In recent years, the race has heated up among cruise lines to offer the best waterslides, turning ships into floating waterparks. Our guide will show you the best 17 cruise ship water slides at sea today.
Big players like Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line are all in on the action. Royal Caribbean has been adding massive slides to its fleet over the last seven years and plans to introduce six new slides on the Icon of the Seas in January 2024. Similarly, MSC Cruises has equipped its newest ships with several waterslides.
Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line are also making a splash. Norwegian’s latest ships feature up to five slides, while Carnival, which introduced the Carnival Fantasy slide back in 1990, now boasts extensive waterparks on nearly all its ships.
We’ve put a lot of time and effort into researching the best waterslides on cruise ships, and we’ve also experienced many of them ourselves as cruise ship travel agents. This guide combines all that research and our personal experiences to bring you the most exciting waterslides out there.
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Top 17 Cruise Ship Water Slides
If you’re planning a cruise holiday, looking at water slides can make it more fun. We’ve made a table to show you the best ones for families. It lists the biggest water slide on a cruise ship and others by their ship, thrill levels, age limits, and what makes them special. This can help you pick the perfect slide for your next trip.
| Ship | Water Slide | Thrill Level | Age | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Navigator of the Seas | The Blaster | High | 6 and up | Longest water slide at sea, 800 feet long |
| Harmony of the Seas | Supercell | High | 8 and up | Slides through a giant champagne bowl |
| Oasis of the Seas | Ultimate Abyss | High | 10 and up | 10-storey plunge slide |
| Disney Wish | AquaMouse | Moderate | 5 and up | First Disney attraction at sea |
| Norwegian Epic | Epic Plunge | Moderate to High | 7 and up | Tornado-style bowl slide |
| Liberty of the Seas | Tidal Wave | High | 8 and up | First boomerang-style slide at sea |
| Disney Magic | AquaDunk | High | 7 and up | Vertical plunge, transparent tube |
| Carnival Vista | Twister Waterslide | Moderate | 6 and up | Spiraling slide, vibrant colors |
| Norwegian Breakaway | Free Fall | High | 10 and up | Vertical drop slide |
| Carnival Horizon | Dr. Seuss WaterWorks | Moderate | 3 and up | Themed play area, two twisting slides |
| Symphony of the Seas | The Perfect Storm | High | 10 and up | Three high-speed racer slides |
| MSC Preziosa | Vertigo | High | 8 and up | Longest single rider slide at sea, transparent section over the ocean |
| Perfect Day at CocoCay | Splashaway Bay | Low to Moderate | 2 and up | Water playground, slides for young children |
| Carnival Spirit | Green Thunder | High | 8 and up | Near-vertical drop, transparent tube |
| Norwegian Joy | Ocean Loops | High | 8 and up | Double loop waterslide, transparent section over the edge |
| Icon of the Seas | Storm Surge | Moderate to High | 6 and up | Suspended design, 395 feet long, storm-themed surprises, ocean views |
| Icon of the Seas | Hurricane Hunter | Moderate | 6 and up | Family raft slide, 425 feet long, water curtains, ocean views |
This guide shows you the thrilling cruise ship water slides. You can see details like the biggest water slide on a cruise ship and others. It’s meant to help families pick the best slides. So, you can be sure to have fun on your next cruise holiday.
1 The Blaster – Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas
The Blaster on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas is a game-changer for waterslides. It gives you an adrenaline rush on the sea. This awesome water coaster is the longest at sea, with 800 feet of twists and turns. It uses water jets to push you through an exciting ride around the ship’s top decks.
You’ll feel the speed and even fly over the ocean’s edge for a moment. It’s a ride with speed, heights, and fun all in one.
What makes The Blaster so good?
The Blaster stands out because it’s thrilling. You whizz past the ship’s basketball court and surfing simulator. Plus, it’s not just another waterslide – it’s an adventure with interactive parts.
It shows how cruise ships are now more exciting than ever. They’re adding cool new things that go beyond what you expect.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Waterslide Name | The Blaster |
| Location | Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas |
| Length | 800 feet |
| Type | Water Coaster |
| Unique Feature | Longest waterslide at sea |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱😱😱 5 out of 5 |
The Navigator of the Seas is big, stretching 1,020 feet with 15 decks. Refurbished in 2019, it now has even more fun activities for its passengers. There’s the Blaster, Riptide slide, escape room, Adventure Ocean for kids, and top dining spots. With all these, your journey will be unforgettable.
