Giants of the Sea

Most cruise ships are massive, like this beauty from Carnival Cruise Lines, 888-CARNIVAL. Like floating cities, the average ship accommodates about 3,000 passengers and 1,200 employees. They feature as many as 10 levels crammed with staterooms, restaurants, theaters, casinos, swimming pools, spas and, yes, shuffleboard courts. Each cruise line operates multiple ships that feature distinctive layouts, amenities, activities, entertainment and ports of call, so do plenty of research before booking a trip.