why do cruise ships blow their horns

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
• Specialty Restaurants
• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
• CocoCay Tips
• Norwegian Tips
• Great Stirrup Cay
• Harvest Caye
• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
• Best Time to Book a Cruise
• Best Websites to Book a Cruise
• Cruises Under $300
• Cruises Under $500
• Spring Break Cruise Deals
• Summer Cruise Deals
• Alaskan Cruise Deals
• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
• Packing Checklist
• Cruising with Kids
• Passports & Birth Certificates
• Bringing Alcohol
• Cruising with a Disability
• Duty-Free Shopping
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
• What Not to Do on a Ship
• News & Articles

Here’s What The Horns Sounding on a Cruise Ship Mean

You’re on your cruise ship. The entire week is ahead of you. You’re excited about the exotic ports of call, the food, the shows… and yes, the time off from email and the cell phone. You have a drink in your hand. You’re in paradise.

And then… HOOOOOOOOOOOOONNNNNNNNKKKKKK. HOOOOOOOOOONNNNNNKKKKKK.

The ship’s horn sounds loudly. It’s enough to scare you half to death.

While the horns on a cruise ship may surprise you, they are an extremely important aspect of sailing. The ship’s horns harken back to a day before radios and loudspeakers.

They serve as communication with other boats in the area, telling them what the cruise ship is planning to do. Without the horn signals, the risk of a collision would be much greater.

So what do they mean?

As you would guess, different horns have different meanings. We’ve broken down the horn signals with what they mean below.

Inland Waters (Near Port)

One short blast = Changing course to starboard (right) Two short blasts = Changing course to port (left) Three short blasts = Operating in reverse Five short blasts = Danger signal Two long blasts = Leaving berth

Open International Waters

One short blast = Passing on ship’s port side Two short blasts = Passing on ship’s starboard side Three short blasts = Operating in reverse Five short blasts = Danger signal

In addition, ships will also sound their horns for other reasons; most notably in low visibility. This will usually involved regular bursts of sound to let other ships in the area know that the cruise ship is there.

And when a cruise ship makes the sound heard below? Well, that’s just them blowing off a little steam and having some fun.

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, 12 things included for free in your cruise (you just have to know), 12 “adults-only” cruise tips you can’t miss, how much it costs to live on a cruise ship for a year, 57 must-have tips, advice, and info for first-time cruisers, cruising with a baby: what to know from someone who’s done it, 12 cruise tips that feel wrong (but are 100% right), 10 comments.

After one prolonged blast, the boater alerts nearby vessels that it is leaving the slip or dock.

A general emergency alarm is indicated by these seven short and one long blasts of the ship’s horn. The crew may have to leave the ship due to an onboard fire, a grounding, a collision, or other circumstances. In some cases, the crew can hear the ship’s bells or whistles.

It’s 5:59 am and ships are coming in to port when all of a sudden we hear 5 blast????

Danger I do not understand your intentions

Would you happen to know what one VERY long blast means?

I just heard a cruise ship give seven short blast and one long blast… it is at the dock and is departing. Any ideas what this might mean? I have never heard this before, and I live right near the cruise ship terminal.

That’s the emergency signal that’s given during the safety muster drill.

Cool! Thank you!

Did the 1920’s transatlantic passenger ships, prior to leaving, have a signal ‘to get on board.’

I’m not sure.

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Answered: What Is a Good Price for a Cruise? (Caribbean, Alaska, & Europe)

20+ best miami “park and cruise” hotels (free/discount parking), hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

Cruise Tips For Families & Single Cruisers

Things to Know Before You Cruise

Why Cruise Ships Blow Their Horns: Signals, Safety, And Fun!

As a veteran cruiser, I’ve always been curious about why cruise ships blow their horns. I knew that the horns served a practical purpose, but I was also aware that they were used for more playful activities, like horn battles and musical performances. So, I decided to do some research and learn more about the various signals, safety uses, and fun aspects of cruise ship horns.

As it turns out, there’s a lot more to cruise ship horns than meets the eye. These horns play a crucial role in communication, navigation, and safety at sea. From warning other vessels of their presence to signaling their intentions to dock, cruise ship horns are an essential tool for navigating the waters.

But they’re also used for more lighthearted activities, like entertaining passengers and engaging in friendly competitions with other ships. In this article, we’ll explore the different meanings behind cruise ship horns and delve into the fun side of these musical instruments.

So, whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a curious landlubber, read on to discover the fascinating world of cruise ship horns!

• Cruise ship horns serve multiple functions, including communication with other vessels, navigation signals, warnings, and fog alerts.
• Different horn signals have different meanings and can be combined to convey multiple messages, including emergency alerts and information about the ship’s heading.
• Horn battles are a fun way for two cruise ships to communicate with each other, and Disney Cruise Line is known for having the most musical horns and impressive battles.
• Passengers should be aware of the loudness of cruise ship horns and cover small children’s ears when they sound. It’s also important to understand the various horn signals and their meanings for safety reasons.

Why Cruise Ships Blow Their Horns

I’ve learned that cruise ship horns serve many purposes, such as communicating with other vessels and warning passengers of imminent danger. However, one specific example of why horns are used is to reduce the risk of collision by indicating the ship’s direction.

This is especially important in crowded waterways like the Panama Canal, where multiple vessels are navigating at the same time. The horn’s sound can travel for miles and is a crucial tool for navigation communication.

The design of the horn also plays a significant role in its effectiveness. Cruise ship horns are designed to produce a loud and clear sound that can be heard up to two nautical miles away in foggy conditions. This is important for safety reasons, as it allows other vessels to determine the location and direction of the ship.

The number and placement of horns on a cruise ship will vary depending on the ship’s design, but they are an essential tool for safe navigation at sea.

Different Horn Signals

Understanding the meanings of various horn signals is crucial for any maritime traveler. It’s not just about being able to impress fellow passengers with your knowledge, it’s about safety and etiquette. Different signals are used to convey different messages, and it’s important to know what each one means in order to avoid collisions and other potential dangers.

Here’s a table that outlines some common horn signals and their meanings:

Knowing these signals and using them appropriately is essential for safe maritime travel. It’s also important to remember horn etiquette – don’t use your horn unnecessarily, and never use it to intimidate or show off. By following these guidelines, we can all enjoy a safe and respectful journey on the high seas.

Safety and Emergency Uses

In case of an emergency, it’s important to know the different horn signals used in maritime travel to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew.

