Great News For New Orleans and the Disney Wonder
New Orleans and Princess Tiana Take Center Stage in Enhancements Coming to the Disney Wonder
The world of “The Princess and the Frog” will come to life in new ways on the Disney Wonder with the addition of an exciting New Orleans-themed lounge that will transport you deeper into the heart of the city’s iconic French Quarter. A perfect complement to Tiana’s Place Restaurant on the Disney Wonder, the French Quarter Lounge will feature live music and themed activities for everyone in the family. Also debuting on the Disney Wonder this fall will be a sleek new space for teens and a redesigned café just for adults.
Here’s a look at enhancements sure to enchant:
“The Princess and the Frog” Comes to Life in a New Family Lounge
The French Quarter Lounge will be a perfect companion to Tiana’s Place Restaurant on the Disney Wonder, both inspired by the Disney animated feature “The Princess and the Frog.” The jazzy atmosphere of the French Quarter Lounge will evoke an airy outdoor space in New Orleans, surrounded by touches of iconic architecture such as wrought-iron balconies, classic brick walls and shutter-framed windows. Decorative details including a life-size trolley car and nods to the film, with signs and icons on the walls, add to the ambiance of the space.
Days and nights get a touch of bayou hospitality at the French Quarter Lounge, where you can enjoy live music on the gazebo stage and sip specialty drinks at an updated whimsical bar. The French Quarter Lounge will be a natural precursor to dinner at Tiana’s Place Restaurant or the perfect destination for entertainment and libations. The story will continue in the lounge all day long with New Orleans-themed family activities, trivia and character encounters. There may even be a glimpse of Princess Tiana herself as she stops by to welcome you.
Redesigned Retreats for Teens and Adults
Vibe, a club reserved for teens ages 14-17, will transform into a contemporary place to hang out with friends while at sea. The space will be given a timeless feel with an open, bright redesign, a light color palette and industrial metal work. A new coffee bar and updated virtual reality technology add to the list of activities for teens to enjoy in this exclusive club.
Adults will have an updated space all their own in the Cove Café, after a redesign that will transform the look and feel of the café into a local coffee shop, complete with warm, comfortable and trendy décor. Ample seating and a relaxed atmosphere will beckon you to indulge in this peaceful retreat. The newly redesigned Cove Café will be the perfect place to sip specialty coffee or tea throughout the day or partake in wine, cocktails and light bites during the evening.
Adult beverage tastings will be available at select times for an additional fee. Just steps away, Signals Bar is also undergoing a transformation with a similar look.
The new enhancements debut on the Disney Wonder’s four-night sailing from Vancouver to San Diego on Sept. 30, 2019. These additions are part of an overall commitment by Disney Cruise Line to invest in its ships, helping to deliver incredible family vacation experiences for years to come. While making these enhancements, crews perform regularly scheduled and wide-ranging maintenance to keep the fleet in tip-top shape, further demonstrating the unwavering commitment by Disney Cruise Line to continually elevate the experience.
The Disney Wonder offers a variety of itineraries and ports of call throughout the year, including summer sailings to Alaska, cruises to the Mexican Riviera and voyages to the Caribbean and Bahamas. For the first time, the Disney Wonder will also call New Orleans home in 2020 with Caribbean and Bahamian itineraries departing from this new home port beginning Feb. 7.
Recipe: Strawberries on Fire Mocktail
Master Mixologist Rob Floyd has refreshed the cocktail menus across the entire Princess fleet using his unique blend of knowledge, technique and flair for storytelling. Signature cocktails from the master himself join guest favorites to create an experience that will please every level of discerning patron.
Strawberries on Fire (non-alcoholic)
Ingredients:
1 slice fresh jalapeño
1 strawberry
1 oz. lime juice
.75 oz. agave syrup
4 oz. Sprite
Jalapeño and half a strawberry for garnish
Directions:
Muddle jalapeño, strawberry and simple syrup
Add ice then top with Sprite
Garnish with a slice of jalapeño and half a strawberry on the rim
Canaletto’s New Menu is Amore at First Bite!
In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food, which is what you’ll discover at Holland America Line’s Canaletto — a specialty dining venue that brings people together with delectable dishes, designed to be shared family-style.
Our popular Italian restaurant recently debuted a new menu that features an authentic selection of outstanding dishes. To make the experience even more exceptional, Holland America Line is now making fresh pasta on board our ships! Continue reading below for a taste of what’s on the menu.
