Cruises trip has a long and interesting history. They are usually scheduled for a period of many days, and are round-trip. These relaxing voyages usually include several stop-overs in exotic locations.

Reaching the destination is not the expedition\’s goal, rather it is the journey itself. The liners feature many amenities to make the voyage as enjoyable as possible. These include games, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, fully-stocked bars, entertainment, sun-decks, gourmet meals, and comfortable staterooms with balconies and windows.

Cruising plays a major role in the world\’s thriving tourist industry. During 2011, the industry has generated almost 30 billion dollars, and served over 19 million passengers. Every year since 2001, at least nine new vessels have been introduced to the North American market.

In 1900, the first pleasure-liner was built. The cruising trend evolved from frequent trans-Atlantic crossings required for inter-continental travel. Those journeys always lasted at least four days. Ocean liners began to be designed with amenities which would appeal to passengers. An early example of a luxury liner is the Titanic. It featured comfortable staterooms and fine dining experiences.

During the late 1980s, modern ocean liners were constructed in growing numbers. The first mega-ship was the Sovereign-class. It featured glass elevators and multi-story atriums. In 1988, the Sovereign of the Seas went into service. It broke all records previously held for comfort and size. Part of the Royal Caribbean International\’s fleet, the current models are third-generation. These massive vessels can comfortably accommodate 833 crew members and 2,744 passengers. They currently operate a trio of Sovereign-class vessels.

Today, the most massive vessels are in the Oasis class. Also owned by Royal Caribbean International, they can transport a maximum of 6,296 passengers. They have many features, such as 16 decks designated for passengers. During 2008, the organization announced their plans for a new cruiser, the Central Park. It has a five-deck central area which is open-air, and contains upscale shops and restaurants, as well as arched glass domes and lush tropical gardens. A bar, the Rising Tide, raises and lowers among three decks. The park is overlooked by 334 beautiful staterooms, 254 of them have private decks.

Many contemporary vessels feature fine amenities that are also found in high-end resorts. Two gourmet meals are planned for each day. In addition to the sit-down meal services, many 24-hour buffets are also open. All supplies are stocked while docked at home ports. Many items are needed for week-long cruises. On the Royal Caribbean International\’s Mariner of the Seas vessel, members of the crew and passengers consume 8,000 gallons of ice cream, 18,000 slices of pizza, 20,000 pounds of beef, and 28,000 eggs in one week.

Amenities featured on modern liners are varied. They include buffet restaurants, lounges, gyms, clubs, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, hot tubs, theaters with Broadway-themed shows, cinemas, libraries, fitness centers, and spas. Some also include miniature golf courses, video arcades, basketball courts, bowling alleys, tennis courts, ice skating rinks, and rock climbing walls. While at-sea, many also open exclusive shops and casinos.

This pleasant past-time has been popular for a century. The cruises trip industry has continued to grow, with newer, bigger ocean-liners featuring more amenities. New destinations and ports of call are also being added regularly.

Author Bio: Toronto cruises are in demand today for providing business parties all around the waterways of the city.