Cruise ships have specific communication protocols to convey different types of emergency situations. The ship’s horn is used to warn passengers of imminent danger, such as a fire or a collision with another vessel. The signal for this emergency is seven short blasts followed by one long blast. This signal means that all passengers should assemble at their designated muster stations for evacuation procedures.

In addition to the emergency signal, cruise ships also use the horn to communicate other important safety information. For example, the signal for a man overboard is three long blasts, which means the crew should immediately begin search and rescue operations.

It’s important for passengers to pay attention to these signals and follow all safety instructions provided by the crew in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable cruise experience.

Horn Battles and Fun Activities

It’s always amusing to witness two massive vessels engaging in a musical competition on the open sea, don’t you think? Horn battles have become increasingly popular among cruise lines as a way to create a fun and friendly atmosphere onboard.

However, there is a certain etiquette that needs to be followed to ensure that the competition remains safe and enjoyable for everyone involved.

First and foremost, horn battles should only be done in open waters and away from other vessels. Cruise ships are massive and powerful, so it’s important to ensure that they don’t accidentally collide with each other or cause any harm to nearby ships.

Additionally, the battle should be brief and not disturb other passengers who may be trying to relax or sleep.

Despite these guidelines, horn battles have become a beloved tradition among cruise enthusiasts, with Disney Cruise Line leading the pack with their impressive musical horns and elaborate battles.

What is the history of cruise ship horns and how have they evolved over time?

The evolution of cruise ship horns can be traced back to their role in navigation and warning signals. With advancements in sound engineering and acoustics, cruise ship horns are now designed to be heard from a distance of two nautical miles, while also adding a tunefulness to the travel experience.

How do cruise ships ensure that their horns are audible from two nautical miles away in foggy conditions?

To ensure that cruise ship horns are audible from two nautical miles away in foggy conditions, technological advancements in sound engineering have been implemented. These advancements enable the horns to produce a loud and clear sound that can easily be heard, promoting safety at sea.

Can passengers request to participate in a horn battle between their ship and another ship?

Passengers cannot request to participate in a horn battle as it violates regulations and etiquette. Horn battles have a history of being fun, but safety is a priority. Exploring cruise ship horns is fascinating, but professional and technical.

What is the protocol for using the horn in case of a medical emergency onboard the ship?

In case of a medical emergency onboard the ship, the notification protocol is activated immediately. The horn usage is one of the onboard procedures used to signal for emergency response, ensuring passenger safety.

Are there any regulations or restrictions on the use of cruise ship horns in certain parts of the world or during certain times of day?

Did you know that regulations and time restrictions on cruise ship horns vary by location? In some areas, such as Alaska, there are strict noise pollution regulations, while in others, there are time restrictions to limit the environmental impact.

What Do Cruise Ship Horn Signal Blasts Mean?

One of the first things you'll notice when cruising is that cruise ships have a VERY loud horn that while it could be used like your car's horn - actually has a more sophisticated use. While you might just blast your car's horn at a driver that cuts you off, or tap it to let someone know they can go, cruise ships have an internationally recognized set of horn signals that lets everyone around them know exactly what's going on.

When Were The Cruise Ship Horn Signals Established?

In fact, signal horns aren't isn't just for cruise ships. They were codified in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea in 1972 and apply to all maritime vessels. In the United States, a similar act was passed in 1980 called the Inland Navigation Rules Act and is a federal statute approved by Congress. However, they were based on earlier conventions and maritime law as practices by the United States and England starting in the mid-19th century. I'm not going to get into more detail about the legal details of these rules regulating horn signals since there are so many vessels out there. Suffice to say, every modern cruise ship adheres to the same simple regulations around signals, regardless of whether they are cruising to Mexico, Canada, or California along the west coast, or an expedition to Antarctica. 

What Do Cruise Ship Horn Signals Mean?

There are six different signal horn blast patterns that you will hear on a cruise ship, though the sixth one I hope you will never hear!

One Short Blast - This signal means that your cruise ship intends to pass on it's port side. In inland waters near the port or harbor, this also indicates the cruise ship is changing course to starboard.

One Long Blast - This signal lasting 4-6 seconds means that your ship is leaving the dock. It is a notice to all others around it to be aware that the ship is moving.

Two Short Blasts - Similar to One Short Blast meaning that your ship is passing on the port side, two short blasts means your ship will be passing another on it's starbord side. When in inland waters, this signal horn also means that the ship is changing course to port.

Three Short Blasts - This signal blast means that the ship is backing away from the dock.

One Long Blast Followed by Three Short Blasts - This is actually a combination of two signals horn blasts, letting those around you know that your cruise ship is underway and backing away from the dock.

Are You Ready For A Cruise?

Please fill out the form below and Heather from Flow Voyages (or a representative from CruiseWestCoast.com) will contact you as soon as possible.

For immediate help, please contact Heather directly: 630-779-9301 or : [email protected]

Five Short Blasts - DANGER! This is a horn signal that you hope to never hear when on a cruise. Regardless of which vessel you are on, this is never a signal blast pattern that you want to hear. Unfortunately, cruise ships are massive vessels and navigation at sea is often an imprecise practice that puts even the best pilot and captain at the mercy of strong and unpredictable winds and currents.

There's also one more signal that very few people will ever hear outside of a drill ...

Seven Short Horn Blasts followed by One Long Blast -  This horn signal indicates a general emergency and will also be accompanied by alarms and visual indicators depending on the ship you are sailing on. 

Cruise Ship Horns Can Be Just For Fun Too!

While cruise ships carry powerful signal horns to ensure safety and communicate with other vessels and structures around them in the harbor, sometimes the horns are used for fun too. No cruise line does this more frequently and with as great sophistication as Disney Cruise Line, though it is not uncommon to hear music produced by the horns on MSC and Cunard ships too.

So now you know what cruise ship horn signals mean and when to expect them. Be careful though if you are on the upper decks during sailaway since forward viewing areas on the upper decks of some ships can be uncomfortablly close to the signal horns. If that's where you find yourself, be prepared to cover your ears!

Boat Reviews

• Boats Specs
• Marine Pros
• Boat Insurance
• Boat Warranties
• Boat Transport
• Boat Towing
• Marine Forecasts

Your Ultimate Boating Resource

Why Do Cruise Ships Blow Their Horns?

