modern cruise ship bridge

Can You Visit The Bridge on a Cruise Ship? – Real Experiences & Prices

When on a cruise ship, you may wonder whether it is possible to visit the bridge and see what goes on. In this article, we look at when and how this is possible.

What is the Ships Bridge?

The Bridge is a room at the front of the ship from which the ship is commanded. The term “Bridge” originated from a narrow, raised platform “bridging” the two sides of a large vessel. This allowed the Captain access to both sides while commanding the crew.

On modern cruise ships the Bridge is a large structure, high up at the front of the ship.

It has many windows and spans the entire width of the ship. Often the bridge extends out over the side of the ships too, allowing the crew to see right down the sides of the ship and see to the very back.

The ship’s crew will have access to paper nautical charts as well as modern computer equipment. This equipment controls the ship’s many systems – mechanical, electronic and communication.

Steering of the ship can be controlled in several places, including from where the bridge actually extends out over the sides of the ship.

Can You Visit The Bridge on a Cruise Ship?

On many cruise ships, you may be able to sign up for a “behind-the-scenes tour” which can include a tour of the ship’s bridge.

On many small expedition ships, they have an open bridge policy. Passengers are able to drop by and speak the crew – unless of course, the crew are in a situation where full concentration is required! (Docking, bad weather etc)

Cruise Ship Bridge Tours

Many Cruise lines offer “Behind the Scenes” tours, which include a trip to the bridge. Due to the recent Covid pandemic, some that did provide tours no longer do so.

Behind-the-scenes tours may be offered onboard, and you will be able to find details and costs in your daily schedule or cruise ship App.

Examples of costs are listed below:

How Have Things Changed In Recent Years?

Things have changed in recent years, due to the Covid pandemic and heightened Health and Safety concerns.

Loyalty Status Tours

Norwegian Cruise Line used to offer free “Behind the Scenes” tours to their “latitudes” loyalty club members. I was very lucky to have been able to take advantage of this perk visit the ships bridge. I have Platinum loyalty status with Norwegian Cruise Line .

Unfortunately, since the Covid pandemic, these tours are no longer available. Norwegian say :

“To ensure the health and safety of our guests and crew members, we have suspended the Behind-the-Scenes Ship Tour”

When – or if – they will re-instate these tours is anybody’s guess!

Bridge Viewing Rooms

One of my favourite cruise ships, The Norwegian Spirit, used to have a Bridge Viewing Room where you could see the crew at work. Unfortunately, this was lost in its most recent million-dollar refit.

Other ships, like Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 also had a bridge viewing room, but it no longer appears to be shown on the newest deck plans.

Older cruise ships seem to have done away with Bridge Viewing Rooms altogether.

Although Bridge Viewing Rooms are an interesting feature, popular with guests, newly built cruise ships no longer include them. This is because of heightened Health and Safety concerns.

Other Ways to Visit the Bridge on a Cruise Ship

The only other way to get to visit the Bridge onboard a cruise ship is to be invited by the Cruise Line itself – or a member of the crew.

I have been lucky enough to have been invited on Press Trips, which often include a full, behind-the-scenes ship tour.

Other passengers report having been personally invited by the Captain, whilst attending a dinner at “The Captains Table”

The “Captain’s Table” on a cruise ship is where the captain of the ship is dining.

On some ships, there is a designated table in the centre of the main dining room reserved exclusively for the captain, senior officers and their invited guests.

The process for being invited is fairly random, with invitees ranging from first-time cruisers to VIPs.

Some cruise ship bridges are open on the sides such as the below. This is an older design.

Can you visit the Wheelhouse on a River Cruise Ship?

On River Cruise ships you will find a Wheelhouse, rather than a Bridge.

Wheelhouses are ingenious box-like structures found on the top deck. From here the Captain or the crew controls the ship.

The Wheelhouse can sink down into the superstructure of the ship at the press of a button! This enables the river ship to fit under some very low bridges .

On River Cruise ships it is often possible to just pop by and speak to the crew in the wheelhouse, as long as they are not too busy. When I took my cruise on the Tui Skyla, this was the case.

Emerald River Cruises also welcome guests to visit the wheelhouse during their cruise. They say:

If you have a particular interest in river navigation, the wheelhouse can provide a wonderful insight into the role of the captain and the intricacies of working through locks.

Ask onboard at the reception desk, and they will let you know if it is possible to visit the wheelhouse on your ship. They will also let you know if there is any charge for doing so – usually, it is free on River Cruise Ships.

Find out all about that wonderful river cruise down the Danube on the Tui Skyla here:

Are There Bridge Tours on Luxury on Expedition Ships?

Luxury cruise lines such as Viking offer a free tour of the Bridge. Other luxury cruise lines such as Silversea, Oceana, Seabourn, Regent etc do not advertise such tours on their websites.

However, luxury cruise lines do pride themselves on having concierge services that can customise your voyage and attend to your every need – so doubtless, a tour of the bridge is something they would be happy to offer!

Expedition ships like Hurtigruten also offer guests a free bridge tour. Look out for details whilst onboard .

Would I Recommend a Bridge Tour?

A trip to the Bridge onboard a cruise ship is a very interesting thing to do, if you are able .

Do bear in mind that on some cruise ships, this is just not available .

Keep an eye out in the daily schedule or cruise ship App, if this tour would be of interest to you.

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Cruise Ship Life

All about cruise ships

What Is Cruise Ship Bridge(full explained)

You may pay attention the bridge of the deliver cited in passing, but it’s now not a place of the ship most passengers ever get to peer.

So, what is going on in the bridge, why is it referred to as that, who works there, and what do they do?

properly, examine on to find out the answers to all of your bridge-associated curiosities.

Bridge On A Cruise Ship

The cruise ship bridge is the command middle, located at the front of the ship on the upper decks. It’s the region of the deliver where all of the ship’s controls to navigate the deliver is located, it’s the equal of a huge cockpit region.

it’s miles from right here that the cruise captain and bridge group members take their positions and carry out their navigational responsibilities.

The bridge location is generally fabricated from bolstered glass, giving a clean wide view of the waters and conditions ahead.

accordingly, the bridge of a deliver is the location from which the number one functions of directing and controlling the velocity are actioned.

The term “bridge” originates from the times of paddle steamers when a raised walkway was placed up throughout both paddle homes, creating a bridge so that both aspects and paddle wheels of the ship might be viewed by means of the captain from the quarter-deck.

Bridge Crew Members

There several deck officers working on the bridging, including:

Harbor Pilots:

Come aboard from local ports with expert information of the nearby waters and situations and assist the bridge group in docking or departing.

interestingly, when a harbor pilot comes overseas is one of the few times a deck officer takes the helm and uses the ship’s wheel.

Bridge teams work in rotation, with teams working a hard and fast range of hours off whilst replaced by using another. typically, three teams are working the rotation.

In Captain Kates’s video, she stated that “three distinct teams labored every 4 hours on and 8 hours off”.

even though there may be only one captain, who can be contacted 24/7 if required, the captain’s quarters can be accessed at once from the bridge

Cruise captain:

Is the head of the navigational bridge groups and carries out or oversee’s all navigational factors of the deliver.

Assistant Officer of the Watch:

The Assistant Officer of the Watch (AOW) is a fundamental function on a ship’s bridge, specifically on vessels like cruise ships and service provider ships. The AOW serves as a assist role to the Officer of the Watch (OOW), who’s usually a licensed officer liable for the secure navigation and operation of the deliver. here’s a detailed explanation of the function of an Assistant Officer of the Watch

Quartermaster Lookout:

A Quartermaster Lookout is a selected position on a ship’s bridge, basically related to navigation and safety. The Quartermaster Lookout serves as an extra set of eyes and ears on the bridge, assisting the Officer of the Watch (OOW) and the navigation crew in maintaining a safe path and figuring out capacity hazards. right here’s an in depth clarification of the function and duties of a Quartermaster Lookout.

Bridge Policy

A few cruise ships, normally smaller ones or excursion cruise ships, have an open bridge policy that allows passengers to go as much as the bridge region outside of busy periods, such as while task docking maneuvers that require full attention.

Cruise traces with regarded open bridge guidelines include:

star Clippers Windstar

Bridge Equipment

In recent times the sizeable majority of the navigational system is electrical. there may be very little need for any paper maps or charts.

A cruise deliver bridge is made of multiple stations.

There are also more than one video display units showing varying navigational statistics. as well as a few other monitors showing the live fame of key areas of the ship.

