts that can’t be found elsewhere. From $2,050 per person for a six-day sailing. Accessible ship. — Paul Brady

Oceania Cruises’ Vista

Nick Tortajada/Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

The new Oceania Vista is in a class of its own; no really, it’s the first in Oceania Cruises ’ new Allura class. Of its 11 bars and restaurants, three are entirely new to the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings–owned brand — including a high-end cocktail spot called Founders’ Bar, serving 26 intricate drinks that use house-made syrups and top-shelf booze like Whistle Pig and parsley-infused Grey Goose. As Oceania levels up, the cruise line has produced a ship that feels more like a floating resort than the vessels that came before. There’s pickleball; a health-conscious restaurant, Aquamar, serving made-to-order salads and pressed juices; and a coffee shop that looks like one in walking distance of my home in L.A. (marble counters, gold accents, leather bar stools) and pulls an espresso shot of similar quality. Vista has more suites than others in the Oceania fleet, too: There are 14 Oceania Suites (up to 1,200 square feet); eight Vista Suites (up to 1,850 square feet); and three Owner’s Suites with Ralph Lauren Home decor and two massive terraces (2,400 square feet). But the most hotel-like touch? A celebrity chef–driven restaurant, Toscana, where Giada De Laurentiis — the ship’s godmother — supplied two recipes for the menu. As someone who watched a lot of Everyday Italian in the early aughts, I was particularly excited to try her signature, Capri-inspired lemon spaghetti, and lemon-cream sauce with grilled shrimp and capers didn’t disappoint. From $2,499 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sixth ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur , sailed its inaugural season in December, joining sibling ships Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor as the newest member of the luxury fleet. The cruise line is a favorite among T+L readers for its gorgeous ships and all-inclusive pricing that covers unlimited shore excursions, dining at specialty restaurants, and even round-trip airfare. Grandeur lives up to its name thanks to stunning, art-filled spaces designed by cruise ship interior experts Studio Dado: signature restaurant Compass Rose is enchanting with interiors inspired by a fairy-tale forest; the Observation Lounge sparkles with an undulating chandelier and swanky bar; and the $11,000-per-night Regent Suite has a private en suite spa and custom Treesse mini pool. As I boarded Grandeur for the ship’s inaugural sailing, I was mesmerized by the grand staircase and glittering chandelier. And with a maximum capacity of 744 guests, I found it easy to take time to myself in the myriad of quiet spots tucked throughout the ship, whether in the Serene Spa and Wellness area, in the Library, or on the Sports Deck overlooking the ocean. Seven restaurants include specialty steakhouse Prime 7, pan-Asian restaurant Pacific Rim, and breakfast and lunch buffet La Veranda, which refines the cruise buffet experience with daily specials like paella and sushi. Several bars and lounges, a pool and hot tubs, a casino, Broadway-style productions, and cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen make the ship a destination in itself, though guests will want to take advantage of those included excursions on Caribbean, Central American, North American, and European itineraries, ranging from seven to 16 nights, during the ship’s 2024 season. From $4,669 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Silversea’s Silver Nova

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Carrying 728 passengers, Silver Nova is big for the luxury sector, but boasts a hugely important metric: a capacious passenger space ratio — that is, the number of guests relative to the size of the ship. Simply put, this ship offers more elbow room per passenger than almost any other cruise vessel. Silver Nova is wrapped in glass, with an asymmetrical layout; the funnel is positioned off-center, so is the pool, offering an expansive, uncluttered pool deck. Many features of the brand-new ship recall previous Silversea successes, my favorite of which is the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program, expanded for Silver Nova . S.A.L.T. perks include a gorgeous, sea-facing lab for hands-on culinary lessons (at no additional cost), plus a new concept, the Chef’s Table, where an 11-course menu is prepared for just 24 diners. All facets of the S.A.L.T. ecosystem, including ingredients, a bar, lectures, and shore excursions, are keyed to the region Nova is sailing. While food is a drawing card for Silver Nova , accommodations also received a revamp. Tied to the theme of bringing the outside in, there are brilliant new suites found in the aft starboard corner of the ship, with wraparound balconies revealing a 270-degree view.  This is where you can tuck me in when I win the lottery and head off on a world cruise. But until then, Silver Nova will summer in Alaska and spend northern hemisphere winters in Australia and New Zealand, places where top-deck views should prove ceaselessly rewarding. From $3,250 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — David Swanson

It List 2024

New deep-water channel allows first ship to pass Key bridge wreckage in Baltimore

B ALTIMORE (AP) — The first cargo ship passed through a newly opened deep-water channel in Baltimore on Thursday after being stuck in the harbor since the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed four weeks ago, halting most maritime traffic through the city’s port.