Cruise ships are a popular way to travel, but they can be quite noisy. One of the most common sounds you’ll hear when a cruise ship is in port is its horn. But why do cruise ships blow their horns?

The primary reason cruise ships blow their horns is to alert other vessels in the area that they are present. Cruise ships are large and can be difficult to see, so blowing the horn is a way of letting other boats know that they should be aware of the ship’s presence. This helps prevent collisions and other accidents on the water.

In addition to alerting other vessels, cruise ships also use their horns to announce their arrival and departure from ports. This lets people on shore know that the ship has arrived or is leaving, which can be helpful for those who are waiting for passengers or crew members. It also serves as a way of saying goodbye or welcoming people back home after a voyage.

Finally, cruise ships use their horns as a way of celebrating special occasions or holidays. For example, many cruise lines will sound their horns when they pass through certain landmarks or areas of interest, such as passing under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco or entering New York Harbor. They may also sound their horns on holidays like Christmas and New Year’s Eve as a way of wishing everyone onboard a happy holiday season.

So next time you hear a cruise ship’s horn while it’s in port, remember that it serves an important purpose: keeping everyone safe on the water and helping celebrate special occasions!

Related Questions

What type of wood is used for pier pilings, what is the difference between a dock and a floating pier, what is the proper technique for pulling a beginner wakeboarder, what does ‘no wake’ mean on a lake, what is the difference between wash and wake, is wakesurfing possible in the sea, why don’t wooden piers rot, what size wakeboard is needed, how to achieve more pop on a wakeboard, does wake surfing translate to ocean surfing, latest posts, 2024 pursuit os 445: an overview, dock your boat smoothly this summer with these tips, the billionaire’s playground: where to spot superyachts around the world, summertime snack ideas for your boating adventure, don't miss, our newsletter.

Get the latest boating tips, fishing resources and featured products in your email from BoatingWorld.com!

De-Winterize Your Boat the Right Way with These Professional Tips

10 essential tips for fishing near private property, the benefits of using a drift sock: guidance for anglers, lure fishing: secrets for imitating live bait and attracting fish, explore the untapped depths of america’s best bass fishing spots, tackle your catch-and-release adventures with these 6 tips, outboard motor maintenance: tips for keeping your engine in top shape, the essential boat tool kit: tools every boater needs, diy boat building: 8 tips and tricks for building your own vessel, the art of miniature maritime craftsmanship: ship in a bottle, antifouling paints: a guide to keeping your boat shipshape, beginner’s guide to standup paddle boarding: tips and techniques, boating for fitness: how to stay active on the water, kayak safety: how to stay safe on the water, anchoring in a kayak or canoe: how to secure your small boat, 2024 aquila 47 molokai review, 2024 sea-doo switch 13 sport review, 2024 aspen c120 review, 2024 yamaha 222xd review, 2024 sailfish 316 dc review, 2023 seavee 340z review, 2023 centurion fi23 review, gear reviews, megabass oneten max lbo jerkbait review, fortress anchors fx-7 anchoring system review, fortress anchors fx-11 anchoring system review, fortress anchors commando anchor kit review, fortress anchors aluminum anchors review, stay in touch.

To be updated with all the latest news, offers and special announcements.

• Privacy Policy

Cruise Ship Horn – The History and Significance

Cruise ship horns have a particularly distinct sound that is very, very loud. However, you shouldn’t mistake a cruise ship’s horn for the same purpose as your car’s horn, for example. 

They are an essential part of water navigation and are crucial for the safety of the ship and other ships at sea. They have a unique significance, and different blasts mean different things. 

Keep reading to learn the history and significance of a cruise ship horn, and discover the meaning of the different blasts you may hear throughout your cruise.

In This Article…

Cruise ship horn history and purpose.

As maritime vessels, cruise ships subscribe to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea and other standard regulations.

Standardized international regulations were established to codify important vessel operation procedures. Part of this standardization includes having adequate horns on large vessels, and cruise ships are no exception.

These regulations are essential to ensure good communication between all vessels for the safety of all those onboard. The main point of a cruise ship horn is to avoid a collision at all costs. 

Cruise Ship Horn – Why Do They Blast Their Horns?

There are various reasons why cruise ships blast their horns, ranging from a simple salutation to other passing ships to a warning of potential danger or an emergency.

For the most part, however, most horn blasts are to communicate with other passing ships what direction the ship plans on going. This is done using various horn signals that all vessels understand.

Why Are Ship Horns So Loud?

You’re on your cruise deck relaxing and trying to get a tan when suddenly you hear the loud blaring of the horn. While this may startle you and even be annoying, there’s an important reason that cruise ship horns are so loud. 

Cruise ship horns are so loud because of how big the open sea is. They act as a warning to other boats and vessels at sea. They need to be heard in cases of low visibility and in cases of emergency.

In general, you can hear cruise ship horns from up to two miles away. Cruise ships are pretty slow to stop and turn due to their enormous size, so this much space is needed as a warning to get out of another ship’s way. 

Ship Horn Blasts – What Do They Mean

You may have noticed that cruise ships have several different blasts. But what do they mean? Here’s a quick look into what the horn blasts mean.

• One short horn blast: This communicates to another ship that you intend to pass it on your port side. 
• Two short horn blasts: This communicates to another ship that you intend to pass on your starboard side .
• Three short horn blasts: This means that you are operating in reverse, such as backing away from the dock.
• One prolonged horn blast: This is the first blast you’ll often hear onboard your cruise, as the blast signals that a vessel is leaving the dock.
• Five short horn blasts: This typically signals danger and is the type of blast you are least likely to hear on your ship

Aside from these reasons, your ship might also sound its horn in times of low visibility just to make its presence known.

Although cruise ship horns tend to startle and scare people onboard the ship, there’s rarely anything to worry about. In general, the ship’s captain blasts the horn signal only to communicate.

Read Also: Cruise Ship Tendering – Top Pro Tips

You’re more likely to hear your captain blast the ship’s horn signal for fun than you are to be in an emergency. Either way, you now know what different blasts mean so that you can be prepared for your next cruise.

Related Posts

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Cruise ship horns and what they mean

Ever wondered what two short blasts of the horn mean when you hear them along the River Mersey?

• 05:00, 2 JUL 2022

The River Mersey is a busy shipping lane with a huge variety of vessels arriving every week.

Keen ship spotters always love it when a cruise ship sails in and, following the pandemic, it was one of the first signs of the tourism industry coming back into the city. Liverpool has already welcomed dozens of ships this year, with many more on the horizon.