Cruise Ship Bridge Layout

The cruise bridge has a central cockpit from which all the deliver’s maneuvers can be controlled.

when coming or leaving a pier, the command controls may be transferred to both one of the bridge wings.

Cruise Ship Bridge Wing

Cruise bridge wings is a pitcher surround extension on both facet of the bridge.

Whichever aspect the deliver is getting into port, port or starboard, the bridge wing gives an incredible view of the port and the length of the cruise deliver.

There is mostly a glass ground on the bridge wing so the group may even see what’s immediately below them.

It’s just like a wing mirror on a automobile, simply one you could stroll into.

every bridge wing has its own set of command controls which offers the bridge team an important and clear first-hand view of while they are docking or whilst a harbor pilot is coming onboard via the shell door or departing the deliver.

Cruise Ship Safety Measures:

Safety is paramount on the bridge. numerous safety measures are in place to ensure the nicely-being of passengers, team, and the deliver itself

Redundant Systems: Critical navigation and communication systems have backups to ensure continuous operation.
Collision Avoidance: Radar and AIS (Automatic Identification System) are used to detect and avoid collisions with other vessels.
Weather Monitoring: The bridge is equipped with weather monitoring equipment to anticipate and navigate through adverse weather conditions.
Emergency Procedures: The crew on the bridge is trained in emergency procedures, including responding to man-overboard situations, fires, and distress calls.
Security: Access to the bridge is restricted to authorized personnel only to prevent unauthorized interference.
Maneuverability: Modern cruise ships have advanced propulsion systems and thrusters that enhance maneuverability and make docking in ports safer.

What is the purpose of the navigation console on the ship’s bridge?

The navigation console serves as the central control unit for displaying real-time data related to the ship’s position, speed, heading, and depth. It is vital for safe navigation.

How do GPS and satellite navigation systems contribute to safe navigation?

GPS and satellite navigation systems provide accurate positioning data, helping the crew determine the ship’s location and course with precision.

What role do radar systems play on the ship’s bridge?

Radar systems are essential for detecting nearby vessels, land, and navigational hazards, aiding in collision avoidance and safe navigation.

What is the purpose of a depth sounder on the bridge?

A depth sounder measures the water depth beneath the ship, helping the crew assess the depth of the water and avoid grounding.

How are nautical charts used on the bridge?

Nautical charts are maps that display sea depths, navigation aids, and hazards. They are essential for route planning and ensuring safe navigation.

What is the significance of binoculars on the bridge?

Binoculars are optical devices used for visual observations, particularly in spotting distant vessels, navigational markers, or potential hazards.

How is a sextant utilized for navigation?

A sextant is used in celestial navigation to determine the ship’s position by measuring the angles between celestial bodies and the horizon.

What does the steering console control on the bridge?

The steering console controls the ship’s direction by adjusting the ship’s rudder, helping maintain the desired course.

What are the key functions of the engine control room in relation to the bridge?

The engine control room monitors and controls the ship’s engines, propulsion, and power systems based on navigation officer’s commands.

How does an autopilot system contribute to navigation?

An autopilot system is responsible for automated steering, assisting in maintaining the ship’s course without continuous manual input.

What is the purpose of a gyrocompass on the bridge?

A gyrocompass accurately indicates true north, providing reliable navigation information regardless of the ship’s movement.

How is speed measured on the ship, and why is it important?

Speed is measured using a speed log, which calculates the ship’s speed through the water. This data is crucial for navigation and fuel efficiency.

Why is an anemometer used on the bridge?

An anemometer measures wind speed and direction, helping the crew assess weather conditions and their impact on navigation.

What is the role of a barometer in navigation?

A barometer measures atmospheric pressure, which can provide valuable information about changing weather patterns at sea.

How are clocks and chronometers used on the bridge?

Clocks and chronometers are essential for accurate timekeeping, which is critical for navigation and log-keeping.

What is the function of the AIS (Automatic Identification System) on the bridge?

AIS identifies and tracks other vessels, aiding in collision avoidance and communication with nearby ships.

the cruise ship bridge is a complex and highly regulated area dedicated to ensuring the safe navigation and operation of the vessel. It combines advanced technology, skilled personnel, and strict safety protocols to provide passengers with a secure and enjoyable cruise experience while navigating the world’s oceans and waterways. Stay blessed

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The future bridge – turning visions into reality

What does the future of ship-bridge design look like? Ship designers and builders ULSTEIN, along with a group of innovative Norwegian designers, have drawn upon popular media such as concept cars, movies and games that form people's sense of the future, to develop a truly futuristic concept which they hope could change ship bridge designs forever.

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Like a scene from the movie Minority Report, infographics pop up on a semi-circular, gesture-controlled glass window pane that dominates the front of the bridge from floor to ceiling. Evoking futuristic Hollywood scenes, the ULSTEIN Bridge Vision uses clean, simplistic lines and minimal buttons at the centre of its design philosophy.

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A collaboration of ideas and research between ship design company ULSTEIN, the Oslo School of Architecture and Design, Kwant Controls and The University of Aalesund, it’s clear the heart of the Bridge Vision’s design lies firmly in the future; or the future as we have been taught to imagine it.

The bridge’s technology may not extend to predicting when exactly trouble will happen, as in Minority Report, but instead the captain can conjure up information with the wave of a finger and it will display clearly on the expansive glass for all to see. It can then be dismissed with the shake of a hand.

Video games, smartphones and user-focused functionality

ULSTEIN have also said they were particularly inspired by the technology and graphics of computer games

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Assistant Professor at the Oslo School of Architecture and Design, who developed the Bridge Vision along with Kwant Controls and The University of Aalesund, Kjetil Nordby explains where their vision stemmed from: “The Bridge Vision is designed to inspire people’s imagination. As a result of this…We drew inspiration from popular media that form people’s sense of future, like concept cars, movies and games.”

ULSTEIN have also said they were particularly inspired by the technology and graphics of computer games.

“The fundamental vision behind mobile OS development have [sic] been influential to our thinking. Android, WP8 and IOS have redefined the structure of everyday graphical user interfaces. Also, much can be learned about advanced control of real-time systems in the long range of game systems and titles on the market the last 15 years.”

Just like today’s smartphones, Nordby and his team, when designing the Bridge Vision, were particularly focused on ensuring everything can be personalised and easy to use.

Some of the Bridge Vision’s user-focused features include a system that automatically adapts to the individual user’s preferred setup, a chair design with multiple sitting positions that can also be collapsed for standing, and users are provided with all relevant details related to an operation in their line of vision, making it easier to operate the vessel.

Practicality vs. design

The bridge can also be turned into a simulator for training protocol practice before a critical operation

ULSTEIN and Nordby chose to keep the technology aspect of their design very close to their chest. For example, when asked how they created the glass window interface, he says simply that he can not discuss it.

Other features, which ULSTEIN and Nodby are happy to publicise, are: a system that prioritises information based on the operation and system of the ship, where a real-time overlay is possible, and the fact that information on operationally critical tasks is provided by showing hidden elements due to fog, darkness or elements that are hidden behind objects.

The bridge can also be turned into a simulator for training protocol practice before a critical operation.

The uber-modern looks of ULSTEIN Bridge Vision’s design might make a ship captain question whether functionality gave way for image when designs were being drawn up. Nordby assures the Bridge Vision is as practical – if not more so – as any other ship.

“Many of the functions of the ULSTEIN Bridge Vision are quite similar to the ones found in existing ship bridges. Radars, DP and radios are also present in our systems. However, in the UBV all systems are shown in a unique unified interface that will make operating the systems much more safe and efficient.

“The research has been balanced between user research, design experiments, prototype development and lab building,” he says.

What does the future really hold?

Unlike conventional ship-bridges, says Nordby, ULSTEIN deliver the entire front of the bridge rather than different components coming from different companies as he says is custom.

Plus, he adds, “all equipment may take advantage of advanced interface technologies” and thus “changes the way ships are developed, sold and maintained, essentially moving the ship bridge into the service economy”.

ULSTEIN have just completed the design phase, so, what’s next in the pipeline for their ship-bridge of the future?

Nordby’s simple reply is: “The path of Ulstein Bridge Vision from here on is to follow up on ULSTEIN’s own slogan, ‘Turning visions into reality’.”

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A Tour of a Modern Ship's Bridge

Categories : Naval architecture & ship design for marine engineers
Tags : Marine engineering

Introduction

A ship has to navigate round the clock through different waters, at times with restriction, with changing weather and sea conditions. Communication has to be maintained during routine voyages, in restricted waters, in emergencies and for rescue operations. Various equipment, instruments, and appliances are provided for performing these functions.