The Balsa 94, a bulk carrier sailing under a Panama flag, passed through the new 35-foot (12-meter) channel headed for Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada. Two more commercial ships followed later Thursday, including a vehicle carrier headed to Panama.

Their long-awaited voyages marked an important step in the ongoing cleanup and recovery effort as crews have been working around the clock to clear thousands of tons of mangled steel and concrete from the entrance to Baltimore’s harbor.

Five vessels that have been stranded for weeks are expected to finally leave Baltimore through the new, temporary channel. Other ships are scheduled to enter the port, which normally processes more cars and farm equipment than any other in the country.

Thousands of longshoremen, truckers and small business owners have seen their jobs impacted by the collapse, prompting local and state officials to prioritize reopening the port and restoring its traffic to normal capacity in hopes of easing the economic ripple effects of the collapse. Officials have also established various assistance programs for unemployed workers and others impacted by the closure.

On Thursday morning, the Balsa 94 moved through the channel guided by two tug boats, one in front and one behind. It glided slowly past the fallen bridge and grounded Dali, the massive container ship that caused the collapse when it slammed into one of the bridge’s support columns.

Pieces of the steel span are still blocking other parts of the port’s main channel, which has a controlling depth of 50 feet (15 meters), enough to accommodate some of the largest cargo and cruise ships on the water.

The Balsa 94 is expected to arrive in Canada on Monday.

The Dali lost power and veered off course shortly after leaving the Port of Baltimore bound for Sri Lanka last month.

Six members of a roadwork crew — all Latino immigrants from Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras — plunged to their deaths in the collapse. Four bodies have been recovered from the underwater wreckage while two remain missing.

A memorial for the victims near the south end of the bridge has grown in recent weeks. It now includes six large wooden crosses decorated with flags from the victims’ home countries and other personal items, including the hardhats and work boots that allowed them to provide for their families and chase the American dream. A painted canvas backdrop displays abstract scenes from the bridge collapse and salvage efforts as well as handwritten notes from the men’s loved ones.

“We want to send a message to the world that we’re here and we care,” said the artist, Roberto Marquez, who was visiting the memorial late Thursday morning. “We will be here working until they are all recovered.”

The new channel will remain open until Monday or Tuesday and then close again until roughly May 10. During the closure, crews will work to remove steel spans from the deck of the Dali and refloat the ship, which will then be guided back into the port, officials said earlier this week.

The port’s main channel is set to reopen next month after the Dali has been removed from the collapse site. That will allow for a normal flow of traffic to resume through the port.

But for now, the 35-foot depth is a substantial increase over the three other temporary channels established in recent weeks. It puts the cleanup effort slightly ahead of schedule, as officials previously said they hoped to open a channel of that depth by the end of April.

A hulking vehicle carrier named Carmen that is nearly as long as the Dali became the third commercial ship to traverse the channel Thursday afternoon. Viewed from the deck of a nearby passenger boat, it appeared to sail steadily between the marker buoys, dwarfing the cranes, barges and other wreckage removal equipment that was stationed nearby.

Even with commercial ships chugging past, crews continued the arduous process of clearing debris from the collapse site. On Thursday, they were using a crane apparatus to smash the fallen roadway into more manageable pieces that could be lifted from underwater with a giant claw.

In a court filing Monday, Baltimore’s mayor and city council called for the Dali’s owner and manager to be held fully liable for the bridge collapse, which they said could be devastating for the regional economy. They said the port , which was established before the nation’s founding, has long been an economic driver for Baltimore and the surrounding area. Losing the bridge itself has also disrupted a major east coast trucking route.

The filing came in response to an earlier petition on behalf of the two companies asking a court to cap their liability under a pre-Civil War provision of an 1851 maritime law — a routine procedure for such cases. A federal court in Maryland will ultimately decide who’s responsible and how much they owe.

In the meantime, both the FBI and the National Transportation Safety Board are conducting probes to determine what caused the ship to lose power and strike the bridge.

This story was first published April 25, 2024. It was updated April 26, 2024, to correct the destination of a ship. It is Saint John, in New Brunswick, Canada, not St. John.

