Cruise Industry Essay

1. Introduction Nowadays cruise tourism is very popular form of tourism when it comes to travelling abroad. In this report we will focus on various aspects of cruise tourism. First of all on defining of cruise tourism, then we will present it’s historically. We will focus of main features of cruise ships as like family cruisers, couples cruisers, senior cruisers, singles cruisers, gay and lesbian cruisers, world cruisers, luxury cruisers and cruises to nowhere. We include our researches of target guest group: age, nationality, social status. We will also examine the most popular global cruise liners and their kind of majority passengers. Finally, to sum up, we will come to conclusion of the report which shows us results of our research and provide recommendations from author. 2. Definitions of Cruise Tourism Cruise tourism has lots of definitions and we will describe the most important ones. Cruising is defined as a passenger vessel operating for pleasure purposes only. The Ships are not involved in the transportation industry, like ferries or cargo ships. For the Cruiser, it is not a matter of going from A to B; the voyage is a part of a holiday package (Cartwright and Baird, 1999) According to Mintel Leisure Intelligence Report (â€Å"Cruise Industry† March 2001) Cruising tourism refers to time spent on a waterborne vessel for leisure purposes. Within the tourism industry, the term ‘cruising’ is generally assumed to mean sea cruising. This tends to imply trips during which the passenger is primarily based on a vessel that travels to a number of destinations, where they disembark for short periods to visit land-based sites. The vessels are generally fully equipped with entertainment and sporting facilities, and passengers are provided with full-board style accommodation. As travel expert Douglas Ward says, †Over 10 million people can’t be wrong (that’s how many people took a cruise last year)! Cruising is popular today because it takes you away from the pressures and strains of contemporary life by offering an escape from reality. Cruise ships are reality self-contained resorts, without the crime, which can take you to several destinations in the space of just a few days.†(Ward, 2001). The author Gavin MacLeod said that: â€Å"Now as a result of that show being on, the cruise industry is just growing all over the place†. 3. History of Cruise Industry. Our world began to become industrialized and started to trade with foreign lands. Therefore, with industry and wealth, which came to us, people’s instinct to visit parts of the world only read about from these explorers of the past was now a reality once again. The first shipping company to offer a scheduled passenger service from the United States to England was the Black Ball in 1818. Trade and leisure developed equally, which provided with demand the manufacture. A luxurious ship such as the Titanic, which has his own unique history, was a great example. (www.cruiseworking.com) Ships changed very little during the first half of this century. In the 1950 Oceangoing vessels were primarily used to get from Point A to Point B, especially for second- and third-class passengers, whose accommodations were in stark contrast to those in first-class staterooms. The most common voyages were transatlantic crossings from New York to London. (www.jobmonkey.com) The real blow to the cruise ship industry came in the 1960s when Boeing began selling 747s and other aircraft worldwide. Meanwhile, a global transportation network of airports with regulated common language and air traffic controllers, in coordination with the United States Federal Aviation Administration, was being established. As the decade came to a close, it was no longer fashionable, practical, or economical to travel by boat. The age of the jumbo jet had arrived. (www.jobmonkey.com) Finally, in the 1970s contributed to the idea of luxury cruise ship. Cruise ship travelers of all social classes would enjoy first-rate rooms and service. The same is true today. Gone are the days of catering for the elite, this industry is geared up for the masses and is now one of the fastest growing sectors of the travel industry (www.cruiseworking.com). 4. Types of Cruiser Cruising can appeal to everyone, no matter what their budget or interests. Activities onboard range from aerobics aromatherapy, art auctions to rock climbing! Cruising is attracting more families, with a wide range of children’s facilities and childcare on board. So, there are few specific types of cruises: 4.1 Family Cruises Cruise with families is very interesting, useful and funny. This is the great benefit of family cruise vacations is the ability to visit many destinations without constantly packing and unpacking, or piling into the car for long stretches at a time. Once you’re onboard, you don’t need to worry about a thing. Just relax and enjoy! Furthermore, family cruises have many activities and facilities. Cruise vacations can also make for a most memorable new tradition: Holidays-at-Sea. Cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean offer special holiday menus, family activities, holiday-themed fun and even religious services. (See appendix A, p, І, for more information), (http://www.discountcruises.com) 4.2 Couples Cruises Cruisers can be endlessly romantic vocations for couples. People are trying to be more creative for their wedding, honeymoon, vow renews and that is why spend their most important and remembering time in extraordinary conditions. While any of the major cruise lines offer plenty of opportunities for fun and romance, there are those who cater specifically to couples by indulging twosomes in tons of