THE INTRODUCTION
To start, whet your appetite with a variety of delicious small plates including Beef Carpaccio, Grilled Calamari, and Melanzane Ripiene — eggplant roulade filled with ricotta, basil, Parmesan, wilted spinach and chunky arrabiata sauce. Additional selections include tasty Salumi All’ Italiana, Veal and Sage Polpettine and Mozzarella Di Bufala!
THE MAIN EVENT
Hungry for more? Canaletto’s new menu features a variety of mouthwatering entrees that include Italian classics like Lasagna Bolognese, Branzino Alla Siciliana, Gnocchi Carciofi E Antara and Scaloppine Alla Caprese, and that’s not all! Each day of the week Canaletto features specials that are sure to wow guests.
Sunday: Chicken Parmigiana
Monday: Osso Bucco Milanese
Tuesday: Beef Short Rib Brasato Barolo
Wednesday: Veal Liver Veneziana
Thursday: Veal Saltimbocca Alla Romano
Friday: Chicken Curry – Cipriani Style
Saturday: Gamberi Alla Griglia
Don’t forget to compliment your meal with a delicious cocktail, like the restaurant’s refreshing Aperol Spritz.
THE EPIC FINALE
“Save room for dessert!” This familiar saying is advice we strongly recommend to our guests when dining at Canaletto! The new menu offers everything from Tiramisu, Gelato and Affogato to Torta Caprese Al Limone — an almond lemon tart with limoncello, Mascarpone cream and fresh berries! Trust us, these sweet treats are not be missed!
Whether Italy is on your itinerary or not, enjoying a meal at Canaletto will have you feeling as if you’ve been magically transported there. We guarantee this is a dining experience your taste buds will thank you for. Buon appetito!
Canaletto is available at dinner for a nominal charge. Reservations are recommended but not required.
Post shared from Holland America’s Blog April 15 2019
Original Blog post can be found here
Royal Caribbean’s Unlimited Dining Package
When you cruise with Royal Caribbean, be sure to bring your appetite for adventure — and for incredible cuisine. Because with the all-new Unlimited Dining Package, everything is on the table. You’ll be able to dine in any specialty restaurant on your sailing as many times as you like!* Enjoy lunch at Jamie’s Italian and then dinner at Chops GrilleSM.
The possibilities are endless but deliciousness is guaranteed.
HERE’S HOW IT WORKS:
• For one low price, you can enjoy meals at onboard specialty restaurants as many times as you’d like, based on availability.
For instance, if you want to eat at the same restaurant twice in one night, go ahead!
• For specialty restaurants with a la carte pricing, the Unlimited Dining Package provides a $35 food credit per person for each visit.
• Chef’s Table and culinary activities are excluded.
• Package does not include beverages, but does provide 40% off bottles of wine under $100, and 20% off bottles over $100.
Packages are available as follows
| 3 – 5 NIGHT CRUISES | 3 Night Package | Unlimited Package | |
| Quantum Class, Oasis Class and Amplified Ships |
N/A |
US $29 per day per person | |
| All other ships | N/A | US $27 per day per person | |
| 6 – 9 NIGHT CRUISES | 3 Night Package | Unlimited Package | |
| Quantum Class and Oasis Class | US $99 per person | US $29 per day per person | |
| All other ships | US $79 per person | US $24 per day per person | |
| 10+ NIGHT CRUISES | 3 Night Package | 5 Night Package | Unlimited Package |
| Quantum Class and Oasis Class | US $99 per person | US $139 per person | US $20 per day per person |
| All other ships | US $79 per person | US $119 per person | US $20 per day per person |
And, Kids Dine For Less
Kids ages 6-12 dine at specialty restaurants at discounted rates. Ages 5 and under eat Free! Plus, little cruisers get their very own menu – a round-up of kid friendly favorites from the “grownups” menu. Reserve before you sail, and prices will be adjusted for kids once you are onboard, and reflected on your final account statement.
When you book your package you will need to select a time for your dinner the first night in a specialty restaurant chosen for you. Once you embark an on board representative will contact you to help arrange the rest of your reservations. Or you can choose to do this yourself in person at the specialty restaurant.