New deep-water channel allows first ship to pass Key Bridge wreckage in Baltimore

BALTIMORE — The first cargo ship passed through a newly opened deep-water channel in Baltimore on Thursday after being stuck in the harbor since the  Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed  four weeks ago, halting most maritime traffic through the city’s port.

The Balsa 94, a bulk carrier sailing under a Panama flag, passed through the new 35-foot channel headed for St. John, Canada.

Its voyage marked an important step in the ongoing cleanup and recovery effort as salvage crews have been working around the clock to clear thousands of tons of mangled steel and concrete from the entrance to Baltimore’s harbor.

The ship is one of five stranded vessels expected to pass through the new, temporary channel, including one loaded car carrier. Other ships are scheduled to enter the port, which normally processes more cars and farm equipment than any other in the country.

On Thursday morning, the vessel moved through the channel guided by two tug boats, one in front and one behind. It passed in between red and green buoys marking the channel’s boundaries and glided slowly by the wreckage of the bridge and  the grounded Dali, the massive container ship  that caused the collapse when it slammed into one of the bridge’s support columns.

Pieces of the fallen bridge are still blocking other parts of the port’s main channel, which has a controlling depth of 50 feet (15 meters), enough to accommodate some of the largest cargo and cruise ships. Officials have prioritized opening a temporary channel deep enough for large commercial vessels to pass through in hopes of easing the economic impacts of the collapse.

The Balsa 94 is expected to arrive in Canada on Monday.

The Dali lost power and veered off course shortly after leaving the Port of Baltimore bound for Sri Lanka last month. Six members of a roadwork crew plunged to their deaths in the collapse. Four bodies have been recovered from the underwater wreckage while two remain missing.

The new channel will remain open until Monday or Tuesday. It will close again until roughly May 10 while crews work to remove steel from the Dali and refloat the ship, which will then be guided back into the port, officials said earlier this week.

The 35-foot depth is a substantial increase over the three other temporary channels established in recent weeks. It puts the cleanup effort slightly ahead of schedule, as officials previously said they hoped to open a channel of that depth by the end of April.

The port’s main channel is set to reopen next month after the ship has been removed. That will essentially restore marine traffic to normal.

In a  court filing  Monday, Baltimore’s mayor and city council called for the Dali’s owner and manager to be held fully liable for the bridge collapse, which they said could be devastating for the regional economy. They said  the port , which was established before the nation’s founding, has long been an economic driver for Baltimore and the surrounding area. Losing the bridge itself has also disrupted a major east coast trucking route.

Officials have established a slew of assistance programs for port workers and others whose jobs are suffering as a result of the collapse.

The filing came in response to an earlier petition on behalf of the two companies asking a court to cap their liability under a pre-Civil War provision of an 1851 maritime law — a routine procedure for such cases. A federal court in Maryland will ultimately decide who’s responsible and how much they owe.

In the meantime, both the  FBI and the National Transportation Safety Board  are conducting probes to determine what caused the ship to lose power and strike the bridge.

The Associated Press

How Much of a Cruise Ship is Underwater?

When you see the size of some modern-day cruise ships, especially the mega cruise ships it’s common for people to wonder how much of the cruise ship is underwater compared to the huge amounts we see above the waterline.

The answer might come as a surprise because, in relation to the size of the cruise ship, surprisingly, little of the ship is actually underwater.

How Much of a Cruise Ship is Under water?

Usually, about 10% of a cruise ship’s overall height is under the water. This equates to about 30ft for large cruise ships.  The underwater part of the ship’s hull is typically wide at the back narrowing towards the bow.

It usually correlates proportionally that the larger the cruise ship is, the deeper the cruise ship drafts will be, but on average, this will still be around 10% of the ship’s total height.

For some, this begs the next question, how do cruise ships not tip over ?

While only 10% of the cruise ship is underwater, the bulk of the ship’s weight is contained with this lower portion ensuring a low center of gravity.

The larger the cruise ship and the more decks it has, all adding to the ship’s weight, the more you can expect it to sit in the water.

How Deep Do Cruise Ships Sit In The Water? 

For a cruise ship to float it must displace as much water equal to the weight of the cruise ship .  This typically equates to only 10% of a cruise ship’s total height sitting in the water.    

Depending on the size of the cruise ship this will be the range of 20ft to 30ft.  This is known as the draft and should be marked on the cruise ship’s hull, typically on the bow and the stern. 

This is a lot shallower than many other types of ships which are not as high but have deeper drafts.

