Ever since the inception of mankind we have been fascinated by our seas and oceans, mainly used to explore new lands or to transport cargo as the world became industrialized and began trading with distant lands.

With industry came money and people wanting to spend their disposable income to chase more adventurous types of vacations and excitement. Our impulse to visit places in the world previously only read about in books by famous explorers became a thing of the past and was turned into a reality.

A large ship coined the Black Ball Line, as of the year 1818, operated out of New York City and was the first shipping establishment, offering a scheduled passenger service from the U.S. to England. Trade and leisure combined as one and fuelled the demand for the creation of larger, more luxurious ships like the Titanic. The Titanic at this point in history, as most know, has a category all its own, complete with its own stories and history.

World War I and II required use of cruise ships as troop carriers. After the war ceased, they were used for transporting displaced refugees seeking a new start in distant lands. The industry recovered speedily as the government heavily funded the building of cruise ships with the view to possible redeployment in the future.

Even though huge breakthroughs in the flight industry dented the flow in transatlantic journeys, the sixties witnessed the start of the modernized cruise ships. People desired to relive the glory years of times past and were now able to experience short vacation cruises by means of connecting flights to the destination. Some might actually argue that the breakthroughs in flight have recreated the industry of cruising that exists today.

The cruise industry had a boost again in the eighties when a fleet of gigantic passenger liners were launched, a number of which were capable of carrying more 2,000 people. These vessels were made exclusively for vacationers, maintaining a cruising itinerary including various sun-drenched locations around the world. Unlike ships of the past, this fleet was designed to act as floating resorts with casinos, spas, salons, champagne and caviar bars, basketball courts, even multi-story nightclubs.

All of a sudden the ports of call weren't the main draw for travelers. People were now interested in the entire experience of simply being on board. Quite speedily many other popular cruises followed suit of those luxury world cruises offering such amenities. Among these new beaming palaces the message advertised was "luxury for the masses," and typically, this remains the rallying cry of the industry.

Where have all the money-laden cruisers gone? The upscale world cruise lines found their forte too by using a fleet of tinier ships that are able to visit secluded ports, avoiding the hustle and bustle of well-known destinations. Furthermore, concern for the environment's well being has created cruises involving ecologically friendly itineraries.

Coined "eco-tours," the new branch of the tourism industry matches the needs of the environment with a want to experience the world in its entirety. Businesses specializing in eco-cruises look to education, wildlife, and relaxation, instead of just entertainment, gambling, and margaritas. These ships are small and fares can be costly, but do guarantee exotic, peaceful destinations and a healthy conscience. Regardless of which cruise you choose, the market continues to grow each year for these specialized businesses.

With fantastic luxury amenities and activities, and high class entertainment aboard the ship, today's cruisers see the voyage itself as being the main draw rather than the actual locations at ports. Hence, the birth of the statement of life changing around the world cruises. Nonexistent are the days of catering solely to the wealthy-this industry is ready for the masses and is the most rapidly growing sectors in the industry of travel.