The ship’s bridge serves as a controlling and commanding station for the entire ship. We can control all the machinery, boiler, and ship’s navigation from the bridge. This provides a common platform for the ship’s alarming and controlling station for onboard machinery.

All systems and equipment must meet IMO standards and must be approved by the administration to be installed in the bridge. Electrical and electronic equipment shall be so installed that the electromagnetic interference does not affect proper functioning of navigation systems and equipment. Safety of navigation depends on proper, efficient, and timely use of these aids. All these aids must be checked from time to time for their performance and accuracy. Errors and deviations must be logged. All navigating officers must be familiar with their use.

The common activities carried out on bridge can be broadly grouped as:

Lookout and avoidance of collision.
Control of ship’s speed and direction.
Navigation and position fixing.
Monitoring weather and sea condition.
Communication – external and internal.

Ship’s Bridge

Ship’s Bridge Construction Features favorable for Lookouts

Lookout for traffic is maintained from the navigation bridge. During poor visibility and in restricted waters, additional lookout may be maintained form the forecastle or crow’s nest atop the forward mast.

The navigation bridge is situated on the uppermost deck with a clear view of the sea ahead and abeam. It is so constructed that the navigators get clear vision for 255o or more. From the conning position , vision should be from 112.5o port to 112.5o starboard . From the bridge wing the vision should be from 180o on the wing side to 45oon the other side. The ship’s side should be visible from the wings. View from the steering position should be 60 o port to 60o stbd. Obstruction due to deck cranes, masts, etc. should not be more than 10o. Front windows should give clear view without reflections. Windows are inclined 10o-25o. Two clear view screens are provided in front windows for use when the view is obscured by rain.

Binoculars are used for long distance viewing in daytime when the weather is clear. At night or when the visibility is restricted, radar should be used for lookout. Range scale should be selected according to the traffic density, ship’s speed, and distance from the coast. Heading marker should be checked against the compass heading and the ships fore and aft line. It is advisable to use the radar in clear weather also, to check its effectiveness.

Ships more than 10,000 GT and above should have two radars including one operating on X band, 9 GHz frequency. They should have automatic radar plotting aid (ARPA). Smaller ships are fitted with automatic tracking aid (ATA) or electronics plotting aids (EPA).

As per the International Regulations for preventing Collisions at sea (COLREGE -72) the officer on watch must be familiar with these regulations and the indicator lights fitted on the panel for navigation lights. Alarms should also be fitted for the failure of these lights on the bridge panel.

Bridge Equipment

Controlling Ship’s Speed and Direction from Bridge

Ship’s Speed

Every ship should have an indicator for the propeller speed and direction of rotation on the bridge. If the propeller is of controllable pitch, there should be indication of pitch also. On UMS ships, machinery can be controlled from the bridge.

In Integrated Bridge System (IBS), various operations such as passage execution, communications, machinery control, and safety and security are centrally monitored. Engines can be stopped in emergency. Overriding provisions are made in case of main engine.

A telegraph is provided on the bridge for communication with the engine room regarding engine speed and direction. Controls are tested before departure and the engine movements are recorded in bridge. The bridge telegraph may be connected to a teleprinter for automatic recording. Repeaters are provided on the bridge wings.

The speed log shows the ship’s speed in knots, and the distance indicator records distance covered in nautical miles. A calibration chart is provided; these readings should be verified by plotting the ship’s position on the charts.

Direction Controls

The ship’s direction is set by the use of the Standard Magnetic Compass, Steering Magnetic Compass, or Gyrocompass. There should be communication between the standard magnetic compass and the steering position. An efficient periscope with sufficient magnification and adjustability is provided for comfortable viewing of the standard compass by the helmsman. The steering compass must be compared with the standard compass at least once per watch and after every major alteration of course. Deviations are recorded on a card maintained on the bridge. The standard compass should be checked and adjusted when the deviation shows a marked change.

The gyrocompass repeater is fitted at each steering position. An autopilot, set manually, maintains the ship’s course until a new course is entered. When likened to IBS, it can correct cross track errors and automatically keep the ship on the planned track. An off-course alarm is also fitted.

Steering may be manually controlled from the bridge. The steering wheel operates the telemotor transmitter. Rudder angle indicators are fitted at the steering positions. Repeaters are fitted in bridge wing. While testing controls, the rudder angle indicator must be compared with the actual rudder angle.

Maneuvering Displays on Bridge Control Screen

Maneuvering characteristics are displayed on the bridge. These include propeller R.P.M. and ship’s speed in knots corresponding to full, half, slow, and dead slow ahead positions on the telegraph. Astern power as percentage of ahead power, time change over from full head to full astern, distance to stop from full ahead, time to stop, turning circle at full speed, at maximum rudder angle, in loaded and ballast conditions time to steer from hard port to hard starboard and minimum speed to maintain course.

Both main and auxiliary steering systems must be tried out. Failure alarm and auto start systems should be located in the bridge. Charts showing procedure to change over to emergency steering should be displayed near the steering control.

Alarms Fitted in Bridge

Alarms are provided for failure of main propulsion, machinery, and steering systems. These and the alarms for navigation light failure, off course, radar warning, etc. must be acknowledged by the officer on watch within 30 sec, or the alarm is sounded in cabins, office, and mess for back up assistance.

Navigation Instruments

Navigation and Position Fixing Instruments On Ship’s Bridge

Hydrographical charts are used for navigation and position fixing. The charts should be kept up-to-date as per notice to mariner, issued at regular intervals. Gnomonic charts are used for great circle sailing. An electronic chart display and information system (ECDIS) meets the SOLAS requirements. Other systems may be used as supplementary aids, along with paper charts.

Echo-Sounder

The echo-sounder is used for keeping continuous watch on the water depth in coastal waters. An alarm may be set according to the ship’s requirements to warn about shallow waters. Depths recorded should be compared with those shown on the charts, giving allowance for ships draft and tidal effects. A hand lead is provided on the ship for taking soundings manually in shallow waters.

Sextant is the most reliable instrument for taking sights and fixing the position of the ship. However, its use is often restricted in poor visibility. Electronic and satellite positions fixing systems are used on all modern ships.

GPS and GLOASS are satellite systems for position fixing; GPS (Global Positioning System) gives accuracy of 100 meters.

Weather Monitoring Systems

The world’s oceans are divided in sixteen areas (NAVAREA) for dissemination of navigational and metrological warnings. Warnings are broadcast on radio as per list of radio signals. Weather facsimile recorders receive data from the weather satellite and display the latest weather maps, ice charts, and other forecasts. This helps in modifying the ship’s routes as the voyage proceeds, to minimize the effects of bad weather.

Routing and Reporting

In coastal waters, ships must use routing systems approved by governments. Governments have established vessel traffic system (VTS), designed to contribute to safety of life, safety, and efficiency of navigation and protection of marine environment and adjacent areas. VTS is mandatory within territorial waters only.

Automatic Identification systems (ASI) are a system to transmit/ receive the information on ships, name, position, course, speed, destination, cargos etc. by digital radio technology for the ships in objective area. It should be in operation at all times. It is use full in collision prevention, searches and rescue, or operation of VTS.

So this is the equipment normally placed on the bridge, and there are some further controls provided in UMS (Unmanned Machinery Space) ships as the machinery and boiler controls can also be controlled from the bridge.

Image Credits

kitznet.com - Ship’s Bridge

Flickr Images - Ships Telegraph

Wikipedia Images - Sextant

Wikipedia Images - Ships Echo Sounder

wikipedia images - Gyrocompass

flickr images - Weather Reporting

wikipedia images - Bridge Construction

wikipedia images- Chart work

Flickr Images - Radar Display

Flickr Images - Hydrographic charts

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JD Lasica / Special to Cruiseable

Captain Craig Street, on the bridge of Ruby Princess, described what goes into operating and navigating a modern cruise ship.

On the bridge with the captain of Ruby Princess

Describing ship navigation, a missile launch & rescuing a passenger who jumped overboard.

San Francisco Bay Area

CruiseClout score: 95.0

On my recent cruise on Ruby Princess , I was invited onto the bridge and got to interview the ship captain, Craig Street, who told our group about navigating a modern cruise ship, spying the launch of an ICBM missile and the time he piloted a Princess ship that rescued a passenger who jumped overboard.

In this series

6 favorite things passengers like about Ruby Princess
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JD Lasica : Ruby Princess is quite a beautiful ship. Thanks for having us on the bridge.