The cruise ship draft is important because it determines which ports the cruise ship can enter safely without any part of the ship coming into contact with the floor of the docking area.  An accident no one onboard wants to experience.

Waterline Depth Indicators on the Cruise Ship

Draft mark measurement scale.

A draft mark measurement scale can be seen on either side of the ship’s bow and stern where the waterline is, indicating the current draft level.

Here you can find out more about draft marks .

Plimsoll Lines

On the side of a cruise ship is what’s known as the Plimsoll Line.   When the water line is on the plimsole line, this represents the maximum amount of weight the ship can carry.

The Plimsoll lines indicate different waterline limits for various water conditions and water types.

How Many Decks are Underwater on a Cruise Ship?

Depending on the size and type of the cruise ship, there are typically one or sometimes two decks underwater.  These will not be deck names or numbers you’ll see on a deck plan because they are out of bounds for passengers.

Even if the deck plan of a cruise ship starts at Deck 1 , it doesn’t mean that it is the lowest deck on the ship. It’s just the lowest for passengers.

These lower decks will consist of hundreds of crew cabins to provide living and sleeping space for the staff who live onboard. 

The lower decks also need to house the following:

• Various engine and mechanical rooms
• Food storage units 
• Medical Center
• Crew-only social rooms

The Majority of Ships Weight is Underwater

The majority of the cruise ship’s weight is underwater, this maintains the ship’s low center of gravity which is a vital factor for keeping the ship stable and upright and preventing the cruise ship from tipping over.

Fuel and freshwater tanks can hold thousands of tonnes.    

Machinery and masses of plumbing in the engine rooms, as well as air conditioning, take up vast areas and add considerable weight to the lowest desks.

Do Cruise Ships Have Staterooms Underwater?

There are no staterooms under the water level on any cruise lines.  There are only cabins for crew members to live and sleep in.    These are quite small and windowless.

We have covered more depth here underwater rooms on a cruise ship , including rare occurrences that offer an ocean view.

Related Reads:

• How Cruise Ships Get Launched into the Water

What Parts of a Cruise Ship Are Underwater?

On the bottom of a cruise ship , various features are out of sight when the cruise ship is underwater.

Bulbous Bow

At the bow, cruise ships have a bulbous bow, a large projection that extends out and modifies the water flowing down the side of the hull.

At the stern, you will find the propellors designed to push through the water to propel forwards or even backward in some cases.

Cruise ships tend to have wide U-shaped hulls that are under the water.  These displace large amounts of water which increases the buoyancy force required to keep such large, heavy vessels afloat .

How Much Water Does a Cruise Ship Need to Dock?

A cruise ship will generally need an extra 3 to 4 meters or 9 to 12 ft on top of the ship’s draft to dock.

If a cruise ship has a 30ft draft, it would need water depths of at least 40ft to sail safely.  The extra depth is to allow for the ships bouncing movement in the water.

Related Posts

What is the Draft of a Cruise Ship? (and Why Does it Matter?)

How Many Doors on a Cruise Ship? (Yes, I Counted)

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First cargo ship leaves Baltimore since bridge collapse via new channel

Bulk carrier uses deep-water channel en route to Canada marking important step in recovery efforts after last month’s disaster

The first cargo ship passed through a newly opened deep-water channel in Baltimore after being stuck in the harbor since the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed four weeks ago, killing a work crew and halting most maritime traffic through the city’s port.

The Balsa 94, a bulk carrier sailing under a Panama flag, passed through the new 35ft channel headed for Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, on Thursday. Two more commercial ships followed later, including a vehicle carrier headed to Panama.

Their long-awaited voyages marked an important step in the ongoing cleanup and recovery effort as crews have been working around the clock to clear thousands of tons of mangled steel and concrete from the entrance to Baltimore’s harbor.

Five vessels that have been stranded for weeks are expected to finally leave Baltimore through the new, temporary channel. Other ships are scheduled to enter the port, which normally processes more cars and farm equipment than any other in the country.

Thousands of longshoremen, truckers and small business owners have seen their jobs affected by the collapse, prompting local and state officials to prioritize reopening the port and restoring its traffic to normal capacity in hopes of easing the economic ripple effects of the collapse. Officials have also established various assistance programs for unemployed workers and others hit by the closure.

The Balsa 94 moved through the channel guided by two tug boats, one in front and one behind. It glided slowly past the fallen bridge and grounded Dali, the enormous container ship that caused the collapse when it slammed into one of the bridge’s support columns.