special extras. For example, Princess Cruises helps make your special cruise even more romantic with indulgent add-ons. Swoon-worthy special occasion packages include a bottle of champagne waiting in your stateroom, spa treatments, canapà ©s or petit fours in your stateroom and more. Choose a room with a balcony and you can indulge in a lobster dinner overlooking the sparkling seas, right from the privacy of your balcony. (See Appendix A, p 9, ІІ for more information) Norwegian Cruise Lines serve up romance right in your stateroom with couple’s massages that come to you. Cruise with Holland America and take a gourmet culinary lesson together. And on a Carnival Cruise, nightly live entertainment and Broadway-worthy stage shows abound. (http://www.discountcruises.com) 4.3 Seniors Cruises This kind of cruisers are intending for more advanced people, who will find camaraderie, great times and amazing experiences while vacationing with fellow mature travelers. Also, in this section of cruising connected with differently- abled guests and guest with medical needs. For example, Cunard is one such cruise line that welcomes mature travelers. Enrichment and lecture programs let guests exercise their minds while onboard. Favorites include the Book Club, workshops on oceanography, a theatre class and more. (See Appendix A, p 10, ІІ ) Heart-healthy and delicious dining options are readily available on many cruise lines. In addition to Holland America’s Health Conscious dining option, as part of the As You Wishâ„ ¢ Dining program, guests are welcome to request any dietary needs, such as: vegetarian, diabetic, gluten-free and kosher meals. However, differently-abled guests and guests with medical needs will find Celebrity Cruises quite accommodating. Those will mobility disabilities will be able to board early, have access to scooters while onboard and can take advantage of hydraulic lifts into the sauna/pool on select ships. Deaf/hard of hearing guests as well as visually impaired gusts will also find that every attention to detail has been made to assure a comfortable, enjoyable travel experience. (http://www.discountcruises.com) 4.4 Singles Cruisers Next type of cruisers is singles cruisers, which are unexpectedly different. This form of travelling for people who welcome meeting other singles and there are those who prefer solo, quiet journeys. For example, Holland America goes out of its way to make singles cruisers happy and comfortable. Join in the solo travelers welcome at the start of your cruise. The Single Partners Program features dance partner pairings, dining with other solo cruises at your request and many activities perfect for making new friends. Chose to room with another solo traveler, or indulge in a stateroom all to yourself.(See Appendix A, p 9, І for more information) Princess Cruises also has an extensive program for singles cruisers. Special singles events let you easily meet your shipmates. And once you book your cruise, you’ll have access to an online community where you can chat with other singles cruisers before your ship departs. (http://www.discountcruises.com) 4.5 Gay and Lesbian Cruisers A small number of cruise lines cater exclusively to gay and lesbian travelers. Also, families are also welcome on specific gay-friendly cruises. For example, GLBT cruises are perfect getaways for travelers looking to relax, have a great time and meet new people. An incredible amount of onboard activities and entertainment awaits travelers on GLBT cruises. The fleet of RSVP Vacations’ ships features expansive fitness facilities, sparkling pools, bars and lounges, entertainment stages and luxurious spas. Atlantis Cruises are known for their legendary nightlife, with never ending dance parties and shows that feature top comedic, singing and dancing acts. (See Appendix A, p 10 ІІ for more information) (http://www.discountcruises.com) 4.6 World Cruisers. The most effortless and visually appealing way to visit a variety of global destinations is with a world cruise. World cruises afford you the opportunity to take in many cultures, historic sites and beautiful views without having to constantly pack and unpack and board numerous flights. For example, Cunard’s luxury cruises can include three-month journeys that take you from America to the Caribbean, then to Mexico, Hawaii, New Zealand, Australia, Asia, Europe and beyond. The itineraries and shore excursions are as extensive and unique as the destinations you will visit. (See appendix A,p9, For more information). Princess Cruises’ fleet of ships that travel the world are well equipped with every creature comfort and amenity available. Brimming with entertainment, spacious surroundings and indulgent dining options, you’ll feel at home during your world journey. (See appendix A, p11, III for more information). (http://www.discountcruises.com) World cruises are largely dependent on time and money. The length of the voyage and numerous ports of call mean this vacation option is reserved for a select group of cruise travelers. If time and budget allow, a world cruise can easily be your vacation of a lifetime. 4.7 Luxury Cruisers The most interesting question is: â€Å"What is waiting on you onboard of Luxury Liner? â€Å". So, this is the answer: finest bed linens, most exquisite gourmet dining options, white-glove service and the absolute best amenities available. Elegant ballroom dancers feature guests dressed to the nines in tuxedos and gorgeous gowns. Several bars, clubs and lounges serve up fine wines and enchanting entertainment. Incredible culinary creations are presented to you by waiters expertly trained waiters. For example, Azamara Cruises also take pride in impeccable guest services and luxury amenities. Boasting one staff member per two guests, you will undoubtedly be well taken care of on Azamara Cruises. In-room spa treatments bring a bit of luxury and relaxation right to you and the onboard Wellness Consultant is available to meet with. Acupuncture at Sea is another ultra-luxurious way to melt stress away. (See Appendix A, p 10, II for more information). (http://www.discountcruises.com) Whe n budget is no option, these cruises are waiting to treat you like royalty and wrap you in luxury and comfort. 