5 Historic Cruise Ships That Have Been Sailing for Over 30 Years

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While the industry often emphasizes newer ships, older vessels still play essential roles for many cruise lines.

According to the latest edition of the Global Cruise Ship Indexby Cruise Industry News, over 80 ships currently sailing are more than 30 years old.

Cruise Industry News highlights some of the oldest oceangoing ships with a capacity of at least 500 guests that will continue to sail in 2024.

Blue Sapphire
Cruise Line: Selectum Blu Cruises
Year Built: 1981
Shipyard: Bremer Vulkan (Germany)
Capacity: 750 guests
Tonnage: 37,000
Cruising Region: Eastern Mediterranean

According to the latest edition of the Global Cruise Ship Index by Cruise Industry News, the Blue Sapphire is currently the oldest vessel in active service among cruise ships with a capacity of at least 500 guests.

Originally built for Hapag-Lloyd Cruises in 1981, the 37,000-ton vessel sailed for several brands before being acquired by Selectum Blu Cruises in 2022. After being laid up for most of 2023, the Blue Sapphire resumed service this year and now offers short cruises in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Artania
Cruise Line: Phoenix Reisen
Year Built: 1984
Shipyard: Wärtsilä Helsinki Shipyard (Finland)
Capacity: 1,200 guests
Tonnage: 45,000
Cruising Regions: Summers in Europe followed by world cruises during winters

Originally built for Princess Cruises in 1984, the Artania celebrates 40 years of service this year. Now operated by Phoenix Reisen, the ship offers summer cruises in Europe and longer itineraries to other parts of the world during the rest of the year. In 2024, after a summer in Northern Europe, the 1,200-guest ship will embark on a 162-day world cruise starting in December.

Besides Princess and Phoenix Reisen, the Artania also sailed for P&O Cruises during its four-decade-long career.

Balmoral
Cruise Line: Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
Year Built: 1988
Shipyard: Meyer Werft (Germany)
Capacity: 1,340 guests
Tonnage: 43,537
Cruising Regions: Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, as well as longer cruises to various parts of the world

Operated by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, the Balmoral was built by Meyer Werft and entered service in 1988. Throughout its colorful history, the 1,340-guest ship sailed for Royal Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Orient Lines.

In 2025, the Balmoral will offer a series of cruises departing from various ports in the United Kingdom. Most itineraries visit Northern Europe or the Mediterranean, but some also venture to destinations like the Caribbean and the Canaries.

Amera
Cruise Line: Phoenix Reisen
Year Built: 1988
Shipyard: Wärtsilä Marine Perno Shipyard (Finland)
Capacity: 834 guests
Tonnage: 38,000
Cruising Regions: Summers in Europe followed by world cruises during winters

Originally built for Royal Viking Cruises as the Royal Viking Sun, the Amera celebrated 35 years of service in 2023. Now sailing for Phoenix Reisen, the ship offers summer cruises in Northern Europe and longer voyages to different parts of the world during winter and shoulder seasons.

In 2024, the 834-guest vessel underwent a major modernization project, updating its engines, electrical systems, and public areas.

Empress
Cruise Line: Cordelia Cruises
Year Built: 1990
Shipyard: Chanties de l’Atlantique (France)
Capacity: 1,607 guests
Tonnage: 48,563
Cruising Regions: India and the Middle East

Now sailing for Cordelia Cruises in India and the Middle East, the Empress was built for Royal Caribbean International in 1990. It also sailed for Pullmantur before returning to Royal Caribbean.

During the pandemic, Royal Caribbean sold the ship to its current operator. Now serving the Indian market, the Empress offers short cruises from various ports in India throughout the year.

Other active cruise ships sailing past the 30-year mark: