Cruise ships, the largest moving man-made objects, can be almost a quarter-mile long, as tall as a 25-story building, and can be largely self-contained cities of perhaps 8,000 people. With 172 photographs and illustrations, the cruise ship is examined; its planning, construction, operation, and ultimate fate. This behind-the-scenes look examines the concept, development, and construction of vessels, what makes them work, and how, as well as ship operations. More than 240 ships are highlighted as the cruise ship's history is traced from its origins through to its future projections. This book is a great resource for designers, architects, shipbuilders, and the cruise ship passenger. Read it before you board and take it along when you sail.