*Prices are per person for the full sailing. All selections are subject to change. Royal Caribbean International reserves the right to verify eligibility upon arrival to the activity. Specialty Dining Packages must be booked at least two days prior to boarding and may not be available for every sail date. One reservation will be automatically created for the first night of the sailing. All other reservations must be made onboard and are subject to availability. Packages include service charge and food portion only for dinner and, when available, lunch service. For restaurants with a la carte pricing, you’ll receive a $35 food credit. Beverages not included. For Dining Packages, children ages 12 and under are excluded from offer; children ages 6-12 can be added to reservation for a $10 cover change once onboard. Not available on holiday sailings. Not valid for Chef’s Table, or Culinary Experiences/Activities. Offer provides discount off wine selections at specialty dining restaurants with the purchase of a qualifying dining package. Offer provides 40% discount off bottles of wine priced at $100 or less; 20% discount off bottles of wine priced over $100. VAT will be added to the price where applicable. Offer valid only with the purchase of 3-night, 4-night, 5-night, or Unlimited Dining Packages; other Dining Packages excluded. Terms of Royal Caribbean’s Alcohol Policy apply, including a minimum drinking age, which varies by itinerary. Offer is not transferable, not redeemable for cash, and expires on the final night of the cruise. Terms of Dining Packages apply. Features vary by ship. All itineraries are subject to change without notice. ©2019 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas. 19067456 • 4/8/2019
Autism Adventures at Sea with Royal Caribbean
Voted Best Cruise Line Overall by Travel Weekly for 16 consecutive years, Royal Caribbean offers industry-leading programs for families living with autism and other developmental disabilities. This is an Autism Friendly Family Adventure
DISCOVER ROYAL CARIBBEAN’S RANGE OF AUTISM FRIENDLY AMENITIES ONBOARD:
• NEW! Enjoy complimentary television programming from The Autism Channel only on Royal Caribbean. Exclusive content includes entertainment and resources designed to enrich the lives of people with autism spectrum disorders.
• Family movies shown in a low-lit, low-volume, sensory friendly environment
• Toy lending bags with autism friendly toys
• Youth staff tour, consultation, and activities to accommodate the child’s specific needs
• A “social story” available online before cruising, helps parents explain the cruise experience
CURRENT FEATURES:
• Priority check-in, boarding and departure
• Special dietary accommodations, including gluten-free options
• Adventure Ocean® Youth Program fl exible grouping for children 3 to 11 years old
• Adventure Ocean® toilet-trained policy exception
Travel with peace of mind, thanks to new and existing amenities for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Can Your Family Cruise Be Foolproof?
Travelling as a family can sometimes be a challenge. Finding a trip everyone will enjoy, with enough activities to keep the younger family members busy but with adult activities as well! So can your family cruise really be foolproof? It sure can be when you follow these five steps for an unforgettable family cruise with Royal Caribbean.
Step 1: Start with a big ship.
There is a reason cruise lines keep building ever larger ships: They are exciting. Picture floating cities with distinct neighborhoods, sporting greenbelts, boardwalks, quiet cafés, late-night discos, round-the-clock casinos, water parks, and much more. With so much to do and see on board, the destinations are like an added bonus. And when it comes to cruising on an epic scale, Royal Caribbean stands out, with four of the largest cruise ships at sea and more in the works.
Step 2: Bring the whole family.
“Cruising is an ideal option for multigenerational travel,” says Deborah Director, a Boca Raton-based Virtuoso travel advisor, “and Royal Caribbean excels at meeting the varied needs of families traveling together.”
Sailing with tots and teens? No problem. Royal Caribbean offers younger guests an entertaining lineup of activities, from story time and dance parties to hands-on experiments in a science lab, painting, sculpture and crafts in an art studio, and hands-on fun in a DIY theater. While the kids are off having a blast, mom, dad, and grandparents can take a fitness class, unwind in the spa with a signature treatment, or enjoy a show. Come nighttime, let the babysitter tuck the kids in bed while the grown-ups enjoy date-night dining and thrills at the Vegas-style casino.
Step 3: Ratchet up the live entertainment.
Royal Caribbean is the only cruise line that offers Tony Award-winning Broadway musicals – think Mamma Mia!, Cats, Grease, and more. The line pushes the boundaries of what’s possible at sea with high-tech, immersive entertainment and cutting-edge productions on stage, in the air, underwater, and on ice. At Studio B, for example, world-class ice skaters spin and leap against a backdrop of stunning multimedia visuals and audio. In the Aqua Theater, divers sail off 30-foot platforms and perform aerial feats of derring-do before plunging with barely a splash into the deepest pool at sea.
