By far the world's largest and widest cruise ship - 6,360 passengers and 2,100 crew, 16 decks, longer than the Eiffel Tower - was yesterday handed over to its owners, Royal Caribbean. I can imagine few holidays being more nauseating than spending a week or two in such a monster - although some of the crew will almost certainly be Asian and therefore the eye candy might be an attraction.

4643.jpg
photo: Loic Venance/AFP/Getty Images

3500.jpg
photo: Stephane Mahe/Reuters

Thanks to a friend who lectured on the smaller cruise lines, some years ago I joined him on three cruises in ships with only around 350 passengers. Despite the luxury of outside cabins, balconies, 7 meals a day if you were so inclined and 50% off booze prices, I found I just got bored after about 4 days. I just wouldn't go on a cruise ship now. Would you consider a cruise on this new monster?

http://www.theguardian.com/travel/20...ny-of-the-seas