Last year, a total of 90 cruise ships on round-Britain tours visited the port and people living along the river will be well accustomed to hearing the horns of the floating hotels ringing out over the Mersey . But some may not know the number of bursts and their length of the horn blasts means different things.

READ MORE: Drivers face up to £1,000 fines for commonly used 'thank you gestures' on roads

We have looked at what some of the different horns mean so next time you hear them sound, you will know if the ship is arriving, leaving or if it is in trouble and needs help. These all refer to inland waters as in open waters, in some cases, they refer to something slightly different.

One short blast - means the ship is changing course to starboard (to the right). In open waters this means a ship passing on the ship's starboard side.

Two short blast - means the ship is changing course to port (to the left) In open waters this means a ship passing on the ship's port side.

Three short blasts - means the ship is operating in reverse. This means the same in open waters.

Five short blasts - this is the ship's danger signal in both inland and open waters.

Two long blasts - this means the ship is leaving berth.

Visitors from passing cruise ships are estimated to bring in between £13m and £15m each year to the local tourism economy.

Speaking recently to the ECHO about the cruise ships coming back to Liverpool after the restrictions of the pandemic, John Mawer who is the Head of Cruise Operations at Liverpool Council , said: "This is our first full season and it's good to see the cruise terminal back in action again and operating to nearly its full capacity. Even last year, we managed to bring in 90 cruise ships when domestic travel was re-introduced as part of the road map for emerging from the pandemic.

"Cruises were included in that thanks to lobbying from the industry. This was only a slight drop from the 105 cruise operators we had pre-pandemic. Under the road map, only round-Britain trips were allowed for vaccinated passengers. In other words, this meant the destination was the ship, which was like a floating hotel. It fell under domestic travel guidance, and was open to UK citizens in UK territorial waters."

He added: "It does feel like we're back to some normality. In one week, we had 10,000 visitors from a range of different ships. The feedback's been great. The minute passengers step off the gangway, they get that famous Scouse welcome."

Free TV licence update and who can get one as DWP changes rules

Mum forced to wet herself in River Island after staff refuse to let her use toilet

Airport baggage handler makes plea as they say chaos 'will only get worse'

New Strictly Come Dancing series to undergo major changes

GMB's Susanna Reid floored as Prime Minister questioned about £150,000 treehouse

• Liverpool Cruise Terminal
• Liverpool Cruise Liner Terminal
• Most Recent

How Do Cruise Ship Horns Work?

By Michael Ferguson

A cruise ship horn is a powerful sound-producing device used to alert other vessels of its presence or to announce its departure. Cruise ship horns are often heard in ports and along coastal areas, giving the distinctive sound of a ship’s presence.

Cruise ship horns are typically constructed from brass or steel and require pressurized air to activate. When the air pressure is released, the sound of the horn reverberates throughout the area.

The most common type of cruise ship horn is a multiple-note diaphone horn, which produces multiple tones simultaneously when activated. These horns are made up of two chambers — one that produces a low-frequency tone and another that produces a high-frequency tone. The low-frequency chamber is usually made up of several metal pipes, while the high-frequency chamber contains several metal discs that vibrate to produce different tones when air is forced through them.

Cruise ships also use other types of horns such as air horns, steam whistles, and sirens. Air horns produce a single short blast when activated, while steam whistles create an extended tone by releasing steam from a boiler into an enclosed chamber. Sirens are often used on larger vessels for navigation purposes and can be heard for miles away when activated.

Cruise ships use multiple methods to power their horns, including electric motors, compressed air tanks, and diesel engines. Electric motors use electric current from batteries or generators to activate the horn’s diaphragm and create sound waves which travel through the water and can be heard by other vessels nearby.

Compressed air tanks store pressurized air which is then released into the diaphragm’s chambers to create sound waves when needed. Diesel engines are used on larger vessels as they can provide enough power to activate even the largest cruise ship horns without draining too much energy from other onboard systems.

10 Related Question Answers Found

What do cruise ship horns mean, how does a cruise ship horn work, what sound does a cruise ship horn make, how loud are cruise ship horns, why are cruise ship horns so loud, what do cruise ship horn blasts mean, how many horns does a cruise ship have, how loud is a cruise ship horn, how far can you hear a cruise ship horn, what does it mean when a cruise ship blows its horn, backpacking - budget travel - business travel - cruise ship - vacation - tourism - resort - cruise - road trip - destination wedding - tourist destination - best places, london - madrid - paris - prague - dubai - barcelona - rome.

© 2024 LuxuryTraveldiva

Same-day Ship-out. Overnight Shipping Available

30-Days Hassle-Free Returns

Handcrafted in the USA

New Release! Premium Train Horns

Cruise ship horn: the call of the sea explained.

The loud sound emitted by ships is an essential tool used for communication and safety measures at sea. Dating back to the early days of maritime travel, ships used various methods such as bells and whistles to signal to other vessels and crews. However, as technology advanced, the use of a powerful horn became the standard for larger ships, including cruise liners.

In today's modern maritime industry, the ship's horn continues to play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of passengers and crew members. With the ability to be heard from miles away, the horn is used to signal departures, arrivals, and emergencies. In addition, the distinct sound of a ship's horn has become a recognized symbol of adventure and luxury for those embarking on a cruise vacation.

While the sound of a ship's horn can be a nostalgic reminder of the golden age of travel, it can also pose a challenge for those sensitive to loud noises. To address this issue, cruise lines have implemented sound-muffling technology to reduce the noise level of the horn without sacrificing its effectiveness. This solution allows passengers to enjoy the iconic sound of the ship's horn while ensuring a comfortable onboard experience.

As cruise ships continue to grow in size and popularity, the importance of a powerful and reliable horn remains paramount. With advancements in technology and a focus on passenger comfort, the ship's horn will continue to serve as a vital tool for communication and safety at sea.

What is the purpose of a cruise ship horn and how does it enhance the sailing experience?

Cruise ship horns serve as a vital communication tool for vessels at sea, signaling to other ships, crew members, and passengers. The loud, distinctive sound helps alert nearby boats of the cruise ship's presence, especially in foggy conditions or low visibility situations. Additionally, the horn is used to celebrate special occasions such as departing and arriving at ports, sounding off with music or traditional signals. Furthermore, the cruise ship horn adds to the overall atmosphere and excitement of being on board a luxury liner. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the significance and functions of the cruise ship horn.

