Cruise terminology… explained

Just like anything for the first time we may not know some of the terminology, so when we hear it the meanings could be endless. To stop the worry or confusion I have made a list of terminology commonly used on cruise ships.

Aft = The rear area of the ship.

Atrium = The middle of the ship to relax, people watch and socialise with a drink of your choice.

Ashore = Standing on land.

Bearing = A compass from the ship to a destination in degrees.

Bridge = At the front of the ship which sticks out either side, where the captains steers and navigates the ship.

Cabin Grades = Every cabin have a 2 letter code to help identify the type of accommodation, size, features and location. (i.e. B4, CV, EA)

Club Dining = This is a fixed dining which you’ll choose a time (1830 or 2030), and share a table with the same guests every evening.

Cruise-by = The ship will not dock in a port, this is more common on the Norwegian Fjords cruises.

Cast off = Releasing the ships for its moorings.

Disembarkation = Getting off the ship to explore the beautiful destination.

Deck Plans = Showing each ships layout in detail.

Docking = When a ship gets aside a dock and uses a platform to allow passengers shore side.

Early Saver = Only on selected cruises with no benefits of the Select Price.

Embarkation = Boarding onto the ship.

Forward = The front section of the ship.

Freedom Dining = A choice of Dining for those who enjoy a flexible way of eating.

Galley = The kitchen on the ship.

Gangway = a ramp or stairs used to allow passengers to get on or off the ship.

Inside Cabin = Cabins with no windows.

Knot = A unit of speed, equivalent to one nautical mile per hour.

Mid Aft = The section between the back and the center of the ship.

Mid Forward = The section between the front and center of the ship.

Midship = The center of the ship.

Muster Station = A designation place of safety and to evacuate the ship if needed, staff members on embarkation are around to help.

Obstructed View = An obstruction like a lifeboat will be in front of the window however, light can still shine through.

On-Board Spending Money = A perk when choosing the Select Fare, money placed onto the account to spend in shops, spa, on drinks and more.

Overland Tours = Mostly on world cruises, this is a type of excursion where passengers get off at one port and embark at another port. Commonly during sea days to allow the views to be admired.

Sea View Cabin = Cabin with a window.

Part Obstructed View = A part obstruction such as a pillar which slightly effects the view through the window.

Port = When facing the front of the ship, it is the left side.

Pull-down Beds = Like bunk beds however, they are hidden in the ceiling and pulled down by the cabin stewards in the evening.

Saver Fare = Some arrangements on board with last minute deals.

Speciality Restaurants = options to dine your way at a small additional cost. Offering alternative menus and a variety of food to choose from.

Select Fare = Includes a number of perks, with a range of premium benefits.

Shore Excursions = Each destination offers diverse options to create memories, they can be booked via the P&O website up to 3 days before departure or whilst onboard.

Starboard = When facing the front of the ship, it is the right side.

Tender = When the ship is unable to dock, a small boat is deployed to transport passengers to and from shore side.

The Daily Horizon = A daily newsletter with all the activities, films, entertainment, offers and more. Posted outside your cabin the night before.

There is an endless list of terminology used by staff as well as regular cruisers. These listed are the most commonly used and will help any first time cruiser find their feet.

Leave a comment