Pieces of the steel span are still blocking other parts of the port’s main channel, which has a controlling depth of 50ft, enough to accommodate some of the largest cargo and cruise ships on the water. The Balsa 94 is expected to arrive in Canada on Monday.

The Dali lost power and veered off course shortly after leaving the Port of Baltimore bound for Sri Lanka last month.

Six members of a roadwork crew – all Latino immigrants from Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras – plunged to their deaths in the collapse. Four bodies have been recovered from the underwater wreckage while two remain missing.

A growing memorial for the victims stands near the south end of the bridge.

• Baltimore bridge collapse
• Shipping industry

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A roller coaster in the ocean: What Carnival Cruise Line's BOLT ride is like

As I hurtled toward the Caribbean Sea , I felt a pang of regret: maybe riding a roller coaster on a cruise ship wasn’t the best idea for someone with a fear of heights.

I clutched the handles on my motorcycle-like car tight, questioning why I had committed to not just one but two laps around the course on Carnival Cruise Line’s BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster. But a few seconds in, something changed.

Surrounded by open blue water at the top of the line’s newest ship, Carnival Jubilee , I was taken with the view – so much so that the knot in my stomach I developed while waiting in line all but dissolved. The ride was fast but mostly smooth (though on one uphill section of the track, I felt myself lift off the seat a bit, but my seat belt did its job). BOLT reaches up to 40 mph, but guests can control their speed.

Zipping around the ship’s funnel, I forced myself to keep my eyes open the whole time (the opposite of my usual roller coaster coping strategy). Even the best theme parks I’ve visited haven’t had settings quite like that, and I didn’t want to miss it.

Story continues below.

Who can ride BOLT?

Passengers must meet height and weight requirements (they have to be between 4 feet 4 inches and 6 feet 5 inches tall, for instance). Children under 12 have to ride with someone 15 or older. Cars can accommodate two riders.

Guests with “structural body damage” cannot ride, according to a sign posted at BOLT’s entrance. "The sign pertains to physical impairments impeding guests' safety," a Carnival spokesperson said in an email. "For instance, a guest who cannot hold on to the handlebars would not be able to ride BOLT."

The roller coaster is also not recommended for guests with other medical conditions or limitations, including high blood pressure; neck, back, or joint problems; or those who are pregnant.

How much does BOLT cost?

The roller coaster costs $15 per person. Carnival also offers a family pack, offering three rides for the price of two. Each ride includes two laps around the track.

What other activities does Carnival Jubilee have?

BOLT debuted Carnival’s Mardi Gras ship, in 2021 and was billed as the first roller coaster at sea, but the ride is only one of many activities onboard Jubilee:

◾ Lone Star Tailgate: Jubilee, which sails out of Galveston, leans into its Texas roots (there’s even a Texas star on its bow). So, it’s only fitting that the ship hosts a Lone Star Tailgate on every voyage.The deck party is divided into four quarters (a la football), with a cattle roping competition – using steer horns attached to hay bales – a race on stick horses, live music highlighting Texas artists and more.

◾ Carnival Kitchen: Food is a major draw for many cruise passengers, and Carnival Kitchen allows them to try on a chef’s apron – literally.The venue features a range of culinary arts classes taught by the line’s staff, from pasta making to sushi 101. While the classes are available on other ships, the line debuted a new option featuring recipes from the line’s Chief Culinary Officer, Emeril Lagasse, on Jubilee.During my sailing, we made dishes like Shrimp and Okra Gumbo with Filé and New Orleans Pasta. Even for me, whose greatest culinary achievement is making scrambled eggs for breakfast, the steps were easy to follow. Plus, we got to enjoy the fruits of our labor at the end.Prices range from $45-$65 per person, depending on the class.

◾ Kids programming: Jubilee, like many other Carnival ships, also has plenty of kid-centric programming and amenities, from the Dr. Seuss-themed library, Dr. Seuss Bookville to Build-A-Bear Workshop at Sea and The Ultimate Playground where BOLT is located (think mini-golf, a ropes course and more).Jubilee’s new Currents zone features Seaquest: A Fun Sub Adventure. The video display utilizes the space’s wave-like LED ceiling and LED portals to show viewers to places like the underwater Carnival Seacation resort and the kingdom of The Golden Mermaid (also the name of a new lounge on board). At other times, passengers can change the scenes displayed via a touch screen – such as arctic waters with orcas and penguins and a shark cave – and create their own fish, which will swim into view on the portals.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected] .