Cruise ships, known for their grandeur and size, are equipped with a powerful device used to communicate with other vessels and warn of potential hazards - the ship's horn. This essential safety feature emits a loud, distinctive sound that can be heard from miles away, helping to alert nearby ships, as well as those on board, to the presence of the cruise ship. Let's take a closer look at the importance and characteristics of cruise ship horns.

The primary function of a cruise ship horn is to signal the ship's presence to other vessels in the vicinity. This is especially crucial in areas of high maritime traffic, such as busy ports or narrow channels, where multiple ships may be navigating in close proximity to each other. The horn serves as a warning signal to help prevent collisions and ensure safe passage for all ships in the area.

Cruise ship horns are typically located on the upper deck of the ship, near the bridge where the captain and crew oversee navigation. These horns are typically made of durable metal materials, such as brass or stainless steel, to withstand the harsh marine environment. The design of a cruise ship horn can vary, with some ships featuring traditional trumpet-shaped horns, while others may have more modern, electronically operated horns.

The sound produced by a cruise ship horn is loud and distinctive, designed to be easily recognizable by other vessels and maritime personnel. The intensity and duration of the horn sound can vary, depending on the situation and the signal being communicated. Cruise ship horns are capable of producing a range of sounds, from short, sharp blasts to prolonged, continuous tones, each with its own specific meaning and purpose.

Regulations

Regulations governing the use of cruise ship horns are established by international maritime organizations, such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO), to ensure consistency and standardization across the industry. These regulations outline when and how cruise ship horns should be used, including specific signals for different maneuvers, such as entering or leaving port, passing other vessels, or sounding distress signals in emergency situations.

• On average, a cruise ship horn can reach sound levels of up to 140 decibels.
• Most cruise ships are required to have multiple horn signals, each with its own distinct tone and duration.
• In emergency situations, cruise ship horns may be used in combination with other signaling devices, such as sirens or whistles, to alert passengers and crew to evacuate the ship.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=r5BBTwo-_A0

What is the loud sound emitted by ships at sea?

The loud sound emitted by ships at sea is an important part of maritime communication and safety procedures. Ships use their horns to signal their presence, intentions, and warnings to other vessels in the vicinity. These signals vary in tone, duration, and rhythm, depending on the message being communicated.

1. Ships use their horns for communication and safety purposes.

2. The signals vary in tone, duration, and rhythm.

3. The signals convey the ship's presence, intentions, and warnings.

Why do ships sound their horns in foggy conditions?

Ships sound their horns in foggy conditions as a crucial safety measure to alert other vessels of their presence in reduced visibility. The loud and distinct sound of the horn helps ships to announce their location and provide a warning to prevent collisions at sea. The unique pattern of the horn signals in fog assists in differentiating ships and aids in navigation amidst challenging weather conditions.

1. Horn signals help ships announce their location in reduced visibility.

2. The distinct sound of the horn serves as a warning for other vessels.

3. Unique patterns of horn signals assist in navigation during fog.

When do cruise ships typically sound their horns?

Cruise ships typically sound their horns at specific times and locations as part of maritime traditions and customs. Common occasions for cruise ships to sound their horns include departure from ports, arrival at ports, special events onboard, and celebrating significant milestones during the voyage. The distinct sound of the cruise ship horn adds to the overall experience for passengers and creates a festive atmosphere on board.

1. Cruise ships sound their horns during departures and arrivals.

2. Special events onboard may trigger horn signals.

3. Horns are sounded to celebrate milestones during the voyage.

How does the sound of a ship's horn differ from other types of sirens?

The sound of a ship's horn differs from other types of sirens due to its deep and resonant tone, which can travel long distances across the open sea. Unlike traditional sirens used on land, ship horns are designed to deliver powerful and low-frequency sounds that are audible over the ambient noise of the ocean environment. The distinctive nature of the ship's horn serves as a unique identifier for vessels and aids in effective communication at sea.

1. Ship horns have a deep and resonant tone.

2. The sound can travel long distances across the open sea.

3. Ship horns are designed to be audible over ocean ambient noise.

Is there a specific protocol for using ship horns in international waters?

There is a specific protocol for using ship horns in international waters to ensure safe and orderly maritime operations. The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) outline guidelines for the use of sound signals, including the duration, frequency, and pattern of horn signals for different situations. Adhering to these regulations helps vessels communicate effectively with each other and reduces the risk of accidents at sea.

1. COLREGs provide guidelines for using sound signals at sea.

2. The guidelines cover duration, frequency, and patterns of horn signals.

3. Following regulations reduces the risk of accidents in international waters.

In conclusion, the cruise ship horn serves as a vital communication tool for ships at sea. It is used to alert other vessels of their presence, signal departures and arrivals, and warn of potential dangers. The horn's distinctive sound cuts through the noise of the ocean, ensuring clear and effective communication. Additionally, the horn plays a role in creating a sense of excitement and luxury for passengers, signaling the start of their adventure at sea. Overall, the cruise ship horn is not just a practical tool but also a symbolic part of the maritime experience.

Latest blog posts

Birthday parties: what things do you blow.

Blow out candles and balloons at birthday parties - fun activities for all ages!

What Are Squirrels Scared Of: Top Fears Revealed

What are squirrels scared of? Learn about common fears and how to keep them safe.

What Are Horns Used For: Nature's Tools Explained

Horns are used for defense, mating rituals, and communication in various animals.

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

• Royal Caribbean International

Silly Question: When do the ships blow their "horns"?

By IBookHePays , January 12, 2007 in Royal Caribbean International

Recommended Posts

Here's a link I found of the Freedom leaving port blasting her horn. The video isn't too good but the horn sounds great, especially if you have a sub woofer hooked to your computer.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=221534550676398951

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

A few years ago we were mid-Atlantic on a Holland America ship when the Captain announced that at midnight we would pass a "new dam ship' on its way to the US. No passengers on board yet.

At midnight, there she was, lights and horn blazing - very exciting moment - and in the middle of nowhere. Can't remember the ship unfortunately!!

The Close Encounters horn thing was really cool, and they went on for about 15 minutes, and kept trying to get it faster. It was also neat that QE2 and Norway were both relatively famous/historic ships. We also docked with them in St. Thomas, where the photo below was taken. It was really one of those significant cruise/horn memories. :D

http://www.herbytoys.com/Vaca_Images/Cruise2002/STT_CA_ships.jpg

Was on the Summit out of La and couldn't understand why we never heard the horn blow. I guess there is an ordiance there? Does anyone know?

nlcentralchmps03

When my son and I were given a tour of the bridge on the SOS while in Coco Cay, the captain allowed my son to sound the horn.