Craig Street : Certainly. The first thing you should know as you walk around the bridge is, everything is live up here. So don't be tempted to push any buttons or pull any levers.

We're on a course toward Puerto Vallarta. How fast are we traveling?

At about 21 1/2 knots, which is about 23 miles per hour. We're doing some testing with the engines, so you may hear some voices. We have a direct link to the Control Room, so we're always speaking with them. And we're doing some routine fire alarm testing, so if you hear some alarms going off, don't be too concerned.

What can you tell us about the engines?

We have very powerful side thrusters, three at the bow and three at the stern. We have 9,000 horsepower forward, and very large 18-foot propellers, and we have a gyroscope that instructs the stabilizers to counteract the waves and stop the ship from rolling.

We saw a helicopter hovering overhead, what was that about?

It was just a tourist helicopter out of Cabo, nothing to be worried about. We're like a big magnet. When we get close to shore, we tend to attract a lot of boats that like to come close and take photos.

Is this the navigation panel?

Don't be disappointed, but gone are the days when we have a big wooden wheel to steer the ship. (He points.) Here's the main steering column, and here are the indications for the two rudders. There are times we'll do manual steering, and the officer will be told what angle to put the rudders at, or what course to steer according to the gyro. It's very important to pay attention to the rate of turn indicator to prevent the ship from turning too fast, otherwise you'll start to list. (Points again.) And literally, the ship is being driven by a small joystick.

How does a ship like this steer clear of other vessels?

These little triangles here are called AIS, Automatic Identification Systems. Every ship is required to have one, even smaller ships like yachts now tend to have them. That's sending out a signal that we can interrogate. It'll tell us exactly what type of ship it is, how many persons on board, where it's going, what course it's steering and what speed it's doing.

How does the system know how many passengers are on board Ruby Princess?

As we leave Los Angeles, we have to manually input the information and update our status from 'moored' to 'underway.' if you're in pirate areas, you're allowed to turn it off in certain situations, and warships never send them out, but other than that, you just leave it on.

So what is that ship on the horizon?

Let's call it up. I know his name is Northern Grace, he's doing 18.2 knots, he's a cargo ship, his draught is 11.1 meters, he's 290 meters long, he's carrying passenger goods and his range is 7.6 miles away. It's a good day, you can see about 14 miles to the horizon.

Have you seen some unusual things out there?

About two months ago we were off the coast of Ensenada on our way to Los Angeles, and in the night sky we saw a bright flare go up ahead of the ship. We called the San Diego Coast Guard to report it, and we were approaching a military exercise area. And they confirmed that it was an ICBM missile test.

That made the news — sightings of a green object.

It was like nothing I'd ever seen before. It was 80 miles away from us, and of course they don't give you any warning. I googled it a half hour later and all these reports were coming in — the Kardashians were tweeting about a UFO. You could see it as far as Nevada. It made the BBC News the next day.

Have you taken part in any rescues at sea?

About a year ago we were about an hour out of Jakarta, Indonesia, and a young Chinese passenger jumped over the side from deck 14. We turned the ship around and found him. I was surprised he survived the fall from deck 14, and we picked him up with one of the rescue boats. And we checked him into the medical center and kept an eye on him and discharged him at the next port. He was lucky to be found, especially in the dark.

Tell us more about the ship. What about some of the water systems on board?

We're very self-sufficient. When we go to Hawaii, and when we return, we have five days at sea. We carry just over 3,000 tons of water, and we use roughly 1,000 tons a day. We have three evaporators on board, and we recycle everything on the ship as much as we can. We also have a reverse osmosis plant on board that makes about 450 tons of water per day.

How long have you been in the cruise business?

Twenty-five years. I joined Princess in 1990, worked all the way up through the ranks, three years as a cadet, then third officer, second officer, senior second, first officer, senior first officer and became captain seven years ago.

Do you tend to stay on board or go into port?

Unless my wife is along, I don't go too far. When we're in port, either myself or the staff captain has to be on board, in case we have a situation or an emergency.

What's your favorite port?

I love Venice . I just love the Grand Canal. My wife's never been and I'm taking her this week.

How'd you meet?

I met her on the Caribbean Princess about 11 years ago. She was one of the scuba diving instructors.

Is she American?

She's Canadian. We live in Scotland. We have a small place there, and we pop over to see friends now and then, otherwise I'm on a Princess. I was on Sapphire Princess for the past 18 months. Spent a lot of time off Shanghai and Singapore , two of the busiest ports in the world. Generally we do three months, two months off the ship. On Sapphire we did six weeks on, five weeks off. It gets stressful otherwise in a busy area like that.

Do you interact with passengers? What do you talk about?

We had a wedding yesterday, so I married a young couple from Alaska on the back deck with 37 guests. And I helped coach some of the passengers trying out for "Voice of the Ocean." On the longer cruises we do a Liars game where we come up with explanations and passengers have to guess if you're telling the truth. That's a fun part of the job.

What's the best part of being captain?

Something new every day. I originally intended to do three years as a cadet and go back to the university, but it's been interesting enough that 25 years later I'm still here. Really, you're a ship manager nowadays. You have ship directors reporting to you: the hotel manager, the staff captain, the chief engineer. I don't pretend to know everything that's going on in the ship, but I'm responsible for all of it.

JD Lasica I'm Editor-in-Chief and co-founder of Cruiseable. Follow your cruise bliss to any land where it may lead. Let's connect! I'm @jdlasica on Twitter.

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Video: Why Is The Command Centre Of A Ship Called “Bridge”?

Did you ever stop and wonder why a ship’s bridge is named so? i.e. a Bridge.

The reason, however, maybe unravelled through the pages of navigation history, taking us to the very origins of human sailing and shipbuilding.

After centuries of modifications on deck designs, the bridge has now emerged as the command centre of the ship.

On a normal voyage, manning of the bridge is usually done by an officer of the watch, with a lookout. The captain remains on the bridge during the important manoeuvres, assisted by a pilot and other navigational officers.

However, during the early days of sailing, cockpits used to be a lot smaller, with the ship steering being controlled by a rudder. The cockswain was usually in charge of operations using the tiller, which was connected to the rudder.

With technological advancement in ship designs, tillers were gradually replaced with wheels. Wheels used to control the ship direction using ropes and pulleys, placed at some distance from the ship’s stern, enabling the navigational officer to have a clear look of the navigational waters when placed at the quarter deck.

The quarter deck was raised to enable the captain to give direct orders to the crew. This feature proved to be an extremely important tool for navigation, especially during a storm.

With an increase in ship sizes, net tonnage also saw its increment. This in turn, also resulted in the workforce of the ship to be increased considerably.

The wheel was housed in a small structure on the quarter-deck, in the aft end of the ship. It became known as the wheelhouse. This wheelhouse has now been added to a modern ship’s bridge, forming an integral part of the same.

Coming back to history, we do know that advancement in steam engines marked the end of the human need for wind energy. Steam engines replaced sails on board ships, with sail paddles taking its place. They were steered via a rudder wheel.

However, we must remember that steam paddles were enormous in size, rising to a considerable height above the deck. Also, there was the issue as to where the wheelhouse would be placed on board since there was no raised platform from where the captain could give direction to the navigational officers.

One might think that the captain could’ve just climbed up on one of the two enormous steam paddles and issued commands to the navigational officer, but the engineering team needed it for close inspection of the paddles.

For this purpose, a walkaway was constructed on a raised platform, connecting the two paddles, serving as a literal ‘bridge’, earning the command centre its name. Yes, the name has survived till date.

The captain could issue commands to the pilot regarding steering of the ship, as well as engine commands to the engineering officer.

With the advent of technological advancements, propellers replaced the steam paddles, but naval coinage kept the term ‘bridge’ alive.

It is an interesting fact however that unlike merchant vessels, major warships have a number of bridges, including a navigational bridge, an admiralty bridge, and a conning tower in old warships.

Watch the video to understand more.

Video Credits: Casual Navigation – YouTube

Marine Insight does not own the rights of the video.

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What Do the Cruise Captains’ Quarters Look Like? (inc Videos)

Have you ever wondered where the cruise ship captains’ quarters are located and what they look like?

Well, you are not alone, it’s a common question, and not unsurprisingly, there aren’t many captains sharing details of their private quarters.

However, after some research, we have found some glimpses of the inside of the captain’s quarters.

The size and spec of the quarters will vary depending on the cruise line and the individual ships’ perceived prestige.

So we have endeavored to find as many examples as possible.

