When Was the 1st Cruise Ship Built?

By Alice Nichols

The first cruise ships were built during the early 19th century, when the rise of global sea trade made it possible to move large numbers of people around the world. Initially, these vessels were used primarily for transport, but as the technology and infrastructure improved, they began to serve as pleasure cruises.

The first true cruise ship was built in 1822 by a British company called Peninsular & Oriental Steam Navigation Company (P&O). This vessel was called “The Ville de Paris,” and it was intended to transport passengers from Britain to Spain and other Mediterranean countries.

The Ville de Paris was a luxurious experience for its passengers. It featured a large dining saloon, comfortable cabins with private baths, a library, and even an onboard bar. It also had a large deck area with chairs and tables so that passengers could enjoy the view of their travels.

The Ville de Paris was incredibly successful, and it soon became an icon of luxury travel. In 1844, P&O built another vessel specifically for pleasure cruising called “The Britannia,” which is considered to be the first modern-day cruise ship. This vessel had all of the amenities that would become standard on cruises today – including air conditioning, outdoor swimming pools and dance floors.

Since then, cruise ships have grown in size and amenities with each passing decade. New technologies such as stabilizers have been introduced to reduce motion sickness; automation has made ships more efficient; and entertainment options have become increasingly diverse.

Conclusion

When Was the 1st Cruise Ship Built? The first true cruise ship was built in 1822 by P&O called “The Ville de Paris”, which soon became an icon of luxury travel.

In 1844 P&O built another vessel specifically for pleasure cruising called “The Britannia”, which is considered to be the first modern-day cruise ship. Since then cruise ships have grown in size and amenities with each passing decade.