Welcome to our guide on Carnival Cruise Ships with water slides! If you’re looking to mix the thrill of water parks with the luxury of cruising, you’re in the right spot. Carnival has the biggest fleet of water parks at sea, with slides and water fun for all ages.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best water slides on Carnival ships, highlight what makes each one special, and give you all the info you need. Let’s dive in!
The Evolution of Water Attractions
Carnival Cruise Line has totally changed the game with its awesome water attractions. From simple slides to full-blown water parks, Carnival ships now have thrilling water features for everyone.
From Simple Slides to Elaborate Water Parks
It all started back in 1978 when Carnival added its first waterslide to the Festivale (which has since been scraped in 1996). This small step led to bigger and better things.
By 1990, the Carnival Fantasy introduced a 115-foot waterslide, setting a new standard for fun on cruise ships.
Carnival’s Pioneering Role in Cruise Ship Water Attractions
Carnival kept pushing the limits. In 1996, the Destiny (now Carnival Sunshine) wowed everyone with its 214-foot corkscrew waterslide. This sparked a trend, with other cruise lines following suit and adding their own water attractions.
The Introduction of WaterWorks™: Carnival’s Signature Water Park
In 2009, Carnival took things up a notch with the launch of WaterWorks™. This signature water park debuted on the Carnival Ecstasy and Dream.
Now, almost all of Carnival’s 27 ships have WaterWorks™. Carnival keeps innovating, promising even more exciting water attractions on future ships. These water features have truly transformed the cruise experience.
Types of Water Slides on Carnival Ships:
In this guide you’ll discover the 9 different types of water slides, each offering a unique and exciting ride. Find out what they do and their unique features.
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1 Twister Waterslide™
The Twister Waterslide™ is one of the most popular waterslides on many Carnival Cruise Line ships. It’s a blast for guests of all ages and always delivers a fun and exciting ride. We’ve rated the Twister number 5 in our top 17 cruise ship water slides.
How it works:
- Climb to the Top: Start by heading up the stairs to the top of the slide, usually on one of the upper decks of the ship. The anticipation builds as you make your way up.
- Get Ready: At the top, get ready at the entrance of the slide. A friendly slide attendant will let you know when it’s your turn.
- Launch and Slide Down: Push off and start your ride. The slide features a long, spiraling path with plenty of twists and turns. You’ll zip through the tube quickly while enjoying a smooth ride.
- Colorful Experience: The inside of the slide is filled with vibrant colors and patterns, making the ride visually exciting.
- Scenic Views: If parts of the slide are open, you’ll catch glimpses of the ocean and the ship as you twist and turn.
- Splashdown: The ride ends with a splash in the pool or a special slide exit area. It’s a fun finish to an exhilarating ride.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Spiralling waterslide |
| Location | Carnival WaterWorks waterpark |
| Design | Long, colourful, and spiralling |
| Suitable For | All ages |
| Unique Features | High starting point, scenic views, family-friendly |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱😱 4 out of 5 |
| Height Requirement | 42 inches (107 cm) |
| Weight Limit | 300 pounds (136 kg) |
| Slide Length | About 300 feet (91 meters) |
| Starting Height | About 50 feet (15 meters) |
2 Green Lightning & Green Thunder
Green Lightning and Green Thunder are two awesome waterslides on different Carnival ships. Here’s the scoop on each:
Green Lightning
- Ship: Carnival Splendor
- Features:
- You start with a heart-pounding 37-foot (11.3-meter) free-fall drop as the floor drops out from under you.
- Then, you shoot through a slingshot curve and end up in a swirling bowl of water.
- The clear drop trapdoor adds an extra thrill.
Green Thunder
- Ship: Carnival Spirit
- Features:
- This one kicks off with a crazy near-vertical 33-foot (10-meter) drop.
- Known for being super steep and fast, it’s one of the wildest waterslides at sea.
- You finish with a splashdown after the high-speed drop.
How it works:
- Climb to the Top: Start by climbing to the top of the slide, about 34 feet (10 meters) high. The anticipation builds as you make your way up.
- Enter the Slide: Once at the top, you’ll step into a launch capsule. The slide attendants will close the capsule door, and you’ll stand there waiting for the ride to begin.
- Near-Vertical Drop: Suddenly, the floor beneath you will drop away, and you’ll experience a thrilling near-vertical drop. This initial drop is what gives Green Lightning its intense thrill.
- High-Speed Twists: After the drop, you’ll shoot through a series of high-speed twists and turns. The slide’s transparent sections let you catch glimpses of the outside, adding to the excitement.
