Giant Cruise Ships: A Fascinating Experience at the Port of Barcelona

I’ve always been both awed and horrified by the idea of being on one of those massive cruise ships. The scale of these floating cities is mind-boggling, and the thought of being trapped onboard for an extended period with people you might not really connect with is… unsettling. But on the flip side, with over 3,000 passengers, there’s a chance you might find a few people you can tolerate.

Exploring the World’s Largest Cruise Ships in Barcelona

When I learned that the world’s largest cruise ships docked in Barcelona, I pitched a story to a magazine, and they accepted. The ships are so enormous that they have dedicated visiting hours for those curious about the interior, usually just before sailing. Unfortunately, instead of exploring freely, we were rushed through the vast public areas, which left me little time to capture the interesting shots I had envisioned.

The ambiance of a floating 4-star hotel, connected to a glitzy yet somewhat tacky shopping mall, certainly provided its share of photographic opportunities. However, I was disappointed not to gain access to the more intriguing parts of the ship, like the bridge or the engine room—the areas that would have truly showcased the scale and complexity of these giant vessels.

A Contrast of Luxury and Commercialism

Once inside the belly of this behemoth, it’s easy to forget you’re even at sea. By the time the new batch of passengers started arriving—mostly families—I realized that for many, these cruises are the ultimate holiday, an all-inclusive, distraction-packed escape. But for me, I think I’d prefer the timeless luxury of a more traditional ocean voyage, like a trip from the UK to New York on the QE2, where the journey itself becomes an experience. Imagine traveling like that—more like a long train ride than a frantic holiday, offering plenty of time for contemplation, reading, or simply taking in the view.