What Do the Cruise Captains’ Quarters Look Like?

The cruise captain’s quarters will usually be on par with the average suite types of rooms you’ll find on the ship. Typically the larger or more luxurious the ship, the larger and more luxurious standard you can expect the captain’s quarters to be.

Although often traveling alone, the captain’s quarters will be large enough for when they do have family or guests staying onboard with them. Hence large bedrooms and living space. Much larger than the rest of the crew’s cabins.

As well as typical suite-like features the quarters will have an office with monitors, wifi and various forms of communication, and navigational indicators and monitors so the captain can keep abreast of everything at all times.

There will also be room for meetings with the crew and navigational staff members.

Below are some real-life examples of cruise captains’ quarters that we have found.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Captains Quarters

TikTok and Royal Caribbean cruise captain @captainjohnnyfaevelen gave a scarce insight into the cruise captain’s quarters on mega cruise ship Harmony of the Seas , one of the largest cruise ships in the world, and no doubt a larger than average captains cruise quarters.

@captainjohnnyfaevelen #welcome to the #captain #cabin and #office #onboard @Royal Caribbean #harmonyoftheseas #oasis #class #modern #cruiseship #shipslife #comfortable #life #at #sea ♬ original sound – Captain Johnny

On its launch in 2016, Harmony of the Seas was the largest cruise ship in the world. It has since been overtaken by Symphony of the Seas (2018) and now Wonder of the Seas (2022).

So this captain’s quarters are likely also proportionally larger than many others, so not typical size-wise for the average cruise ship.

From the video, we can see Royal Caribbean Oasis-class cruise ships have very generous-sized captains’ quarters.

On entering the cabin, there is a spacious foyer with doors to:

Guest Bathroom
Master Bedroom
Large Living room

The quarters have a larger Master Bedroom with Queen size bed. The bedroom includes a walk-in closet and bathroom with a large bathtub and shower.

The living room is large and spacious, with a dining table and four chairs. A more relaxed sofa area includes a coffee table, a 55-inch TV, and a recliner chair.

The living room leads to the pantry, which has a refrigerator and dishwashers, various cooking appliances, and lots of food storage space.

Off the living room is the Captain’s Office which can also be accessed directly from the navigation bridge . The captain’s office has a deck and chair and various monitors on display.

Celebrity Cruise Captains’ Quarters

The video below is by Captain Kate McCue, who has a well-known social media presence in the cruising world.

She’s captain of the cruise ship Celebrity Edge at the time of the recording. This is a 130,000 gross tonnage cruise ship with the capacity to carry over 2900 passengers.

@captainkatemccue CRIBS: Captain’s Quarters, Suite Life Edition & tour du jour. You asked for it… #fyp #foryou #captainscabin #celebrityedge #cruise #captain #room ♬ Alone – Petit Biscuit

The video above just gives an inside view of her Captains quarters. She walks through the entrance foyer to the main living space with a large corner sofa, some other comfy-looking chairs, and a large wall-mounted TV.

Kate then highlights the infinite verandah window, which opens fully at the touch of a button. This makes the verandah feel like part of the quarters, letting in the fresh sea air and natural light.

The floor-to-ceiling window gives the captain a view of the bridge.

In Kates’s quarters, she highlights her patron saint of seafarers, St Nichols, which many seafarers, not just cruise captains, always travel with for good luck.

The captain’s bedroom has a King Sized bed facing another reasonably large TV.

Attached is a water closet with dual sinks, a shower, and a smallish soaking tub (which kate uses to wash her Elf Sphynx cat named bug).

She separated the

dining room with a TV, and a small galley area with a refrigerator. These rooms are open-planned, joined with the captain’s office which is directly attached to the bridge.

Where Are the Cruise Captains’ Quarters?

The cruise captains’ quarters are typically located to the rear of the ship’s bridge. This provides the captain with speedy access to the bridge at a moment’s notice, should it be required.

The access from the bridge with usually be to the captain’s office area of their living quarters., Access to their main living quarters can also be accessed by a separate entrance.

When Does The Cruise Captain Sleep?

Cruise ship captains will typically sleep at night, however, they are on call 24/7 for any emergencies that may arise.

The captain doesn’t need to be on the bridge at all times as there will be much other staff who can navigate the ship in the captain’s absense, or while they sleep.

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What is the Cruise Ship Bridge?

Book Your Next Amazing Cruise with Travel Leader, Jeffrey Cleary

The bridge is the most important area of any ship, including all cruise ships. If you think of a cruise ship as a large, complex organism, the ship’s bridge would be the vessel’s brain.

Not only is it where the captain and the other high-ranking officers navigate and control the ship’s most important operations, but it is also where communications with other ships and authorities on shore are conducted.

To help you learn more about this incredibly important and highly advanced control center, we will offer a detailed guide to the main components of a cruise ship bridge. We will also answer some common questions cruise ship passengers have about ship bridges, so you can better understand how cruise ships are operated.

What Is a Cruise Ship Bridge?

Essentially, a cruise ship bridge is a dedicated control room near the front of the ship. Ship bridges are located towards the front of a cruise ship in an elevated position, allowing the captain and other crew within the bridge to have an unobstructed view of what is ahead of the vessel.

In most cases, the ship bridge will have windows facing most directions so that the crew can see ahead and down the sides of the ship. In fact, most ship bridges will have a 255° view of the path forward, allowing for more visibility on both the port and starboard sides of the vessel.

As mentioned, the cruise ship bridge is where all major navigational decisions are made and executed. Basically, it is the command center where all of the cruise ship’s operations are carried out. The ship bridge is also where decisions are made regarding the ship’s speed.

In addition to navigation, decisions made within the bridge are important for the safety of the ship’s passengers and crew. Not only does this mean those stationed within the bridge are responsible for avoiding obstacles, challenging weather conditions , and other potential hazards, it is where communication with ships, rescue personnel, and authorities located on land is carried out.

Why Is This Area Called the Ship Bridge?

The term “ship bridge” was used well before modern-day cruise ships were established. Originally, the term referred to a raised platform built at the top of a ship’s deck to give the ship’s captain a better view of the path ahead.

Since then, the term ship bridge has become a blanket term for the command area of just about any type of ship, including cruise ships. Since the bridge is where a ship’s captain and other officers control its navigation, it serves a similar purpose to the original raised platforms used on traditional sailing ships.

What Are the Main Areas of a Cruise Ship Bridge?

To give you a better understanding of the interior of a cruise ship’s command center, here are the main areas of a cruise ship bridge and the purposes they serve.

The Navigation Area

The bridge will feature a primary and secondary navigation area. Naturally, this is where the ship’s navigational equipment is located, including radar systems, GPS tracking equipment, and various chart plotting systems. You can also find backup navigation charts in these areas, which are used as a fail-safe if the ship’s navigational equipment fails.

To ensure an unobstructed view, the two navigation areas are almost always located at the front of the bridge or on an elevated platform.

The Control Area

The ship’s speed and steering systems are located in the control area. Here you will find the primary engine control system , computer systems, steering mechanisms, and throttle controls.

Experienced officers are typically found here, as some of the ship’s most important functions are controlled in this area. In most cases, this area will be located to the side of the navigation area, as the two are closely related.

The Communication Area

The communication area of the bridge is where the cruise ship’s primary communications systems are located. This includes everything from satellite communication systems to sophisticated radios and telephones wired directly to the engine room.

Worth Reading: Secret Codes on Cruise Ships Only Crew Members Know!

This area is vital, as it allows the crew to communicate with other ships, shore-based authorities, and crew members in other areas of the ship. This area can be located in various parts of the bridge, but it is often located very close to the captain’s command center.

The Command Center

As the name implies, the captain and other high-ranking crew oversee all of the cruise ship’s essential operations. It is also where you will find the captain’s elevated chair.

Here you will find various display screens that give the captain instantaneous feedback about the cruise ship’s course, speed, and overall status.

Typically, it is located towards the back of the bridge but retains a clear view of the path ahead. This allows the captain’s voice to project forward so that all crew members can hear their commands clearly.

Main Observation and Lookout Deck

Towards the front of the bridge, you will often find a lowered observation and lookout deck. This area allows the captain and crew to get a clear view of the path ahead without blocking the view of crew members still at their stations.

For most cruise ships, this area is where you will find the best view of the entire ship.

The Bridge Wings

The bridge wings are extended platforms that protrude from either side of the bridge. These enclosed platforms exist to provide the navigational crew with better visibility, especially during docking procedures, and when the ship is navigating narrow waterways.