- Splashdown: The ride ends with a splashdown in the pool below, leaving you exhilarated and ready to go again.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | High-speed waterslide |
| Location | Carnival Splendor, top deck |
| Age Requirement | 8 and up |
| Unique Features | Near-vertical drop, transparent sections |
| Slide Length | About 187 feet (57 meters) |
| Starting Height | About 34 feet (10 meters) |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱😱😱 5 out of 5 |
3 DrainPipe™
The DrainPipe™ slide ends with a giant swirl. You’ll pick up speed before entering a large bowl-like structure. Centrifugal force spins you around before dropping you into the splash pool.
How it works:
- Starting Point: You start at the top of the slide, where you sit down and prepare for a thrilling ride.
- Slide Down: As you push off, you’ll quickly pick up speed and enter the enclosed tube. The slide is designed with twists and turns that keep the ride dynamic and exciting.
- Swirling Finish: The highlight of the DrainPipe™ is its swirling finish. As you near the end of the slide, you’ll enter a large, open bowl. Here, you’ll swirl around the bowl several times, experiencing a sensation of weightlessness and fun as you circle around.
- Exit: After swirling around the bowl, you’ll be funneled into a final chute that drops you into the splash pool below. The entire experience is exhilarating and leaves you wanting to go again.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Swirling waterslide |
| Location | Various Carnival ships |
| Age Requirement | 6 and up |
| Unique Features | Swirling finish, fun twists |
| Slide Length | About 265 feet (81 meters) |
| Starting Height | About 30 feet (9 meters) |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱😱 4 out of 5 |
4 Speedway Splash
Speedway Splash is an awesome racing waterslide you can find on several Carnival Cruise Line ships. It’s all about friendly competition and fun!
How it works:
- Dual Lanes: Speedway Splash has two side-by-side lanes so you can race against a friend. Both lanes are the same, making it a fair race all the way down.
- Starting Point: You’ll start at the top of the slide, about 30 feet (9 meters) high. Climb up to the platform, get ready, and see who’s beside you for the race.
- Race Down: Push off and zoom down the smooth, colorful lanes. The slides have gentle curves and dips to keep things exciting without being too intense. Plus, there are colorful lighting effects that illuminate the slide, adding extra excitement to your ride.
- Finish Line: The race ends with a splash in the pool below. The first one to the bottom wins!
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Racing waterslide |
| Location | Various Carnival ships |
| Age Requirement | 6 and up |
| Unique Features | Dual lanes for racing, colourful design, lighting effects |
| Slide Length | About 250 feet (76 meters) |
| Starting Height | About 30 feet (9 meters) |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱 3 out of 5 |
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5 PowerDrencher
The PowerDrencher is a giant bucket that tips over. It drenches everyone below, perfect for cooling off on hot days. Kids and adults alike enjoy this unique water feature.
How it works:
- Filling the Bucket: The PowerDrencher has a huge bucket up high that fills with water. It can hold around 300 gallons (1,135 liters) of water.
- Building Anticipation: As the bucket fills, everyone gathers below, excitedly waiting for the big splash. You can feel the anticipation as you watch the bucket get fuller and fuller.
- The Big Splash: Once the bucket is full, it tips over, and a giant wave of water comes crashing down, soaking everyone underneath. It’s a refreshing and thrilling moment!
- Repeat Fun: After the big splash, the bucket resets and starts filling up again, ready for the next round of fun. This cycle goes on all day, so you can enjoy it over and over.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Tipping water bucket |
| Location | Carnival WaterWorks waterpark |
| Age Requirement | All ages |
| Unique Features | Giant tipping bucket, huge splash |
| Bucket Capacity | Around 300 gallons (1,135 liters) |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱 3 out of 5 |
6 Orange Thunder:
Orange Thunder is a super fun, high-speed racing waterslide found on several Carnival Cruise Line ships. It’s perfect for a bit of friendly competition and an exciting ride.
How it works:
- Climb to the Top: Head up to the top of the slide, where you’ll find the starting platform for both racing lanes. The climb itself gets you pumped up for the ride.
- Get Ready: At the top, pick one of the two parallel lanes and get ready. A slide attendant will make sure everyone is set and safe before starting the race.
- Launch and Race: When you’re ready, push off at the same time as your opponent and race down the steep, fast lanes. The slide has smooth curves and dips that keep you moving quickly and add to the thrill.
- Colourful Design: The bright orange slides make the ride visually exciting. The lanes are identical, so it’s a fair race all the way down.
