Definition: The atrium is the central passenger area on the cruise ship, equivalent to the lobby of a hotel. Passengers will find the reception desk, shore excursion desk, purser's desk, and the cruise consultant in the atrium. The atrium is so-named because on most new ships it is multi-storied with glass elevators. The atrium often includes a bar and is a meeting place for new friends.

Also Known As: cruise ship lobby

Examples: Let's meet in the atrium before we go ashore and explore the island.