A Vision Beyond Freight
In the late 19th century, Albert Ballin, director of Hamburg-America Line (HAPAG), envisioned luxurious sea travel for leisure. To fulfill this dream, he commissioned the world’s first purpose-built cruise ship, the Prinzessin Victoria Luise, launched in 1900.
Designed for Elegance
Built by Blohm & Voss, the Victoria Luise featured a gymnasium, social hall, library, ballroom, and 120 first-class staterooms with brass beds and elegant furnishings. Unlike retrofitted ships, it catered solely to leisure, offering lavish cuisine and entertainment.
A Short-Lived Triumph
The ship’s voyages included destinations across the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Baltic Seas. However, in December 1906, the ship ran aground off Jamaica due to navigational errors. All passengers were rescued, but the captain, overcome by the disaster, took his own life.
A Lasting Impact
His concept of luxurious sea travel remains a cornerstone of maritime history.
In the late 19th century, Albert Ballin, director of Hamburg-America Line (HAPAG), envisioned luxurious sea travel for leisure. To fulfill this dream, he commissioned the world's first purpose-built cruise ship, the Prinzessin Victoria Luise, launched in 1900. pic.twitter.com/l3hMbY3N2v
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