2 Free Fall – Norwegian Breakaway, Getaway, and Escape
Check out an action-packed cruise experience with Norwegian’s signature Free Fall waterslides. These are found on the Norwegian Breakaway, Getaway, and Escape.
What makes the Free Fall so good?
The Free Fall shines with its thrilling speed and exciting drop. Riders face a heart-racing descent when the floor suddenly opens. They are sped up to an impressive 4G. It’s among the fastest slides at sea, fusing fear with fun.
But it’s not just about speed. The Free Fall shows Norwegian’s dedication to water-based fun. With advanced slide technology, Norwegian Cruise Line boosts the charm of their ships.
Quick Facts
Thrill Level: 😱😱😱😱😱 5/5 – Pure thrill, setting the bar for excitement!
- Location: Norwegian Breakaway, Getaway, Escape
- Speed: 4G acceleration
- Additional Features: Instant drop, dual vertical plunges
3 AquaMouse – Disney Wish
The AquaMouse on Disney Wish changes the game for family-friendly cruise attractions. It’s hailed as the first Disney ‘attraction at sea.’ This immersive narrative water coaster brings Disney stories to life on the sea. Riders go through a 760-foot-long adventure. They are thrilled by scenes, sounds, and animations of Mickey Mouse and friends. It’s made for all ages, making it a Disney Wish cruise highlight.
What makes AquaMouse so good?
The AquaMouse stands out because it mixes exciting slides with Disney stories. The ride is almost two minutes long. More than half the time is spent watching cartoons on a lift hill. Water jets push the raft up hills, carrying two riders for a dynamic ride. Riders stay dry, unlike on regular slides, thanks to a unique finish.
Quick Facts & Thrill Level out of 5
- First Disney ‘attraction at sea’ – 😱😱😱😱😱 5/5
- Ride duration: Just under 2 minutes
- Part cartoon experience on lift hill
- Raft capacity: 2 people
- Water jets for propulsion
- Located across different decks with various pools
- Height requirement: At least 42″ tall to ride with someone
- Accessibility: Transfer needed for wheelchair users
4 Epic Plunge – Norwegian Epic
The Epic Plunge on the Norwegian Epic stands out as a top cruise ship water attraction. It’s a family water slide that combines the fun of slides with the rush of a giant bowl ride. You start in a tube, then whirl around a giant bowl, and end with a big splash. It gives you a thrilling ride with lots of speed and twists.
What makes Epic Plunge so good?
The Epic Plunge is different because of its size and how much fun it is. It’s 12 metres wide and 72 metres long, towering four storeys high. This bowl slide is rare for cruise ships and a must for water slide fans.
This ride is part of the Norwegian Epic’s Aqua Park. It’s one of three big slides. You’ll slide down with great views around, making it the heart of a family adventure at sea.
Quick Facts & Thrill Level out of 5
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Slide Type | Enclosed tube leading to a bowl slide |
| Length | 72 metres |
| Height | Four storeys above the deck |
| Diameter | 12 metres |
| Minimum Height Restriction | 107 cm |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱😱✨ 4.5 out of 5 |
The Norwegian Epic’s water park is unique, with the Epic Plunge as its centrepiece. It’s perfect for those who love thrills or just want a fun water slide experience.
5 Twister Waterslide – Carnival Vista
The Twister Waterslide on the Carnival Vista is a must-try in Carnival’s WaterWorks aqua park. You’ll love its thrilling yet family-friendly design, perfect for all ages. The twists and turns make for an exciting ride, and you’ll enjoy the fun and colourful journey that ends with a refreshing splash.
What makes the Twister Waterslide so good?
This spiral slide is loved for its long, twisty path. You’ll love the Twister Waterslide the bright colours and cool design make the ride even more enjoyable, and you end with a splash that’s perfect for cooling off.
Quick Facts & Thrill Level out of 5
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 102 metres |
| Ride Type | Single rider, tube slide |
| Restriction | Minimum height requirement of around 42 inches (107 cm) |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱😱 4 out of 5 |
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6 Supercell – Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas
This Champagne bowl-style slide whisks you around, creating a thrilling ride. Being part of The Perfect Storm trio, it stands out. Royal Caribbean is known for its amazing water slides, making it a top pick for water adventures.