What a great experience for him!

Keasc: Thanks for the link for the Freedom's horn blasting. My husband could hear it all the way from downstairs and came up to see what was going on. :D

If you believe the Royal Caribbean commercial, the horn is blown just as the miniature golfer starts his put ... ;)

Since you gave me permission L, I finally added your fish to my signature. I love the fish! And OT but have you noticed that minature golf has different names in other states? Our cruise friends mentioned that they were going to up to play putt-putt, and we looked at them funny. :D We love that commercial with the horn. And when our friends are sailing without us, we always ask them to call at sailaway...so we can hear the horn!

Your friends must be from the south. Everyone calls it putt-putt around here, except me but that's my non-Southern raising coming out!

I just thought it was interesting and one of those things that makes you go Hmmm. It is the same game, sport, whatever, generally with little windmills, bridges and obstacles. And yet the name is different regionally. Baseball, football never changes, but mini-golf has different names.:) And back on topic.. we like the horn. :D

Cruise_Couple

Good one!!!

We were lucky enough to get stuck in the fog off of Progresso when on the Grandeur of the Seas. We had to stay at the sea anchor outside of the port until the fog lifted as they stopped all shipping from entering port. The captain sounded the horn every 30 seconds. We sat on our balcony eating croissants and drinking tea in absolutely zero visibility and listening to the ships horn. It was one of the most relaxing times in our lives. Truly wonderful!

This New Year's Eve on the Mariner they must have blown the horn for 30 seconds straight at midnight. It was thrilling! We were on the pool deck for the countdown which was linked throughout the ship to the one on the royal promenade. Free champange to boot! :-)

And OT but have you noticed that minature golf has different names in other states? Our cruise friends mentioned that they were going to up to play putt-putt ...

When I was young, the 'big' miniature golf establishment was named Putt Putt . So, when I hear someone use this term, I think they are just using the name brand as the generic; i.e. like using the brand-name Kleenex for any facial tissue. Those that use that term probably had a Putt Putt miniature golf course in the town that they grew up. :)

I have to do me a NYE cruise on of these days :cool:

Druke got it right. Although it doesn't sound like it, technically, it's the ships whistle, not the horn.

Regardless, am I the only one on here that will admit the ship's whistle make me horny???

There's just nothing like it!

Gotta love my DH, if I'm missing around sailaway, he knows where to find me...right out front waiting for the blast.:D

P, you are absolutely welcome to my fish. :D

I love the idea of having friends call at sailaway, to hear the horn. I'll have to remember to do that for DH ... whose job doesn't allow him to cruise as often as me. :( Thanks for the suggestion!!!!

PS: How are your squirrels doing? I nearly made road-pizza out of one of ours. I hate it when they zig when I'm zagging, putting us on a collision course. :eek: Fortunately, my very good brakes saved both of our days!

Lost my last response ... so trying again.

Hmmm, it was there ... just hiding. :rolleyes:

when we were docked in rhodes our ship and the ship next to us were playing a song together with their horns - it was so funny!!!!!

The ships toot their horns to tell the sailors to unhook the strings that hold the boat to the dock.

The horn can be a romantic and exciting sound. However, several summers ago on our late July cruise on the Voyager from Bayonne to Canada, we were in fog most of the time. The fog horn does sound EVERY two minutes. Since we were in fog most of the time, we heard the horn constantly. It lost its romantic allure for us on that cruise!

However, I still love the one blast as we leave port!

  I do remember a time of leaving Key West. A small boat was weaving in back and forth approx. 100 yards in front of our ship. All of us on the front of the boat found this funny for about a second. We realized he wasn't moving. He repeated this process over and over. Suddenly, the horn began to blast to near ear splitting levels. So the horn can be used as a "GET THE H*LL OUT OF THE WAY!" device.

This wouldn't happen today in US ports...the USCG "shadow" boats would either run him off or shoot him out of the water as a potential terrorist threat...

On the Navigator in Nov/Dec. when we were leaving port in Miami, the Explorer (I believe) was docked right in front of us. As we started to sail away, the Captian's got into a "Who's horn can outblow who's". The Nav. would blow a pattern, then the Exp. would copy-cat it and this went on for about 10 minutes. We were on the heli-pad, so the Explorers horn actually sounded louder to us up there than the Navigator's. It was cool. I've been in a battle of the horns in St. Thomas as well. The coolest horn is the DCL ships. They actually play the first 7 notes of "When you Wish Upon a Star". the horn is loud, loud, loud and they warn everyone before they blow it so that they can cover their ears on the top deck. It's fabulous.

erin_cruisers

When we sailed Grandeur out of Baltimore, they blew it just before we sailed under the Bridge.

Of course everyone is on deck already to watch how close we come to the bridge, so the Captain warns everyone a few moments beforehand to cover their ears.

I don't know what is more amazing, watching the looming bridge and thinking we aren't going to make it, or hearing the horn blast while on deck.

And IT IS the loudest sound I've EVER HEARD!!!

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• ANNOUNCEMENT: Set Sail on Sun Princess®
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• Cruise Insurance Q&A w/ Steve Dasseos of Tripinsurancestore.com June 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 05:03 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 03:34 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 03:22 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 02:12 PM

LauraS · Started Monday at 07:32 PM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

The Disney Cruise Line Blog

An unofficial disney cruise line news, information, weather, and photo blog..

It’s All in the Details: The Horns of the Disney Fantasy

There is a clear leader when it comes to cruise ship horn battles. Since 1998, with the launch of the Disney Magic, Disney Cruise Line has been a unanimous winner of all such battles with the well-known When You Wish Upon A Star horn.

With the launch of the Disney Dream in 2011, Disney further solidified their rein by adding A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes , Be Our Guest, Be Our Guest, Put Our Service to the Test , it’s a small world after all , Hi-diddle-dee (An Actor’s Life For Me) , Yo Ho, Yo Ho (A Pirates Life For Me) , Makes No Difference Who You Are (the second line of When You Wish Upon A Star), and the full When You Wish Upon A Star – Makes No Difference Who You Are

When we sailed the Disney Dream on a 3-Night Bahamian cruise, we only heard two horns; A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes and When You Wish Upon A Star . On our recent Disney Fantasy 7-Night Eastern Caribbean cruise, we were informed that following the noon announcements, on the first sea day,  all the horns would be played.

