Cruise: meaning, definitions and examples

A cruise is typically a leisure trip on a large ship, where the journey itself is enjoyable and there's entertainment on board. It often refers to vacations on luxury ships.

• They went on a cruise to the Caribbean for their honeymoon
• The Mediterranean cruise included stops at several historic ports

Voyage implies a long, often sea-based trip, usually involving exploration or significant travel. It has a somewhat formal and adventurous connotation.

• Christopher Columbus's voyage across the Atlantic changed history
• Their voyage through the Arctic waters lasted several months

Journey is a general term that can describe any trip from one place to another, irrespective of the means of travel. It often highlights the process or experience of traveling.

• The journey from New York to California took them five days by car
• His journey to self-discovery was filled with challenges and adventures

Sail refers specifically to traveling on water using a sailing vessel, often powered by wind. It commonly indicates smaller boats or yachts, and it can be used for both leisure and competitive contexts.

• They decided to sail around the Mediterranean for the summer
• She learned how to sail during her holiday on the coast

Used when referring to a journey, usually by ship, where the primary purpose is to enjoy leisure activities and visit multiple destinations.

• They decided to go on a Caribbean cruise for their honeymoon
• The cruise ship will stop at five different ports

Suggests smooth, effortless movement, often through air or across a surface, with minimal resistance.

• The swan seemed to glide gracefully across the lake
• The skater managed to glide effortlessly over the ice

Refers specifically to travel by boat or ship, particularly when using the wind to propel the vessel. It can also describe setting off on a journey.

• They decided to sail around the world
• He watched the boats sail on the horizon

Implies a lack of control or direction, often influenced by external forces like wind or currents. Can also describe aimless movement in a more metaphorical sense.

• The boat started to drift away from the shore
• She felt like her life was just drifting without any clear goals