What makes the Supercell so good?
You’ll love the Supercell for its unique Champagne bowl design. This slide gives you an exciting ride with a splashy finish, perfect if you’re a thrill seeker.
Quick Facts & Thrill Level out of 5
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Ship Name | Harmony of the Seas |
| Slide Type | Champagne bowl-style slide |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱😱 4 out of 5 |
| Special Feature | Part of The Perfect Storm trio |
7 Tidal Wave – Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas
The Tidal Wave on Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas is a thrilling water slide adventure. It’s the sea’s first boomerang-style slide, promising a unique experience. Launched in January 2016, this ride for two features a breathtaking drop and a surge upwards, giving a feeling of weightlessness before diving down again.
What makes the Tidal Wave so good?
The Tidal Wave stands out because of its design and the excitement it provides. You’ll start by sliding down a steep drop, which then shoots you up a near-vertical wall before sending you back down in a wave-like motion. This ride is perfect if you’re looking for a burst of adrenaline and a fun splash at the end. Alongside other attractions like the Flowrider and main pools, the Tidal Wave is a top choice for thrill-seekers.
Quick Facts & Thrill Level out of 5
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Slide Type | Boomerang-style, 2-person rafting ride |
| Initial Installation | January 2016 |
| Restrictions | Minimum height is around 48 inches (122 cm) |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱 ★★★☆☆ |
8 AquaDunk – Disney Magic
The AquaDunk on Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Magic is a thrilling waterslide that starts with a near-vertical drop. You step into a clear tube, and after a countdown, the floor drops out from beneath you, sending you plummeting down a three-story free-fall before curving out over the side of the ship.
What makes the AquaDunk so good?
The AquaDunk’s main thrill comes from its drop floor. Once you step inside the capsule, the floor vanishes, sending you zooming down in a near-vertical drop. This happens along a transparent tube that arcs 20 feet over the ship’s edge. It’s more than just a slide—it’s a distinct experience found only on Disney Magic. Plus, the AquaDunk’s free-fall journey doesn’t need rafts, offering sheer fun.
Quick facts & Thrill Level out of 5
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Ship | Disney Magic |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱😱😱 5 out of 5 |
| Slide Length | 212 feet |
| Unique Aspects | Drop floor mechanism, transparent tube, extends over the ocean |
| Restrictions | Riders must be at least 48 inches (122 cm) tall |
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9 Dr. Seuss WaterWorks – Carnival Horizon
The Dr. Seuss WaterWorks – Carnival Horizon shines with its bright colours and playful characters from Dr. Seuss’s stories. It’s the ideal themed water park experience for a family looking for fun on their cruise. The park’s weight is about 49.4 tons, which is as much as six elephants, showing its huge size and strong build.
What makes the Dr. Seuss WaterWorks so good?
The Cat in the Hat slide is a top feature, designed like the character’s iconic floppy top hat. It stretches a whopping 450 feet. The Fun Things slide offers colourful twists and can reach speeds of 12 miles per hour. The big Cat’s Hat holds around 300 gallons of water, about 4,800 glasses! Merging beloved books with aquatic fun, the Dr. Seuss WaterWorks is an essential visit on the Carnival Horizon.
Quick Facts
| Slide | Length | Speed | Thrill Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat in the Hat Slide | 450 feet | Up to 12 mph | 4/5 |
| Fun Things Slide | 285 feet | Up to 12 mph | 3.5/5 |
The Carnival Horizon also offers other activities, like the SkyRide. It’s 145 feet above sea level and gives a thrilling experience.
10 Green Thunder on Carnival Spirit
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Drop waterslide |
| Location | Carnival Spirit, top deck |
| Age Requirement | 8 and up |
| Unique Features | Near-vertical drop, clear tube |
| Speed | Up to 20 feet per second |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱😱😱 5 out of 5 |
11 Splashaway Bay – Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay
In the heart of Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay lies Splashaway Bay. This interactive water play area is a dream for families. It’s packed with water cannons, splash zones, and many sprinklers. It offers both fun and safety, making it perfect for sunny adventures.
What makes Splashaway Bay so good?
