carnival vista

Carnival Cruise Lines made headlines in the cruising world recently with the announcement that their new ship will be debuting in the spring of 2016. The ship will be called the Carnival Vista and will include many new innovations that will allow this fun cruise line to stand out in the mega ship category.

Carnival is pulling out all of the stops with this ship in terms of entertainment, to the extent where there may be more things to do on the ship than in the port! The Vista  will be unique for having the first enormous IMAX theatre on a cruise ship. Other things to look out for are the extensive water park and the Red Frog Pub.

IMAX Theatre

But the main attraction on this ship is the brand new SkyRide attraction. The SkyRide consists of an 800 foot suspended track that offers magnificent views of the ocean. However, if you want a view, you will have to work for it as you will have to pedal on a suspended recumbent bicycle in order to move around. This is a great way to see some beauty and get some exercise in at the same time.

carnival vista skyride

Close by is the SkyClimb, which is a series of suspended ropes that have been specially arranged into an obstacle course. There are many other sport related items at the Activity Park and SportsSquare Clubhouse, which contain table tennis, athletic video games and mini bowling.

The waterpark on the Carnival Vista contains a multitude of slides, the most notable being the Kaleid-O-Slide, which is a thrilling water tube ride. Travel down a heart stopping 455 feet of kaleidoscope colours, creating a trippy effect; with twists and turns at every corner.

The Thrill Theater offers a different approach to seeing a movie; the special effects in the short film come to life in numerous dimensions in this unique show.

New Dining Options

Dining will be no less extravagant, with new options being the Seafood Shack, offering delicious treats such as lobster rolls, fried shrimp and crab cakes.

Fahrenheit 555 is an American style steakhouse filled with class, whereas the Bonsai Sushi restaurant contains ocean views that perfectly match the oriental atmosphere.

A more Latin American flair can be found at the Havana Bar which offers Cuban drinks and traditional snack foods. The Vista has expanded the line’s well liked Havana infusion experience and this bar transforms into an all night salsa dance club after dark.

Vista’s Latino Theme

The Latino theme extends outdoors with a new Havana Pool that will offer stunning views of the sea. Besides whirlpools, a relaxation area has been designated with artificial palm trees, thatched patio huts and comfortable lounge chairs under colorful umbrellas.

Carnival Vista’s staterooms and suites will be decorated in warm hues in the beautifully designed interior staterooms right through to the balconies and suites. The Vista is also introducing two new accommodation classes. The Havana Cabanas are themed on the tropics. These cabins offer private outdoor patios that have standard lounge chairs and a hammock as well.

Havana Cabana Staterooms

The new Family Harbor accommodations will consist of ocean view, balcony and interior staterooms that are spacious enough for a family of five. An exclusive Family Harbor Lounge has been set aside as a family hangout complete with large screen TVs and games.

The Vista is scheduled to operate 8 to13 day cruises in the western and eastern Med from May 2016 until October 21, 2016. She will then cross the Atlantic towards New York. What is planned after that no one knows as of yet!

Mock up images courtesy of Carnival Cruises

Written by Veronica Shine