Does a Cruise Ship Have Sails?

By Anna Duncan

When a person dreams of taking a cruise, the image that usually comes to mind is of a giant boat with several decks, plenty of amenities and restaurants, and all sorts of activities. What usually does not come to mind is a boat with sails. So, does a cruise ship have sails?

The answer to this question depends on the type of cruise ship. Traditional ocean-going vessels such as sailing ships, which were common in the 18th and 19th centuries, were propelled solely by the power of their sails.

However, these types of ships are no longer in use today. Modern cruise ships are powered by diesel engines or turbines and they do not use sails for propulsion. However, some modern cruise ships do have sails for decorative purposes and/or to provide shade on the decks.

These “sails” are more accurately called “shade sails” and they are typically made from canvas or some other fabric material which is stretched between poles mounted on the deck. These can be used to provide protection from sun and wind for passengers who are lounging on the decks or taking part in outdoor activities such as swimming or snorkeling.

In addition to shade sails, some modern cruise ships also feature traditional-style “rigging” (the ropes and pulleys used to raise and lower a sail). This rigging is purely decorative however; it does not actually serve any practical purpose other than providing an aesthetic touch.

Conclusion:

To conclude, modern cruise ships do not have sails for propulsion but some may have decorative rigging or shade sails for aesthetic purposes or for providing protection from sun or wind.