The largest ship in the Carnival fleet, the new Italian-built, 3,954-passenger Carnival Vista will feel familiar to the line's fun-loving passengers. As can be seen in the photo tour above, the vessel also introduces well-conceived tweaks – such as more outdoor dining and a larger WaterWorks water park – as well as several exciting new attractions.
Currently cruising in Europe, Carnival Vista will sail the Caribbean from its home port of Miami beginning in November.
Here are five new things we love about the ship.
1. Craft beer scene. At the RedFrog Pub & Brewery you can sip a ThirstyFrog Port Hoppin’ IPA, ThirstyFrog Caribbean Wheat and coffee-toned FriskyFrog Java Stout, all handcrafted right on the ship. Beer nerds can talk brews with the resident beermaster as he does his mixing, and even pay $12.95 for a back-of-house tour that includes tasting off the taps.
2. IMAX flicks. The first IMAX Theatre at sea seats 187, has a three-deck-high screen and surround sound. It may immerse you so much in the movie experience that you'll forget you're on a ship. On view are Hollywood blockbusters (such as "The Jungle Book 3D"), classic movies and documentaries. Bonus: New movies screen the same day as in theaters. Tickets are $12.95 for adults, $9.95 for kids and seniors.
3. SkyRide. Putting on a harness to peddle a recumbent-like bike suspended above the ship, and way above the ocean, may seem like a scary experience. But this one-of-a-kind aerial attraction is actually loads of fun. You can choose to race a partner or just enjoy a leisurely ride with views along the 800-foot track. Stay off the handbrake if you want a little adrenaline rush.
4. Seafood Shack. At this outdoor New England-themed kiosk you can order up a lobster roll, clam chowder, fried clam strips, boiled lobster and other tasty seafood treats (a la carte pricing applies) to enjoy while looking at the sea. You may also choose a fresh catch of the day (priced by the pound) and have your selected fish prepared to order and served at any dining venue on the ship.
5. Taste of Cuba. The colorful, Cuba-themed Havana Bar and Pool on the promenade serves up excellent mojitos and snacks such as tostones (a la carte pricing applies), and is delightfully outfitted with rocking chairs, shutters and faux palm trees. The pool area and hot tubs are reserved for guests in Havana Cabana accommodations until 5 p.m. Later, folks gather here to watch the sunset, and a live Latin dance band keeps the place hopping into the wee hours.
