Share For centuries, the engine’s deep rumble, followed by shuddering of the decks, have indicated that a ship is about to leave dock. It’s a moment that creates joy in any seafarer’s heart – and the time is finally approaching when the hard-hit cruise sector can again anticipate the roar of ship propellers. Make no mistake: the industry is stirring. OK, the global commercial cruise fleet of some 315 ships isn’t about to hit the seas any time soon. But all hands are hauling on the ropes to get there eventually. Over the past 10 months or so – since the 2020 northern hemisphere summer – a number of cruise bubbles have been operating in Europe – around Scandinavia, Great Britain and the Mediterranean – as well as in Singapore, Taiwan, and Israel.