Since the bridge wings extend beyond the cruise ship’s hull, officers and other bridge crew members are able to have a much clearer view of either side of the ship .

This improved visibility allows the crew to more accurately gauge the distance to a docking platform, as well as any potential hazards to either side of the ship.

Direct contact is maintained between the bridge and those crew members that are stationed within the bridge wings during docking. In doing so, those on the bridge wings can provide guidance, and relay critical, up-to-date information as the thrusters are used to control the ship’s movement.

By working together, the crew members are able to ensure safe and precise maneuvering while docking and avoiding obstacles.

Crew Accommodations and Break Room

With some of the larger cruise ships, where a large crew is required to be on the bridge at all times, there may also be small living quarters towards the back of the bridge.

This allows the captain, as well as other members of the bridge crew, to rest and recuperate without needing to travel far. In an emergency scenario, the captain and their crew must be able to return to the bridge in as little time as possible.

Most vessels will have at least a bathroom in this area, but others can feature the captain’s quarters, beds, tables, and a small kitchenette, so crew members can take small breaks and rest during longer journeys.

Type of Personnel That Can Be Found on a Cruise Ship’s Bridge

Although the exact number of people found working on the ship’s bridge will depend on the size of the cruise ship, as well as the duration of the voyage, you will typically find the following types of personnel there:

The Ship’s Captain

The captain fulfills the most crucial role of a crew member on a cruise ship. This is reflected by the fact that they are considered the highest-ranking officer on the ship.

Read Also: What’s a Typical Cruise Ship Captain Salary?

The captain will spend most of their time on the bridge in the command center. From here, they will oversee all operations within the bridge, including everything from navigation decisions to safety drills.

To learn what is required of a cruise ship captain and the skills needed to become one yourself, we recommend reading about how to become a cruise ship captain .

The Staff Captain

For most cruise ships, the staff captain acts as the captain’s second-in-command. All crew members will report to the staff captain when the captain is away. Basically, their role is to assist the captain and ensure that all operations are carried out safely and according to protocol.

The helmsmen or helmsman steers the ship according to the captain’s directions. They also maintain regular contact with navigation officers, ensuring the cruise ship stays on course.

Typically, they will spend almost all of their time in the control area, which is located in the middle of the bridge on most ships.

Navigation Officers

As the name implies, navigation officers operate the cruise ship’s navigational equipment. They are also expected to have a professional understanding of navigational and depth charts, so they can continue to plot the ship’s course in the event of an equipment failure. They spend their time in the navigation area of the bridge, and they typically work in teams.

Communications Officers

Communications officers operate all of the communications equipment within the bridge. This means they must have an expert understanding of maritime radio procedures.

They also operate satellite communications systems and make in-calls to various other ship sections when commanded by the captain or staff captain.

Engine Officer

The engine officer is the direct link between the engine room and the ship’s bridge. They ensure the large vessel maintains its speed, direction, and course.

They also understand the ship’s limitations, as well as its current status and performance. The captain often speaks directly with the engine officer, especially during emergencies.

Lookouts and Junior Officers

Lookouts and junior officers perform general duties on the bridge for larger cruise ships. They should have a basic understanding of most roles on the bridge, so they can step in when required.

While traversing narrow or high-traffic waterways, they are also expected to keep a close eye on the ship’s surroundings to prevent collisions and other dangerous situations.

Is it Possible for Cruise Ship Passengers to Visit the Bridge?

Given the bridge’s significance and the fact that it is where the captain performs most of their duties, many cruise ship passengers hope to visit it while on board a cruise ship. This is particularly true for those with small children.

Whether or not this is possible for passengers to visit the bridge depends on the exact policies of the cruise line you are vacationing with. It is also up to the discretion of the captain and other bridge personnel.

While some will allow a small number of passengers to have a limited tour of the bridge, mainly while the ship is in port, the area is almost always only accessible to authorized personnel.

This is due to safety and security concerns. The last thing a captain would want is for their bridge crew to become distracted from their duties due to the presence of passengers and others.

Read Also: What a Cruise Ship Engine Room Looks Like

If you are interested in visiting the bridge of a ship you are traveling with, look into the exact policies and offerings of that cruise line company.

Some will allow passengers to meet the captain and other high-ranking officers during a guided tour. During some of these tours, it is possible to get a limited look at the bridge and explain how the equipment on the bridge actually works.

While there are no guarantees that you will be able to do so, these tours are often something you will need to register for ahead of time and pay a fee to participate in.

Again, if you are lucky enough to participate in a bridge tour, it will take place while the ship is in the harbor. You may also be required to stick to strict behavioral guidelines and even follow a specific dress code.

Are Bridge Tours Worth the Price?

While costs will vary depending on the cruise line, most of these tours cost about $100 and must be booked ahead of time.

These behind-the-scenes tours can certainly be interesting, but it is essential to understand that there are limitations. For starters, you likely won’t see too much action, as they are rarely scheduled while the ship is at sea.

With that said, for naval enthusiasts who want to understand the actual workings and operations of the ship they have boarded, it can be a very worthwhile experience.

It comes down to your preferences. If you are interested in participating in one, you should look into onboard activities well ahead of time, as the available spots on these tours can sell out very quickly.

If you want to see a quick example of a cruise ship bridge tour, you can find a video demonstration of a Princess Cruises bridge tour here .

Final Words

Given that the bridge is one of the most crucial components of any cruise ship, it is helpful to familiarize yourself with the various areas found in this area of the ship. It’s worth a tour of the essential location to discover what goes on behind the scenes.

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Jeffrey Cleary is an experienced travel advisor and cruise specialist with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in Caribbean and World cruises. With over a decade of experience in the travel industry, Jeffrey has developed a reputation as a trusted advisor for those seeking unforgettable Caribbean and/or World cruise experiences. "I bring a wealth of experience and knowledge in the cruise industry, along with real-world experience on many of the finest ships at sea. I love cruising myself, so I am often sailing (and reachable by clients) and experiencing the cruise lines first hand. I'll get to know you, your style, your ideal vacation and recommend an Amazing Cruise experience."

Cruise ships set sail out of Baltimore for the first time since bridge collapse

T wo cruise ships set sail for the sea from Baltimore this weekend for the first time since the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed.

Royal Caribbean’s Vision of the Sea left Baltimore on Saturday for a five-night voyage to Bermuda, according to Port of Baltimore Director Jonathan Daniels.

“Cruising is back at the Port of Baltimore,” Daniels said in a video posted on X from the Port of Baltimore account.

Carnival Cruise’s Pride followed suit on Sunday when the ship headed off for a 14-day voyage to Greenland and Canada.

“Just a week ago, this terminal was being used as an incident command post. In one week, it’s been transformed back to starting out that guest experience,” Daniels announced in the video, as tropical cruise music played in the background, “The Port of Baltimore is back, cruising is back. It’s absolutely great to be able to welcome everybody here.”

In a news release posted on the state’s website Tuesday, the Port of Baltimore administration had said, “The Port of Baltimore’s permanent 700-foot wide, 50-foot-deep channel is expected to be reopened by the end of May.”

The Port of Baltimore was temporarily blocked following the March 26 collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The 1.6-mile structure fell after the 213-million-pound cargo ship Dali collided with the bridge and struck one of its crucial support columns.

In 2023, 444,000 passengers departed on cruises from the Port of Baltimore. The Port supports 15,330 direct jobs and 139,180 jobs in Maryland, according to the state’s website. The cruise industry adds $63 million to Maryland’s economy, the website notes.

CNN’s Kathleen Magramo contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com

Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Seas departed Baltimore on May 25, the first passenger cruise out of the port since the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

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Port of Baltimore welcomes back cruise ships for the first time since Key Bridge collapse

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Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise ships leave from Baltimore for the first time since the collapse of the Key Bridge

Cruise ships left the Port of Baltimore for the first time since March 26.
The port's terminal was blocked after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed and killed six workers.
Rebuilding the bridge will take four years and could cost up to $1.9 billion.

Two months after Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed, cruise ships are now taking off from the Port of Baltimore.

A Royal Caribbean ship called Vision of the Seas left from the port on Saturday for a trip to Bermuda. And a Carnival Cruise ship called Pride destined for Greenland and Canada left Baltimore on Sunday.

The two trips are notable as the first cruise ships to leave Baltimore since the port was blocked by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26. The bridge collapsed after being hit by a cargo ship, killing six workers. The Francis Scott Key Bridge services about 30,000 people a day.

