In the late 70s, Carnival Cruise Line became a pioneer in family-friendly cruises introducing what’s believed to be the first waterslide on board a cruise liner. Spring forward 44 years and it’s still leaving others in its wake as a leader in not only water rides, but an array of on board entertainment.
From food and wine experiences to spas and art exhibitions, there’s something for everyone on a Carnival cruise. Here we look at the top things you probably never knew you could do while sailing the high seas.
For the art enthusiasts
Regardless if you’re an abstract, baroque, cubism or neon art fan, Carnival offers an array of educational seminars for art lovers. From the earliest cave paintings to the modern masters, the sessions cover everything from theory to technique. With your newfound knowledge, join an art auction where – with free-flowing Champagne – you might just be tempted to take home a memento.
Who can go? The whole family. Champagne for 18+
For the theatre buffs
Carnival cruises showcases world-class singers and dancers, who perform on sets that would rival any high-end Melbourne production. Even better, shows are included in your fare, so it’s like having tickets to the opening night of the hottest show in town, absolutely free.
For those in need of a giggle, or a good old belly laugh, Punchliner Comedy Club has teamed up with renowned Aussie comedians and promises to crack even the toughest critic.
Who can go? The whole family
For the foodies
Dining doesn’t get better than this. The Chef’s Table is a VIP experience starting with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, followed by a tour of the kitchen and finishing with a full-service culinary experience created by the chef. The experience includes dishes not available on regular dining menus. Expect mouth-watering morsels you’d only find in a fine-dining establishment.
Who can go? The whole family
For the wine aficionados
Savour some of the best wines around the globe without leaving the ship with Cruise the Vineyards. Sip a sauvignon blanc or merlot from some of the world’s leading wine regions in New Zealand, France, Australia, Germany and the US from the comfort of your cruise.
Who can go? 18 years +
For the spa seekers
If your perfect day is a massage, facial or detoxifying treatment, then you can float on Cloud 9, literally, at Carnival’s Cloud 9 Spa: Thermal Suite. Here you’ll find an extensive menu of treatments, steam baths, and a thalassotherapy (seawater therapy) pool. For a cosmetic-based treatment, there’s also a Medi-spa.
Who can go? 18 years +
For the fitness fanatics
Hate running on a treadmill? No worries. Carnival has a running track that encompasses the deck-level perimeter of the ship. It’s the length of three football fields! Even better, it’s like running along a coastline, with the scent of the sea breeze and ocean vistas as far as the eye can see. If the weather turns, all of Carnival’s ships have state-of-the-art fitness centres.
Who can go? The whole family
For the performers
Love being centre stage? Try cruise karaoke where you can blast your favourite ballad, and you don’t even have to worry about remembering all the lyrics – or being in tune. Expect all the latest chart-toppers, or old-time favourites, in these regularly scheduled events where you’re the master of the mic.
Who can go? The whole family
For the party goers
It wouldn’t be a Carnival cruise without a party. Our pick? Tease your hair, throw on something neon, and give the 80s Night a go. The fun starts with a Playlist Productions show, and for those ready to bust a move, there’s also an 80s dance competition. The Mega Deck Party is also your go-to. Fun for the whole family, expect a DJ, games and giveaways.
Who can go? The whole family
For the water babies
Spend your days soaking in the sparkling swimming pools (most Carnival cruises have two). If you want to make a real splash, wind your way down the Green Lightning waterslide, its 11.3 metre free-fall drop is roughly the height of a three-storey building. Or, for something a little tamer, try its sister slide, The Twister, a bright yellow beacon that sits atop most Carnival cruises as if it’s calling you for a bit of fun.
Who can go? The whole family
Now that you have discovered some of the action-packed things you could be doing on a Carnival cruise visit the website to see where in the world these amazing cruises can take you.
This article was produced in partnership with Carnival Cruise Line.
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