Landscaping on cruise ships is a fascinating area where horticulture meets engineering. Modern ships are no longer just steel and glass—they’re becoming floating resorts with living landscapes. Here are the key aspects and trends:
Landscaping on Cruise Ships: Trends & Highlights
1. Green Spaces at Sea
Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean pioneered the concept with Central Park aboard their Oasis-class ships: an open-air garden with 10,000+ live plants and trees across several decks.
These spaces mimic city parks, with winding pathways, seating areas, and restaurants nestled within greenery.
2. Horticultural Challenges
Salt air, wind, and movement mean plant selection is critical—species must be tolerant to saline environments and adaptable to fluctuating humidity.
Irrigation systems are fully automated with self-contained water recirculation, often using greywater recycling.
Lighting and shade structures are designed to replicate natural growing conditions at sea.
3. Sustainability & Biodiversity
Planting schemes are increasingly designed to promote biodiversity, with pollinator-friendly plants (though carefully managed to avoid pests at sea).
Some lines are experimenting with vertical gardens and hydroponic growing walls for fresh herbs and microgreens used in onboard restaurants.
4. Passenger Wellbeing & Design
Studies show biophilic design reduces stress and enhances wellbeing. Green zones on ships act as quiet escapes from busy entertainment areas.
Cruise companies highlight these landscapes as signature experiences—for example, Royal Caribbean markets Central Park as a “neighbourhood” with live music among the gardens.
5. Innovative Approaches
MSC Cruises has experimented with outdoor garden decks designed for Mediterranean-style living.
Celebrity Cruises’ Lawn Club features half an acre of real grass on the top deck for picnics, games, and events—an industry first.
Future designs may integrate green roofs, living walls, and even floating kitchen gardens as sustainability becomes a priority.
Future Outlook
As passengers demand greener, wellness-oriented travel, cruise ships are expected to expand landscaped zones, moving beyond aesthetics to include:
Edible gardens supplying fresh produce onboard.
Rainwater harvesting for irrigation systems.
Biodome-style enclosures allowing exotic plants to thrive regardless of climate.