Why Is It Called a Shakedown Cruise?

By Alice Nichols

Have you ever heard the term “shakedown cruise” and wondered why it’s called that? Well, wonder no more! In this article, we’ll explore the origins of this nautical phrase and its meaning in today’s context.

The Origin of the Term

The term “shakedown cruise” originated in the early 20th century. It was a naval term used to describe a new ship’s first voyage after being built or refitted.

During this voyage, the crew would test all of the ship’s systems and equipment to ensure that everything was working properly. Any issues or malfunctions would be addressed during this shakedown cruise.

Why is it Called a Shakedown Cruise?

The term “shakedown” refers to the process of testing something thoroughly to make sure it works as intended. In this context, it refers to testing a ship’s systems and equipment to ensure they are functioning correctly before embarking on a longer voyage. The shakedown cruise was an essential part of the process because it allowed any issues or malfunctions to be identified and resolved before they could cause problems during a more extended voyage.

Modern Day Context

Today, the term “shakedown cruise” is still used in nautical contexts but has also expanded beyond just ships. It can refer to any new vehicle or equipment’s initial testing phase, including airplanes, cars, and even software applications.

Example Usage

  • A new airplane might undergo a shakedown flight before being put into commercial use.
  • A car manufacturer might take their latest model on a shakedown road trip to test its performance.
  • A software company might conduct a shakedown test on their latest application before releasing it to customers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the term “shakedown cruise” has its origins in naval terminology and refers to the testing of a ship’s systems and equipment before embarking on a longer voyage. Today, it has expanded beyond just ships and can refer to any new vehicle or equipment’s initial testing phase. So the next time you hear someone use the term “shakedown,” you’ll know exactly what they mean!