Splashaway Bay offers more than just water fun. It’s designed for families to enjoy together. With easy access and thoughtful design, everyone can join in. The slides and water features will keep you happy for hours.
Quick Facts & Thrill Level out of 5
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Perfect Day at CocoCay |
| Main Attractions | Water cannons, splash zones, sprinklers |
| Family-friendly | Yes |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱 3 out of 5 |
| Admission | Cost included in Thrill Waterpark admission, ranges $50 – $100 per person |
| Children Policy | Under age 14 must be accompanied by a ticketed Guest age 14+ |
12 The Perfect Storm – Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas
The Perfect Storm on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas is a hit with thrill-seekers. It has three exciting slides: Cyclone, Typhoon, and Supercell. These slides offer a mix of racing, spinning, and big drops. It’s a fun way to get your heart racing.
What makes The Perfect Storm so good?
The Perfect Storm is found on the largest cruise ship in the world. It brings fun and variety, key for an unforgettable trip. It sits with other fun activities like FlowRider and Splashaway Bay. Each slide is up to 60 feet tall and 300 feet long. They offer a quick, thrilling ride.
Safety is key at The Perfect Storm. Lifeguards do regular checks. You need to be at least 48 inches tall and under 300 lbs to ride. The slides are open every day from 9 AM to 7 PM. At night, LED lights make the slides even more exciting.
Quick Facts & Thrill Level out of 5
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | Up to 60 feet (18 meters) |
| Length | Up to 300 feet (91 meters) |
| Duration | Approximately 15-30 seconds per slide |
| Height Requirement | At least 48 inches (122 cm) tall |
| Weight Limit | 300 lbs (136 kg) maximum |
| Hours of Operation | 9 AM to 7 PM daily |
| Peak Hours | 11 AM to 3 PM |
| Water Temperature | 27°C (80°F) |
| Night Rides | Until 7 PM |
| Private Session Bookings | Available during off-peak hours |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱😱😱 5 out of 5 |
| Cost | Included in cruise fare |
| Safety Measures | Regular checks, lifeguard presence, height and weight restrictions |
13 Vertigo – MSC Preziosa
Get ready for an unforgettable adrenaline rush on the Vertigo – MSC Preziosa. It’s the longest single rider waterslide at sea, stretching 120 metres. This luxurious cruise ship combines thrills with luxury. You’ll enjoy breathtaking ocean views as you plunge into adventure.
What makes the Vertigo so good?
The Vertigo on MSC Preziosa isn’t just long. It also has a transparent part. This means you can see sensational ocean views from deck 18 before landing on deck 15. Picture this: you’re 13 metres up, gliding through a slide that’s 900mm wide, all while enjoying amazing views. It’s all part of the excitement on MSC Preziosa.
Quick facts & Thrill Level out of 5
- Length: 120 metres
- Height: 13 metres
- Diameter: 900mm
- Thrill Level: 😱😱😱😱😱 5 out of 5
- Deck: Starts at 18, exits on 15
- Notable Feature: Transparent segment offering sensational ocean views
| Ship Name | Vertigo Feature | Other Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| MSC Preziosa | Longest single rider waterslide, transparent view segment | Bowling alley, 4D cinema, multiple dining options |
14 Ultimate Abyss – Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas
Looking for an exciting slide adventure while on a cruise? The Ultimate Abyss on Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas is perfect. It’s not your usual water slide. Instead, it features two 216-foot-long dry slides side by side that go down 10 decks. You start from Deck 16 in the Sports Zone, spiral down at speeds up to 9 miles per hour, and finish at the Boardwalk on Deck 6. Wowza!
What makes the Ultimate Abyss so good?
The Ultimate Abyss isn’t just any slide; it’s a top-notch cruise slide adventure. It comes alive with special effects, sounds, and flashing lights. At the entrance, you’re greeted by a monster fish called “Fangtooth,” making it not only thrilling but visually stunning too.
It’s perfect for thrill-seekers wanting something new on the sea. You don’t need a booking, and waiting times are usually short. You just need to be taller than 44 inches and under 300 pounds.
