Magrodome

A magrodome is a sliding glass roof found aboard passenger ships. It can be opened and closed automatically depending on the weather and is often positioned over a swimming pool to offer an indoor-outdoor setting.^[1]

History

The first magrodome was fitted aboard the SS Oceanic. The primary purpose of the magrodome was to shelter the Lido pool area from inclement weather. The magrodome offered a method of covering the deck in case of rain or fog, while also allowing it to be opened in sunny conditions favorable to sunbathers.^[2]

Magrodomes have since been included in a number of modern cruise ships. Some traditional liners (such as Cunard's former flagship Queen Elizabeth 2)^[3] had a magrodome placed over an existing pool.

Notable vessels

• SS Oceanic, completed in 1965, credited as the first passenger ship to feature a magrodome.
• Queen Elizabeth 2 had a magrodome fitted over her quarterdeck pool during a 1985 refurbishment in Bremerhaven. This magrodome was later removed in a subsequent refit.
• MV Aurora, completed in 2000,one of the first British based cruise ships to feature a magrodome.
• Queen Mary 2, completed in 2003, the world's largest ocean liner (at the time), has a magrodome over the Pavilion Pool and Bar.

References

1. "Magrodome (Aurora)". Retrieved 6 January 2010.
2. "Cruise Ship Odyssey : Oceanic". Retrieved 6 January 2010.
3. "Historic QE2: 1,000th voyage". Beyond Ships. Retrieved 17 February 2010.