- Finish Line: The race ends with a splash in the pool below. The first one to the bottom wins, making for a fun and competitive experience.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Dual racing waterslide |
| Location | Various Carnival ships |
| Age Requirement | 8 and up |
| Unique Features | Dual lanes for racing, high-speed thrills |
| Slide Length | About 230 feet (70 meters) |
| Starting Height | About 40 feet (12 meters) |
| Thrill Level | 😱 😱 😱 😱 😱 5 out of 5 |
7 AquaTunnel:
AquaTunnel is a super fun and cool waterslide you’ll find on several Carnival Cruise Line ships. It gives you an awesome enclosed sliding experience with great views.
How it works:
- Climb to the Top: Start by heading up to the top of the slide, where you’ll find the entrance to the AquaTunnel. The climb adds to the excitement.
- Get Ready: At the top, get ready at the entrance of the enclosed tube. A friendly slide attendant will make sure you’re set and safe before you go.
- Launch and Slide Down: Push off and start your ride. The AquaTunnel is fully enclosed with clear sections, so you get to enjoy cool views of the ocean and the ship as you slide down.
- Smooth Ride: The slide has gentle curves and a smooth path, making it a fun and easy ride compared to the more intense slides.
- Splashdown: The ride ends with a splash in the pool or a special slide exit area at the bottom. It’s a fun finish to a relaxing ride.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Enclosed waterslide |
| Location | Various Carnival ships |
| Age Requirement | 6 and up |
| Unique Features | Clear sections for scenic views, gentle curves |
| Slide Length | About 200 feet (61 meters) |
| Starting Height | About 30 feet (9 meters) |
| Thrill Level | 😱 😱 😱 3 out of 5 |
8 Kaleid-O-Slide
Kaleid-O-Slide is one of the coolest and most colorful waterslides you’ll find on Carnival Cruise Line ships. It’s all about the thrilling twists and turns combined with vibrant lights and patterns.
How it works:
- Climb to the Top: Start by climbing the stairs to the top of the slide. The excitement builds as you make your way up.
- Get Ready: At the top, get set at the entrance of the slide. A slide attendant will give you the go-ahead when it’s your turn.
- Launch and Slide Down: Push off and start your ride. The Kaleid-O-Slide has a series of twists and turns that keep the ride fun and exciting.
- Colorful Experience: Inside the slide, you’ll see vibrant lights and patterns that create a kaleidoscope effect as you slide down. It’s like sliding through a rainbow!
- Smooth Ride: The slide is designed to be smooth and enjoyable, so you can have fun from start to finish.
- Splashdown: The ride ends with a splash in the pool or a special slide exit area. It’s a fun way to end an exhilarating ride.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Colourful, twisting waterslide |
| Location | Various Carnival ships |
| Age Requirement | 6 and up |
| Unique Features | Vibrant lights and patterns, kaleidoscope effect |
| Slide Length | About 450 feet (137 meters) |
| Starting Height | About 40 feet (12 meters) |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱😱 4 out of 5 |
9 Mini Racer Slides
Mini Racer Slides are smaller, kid-friendly waterslides found on several Carnival Cruise Line ships. They’re perfect for younger guests who want to join in the waterslide fun.
How it works:
- Climb to the Top: Kids start by climbing a few easy steps to the top of the slide. The short climb is designed to be safe and manageable for younger children.
- Get Ready: At the top, kids get ready at the entrance of the slide. There’s usually an attendant to help out and make sure everything is safe.
- Launch and Slide Down: Once ready, kids push off and slide down the Mini Racer Slide. These slides have gentle slopes and curves to make the ride smooth and fun.
- Colourful Design: The slides are bright and colourful, adding to the excitement for kids.
