Cruise operators are increasing profits by lengthening cruise ships, a process known as ‘jumboization.’ This method involves slicing the ship in half, inserting a new segment, and welding it back together. The industry is booming, with passenger numbers approaching 30 million. The resulting larger ships, like Royal Caribbean Group’s Icon of the Seas, offer luxurious amenities like a water fun park and numerous swimming pools. The ship-stretching process involves precise measurements, complex engineering, and meticulous welding. Operators can enhance revenue with minimal downtime and crew training. This strategy has been employed since the post-World War II era and continues to be an efficient way to make existing ships more profitable.
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