The Prinzessin Victoria Lusie was the first ship built for the purpose of leisure cruises. It was designed by Albert Ballin in 1900. This was just the beginning of an exciting and lucrative industry.

In the early days a transatlantic crossing took at least four days to make the trip. These days were filled with enticing amenities such as luxurious staterooms, entertainment and fine dining. Competition in the industry led to more and more being offered to passengers.

The golden age of cruising lasted until passenger air travel took hold. Around the 1960\’s, airplane travel began to be the mode of choice for transatlantic travel. The industry needed to diversify and it did. Voyages, as opposed to ocean crossings, became the norm.

These voyages have evolved into a significant player in worldwide tourism. New ships are added to fleets each year. Millions of people enjoy the onboard activities, entertainment and dining as well as exciting ports of call.

Onboard dining has become part of the overall attraction of this type of vacation. On the vast majority of outings, food is included in the overall cost. Meal times may be assigned in a main dining room. Some offer buffet style meal service. Usually the only added fee once aboard is for alcoholic beverages.

Modern ships feature much of the same services and facilities of five star hotels and resorts. Many have casinos where guests can play games of chance. They have spas for pampering and gyms for staying in shape while onboard. Broadway style productions can be seen in the ships\’ theatres. Or movies can be seen at the cinema. Some may feature ice rinks or bowling alleys or rock climbing walls. All of this is in addition to the standard swimming pools and other outdoor activities.

The most popular ports of call can be found in the Caribbean. One of the most popular ports is The Bahamas. Its proximity to the United States makes it a convenient destination. The temperature is also an enticing feature. The weather is warm and sunny all year with only a brief rainy season. Another popular spot, especially for Americans is St. Thomas. Beautiful beaches and duty free shopping is an attractive feature.

An up and coming port of call is Alaska. Cruisers may choose two between the two standard Alaska itineraries. They are the Inside Passage and the Gulf of Alaska. Weather is always a variable to consider when choosing Alaska as a destination. The summer months, although not very warm, are good times to travel. May tends to be Alaska\’s driest months.

Cruises are a wonderful way to see different areas in on vacation. Everyone from honeymooners to families can now find a ship and an itinerary to fit their needs and wants. The industry has evolved through the years since its inception at the dawn of the twentieth century. What was once a way to get from point to point is now a cornerstone of the tourism industry. It continues to grow, adding more ports of call and luxurious offerings for passengers.

Toronto cruises are perfect for business party.