Step 4: Throw in a private island.
Who hasn’t dreamed of escaping it all? Now you can, thanks to Royal Caribbean’s series of private island destinations around the world. The first in the collection is Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, where you can partake in seven superlative-demanding experiences, including the tallest and most thrilling waterslide in North America, the highest viewpoint in the Bahamas – a helium balloon up to 450 feet in the air – and the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean. The exclusive Coco Beach Club, debuting in December 2019, will offer the first and only overwater cabanas in the Bahamas.
Step 5: Make it deluxe.
If ever there were a reason to upgrade, this is it. Royal Suite Class is designed for discerning travelers, such as grandparents accustomed to high-end cruising who want an experience their grandchildren will never forget. Think: floating five-star hotel with three ever-more-luxurious tiers. Star tier guests in Royal Suite Class enjoy priority boarding and departure (allowing you to avoid the crowds); spacious, spectacularly appointed accommodations with pillow-top mattresses and posh amenities such as L’Occitane bath products; VOOM, the fastest Internet at sea; preferred seating at select venues; and more. The best perk: a personal Royal Genie, certified by the British Butler Institute but with special powers to create one-of-a-kind experiences designed around you.
A backstage tour of your favorite Broadway show? Check. Catching the first wave of the day on the FlowRider? Yup. Exclusive access to the California-chic Coastal Kitchen restaurant? Absolutely. “It’s all included,” says Rockville, Maryland-based Virtuoso travel advisor Jeremy Hall. “Each generation of your family can rest easy and relax – which is what your cruise is supposed to be all about.”
This article is sponsored by Royal Caribbean International. All images courtesy of Royal Caribbean International. Original post can be found here https://blog.virtuoso.com/sponsored-post/five-foolproof-steps-for-an-unforgettable-family-cruise/
Norwegian Sky Gets Updated Spaces After Renovations
Norwegian Cruise Line Unveils Photos of Norwegian Sky’s 2019 Bow-To-Stern Renovation Featuring New Bar and Dining Venue, Pinnacle Lounge and Sushi Bar, Introduced to Norwegian Fleet
Following a three-week dry dock in Freeport, Bahamas, Norwegian Sky recently returned to her homeport of Miami showcasing new venues, updated spaces and completely redesigned staterooms and corridors, elevating the experience for guests looking for shorter vacation getaways.
“Last year was an exciting year with the record-breaking launch of Norwegian Bliss, the announcement of Norwegian Joy’s redeployment to the U.S. and the unveiling of four ships which benefited from our comprehensive Norwegian Edge® bow-to-stern refurbishment program,” said Andy Stuart, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We are continuing the momentum and starting 2019 with the reintroduction of Norwegian Sky. She returned home to Miami unveiling new designs and experiences that showcase our dedication to providing guests with meaningful experiences across our fleet.”
All food and beverage outlets were updated, and eight new venues were introduced to Norwegian Sky. These include the pub-style eatery The Local Bar & Grill; La Cucina for classic Italian fare; Sugarcane Mojito Bar; Topsiders, the poolside bar; late night venues, Bliss Ultra Lounge and Spinnaker Lounge; a full-service Starbucks® licensed store; and new to the Norwegian fleet – Pinnacle Lounge and Sushi Bar, which provides guests with a relaxed yet elevated atmosphere to enjoy original and traditional sushi concepts while taking in the endless views of the ocean through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Other upgrades include the complimentary Palace and Crossings Main Dining Rooms, Garden Café and The Great Outdoors; and specialty restaurants Cagney’s and Le Bistro. All bars and lounges on board were also refreshed.
All 1,002 staterooms were upgraded with new televisions and USB outlets, as well as brand new carpet, artwork, furniture, lighting and balcony decking. The ship’s four 835-square-foot Owner’s Suites feature refreshed bathrooms and private hot tubs.
The Atrium, the epicenter of the ship, has been revitalized with an entirely refreshed look including updated flooring, refurbished reception and shore excursion desk areas and the addition of lounge seating. Pool deck enhancements include new flooring and furniture, the installation of additional canopies and an updated beach area.
A year-round resident of PortMiami, Norwegian Sky offers three-and-four-day cruises to the Bahamas, and four-and-five-day cruises to Bahamas and Cuba with an overnight in Havana. She calls to Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island, and is one of two ships in the fleet to offer an all-inclusive experience on select sailings.