"We've been working through this process for the past two months," Jonathan Daniels, the director for the Port of Baltimore said in a video posted to X on May 25 by the port.

One week ago, the port's terminal was the headquarters for the recovery operations for the Francis Scott Key Bridge, Daniels added. The terminal is also a massive area of tourism for Maryland, bringing in 440,000 cruise passengers a year, Daniels told the Baltimore Sun.

The project to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge will take four years and is estimated to cost between $1.7 billion and $1.9 billion, a spokesperson for the Maryland Department of Transportation said in May 2023.

Watch: The container ship that destroyed the Francis Scott Key Bridge has crashed before

Main content

PHOTOS: 1st cruise ship departs from Baltimore since Key Bridge collapse

by Alexa Dikos

A cruise ship departed from Baltimore on Saturday for the first time since the Key Bridge disaster. (WBFF)

Baltimore (WBFF) — A cruise ship departed from Baltimore on Saturday for the first time since the Key Bridge disaster.

On May 25, Royal Carribean International's "Vision of the Seas' departed from a 5-night voyage from Baltimore to Bermuda.

Watch CBS News

Carnival, Royal Caribbean cruise ships embark from Baltimore in latest sign of recovery after Key Bridge collapse

By Mike Hellgren

Updated on: May 27, 2024 / 8:05 PM EDT / CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE -- On the cusp of nine weeks since the Key Bridge collapse, the Carnival Pride embarked from Baltimore Sunday on a 14-day journey to Greenland.

The day before, Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Seas left Baltimore for Bermuda—exciting for Colonel Estee Pinchasin of the Unified Command.

"Did you guys notice the cruise ship?" she asked reporters with a smile while on a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers tour of the recovery efforts on Friday.

Thomas Sitzler and his friends were onboard the Vision of the Seas to celebrate his partner's 60th birthday. It was important that they leave from Baltimore.

"Our fingers were crossed the entire time. We knew if we couldn't do this now, there would be another opportunity with Royal Caribbean to do this," Sitzler told WJZ. "The whole plan was to cruise out of Baltimore into and out of the [Chesapeake] Bay because all of these people grew up in the area, and they wanted to see all the sites from the water, so it's super cool we're going to go out this way."

Jonathan Daniels, the Executive Director of the Maryland Port Administration, said the economic impact is more than one million dollars for each ship. He noted more than 440,000 people cruised out of Baltimore last year—the second highest number since 2012–and promised more growth ahead.

"We hate to see any business leave for any period of time, but certainly thank the flexibility that was out there for the industry," Daniels said and referenced the temporary rerouting of cruises to Norfolk, Virginia.

Signs outside the Cruise Maryland terminal welcomed back cruisers while tropical music played inside the terminal which served as the Unified Command's headquarters less than a week earlier.

After the Dali was successfully re-floated and removed from the collapse site last Monday, Unified Command packed up and left the cruise terminal, but they still continue working and providing updates on the recovery process.

"We are here to celebrate the fortitude and the work that was done during the last two months to bring cruising back so quickly," Daniels said.

After the Dali was removed , the main 50-foot-deep channel could accommodate these larger cruise vessels, but for now, there's only one-way traffic—with the opening of the full 700-foot width pushed back from the end of May until June 8th to 10th.

"We're very proud of the hard work that our team put in to get to 400 feet across, 50 feet down, which allows any vessel that used to come to Baltimore to come in now," Pinchasin said.

WJZ Investigator Mike Hellgren came to WJZ in the spring of 2004. Solid reporting credentials and a reputation for breaking important news stories have characterized Mike's work. Mike holds a B.S. degree in journalism from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism and grew up partly in both Chicago and Louisiana.

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The owner and manager of a cargo ship that rammed into Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge before the span collapsed last week filed a court petition Monday seeking to limit their legal liability for the deadly disaster.

The companies’ “limitation of liability” petition is a routine but important procedure for cases litigated under U.S. maritime law. A federal court in Maryland ultimately decides who is responsible—and how much they owe—for what could become one of the costliest catastrophes of its kind.

Singapore-based Grace Ocean Private Ltd. owns the Dali, the vessel that lost power before it slammed into the bridge early last Tuesday. Synergy Marine Pte Ltd., also based in Singapore, is the ship’s manager.

Their joint filing seeks to cap the companies’ liability at roughly $43.6 million. It estimates that the vessel itself is valued at up to $90 million and was owed over $1.1 million in income from freight. The estimate also deducts two major expenses: at least $28 million in repair costs and at least $19.5 million in salvage costs.

The companies filed under a pre-Civil War provision of an 1851 maritime law that allows them to seek to limit their liability to the value of the vessel’s remains after a casualty. It’s a mechanism that has been employed as a defense in many of the most notable maritime disasters, said James Mercante, a New York City-based attorney with over 30 years of experience in maritime law.

“This is the first step in the process,” Mercante said. “Now all claims must be filed in this proceeding.”

Cases like this typically take years to completely resolve, said Martin Davies, director of Tulane University Law School’s Maritime Law Center.

“Although it’s a humongous case with a very unusual set of circumstances, I don’t think it’s going to be that complicated in legal terms,” he said. “All aspects of the law are very clear here, so I think the thing that will take the time here is the facts. What exactly went wrong? What could have been done?”

A report from credit rating agency Morningstar DBRS predicts the bridge collapse could become the most expensive marine insured loss in history, surpassing the record of about $1.5 billion held by the 2012 shipwreck of the Costa Concordia cruise ship off Italy. Morningstar DBRS estimates total insured losses for the Baltimore disaster could be $2 billion to $4 billion.

Eight people were working on the highway bridge—a 1.6-mile (2.6-kilometer) span over the Patapsco River—when it collapsed. Two were rescued. The bodies of two more were recovered. Four remain missing and are presumed dead.

The wreckage closed the Port of Baltimore, a major shipping port, potentially costing the area’s economy hundreds of millions of dollars in lost labor income alone over the next month.

Experts say the cost to rebuild the collapsed bridge could be at least $400 million or as much as twice that, though much will depend on the new design.

The amount of money families can generally be awarded for wrongful death claims in maritime law cases is subject to several factors, including how much money the person would have likely provided in financial support to their family if they had not died.

Generally, wrongful death damages may also include things such as funeral expenses and the “loss of nurture,” which is essentially the monetary value assigned to whatever moral, spiritual or practical guidance the victim would have been able to provide to their children.

Associated Press writer Stefanie Dazio in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

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IMAGES

The Bridge on Royal Caribbean Navigator of the Seas Cruise Ship
What Is a Cruise Ship Bridge?
Royal Caribbean takes delivery of Spectrum of the Seas
Cruise Ship Navigational Bridge Deck on Modern Boat Stock Photo
A Tour of a Modern Ship's Bridge
Bridge on Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas Cruise Ship

VIDEO

Modern Cruise Ship Views #cruiseship
Cruise SHIP BRIDGE Visit
Cruise ship bridge tour #celebritycruises #cruiseship
Cruise Ship Bridge Tour