- Finish Line: The slide ends with a gentle splashdown in a shallow pool or special area, ensuring a safe and fun landing.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Kid-friendly waterslides |
| Location | Various Carnival ships |
| Age Requirement | Typically 2 to 8 years old |
| Unique Features | Smaller size, gentle slopes, colorful design |
| Slide Length | About 20-30 feet (6-9 meters) |
| Starting Height | About 5-10 feet (1.5-3 meters) |
| Thrill Level | 2 out of 5 |
All Carnival Ships with Water Slides
| Ship | Slide Name | Age | Thrill Level | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carnival Celebration | Blue Lightning, Orange Thunder | 8 and up | High | Dual racing slides, high-speed thrills |
| Carnival Horizon | Kaleid-o-Slide, Twister Waterslide™ | 6 and up | Moderate to High | Colorful lights and patterns, long spirals |
| Carnival Luminosa | Twister Waterslide™ | 6 and up | Moderate | Long, spiraling path |
| Carnival Magic | Twister Waterslide™, Speedway Splash | 6 and up | Moderate to High | Racing slides, long spirals |
| Carnival Mardi Gras | Blue Lightning, Orange Thunder | 8 and up | High | Dual racing slides, high-speed thrills |
| Carnival Panorama | Twister Waterslide™, Kaleid-o-Slide | 6 and up | Moderate to High | Colorful lights and patterns, long spirals |
| Carnival Radiance | Twister Waterslide™, Speedway Splash | 6 and up | Moderate to High | Racing slides, long spirals |
| Carnival Sunshine | Twister Waterslide™, Speedway Splash | 6 and up | Moderate to High | Racing slides, long spirals |
| Carnival Vista | Twister Waterslide™, Kaleid-o-Slide | 6 and up | Moderate to High | Colorful lights and patterns, long spirals |
| Carnival Breeze | Twister Waterslide™, DrainPipe™ | 6 and up | Moderate to High | Long spirals, swirling finish |
| Carnival Dream | Twister Waterslide™, DrainPipe™ | 6 and up | Moderate to High | Long spirals, swirling finish |
| Carnival Glory | Twister Waterslide™, Green Thunder | 8 and up | High | Near-vertical drop, transparent tube |
| Carnival Legend | Twister Waterslide™ | 6 and up | Moderate | Long, spiraling path |
| Carnival Liberty | Twister Waterslide™, DrainPipe™ | 6 and up | Moderate to High | Long spirals, swirling finish |
| Carnival Miracle | Twister Waterslide™ | 6 and up | Moderate | Long, spiraling path |
| Carnival Pride | Twister Waterslide™ | 6 and up | Moderate | Long, spiraling path |
| Carnival Sensation | Twister Waterslide™ | 6 and up | Moderate | Long, spiraling path |
| Carnival Splendor | Green Lightning, Blue Lightning | 8 and up | High | High-speed drops, twists |
| Carnival Valor | Twister Waterslide™ | 6 and up | Moderate | Long, spiraling path |
| Carnival Paradise | Twister Waterslide™ | 6 and up | Moderate | Long, spiraling path |
| Carnival Elation | Twister Waterslide™ | 6 and up | Moderate | Long, spiraling path |
| Carnival Spirit | Green Thunder, Twister Waterslide™ | 8 and up | High | Near-vertical drop, long spirals |
| Carnival Freedom | Twister Waterslide™, DrainPipe™ | 6 and up | Moderate to High | Long spirals, swirling finish |
| Carnival Conquest | Twister Waterslide™, DrainPipe™ | 6 and up | Moderate to High | Long spirals, swirling finish |
| Carnival Firenze | WaterWorks™ | 6 and up | Moderate to High | Multiple slides, splash zone |
| Carnival Venezia | WaterWorks™ | 6 and up | Moderate to High | Multiple slides, splash zone |
Carnival Water Parks
Carnival WaterWorks™
Carnival WaterWorks™ is the main water park on many Carnival ships, featuring a bunch of fun slides, splash zones, and interactive water play areas.
Key Features:
- Twister Waterslide™: A long, twisty slide with lots of turns.
- DrainPipe™: A slide that swirls you around before dropping you out.
- PowerDrencher: A giant bucket that tips over and soaks everyone.
- Mini Racer Slides: Perfect little slides for the kids to race each other.
- Splash Zone: Water fountains, cannons, and other fun water features.
Ships with WaterWorks™:
Carnival Vista, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Breeze, Carnival Dream, Carnival Magic, Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Radiance, Carnival Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Venezia, Carnival Firenze.
Dr. Seuss WaterWorks™
Dr. Seuss WaterWorks™ is a whimsical water park inspired by Dr. Seuss books. It’s colorful, fun, and perfect for kids.
Key Features:
- Fun Slides: Including the Cat in the Hat slide and the Fun Things slide.
- Interactive Water Features: Featuring characters and themes from Dr. Seuss books.
- Splash Zone: With playful water features for the kids.
Ships with Dr. Seuss WaterWorks™:
Carnival Horizon, Carnival Panorama
🛝 Book a Water Slide Cruise
We’re cruise travel agents with tons of real life experience with water slides & water parks on cruises. Let us find the right cruise for you.
For a more low key family cruise with a lovely water park you could consider MSC Cruise ship.