Disney Cruise Line Returns to Greece
Disney Cruise Line’s Return to Greece Highlights Lineup of Itineraries for Families to See the World in Summer 2020
In summer 2020, Disney Cruise Line will embark on a variety of itineraries around the world, including a long-awaited return to Greece and the addition of five first-time ports of call in Europe. Along with an expanded European season aboard the Disney Magic, adventures will continue across the fleet with sailings to Alaska, the Caribbean and Bahamas.
European Explorations
After a five-year hiatus, the Disney Magic will return to Greece in summer 2020 as part of three special Mediterranean voyages departing from Rome. During one 12-night and two nine-night cruises, your Clients can marvel at the beautiful landscapes and archeological wonders of destinations like Piraeus, the gateway to Athens; Katakolon, near ancient Olympia; and the islands of Santorini, Mykonos and Crete.
Each of these unique Mediterranean itineraries combines a selection of stops in Greece with visits to other notable cities in the region. Two of the sailings include a new port of call in Messina, Italy, where Guests can visit landmarks in Sicily such as Mount Etna, the highest and most active volcano in Europe, or the Piazza del Duomo, the city’s historic center. The third features a return to the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik, Croatia, for the first time in five years.
Additional new ports of call in Europe include Gdynia, Poland; Nordfjordeid, Norway; Plymouth, England; and Zeebrugge, Belgium. This new collection of destinations is part of the Disney Magic’s grand tour of Europe in the summer of 2020, which begins with sailings through the Mediterranean and Greek Isles before heading to northern Europe in late summer for cruises to the Baltic, British Isles and Norwegian fjords.
Alaskan Adventures
In 2020, the Disney Wonder will return to Alaska for the summer season, opening up a world of breathtaking natural vistas, magnificent glaciers and awe-inspiring wildlife. These seven-night itineraries depart from Vancouver, Canada, with visits to Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Dawes Glacier. Each sailing features fun and adventure both in port and on the ship, from stunning scenery and one-of-a-kind Port Adventures in each destination to special touches that bring the splendor and spirit of Alaska to life onboard.
Tropical Travel to the Caribbean and Bahamas
In addition to seven-night eastern and western Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral, near Orlando, Florida, the Disney Fantasy will embark on a variety of itineraries to the Caribbean and Bahamas throughout the summer of 2020. These include five- and nine-night Caribbean sailings, along with three-, four- and five-night Bahamian cruises, three of which feature two stops at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.
The Disney Dream will provide even more opportunities for guests to visit Castaway Cay in the summer of 2020 with three-, four- and five-night Bahamian cruises, including a series of sailings with two calls on the private island paradise.
Each sailing aboard the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream allows your Clients to experience the magic of Disney entertainment, which includes themed dining spaces, Broadway-style shows and more, while also immersing them in the charming island cultures of tropical destinations throughout the Bahamas and Caribbean.
Guided Experiences with Adventures by Disney
In summer 2020, Disney Cruise Line guests can enrich their cruise vacation with a variety of add-on packages from Adventures by Disney®, a leader in family guided group vacations. Highlights include brand-new ways to experience the Caribbean, a return to Alaska and popular packages in northern Europe and the Mediterranean.
Premium Cruise Packages
With Adventures by Disney, your Clients can book the ultimate Disney cruise experience on select sailings in Alaska, Europe and—new for 2020—the Caribbean. Throughout the voyage, knowledgeable Adventure Guides provide dedicated service both onboard and in port, as they lead guests on specially curated excursions, interactive activities and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Onboard the ship, guests enjoy unique experiences and premium amenities exclusive to Adventures by Disney, such as an intimate talkback session with Walt Disney Theatre cast members followed by a behind-the-scenes costume and prop activity.
Pre-Cruise Escapes with Adventures by Disney
Adventures by Disney also offers popular pre-cruise vacations in Rome; London; Barcelona, Spain; and Copenhagen, Denmark. These two- to three-night Escapes feature unforgettable experiences in iconic cities, such as a private, after-hours visit to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in Rome. Plus, activities like flamenco dancing, mosaic making and preparing local cuisine immerse families in the culture of each region.
Bookings for 2020 voyages open on March 7, 2019 – Castaway Club Members have early access!
