Translation guide
A large passenger ship used for pleasure voyages, typically stopping at various ports. In Japanese, the most common term is クルーズ船, but other expressions exist depending on context.
Referring to a large passenger ship designed for leisure cruises.
The most common and neutral term for a cruise ship. Widely understood and used in news and everyday conversation.
来年、新しいクルーズ船が就航する。
A new cruise ship will enter service next year.
I traveled the Mediterranean on a cruise ship.
A slightly more formal term, emphasizing that it is a passenger ship. Often used in official contexts.
この港には大型クルーズ客船が寄港する。
Large cruise ships call at this port.
Literally 'luxury passenger ship'. Used for high-end cruise ships, but can also refer to luxury liners in general. Not all cruise ships are 豪華客船.
豪華客船で世界一周クルーズに行くのが夢だ。
My dream is to go on a round-the-world cruise on a luxury liner.
When discussing the ship as a category in maritime or travel industry contexts.
Same as above; the default term in most contexts.
クルーズ船の需要が増えている。
Demand for cruise ships is increasing.
Used interchangeably with クルーズ船, but slightly more technical.
クルーズ客船の安全基準が強化された。
Safety standards for cruise ships have been strengthened.
Do not translate 'cruise ship' as 巡航船 (jun-kō-sen) or 周遊船 (shū-yū-sen). These are not standard terms and may cause confusion. Stick to クルーズ船 or クルーズ客船.