The first cruise ship was complete in 1900 by Albert Ballin, general manager of Hamburg-America Line was called Prinzessin Victoria Luise. Since then this industry has seen a very positive reaction from travelers around the world. Although during the 1960s intercontinental travelers largely switched from boats to plains with the advent of large passenger jet aircrafts, the cruise liner trade did go through a slow decline. But it was again made popular in the 1980s, when it started to gradually increase in popularity. Today the cruise line has become a major part of the tourism industry. It accounts for $27 billion with over 18 million passengers carried worldwide only in 2010.
Of the different sectors, the Caribbean cruising industry is one of the larger markets and it is a fast growing one at that and right now it is also the most popular amongst cruisers. Cruise lines operating in the Caribbean include Royal Caribbean International, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America, P&O, Cunard, Crystal Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. Other than these there are also smaller cruise lines that provide a more intimate ambiance for their guests. The three largest cruise operators are Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean International, and Star Cruises/Norwegian Cruise Lines.
Cruise ships can be a very relaxing option for any one who is planning a vacation. Although the cost to enjoy a cruise voyage can be expensive, there are a number of tour operators and travel agents that you can get very good deals with. Caribbean cruise deals are very popular searches amongst people due to the popularity of the Caribbean cruise.