Aida Cruises is a German cruise company. Originally founded as Deutsche Seereederei with a ship called Völkerfreundschaft ("Friendship Between Peoples"), the company entered the cruise industry in the 1960s.[1] The company is now operated by Carnival Corporation who owns 11 cruising brands altogether. AIDA ships are dedicated to the German-speaking market and renowned for their youthful style and casual service. As a seagoing "club resort", AIDA ships incorporate the successful elements of upmarket clubs and resorts in the premium and four-star range, with a host of on-board amenities and facilities that attract younger, more active vacationers.