Hidden Spots for Me Time On The World’s Largest Cruise Ship
Some people think bigger is better, and others would disagree. The feeling that a big ship just has too much to do and too many people is definitely something we are questioned about all the time, even by seasoned cruisers.
Royal Caribbean has put together this blog “Five Hidden Spots for Me time on Symphony of the Seas” to help you find moments for yourself.
Whether you’re vacationing with your family, a group of friends or a partner, traveling with others doesn’t mean you can’t sneak away for some alone time. True, Royal Caribbean ships are filled with tons of experiences for everyone to enjoy together—from the tallest slide at sea to the first time zero gravity is simulated on stage—and the beauty is that you also have opportunities to chill on your own, too. Here, we’re highlighting some of our favorite ways to catch some down time on board Symphony of the Seas, where you can feel as though you have the whole ship to yourself:
The Solarium
For some of the best views at sea, make your way to the adults-only Solarium, our indoor-outdoor lounge and pool area at the front of most Royal Caribbean ships. With chairs for lounging, a jacuzzi and, on Symphony of the Seas, a beautiful sculpture that sets the area aglow at night, this retreat on deck 15 is one of the most peaceful places on board.
Vitality Spa 
Offering deep-tissue massages, acupuncture, facials and more, there’s a reason we refer to Vitality Spa, located on deck six, as a sanctuary at sea. After your treatment, you can refuel with healthy wraps, fresh fruit and made-to-order smoothies at Vitality Café. To really wind down, consider treating yourself to an unlimited day pass for the thermal spa, which boasts a steam room, sauna, rainforest showers and hot stone chairs.
Pro tip: You can reserve spa services at a special rate on days your ship is in port visiting a destination. And speaking of days in port, Vitality Spa’s adjacent fitness center is virtually empty when the ship is docked and early mornings. If exercising while on vacation is your thing, this is another great place to score some alone time!
Central Park
Situated in the middle of deck eight, Central Park is a standout spot on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships: Our signature, al fresco neighborhood has a lush garden with more than 20,000 live plants, winding pathways and even live music at times, not to mention, the space is home to some of the most popular restaurants on board—including Jamie’s Italian and Chops Grille. The area is most quiet just after lunch and dinner: Grab a bench and chill out with a book or your tablet and a glass of wine from Vintages, among the blooming birds-of-paradise (there are several seating areas tucked away, too).
The Jogging Track
The jogging track in the middle of the ship might slip your mind if you’re not actively looking for a place to power walk or run, but even for the fitness-averse, it’s such a pleasant place. Symphony‘s track is covered, and runs the perimeter of the ship, making it a less frequented area. With deck chairs placed next to the track, you can comfortably take in the stellar view from the wake undisturbed day or night.
Your Stateroom or Suite Balcony
If you’re seeking your own private stretch of ocean and epic views of ports, or want to take in the energy of Central Park, the Boardwalk or the open-air AquaTheater, everyone can appreciate the personal outdoor space that comes with the more than 1,800 balcony stateroom or suites on board Symphony. Treat yourself to room service as you watch the sunset or even take a nap—it’s your very own oasis.
Be the “King of the World”
Finally, if you’ve always longed for a “King of the World” moment, Symphony of the Seas (and Harmony of the Seas) can provide that, too. This somewhat-secret observation deck is near the Solarium (so high up), extends over the edge of the ship and is complete with a glass floor that’ll make you feel like you’re flying over the ocean.
Carnival’s Mardi Gras Will Offer An Array Of Experiences
Six Distinctive, Themed Zones Will Deliver the Fun Carnival is Known For, All Coming on Mardi Gras in 2020
MIAMI, Jan. 25, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Carnival Cruise Line revealed the first look at design details for the highly anticipated Mardi Gras, the line’s most innovative ship set to debut in 2020 and the first cruise ship in North America powered by LNG. Mardi Gras will offer an extensive array of popular Carnival guest favorites along with new exciting experiences highlighted by six themed zones. Throughout the ship’s 20 decks and in each of these distinctive areas, guests will find fun, memorable ways to create their own personalized vacation with dining, libation, entertainment, recreation, and relaxation options.
The accommodations on Mardi Gras will include more than 20 different stateroom categories and multiple levels of spacious and luxurious suites. Mardi Gras will also include the most expansive open decks on any Carnival ship, and a spectacular atrium that will serve as the hub of the ship as well as a stunning focal point where guests will be welcomed on board.