For your enjoyment, The Disney Fantasy Horns from Satellite Sun Deck.

I still get goosebumps during the Sail Away Party when it the the horn is first blown. I’m convinced that this a Pavlovian effect, considering it signals the beginning of a new adventure!

I think it is safe to say Disney Cruise Line will continue to dominate all future horn battles.

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

3 Replies to “It’s All in the Details: The Horns of the Disney Fantasy”

I would love you forever (well, more than I already do) if you made these into ringtones like you did for the new frozen one.

As of 2017 All the horns are listed A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes Be Our Guest, Be Our Guest it’s a small world An Actor’s Life Yo Ho, Yo Ho Makes No Difference Who You Are Do you want to build a snowman “Star Wars exclusives” Imperial March The Force Theme “may the force be with you” “New York exclusive” Start Spreading the News I’m Leaving Today ” from the Frank Sinatra song New York, New York

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Why Do Cargo Ships Blow Their Horns?

The sound of a ship’s whistle – the proper term for a ship’s horn – evokes a recognisable nautical sound. But, did you know that every sequence sounded on a ship’s whistle at sea has a distinct and important meaning?

The main reason that ships blow their horns is to communicate with other vessels . Sometimes they need to send a specific message , and at other times they simply need to communicate their presence . Either way, a ship’s whistle is primarily a communication device .

Each signal has its own unique meaning that is the same regardless of the type of ship. Whether a container ship, oil tanker, bulk carrier, or cruise ship, these signals all mean the same thing.

However, on a cruise ship, there are a number of reasons you might hear her sounding the whistle that you would not experience on a non-passenger vessel.

Why cruise ships are a little different

Everything that goes into the design of a cruise ship is done with the passenger experience in mind. Cruise ships will often sound their whistle as they pass a sister ship, or when leaving port. There is no legal or company obligation to do this, but it lets the passengers onboard know that they are passing another cruise ship and adds a little to the experience.

Cruise ships will sometimes sound their whistle while in port. This could be for one of three reasons: to test the whistle, to announce to passengers ashore that the ship is leaving soon and it’s time to get back onboard, or as a farewell signal to the port upon departure.

Disney ships even have customised whistles which can play famous tunes from Disney movies, such as  When You Wish Upon A Star  or the  Imperial March  from Star Wars.

There are over a dozen different combinations of signals that ships can sound on their whistles to communicate with other ships, and the majority of them are prescribed in the International Rules for Preventing Collisions at Sea, more commonly known as the  COLREGS  or the  Rules of the Road .

Why do all ships have a whistle?

It is a requirement of the  COLREGS  that every merchant vessel over 12 metres in length has to have a whistle, and  some even have two  – one placed forward and one placed aft.

The  COLREGS  are a very important, but quite simple, set of rules that defines the responsibility and actions of each ship in a potential collision situation. It also prescribes a set of sound signals which are sounded on the ship’s whistle.

These signals inform other vessels in the area of a ship’s actions. At night, these whistle signals should also be supplemented by corresponding flashes on a special all-round white light with a minimum visible range of 5 miles.

These signals are the most commonly used and are vital to ships successfully understanding each other’s actions and intentions.

You may be wondering why ships don’t just talk to each other on the radio. To find out why this is a potentially dangerous mistake, check out our article:  How Do Ships Talk To Each Other?

Sound signals in special circumstances

There are even more signals prescribed in the COLREGS that are only to be used in special circumstances.

A special set of sound signals is reserved for use by ships wishing to overtake in narrow channels.

When a ship sits at anchor, she is obliged to alert other ships to her presence using signals which cannot be mistaken for any other type of signal.

For this purpose, ships carry a  bell  and some even carry a  gong .

If a vessel of less than 100 metres in length is at anchor, she is required to ring the ship’s bell for 5 seconds at least once every minute. For a vessel of over 100 metres, the bell signal must be followed by the ringing of a gong for 5 seconds.

If a ship has had the misfortune to run aground, she sounds the same signal as she would if she was at anchor, with a whistle signal sounded before and after her anchor signal.

This whistle signal is two short blasts followed by one long blast. In Morse code, this is the letter U, which means  “you are running into danger ”.

Did You Know:  Many of the signals sounded by ships are letters in Morse code, and their use is based on their original meanings in Morse code

Fog signals

Probably the most well-known use for a ship’s whistle is  fog signals . These have been used for collision avoidance for centuries, and while ships now have radar to make navigating in fog safer, fog signals are absolutely vital to helping ships stay a safe distance apart, even when they can’t see one another.

There are many different signals that vessels can sound in fog. These signals change depending on whether the vessel’s type, i.e. sailing vessels, fishing vessels, vessels aground, vessels at anchor, or vessels which have limited manoeuvrability will all sound different signals to a cargo ship.

The most common signal you may hear in fog, if you live near the sea, will be  one prolonged blast , sounded at least every 2 minutes. This is the identification signal for a power-driven vessel underway in fog.

Emergency signals

One signal you will hopefully never hear except in a drill is the  general emergency signal . This alarm is employed on every merchant ship in the world as the signal to proceed to muster stations and begin preparing to abandon ship.

The general emergency signal is  seven short blasts followed by one prolonged blast  on the ship’s whistle and alarm bells. This alarm is designed to be impossible to mistake for any of the other more common whistle signals that ships use.

It does  not  necessarily mean that the ship is going to be abandoned – just that everyone onboard needs to prepare for that possibility by taking warm clothing and their life jacket to their assigned muster station.

Anyone who has been on a cruise will recognise this signal, as a practice drill is done before the ship leaves port. Only after the  Costa Concordia  disaster was the law changed to require cruise ship passengers to complete a drill before the ship sails from port. Previously, the drill only had to be done within 24 hours of departure.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

The Alternative to Huge Cruises? 3 Masts, 28 Sails and Wind Power.

We checked out the 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit on a Mediterranean cruise. In this era of gargantuan ships, its elegant clipper design, wooden decks and relatively small size stands out.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu

From the bridge of the three-masted windjammer, the Sea Cloud Spirit , the captain called out the words we’d all been waiting for.

“Let’s set the sails!” he cried, after turning off the engines, while maneuvering to maintain an optimum angle for his 18 deckhands to climb into the shrouds and unfurl the ship’s 44,132 square feet of sails by hand.

