The sudden surge in popularity of selfies aboard cruise ships has proved what many have been saying for years – cruisers love to show off!

Ever since Carnival Cruise Lines released the “Snap-Happy” app, they’ve seen massive usage.

“Cruising and selfies go hand in hand and with so many highlights on a Carnival Cruise Lines, this app is the perfect way for holidaymakers to roll all their favourite moments into a shareable movie so they can brag about all the fun they’re having at sea,” Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Australia and New Zealand Jennifer Vandekreeke said.

An increasing number of cruise lines are getting on board with customised apps.

While have been around for some time, the surge in app usage really started after Quantum of the Seas was launched and became know as the world’s smartest ship.

Its app – Royal iQ  – can electronically tag suitcases prior to check in so the owner can track it on a smart phone.

Perhaps even more important in the age of the mega-cruiser, the Cruise Planner app allows guests to make restaurant reservations and hair appointments on their mobiles.  It beats the queues.

Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Executive Vice President, Operations, RCCL, explains: “Guests can now tailor everything about their cruise in advance, so they can start enjoying their cruise the minute they step onboard.”

Norwegian Cruise Lines iConcierge allows guests to make dining and excursion reservations, check scheduled activities, connect with their own social media accounts, receive entertainment options, room information and communicate with other gusts via voice or text.

Princess Cruises has developed an app  – Princess@Sea Messenger –  for its ship, Regal Princess, which is a mobile messenger for guests to share updates and make plans with other guests during their vacation.

But these apps are just the beginning.

Below we list Cruise Passenger’s favourites…

Onavo Extend:  Uses data compression technology to cut data costs by making downloads smaller. It will also tell you which of your apps are using the most data, so you can switch them off.

Anti Mosquito: Described as a sonic repellent, it sends out high frequency noise which mosquitoes hate.

ShipMate: A multi purpose app which helps find your way around every ship with handy deck plans. You can even check on bar bills and spending…and chat with fellow travellers close by.

Meet-on-Cruise: Travelling alone? Use this social networking app to meet fellow cruisers. Who knows where it may lead…

Pack My Bag: Our personal favourite. The app helps you create a virtual bag and allows you to select items from its library of travel basics you’ll need for your cruise. Everything from socks to sandals. You’ll never forget essentials again.

iHandy Translator: No speaka da English? Not a problem with this useful app. The translation device enables you to look up words and key sentences to help keep communications paths open.

Berlitz: Not called the cruisers’ bible for nothing. This app contains guides to 285 cruise ships, tips on getting the best value and ratings.

WeatherPro: You’ll always be dressed for the occasions as this app provides forecasts for more than two million locations worldwide, including UV index and water temperatures at local beaches.

XE Currency: Avoid the rip offs of that friendly looking local currency exchange. XE Currency performs accurate conversions free of charge and stores the latest rates on your hard drive.

Touchnote: Share and send personalised postcards using your own photos and messages to family and friends back home. Saves on postage.