Quick Facts & Thrilly Level out of 5
- Introduced on Harmony of the Seas in 2016
- Spans 216 feet and is 10 decks high
- Speeds reach up to 9 miles per hour
- Height restriction: At least 44 inches tall
- Weight limit is 300 pounds
- Guests can slide for free
- Equipped with audio and special effects
Thrill Level: 😱😱😱😱😱 5 out of 5
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15 Hurricane Hunter on Icon of the Seas
The Hurricane Hunter is an exciting waterslide on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas. A family raft slide that can accommodate up to four riders, making it perfect for groups. The slide is 425 feet long and includes water curtains that ensure everyone gets soaked.
- Family-Friendly: You can ride with up to three others, making it perfect for enjoying with family or friends.
- Length: At 425 feet, it’s the longest raft slide at sea.
- Thrilling Design: Experience twists, turns, and storm-themed surprises, including water curtains that ensure a good soaking.
- Ocean Views: Enjoy breathtaking views as parts of the slide extend over the edge of the ship.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Family raft slide |
| Length | 425 feet |
| Capacity | Up to 4 riders per raft |
| Special Features | Water curtains, storm-themed surprises |
| Location | Icon of the Seas, Category 6 Waterpark |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱 2 out of 5 |
| Ocean Views | Yes, extends over the edge of the ship |
16 Storm Surge on Icon of the Seas
The Storm Surge is a fantastic waterslide on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas that you’re sure to love. Here’s why it stands out:
- Family-Friendly: You can ride with up to two others, making it a great slide for enjoying with family or friends.
- Suspended Design: This is the first suspended raft slide at sea, giving you a unique and thrilling experience.
- Length: The slide stretches 395 feet, ensuring a long and exciting ride.
- Ocean Views: Parts of the ride extend over the edge of the ship, providing stunning views of the ocean below.
What Makes It So Good?
The Storm Surge is unique because it offers a thrilling ride that’s also family-friendly. The suspended design adds an extra layer of excitement, as you feel like you’re almost flying off the edge of the ship. Its length ensures a fun, engaging ride, and the beautiful ocean views enhance the overall experience.
Quick Facts Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Family raft slide |
| Length | 395 feet |
| Capacity | Up to 3 riders per raft |
| Special Features | Suspended design, storm-themed surprises |
| Location | Icon of the Seas, Category 6 Waterpark |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱😱 4 out of 5 |
| Ocean Views | Yes, extends over the edge of the ship |
17 Ocean Loops on Norwegian Joy
The Ocean Loops on Norwegian Joy is a waterslide you’ve got to try. It has two awesome loops and see-through sections that hang over the edge of the ship, giving you amazing ocean views and a thrilling ride.
What Makes It So Good?
- Double Loops: You’ll get a real kick out of sliding through two loops that amp up the excitement.
- See-Through Sections: Feel like you’re flying over the ocean with the slide’s transparent parts that stick out over the ship’s side.
- High Thrill: The loops and see-through design make this slide a heart-pounding adventure.
- Cool Design: This slide is one of the most exciting at sea, thanks to its unique and thrilling features.
Quick Facts & Thrill Level
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Looping waterslide |
| Location | Norwegian Joy, top deck |
| Age Requirement | 8 and up |
| Unique Features | Double loops, see-through sections over the edge of the ship |
| Thrill Level | 😱😱😱😱😱 5 out of 5 |
Upcoming Waterslides on Cruise Ships
MSC World Europa (MSC Cruises) – Due 2027:
Venom Drop: Slide through the impressive design featuring a giant cobra head on what will be the longest dry slide at sea, spanning multiple decks.
Disney Treasure (Disney Cruise Line) – Due 2025:
AquaMouse 2.0: An upgraded version of the AquaMouse, featuring new storylines and enhanced special effects for an even more immersive and thrilling ride.
Norwegian Viva (Norwegian Cruise Line) – Due 2025:
The Wave: An innovative slide that combines a water coaster and wave pool elements, providing a unique and exhilarating experience.
🛝 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.
FAQ
What is the longest waterslide on a cruise ship?
The Blaster on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas is the longest sea waterslide at 800 feet.
Is there a fee to use the waterslides on cruise ships?
No, access to waterslides is generally included in the cost of your cruise fare. You can enjoy these attractions at no additional charge.
Can adults use the waterslides, or are they just for kids?
Adults can definitely use the waterslides! Many of the waterslides are designed to be fun for guests of all ages.
What is the biggest water slide on a cruise ship?
The biggest waterslide on a cruise ship is “The Blaster” on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas.
🛝 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.