4.8 Cruisers to nowhere. This kind of cruisers, which is perfect for travelers who have limited time on their hands and a pretty tight budget, â€Å"cruises to nowhere,† are gaining popularity. Typically one or two nights in length, these cruises leave the dock and sail the waters without reaching another port of call. It’s a great way to try out a cruise line, so to speak. For example,Carnival Cruise Lines and Norwegian Cruise Line are just two of the major cruise lines that offer these fun, quick getaways-at-sea. (See Appendix A p 11, III for more information). (http://www.discountcruises.com) 5. Famous Cruise Lines around the World. There are a few but famous cruise lines around the world. They are supplying with world-class comfort and high standards of service. Some of them may have worldwide reputations while others may be known only in certain geographic areas that they visit often. â€Å"Whatever the repute of the individual cruise line, one factor that passengers like is the kind of experience they get, which more than meets their individual needs and lifestyles†(www.hobby.vocaboly.com). 5.1 American Cruise Lines American Cruise Lines are for those people who interested to visit several of exotic destinations across United States. â€Å"This cruise can take travelers to cosmopolitan cities, as well as visit remote islands that dot the coastline of the country to cosmopolitan cities, as well as visit remote islands that dot the coastline of the country† (www.hobby.vocaboly.com). (See Appendix A,12, IV for more information. In addition, there are a lot of experts on board, who let passengers into history and nature of locality. 5.2 Cunard Cruise Line Canard Cruise Line is very famous. â€Å"Traditional luxury crossings, which began in 1840, went a step further when the Queen Mary II was launched in 2004 to become the flagship known as The Most Famous Ocean Liner in the World. This is the tallest, longest, largest, and most expensive ocean liner in the world and boasts of unparalleled amenities and accommodations.† (www.hobby.vocaboly.com). 5.3 Disney Cruise Line Disney Cruise Line, for those who in hope for family experience, which suggest passengers packages and activities that meet their unique needs. â€Å"This cruise line is owned and operated by the dream makers, Disney, and it sails to the Bahamas, and has land and sea vacation packages that include a stay at the Walt Disney Resort† (http://hobby.vocaboly.com/288/famous-cruise-lines-around-the-world/). (See Appendix A,12, IV for more information) 5.5 Princess Cruises Line Princess Cruise Line is global cruise and tour company, which well-known in United States. The main advantage of Princess is variety of options for passengers. Different kind of dining, activities and facilities. â€Å"This cruise line serves most of the countries of the world, and it has a strong presence in the United States as well†( (http://hobby.vocaboly.com/288/famous-cruise-lines-around-the-world/). 6. Cruise facts and statistics According to data of Cruise Association, the passengers of cruise lines: In cruising more interested: The most popular nationalities are: The most popular visitors are: Cruisers primarily travel with: 80% of cruise passengers think that cruising is an important vehicle for sampling destination to which they may return. Cruisers indicate their return for land-based vocations as follows: Cruisers spend, approximately 1,770 $ per person per week and other vacations as compared to non-cruise vacationers who spend an average of 1,200$ 7. Recommendations According to our researches for this report, we can give you some recommendations for cruise tourism ,which you can find below: 1) Cruise agencies should be more promoted for the tourists. They can use all the resources, for example TV companies, Radio and Mass Media. 2) Better marketing through journals, newspapers, magazines and publicity, of course. 3) In some countries, cruise tourism need to pay more many for personal. 4) Government should be more creative and supportive in developing of cruise tourism. 5) The army, soldiers and officers should be more trained and experienced in cruise sphere. 6) Science and factories should step together nowadays. We are in need of new ideas and future plans. 8. Conclusion. In this report we discussed the most important and interesting information about cruise tourism. We began from explanation of term of†cruise tourism†. The second stage was the history. We started with the first shipping company to offer a scheduled passenger service from the United States to England was the Black Ball in 1818 and continued with cruise tourism industry nowadays. We examine the the types of cruisers and continued world famous cruise lines. According Cruise Association we showed the facts and statistics data. The results have shown that people are very interested in cruise travelling. Moreover we gave some recommendations that were dedicated from the answers on the questions asked by the author. To sum up, we should mention that cruise tourism is a very popular and developing sphere and we have to be always in search of new ideas and creations in it.