Like acrobats, the crew scurried up the masts to the upper topgallant sails that rose nearly 200 feet above us. The ship’s captain, Vukota Stojanovic, later insisted that none of it was for show. “Whenever there is an opportunity to sail, we sail,” he said.

For the next hour, the crew hauled the ropes until the 28 sails were billowing in the wind, propelling the 452-foot-long ship — the world’s largest passenger sailing vessel on which the sails are raised by hand — toward its first port of call, Portofino, Italy.

At a time when cruise lines are packing their ever-more-gargantuan ships with water parks and basketball courts, the 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit, with its old-fashioned clipper design and wooden decks, stands out. It is the newest ship from the Hamburg-based Sea Cloud Cruises , and while it is the company’s biggest, Sea Cloud said it wanted to leave space for passengers to connect to the surrounding elements.

“Wherever you are on the ship, it feels like you are sitting on the water,” said Amelia Dominick, 71, a retired real estate agent from Cologne, Germany, who was on her third cruise onboard the Sea Cloud Spirit.

I had arrived for a four-night “taster sailing” from Nice, France, to the Ligurian region of Italy, designed to entice passengers to sign up for a longer cruise. Here’s what I found.

The ship and cabins

The Spirit has many comforts and luxuries, including a fitness center, library, hair salon and a spa with a Finnish sauna that overlooks the sea. The deck layouts are spacious, with nooks carved out for privacy and relaxation.

Sixty-nine spacious cabins have windows that open onto the sea. My room, a junior suite on the third deck, had two large arched windows, mahogany tables, a balcony and a comfortable couch and armchair. The marble bathroom was lavish, with a gold-plated sink and large jetted bathtub.

The elegant interior design is inspired by the original Sea Cloud, built in 1931 for Marjorie Merriweather Post, the American heiress of the General Foods Corporation, with glossy wooden panels and gold trimmings. The Sea Cloud was the largest private sailing yacht in the world before Post handed it over to the U.S. Navy for use as a weather-reporting vessel during World War II. The four-mast, 64-passenger ship has since been restored to its former glory and will sail across the Aegean and Adriatic this summer.

The experience felt authentic — even before the sails were set — with a detailed safety drill. On most cruises, the drill entails a safety video and signing in at an assembly point. But here, passengers put on their life jackets and walked through emergency scenarios that included rationing food supplies and fishing from the lifeboat.

Each day, the sails were set, even during heavy rain and wind speeds over 30 knots. Guests wanting to participate in the rigging are usually invited to do so, but the weather conditions made it too risky for this sailing.

“It was amazing to watch the work go into putting the sails up and down and to experience the wind power pulling the ship so fast without the engines,” said Malte Rahnenfuehrer, a 50-year-old psychologist from Zurich, who was traveling with his partner and two children.

The captain

It is rare for cruise passengers to see the ship’s captain after the initial welcome drinks or gala dinner. But Capt. Vukota Stojanovic was omnipresent throughout the cruise, from setting sails to lifeguarding to mingling with guests.

Originally from Montenegro, Captain Stojanovic piloted container ships for years. When he was asked to consider helming the original Sea Cloud nearly 10 years ago, he hesitated because he had no experience sailing. Even after he learned the ropes — and there are 340 ropes (known as running rigging) on the vessel — he was unsure. “I grew to love the sailings, the boats, the crew the lifestyle, but I still felt I belonged on container ships,” he said. “It would be a big adjustment, especially because I would have to shave every day,” he joked.

Eventually, he accepted the opportunity and worked tirelessly to learn how to sail and operate the ship. Today, he keeps an “open bridge” policy, allowing passengers to visit the control room, even when he is wrestling with the wind.

“The crew and the passengers are all part of the experience, and I like to meet people and receive their feedback,” Captain Stojanovic said.

Environment

Sea Cloud Cruises aspires to take a “gentle” approach, using wind power to drive its ships wherever possible, even if that means changing course for optimal weather conditions. When sailing is not possible, the Spirit has two diesel-electric engines that run on low-sulfur marine diesel fuel. The company is also working with ports that have shore power capabilities to plug into the local electric power.

Onboard, there is an emphasis on reusable bottles and paper straws, and crew members separate solid waste to be compacted and removed when in port.

Excursions and Activities

We made stops in Portofino, San Remo, Italy, and St.-Tropez, France, anchoring offshore and getting to land by tender — a contrast to the big cruise ships with their loud horns and thick plumes of exhaust spewing from their funnels.

For passengers wanting to take a dip (there is no pool), the crew marked an area in the water with floats and an inflatable slide. The water was frigid, but many passengers took the plunge from the swimming deck. Guests could also take “Zodiac Safaris” around the ship to get views of the vessel from the water.

Excursions ranged from food and wine tours to e-biking and beach trips. In Portofino, passengers were free to explore the sights independently, including the Castello Brown Fortress and the lighthouse on Punta del Capo rock. There was ample time to eat meals on shore as the ship did not depart until 11 p.m. Over the summer, the Sea Cloud Spirit will sail to Spain, Portugal, France and the Azores, among other destinations. On Nov. 11, she will depart for St. Maarten in the Caribbean for the winter.

Wherever the vessel goes, said Mirell Reyes, president of Sea Cloud Cruise for North America, the company tries to “stay away from the crowds and ports where big cruise ships spit out 6,000 passengers.”

Summer prices, which include food and beverages, range from $3,995 for a four-night sailing in a superior cabin to $9,420 for a veranda suite. Seven-night sailings cost between $6,995 and $16,495.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

Come Sail Away

Love them or hate them, cruises can provide a unique perspective on travel..

 Cruise Ship Surprises: Here are five unexpected features on ships , some of which you hopefully won’t discover on your own.

 Icon of the Seas: Our reporter joined thousands of passengers on the inaugural sailing of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas . The most surprising thing she found? Some actual peace and quiet .

Th ree-Year Cruise, Unraveled:  The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience : 382 port calls over 1,095 days. Here’s why  those who signed up are seeking fraud charges  instead.

TikTok’s Favorite New ‘Reality Show’:  People on social media have turned the unwitting passengers of a nine-month world cruise  into  “cast members”  overnight.

Dipping Their Toes: Younger generations of travelers are venturing onto ships for the first time . Many are saving money.

Cult Cruisers: These devoted cruise fanatics, most of them retirees, have one main goal: to almost never touch dry land .