“When our guests Choose Fun and book a vacation on Mardi Gras, they are going to find many firsts and exciting experiences, all enhanced by the fun atmosphere our great Carnival crew deliver on every cruise,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “We’ve specifically designed Mardi Gras to invite everyone to create their own personalized fun vacation experience with options to suit every age, mood or taste.”
Six Exciting and Distinctive Zones Add to the Fun
The six zones of Mardi Gras’ design will invite guests to stroll throughout the ship to enjoy new only-on-Mardi Gras features along with signature elements that have made Carnival America’s Cruise Line, all enjoyed amidst a festive, social and community-driven atmosphere with opportunities for guests to relax, recharge and reconnect with family and friends. The six areas will be themed around Grand Central, French Quarter, La Piazza, Summer Landing, Lido and The Ultimate Playground and highlights include:
~ Grand Central (Decks 6-8, mid-ship): Creating a sense of wonder the moment guests step on board, the transformative Grand Central takes the traditional atrium concept to new heights, combining a day-to-night entertainment complex with spectacular three-deck-high floor-to-ceiling windows and a bar overlooking the starboard side of the ship that will be the perfect venue for socializing and people watching amid sweeping ocean vistas. Steps away are Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Teppanyaki which are being expanded from designs on existing ships to reflect their popularity with guests. There’s also the first-ever dedicated Punchliner Comedy Club where guests can enjoy nightly shows, and the always popular Piano Bar 88 for sing-a-longs that bring guests together in an intimate feel-good setting.
~ French Quarter (Deck 6, aft): In a nod to the New Orleans’ culture that combines lively entertainment with an unparalleled food scene, French Quarter will be lined with new bars, music and eateries that perfectly capture the festive spirit of the Big Easy. And since the spirit of New Orleans is so closely tied to the jazz scene, this neighborhood is linked via a two-deck-high promenade leading to a traditional New Orleans jazz club with live entertainment and refreshing hand-crafted libations. More details on these new dining and entertainment choices and the introduction of a new Carnival celebrity partnership will be revealed this spring.
~ La Piazza (Deck 8, mid-ship): At La Piazza, guests are transported to Italy where they celebrate the rich heritage of Carnival’s senior officers with authentic cuisine from the casual family-style Cucina del Capitano and 24/7 Pizzeria del Capitano to a new Mediterranean-themed seafood restaurant. There’s also a bar where guests can savor cappuccino by day or classic Italian cocktails at night, while roaming musicians keep everyone entertained.
~ Summer Landing (Deck 8, aft): Designed as the ultimate chill spot, Summer Landing will be home to an expanded Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse with smoked-on-board barbecue favorites created by longtime Carnival partner Guy Fieri, along with the line’s exclusive ParchedPig craft beers brewed right on board. For outdoor summer-inspired fun, there will be a pool and whirlpools, a new bar, the lunch counter for the Smokehouse Brewhouse along with ample lounging spaces and hang outs, making this the ideal spot to enjoy all the fun that a Carnival vacation experience delivers.
~ Lido (Deck 16-17, aft): Carnival is already known for its varied casual poolside restaurants and Mardi Gras’ expanded Lido will take this to a whole new level with existing Carnival favorites like Guy’s Burger Joint, the New England-inspired Seafood Shack, and BlueIguana Cantina Mexican eatery, along with some new concepts to be announced at a later date that are sure to inspire foodie fans.
~ The Ultimate Playground (Decks 18-20, aft): The aptly named Ultimate Playground will span Decks 18-20 and offer guests amazing sea vistas as they soak up the sun and the fun in this spacious family-friendly play area highlighted by the largest and most elaborate Carnival WaterWorks aqua park in the fleet, along with an expanded SportSquare. The Ultimate Playground is also where guests will find the much-anticipated BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster, the first rollercoaster at sea announced in December 2018, where riders race along an 800-foot-long track achieving speeds of nearly 40 miles per hour.
Mardi Gras will also incorporate all of the line’s most popular signature features from its nearly completed $2 billion fleet enhancement program that has brought a consistent level of experiences to the more than five million passengers who annually sail on Carnival, such as Alchemy Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, and the Serenity adult-only retreat, among others – many of which will offer an exciting twist, along with a variety of new innovations exclusive to this vessel.
Additional information on Mardi Gras, along with specifics on each of the six themed areas will be revealed in ways that are sure to amp up the fun factor in the coming months.