Ocean liner
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![RMS Lusitania arriving in New York in 1907. As the primary means of trans-oceanic voyages for over a century, ocean liners were essential to the transportation needs of national governments, business firms, and the general public.](/Images/godic/202501/24/The_Lusitania_at_end_of_record_voyage_1907_LC-USZ62-649561935.jpg")
![Cunard Line poster of 1921, with a cutaway of the liner RMS Aquitania.](/Images/godic/202501/24/Aquitaniaposter1935.PNG")
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An ocean liner is a ship designed to transport people from one seaport to another along regular long-distance maritime routes according to a schedule. Liners may also carry cargo or mail, and may sometimes be used for other purposes (e.g., for pleasure cruises or as hospital ships).