COMMENTS

Cruise Ship Bridge: Fully Explained (inc Bridge Tour)
The cruise ship bridge is the command center, located at the front of the ship on the upper decks. It's the area of the ship where all the ship's controls to navigate the ship is located, it's the equivalent of a large cockpit area. It is from here that the cruise captain and bridge crew members take their positions and carry out their ...
What Is a Cruise Ship Bridge?
Modern cruise ships normally have a glass-enclosed bridge on an upper deck near the front of the ship, giving the captain and crew a clear view forward.
Where Is The Bridge On A Cruise Ship & What Does It Look Like?
A cruise ship bridge is iften curved in the central cockpit portion. Windows are slanted to reduce reflected light, as a bridge is unlit apart from instrument lighting ... On most modern cruise ships, on either side, there are extensions which look like wings. These are known as Bridge Wings and give the crew better visibility right to the back ...
Navigation Bridge of a Mega Ship
In which I bring you around the Bridge, where all the navigations are handled. A compact space with centralized computer systems atop highest point of the sh...
What is the Cruise Ship Bridge?
The term "ship bridge" was used well before modern-day cruise ships were established. Originally, the term referred to a raised platform built at the top of a ship's deck to give the ship ...
How Cruise Ships Work (Part 3): The Bridge and the Engine Room
Deck Officers on the Bridge of a Cruise Ship. For twenty-four hours each day, the bridge is occupied by two Deck Officers and two Able Seamen, traditionally in four-hour shifts. The main job of the Officer of the Watch is to monitor the ship's systems and surroundings, and to ensure that everything is running safely and smoothly.
Can You Visit The Bridge on a Cruise Ship?
The Bridge is a room at the front of the ship from which the ship is commanded. The term "Bridge" originated from a narrow, raised platform "bridging" the two sides of a large vessel. This allowed the Captain access to both sides while commanding the crew. On modern cruise ships the Bridge is a large structure, high up at the front of ...
What Is Cruise Ship Bridge(full explained)
the cruise ship bridge is a complex and highly regulated area dedicated to ensuring the safe navigation and operation of the vessel. It combines advanced technology, skilled personnel, and strict safety protocols to provide passengers with a secure and enjoyable cruise experience while navigating the world's oceans and waterways. Stay blessed.
10 Beautiful Bridges Your Cruise Ship Can Sail Under
Tower Bridge. Dom Luis I Bridge. Lions Gate Bridge. Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Chain Bridge. Tromso Bridge. Bridge of the Americas. 1.
The future bridge
The future bridge - turning visions into reality. What does the future of ship-bridge design look like? Ship designers and builders ULSTEIN, along with a group of innovative Norwegian designers, have drawn upon popular media such as concept cars, movies and games that form people's sense of the future, to develop a truly futuristic concept which they hope could change ship bridge designs ...
A Tour of a Modern Ship's Bridge
The ship's bridge serves as a controlling and commanding station for the entire ship. We can control all the machinery, boiler, and ship's navigation from the bridge. This provides a common platform for the ship's alarming and controlling station for onboard machinery. All systems and equipment must meet IMO standards and must be approved ...
Bridge of a Ship
The bridge is the main control centre of a vessel, from where the captain and officers are able to man the entire operations of the vessel. It is generally located in a position with an unrestricted view and immediate access to the essential areas of a ship. Historically, the bridge was a structure connected to the paddle house that housed the ...
Major Parts of a Cruise Ship
Galley: The kitchen. Hull: The main body of the ship. Lido deck: A commonly used phrase indicating the location of the pool and additional amenities like bars, restaurants, and fitness centers ...
Bridge Cams
See where Princess Cruise ships are right now with the cruise ship webcam. Satellite images from the bridge are automatically refreshed every five minutes. English. ships-and-experience. ships. Bridge Cams. Princess Bridge Cams. Caribbean Princess Coral Princess Crown Princess Diamond Princess Discovery Princess Emerald Princess
On the bridge with the captain of Ruby Princess
February 6, 2019. On my recent cruise on Ruby Princess , I was invited onto the bridge and got to interview the ship captain, Craig Street, who told our group about navigating a modern cruise ship, spying the launch of an ICBM missile and the time he piloted a Princess ship that rescued a passenger who jumped overboard.
This is how to drive a cruise ship
Turn the wheel to port and the ship will go to the left, turn the wheel to starboard and the ship will go to the right. The third method of driving a cruise ship is Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS). ECDIS is is basically a digitized chart computer system and it is the modern replacement for paper charts.
Bridge (nautical)
A bridge (also known as a command deck ), or wheelhouse (also known as a pilothouse ), is a room or platform of a ship or submarine from which the ship can be commanded. When a ship is under way, the bridge is manned by an officer of the watch aided usually by an able seaman acting as a lookout. During critical maneuvers the captain will be on ...
Video: Why Is The Command Centre Of A Ship Called "Bridge"?
For this purpose, a walkaway was constructed on a raised platform, connecting the two paddles, serving as a literal 'bridge', earning the command centre its name. Yes, the name has survived till date. The captain could issue commands to the pilot regarding steering of the ship, as well as engine commands to the engineering officer.
What is the Steering Wheel on a Ship?
When many people picture the bridge of a cruise ship, they imagine the captain standing behind a massive steering wheel. While it is true that some modern-day cruise ships do have a classic ship ...
What Do the Cruise Captains' Quarters Look Like? (inc Videos)
Celebrity Cruise Captains' Quarters. The video below is by Captain Kate McCue, who has a well-known social media presence in the cruising world. She's captain of the cruise ship Celebrity Edge at the time of the recording. This is a 130,000 gross tonnage cruise ship with the capacity to carry over 2900 passengers. 1.1M.
What is the Cruise Ship Bridge?
The term "ship bridge" was used well before modern-day cruise ships were established. Originally, the term referred to a raised platform built at the top of a ship's deck to give the ship's captain a better view of the path ahead.
Seafarer's professions and ranks
Toggle Modern ship's complement subsection. 1.1 Captain. 1.2 Deck department. ... The reasoning behind this is that a ship's bridge, filled with sophisticated navigational equipment, requires skills differing from those used on deck operations - such ... On larger vessels such as cruise ships, electro-technical officers can have ranks within ...
Cruise ships set sail out of Baltimore for the first time since bridge
The 1.6-mile structure fell after the 213-million-pound cargo ship Dali collided with the bridge and struck one of its crucial support columns. In 2023, 444,000 passengers departed on cruises from ...
Port of Baltimore welcomes back cruise ships for the first time ...
Several cruise ships have embarked from the Port of Baltimore for the first time since the Key Bridge disaster.
First cruise ship sets sail from Port of Baltimore since Key Bridge
The festive occasion marked the first cruise ship to arrive and depart the Port of Baltimore since the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26. ... the terminal was the headquarters ...
Cruise Ships Resume From Baltimore After Key Bridge Collapse Disrupted
The two trips are notable as the first cruise ships to leave Baltimore since the port was blocked by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26. The bridge collapsed after being hit ...
Titanic vs. Modern Cruise Ship: How Do They Compare?
3,998. Titanic Size Comparison. Compared to today's cruise ships, the Titanic just can't stand up. It even cost a tiny amount to build compared to today's cruise ships. At today's costs ...
PHOTOS: 1st cruise ship departs from Baltimore since Key Bridge ...
A cruise ship departed from Baltimore on Saturday for the first time since the Key Bridge disaster.On May 25, Royal Carribean International's "Vision of the S
Carnival, Royal Caribbean cruise ships embark from Baltimore in latest
Port of Baltimore welcomes back cruise ships for the first time since Key Bridge collapse 02:44. BALTIMORE -- On the cusp of nine weeks since the Key Bridge collapse, the Carnival Pride embarked ...
Singaporean firm whose ship took down the Baltimore bridge just cited
Eight people were working on the highway bridge—a 1.6-mile (2.6-kilometer) span over the Patapsco River—when it collapsed. Two were rescued. The bodies of two more were recovered.

Can You Visit The Bridge on a Cruise Ship? – Real Experiences & Prices

What is the Ships Bridge?

Can You Visit The Bridge on a Cruise Ship?

Cruise Ship Bridge Tours

How Have Things Changed In Recent Years?

Loyalty Status Tours

Bridge Viewing Rooms

Other Ways to Visit the Bridge on a Cruise Ship

Can you visit the Wheelhouse on a River Cruise Ship?

Are There Bridge Tours on Luxury on Expedition Ships?

Would I Recommend a Bridge Tour?

Free Insiders Cruise Line Guide

What Is Cruise Ship Bridge(full explained)

Bridge On A Cruise Ship

Bridge Crew Members

Harbor Pilots:

Cruise captain:

Assistant Officer of the Watch:

Quartermaster Lookout:

Bridge Policy

Bridge Equipment

Cruise Ship Bridge Layout

Cruise Ship Bridge Wing

Cruise Ship Safety Measures:

What is the purpose of the navigation console on the ship’s bridge?

How do GPS and satellite navigation systems contribute to safe navigation?

What role do radar systems play on the ship’s bridge?

What is the purpose of a depth sounder on the bridge?

How are nautical charts used on the bridge?

What is the significance of binoculars on the bridge?

How is a sextant utilized for navigation?

What does the steering console control on the bridge?

What are the key functions of the engine control room in relation to the bridge?

How does an autopilot system contribute to navigation?

What is the purpose of a gyrocompass on the bridge?

How is speed measured on the ship, and why is it important?

Why is an anemometer used on the bridge?

What is the role of a barometer in navigation?

How are clocks and chronometers used on the bridge?

What is the function of the AIS (Automatic Identification System) on the bridge?

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A Tour of a Modern Ship's Bridge

Introduction

Ship’s Bridge

Ship’s Bridge Construction Features favorable for Lookouts

Bridge Equipment

Controlling Ship’s Speed and Direction from Bridge

Maneuvering Displays on Bridge Control Screen

Navigation Instruments

Navigation and Position Fixing Instruments On Ship’s Bridge

Weather Monitoring Systems

Image Credits

Princess Bridge Cams

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