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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE IS FIRST MAJOR CRUISE LINE IN U.S. TO GET ENTIRE FLEET BACK TO GUEST OPERATIONS

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As the first major U.S. cruise line with its full fleet back in guest service since the industry’s restart last summer, Carnival Cruise Line has now reached the milestone of welcoming two million guests.

The milestone was commemorated today in Port Canaveral, Fla. aboard Carnival Freedom as the Gibbs family – Daniel and Kristi with son Mason and grandmother Theresa Campbell – from Ocala, Fla. boarded the ship. They were surprised with fanfare from Carnival Freedom’s Captain Mario Imbimbo, Hotel Director, Cruise Director and team members.  A video is available here https://youtu.be/iewulbCIWKo.
The company’s industry pace-setting restart began on July 3, 2021 when Carnival Vista set sail from Galveston and since then 22 additional ships have resumed service, from 13 U.S. homeports all while guests were helping to raise $2.25 million for partner, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

In addition, during this time, guests have taken more than 1.3 million shore excursions in Carnival’s destination ports, and two million Carnival-branded items have been sold in the gift shops fleetwide, including 150,000 items from the line’s 50th Birthday collection.

“We are so pleased to have sailed two million guests since our restart, providing much-needed vacations featuring our signature fun to an array of destinations in the Caribbean, The Bahamas, the Mexican Riviera, Alaska and Europe,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “All the while, providing an economic boost to those destinations and providing our crew members with opportunities to support their families.” 
Carnival will restart in its 14th homeport of New York City in June with Carnival Magic and has announced plans that Carnival Splendor will restart in Australia following its Alaska season with a three-day cruise departing Sydney on October 2, 2022.  And in November, Carnival’s newest ship, Carnival Celebration, featuring a roller coaster and powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), will debut in Miami.

Source: Carnival Cruise Line

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE IS FIRST MAJOR CRUISE LINE IN U.S. TO GET ENTIRE FLEET BACK TO GUEST OPERATIONS

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Carnival Splendor Sets Sail from Seattle As All 23 Fun Ships Are Back

SEATTLE, May 2, 2022 – With the departure of Carnival Splendor from the Port of Seattle today, Carnival Cruise Line celebrates the restart of its entire fleet of ships and Carnival becomes the first major cruise line in the U.S. to achieve that milestone.

Carnival Splendor is the 23rd and final Carnival ship to welcome guests back on board after Carnival’s resumption of cruising from the U.S. last July.  Guests are set to depart from Seattle, Wash. today on an eight-day Alaska cruise, completing an impressive and successful restart of guest operations and setting the pace for the rest of the U.S. cruise industry. Carnival Splendor’s summer itineraries to Alaska are part of a three-ship deployment, along with Carnival Spirit from Seattle and Carnival Miracle from San Francisco – the largest-ever cruise program Carnival has sailed to Alaska. 

“With Carnival Splendor beginning operations today from Seattle, Carnival Cruise Line is thrilled to have our entire fleet of 23 ships back in service, providing more opportunities for our guests to enjoy our signature fun while traveling to beautiful vacation destinations,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “We are especially excited to expand our Alaska program this season with three ships bringing more than 100,000 guests – including more than 6,000 this week – from Seattle and San Francisco to awe-inspiring Alaska ports.”

To commemorate the line’s return to service from Seattle with Carnival Splendor, Carnival Cruise Line hosted its “Back to Fun” event at the Port of Seattle to officially welcome the first guests on board. Duffy checked off Carnival Splendor on a tally board listing the 23 Carnival ships, signifying the completion of the Carnival fleet’s restart.  Today’s departure is one of 49 cruises to Alaska. Destinations include Ketchikan; Sitka; Skagway; Icy Strait Point; Victoria, BC; and scenic cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord (stops vary depending on cruise date).

Beginning with Carnival Vista restarting service on July 3, 2021, in Galveston, Carnival has completed its full fleet return in just 10 months. Carnival is operating from 12 U.S. homeports including Miami, Galveston, Port Canaveral, Long Beach, Baltimore, New Orleans, Tampa, Charleston, Jacksonville, Mobile, Seattle and San Francisco, providing guests with a wide range of cruising options. Additional seasonal service from Norfolk, Va., and New York City will start in May and June respectively.

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Carnival Corporation Installs Environmentally Innovative Food Waste Biodigesters

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World's largest cruise company installs nearly 600 advanced biodigester machines across its global fleet

Investment in green food waste processing technology to naturally break down food waste supports company's waste management objectives, as part of long-term sustainability goals

MIAMI, May 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL;NYSE: CUK), the world's largest cruise company, today announced it has completed the installation of nearly 600 food waste biodigesters across its fleet in support of ongoing food waste management and reduction efforts as part of its overall commitment to environmental compliance. The innovative technology has been added to ships from the company's nine cruise line brands – Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Cruises (Australia), Costa Cruises, AIDA Cruises, P&O Cruises (UK) and Cunard.

The biodigester technology uses a natural aerobic digestion process inside each machine to efficiently break down food waste utilizing a mix of beneficial microorganisms, enabling the systems to process anything that can be consumed by a human. Able to perform automated digestion 24 hours per day, the biodigesters are strategically placed in key areas of the ship where food is processed, further improving onboard operations by making it easier and more efficient for crew members to manage and control food waste. Additionally, the machines capture non-food items or other materials accidentally mixed with food waste, providing an additional layer of protection for environmental compliance on each ship.

Since first piloting the technology in 2019, Carnival Corporation and its nine global cruise line brands have continued to expand the use of these systems across their fleets. Most recently, the company's namesake brand, Carnival Cruise Line, announced it is the first major cruise line to employ biodigesters across its entire fleet as the brand returns its final of 23 total ships to guest operations this month. As Carnival Corporation's entire fleet returns to operations this year, its full lineup of brands will continue to see benefits from improved food waste management as additional biodigesters come online, further strengthening environmental performance across the company's global operations.

The fleetwide biodigester installation supports Carnival Corporation's aggressive food waste management objectives, as part of its 2030 sustainability goals. These goals support the company's circular economy focus area by including a commitment to achieve a 30% reduction in unit food waste by 2022 and a 50% reduction in unit food waste by 2030, as outlined in the company's latest sustainability report. These new goals build on the company's latest achievement of reducing food waste per person by over 20% at the end of 2021, which doubled its original goal of reaching a 10% reduction in food waste by the end of last year, relative to a 2019 baseline.

"The significant investment in this technology goes hand in hand with our highest responsibility and top priority at Carnival Corporation, which is compliance, environmental protection and the health, safety and well-being of our guests, the people in the communities we visit and serve, and our shipboard and shoreside personnel," said Bill Burke, chief maritime officer for Carnival Corporation. "We have made great strides in our circular economy focus area and the rollout of nearly 600 biodigesters represents another important milestone for our ongoing efforts to further minimize our impact on the oceans we sail and the communities we visit while supporting overall food waste management efforts and environmental compliance on board our ships."

In addition to food waste management objectives, the circular economy focus area also includes an ongoing commitment to significantly reduce non-essential single-use plastic items, along with long-term 2030 sustainability goals and 2050 aspirations detailed in the latest sustainability report, including the following:

• Increase fleetwide coverage of Advanced Waste Water Treatment Systems to over 75% by 2030

• Send a larger percentage of waste to waste-to-energy facilities where practical by 2030 and aspire to send 100% by 2050

• Partner with primary vendors to reduce upstream packaging volumes and aspire to partner with primary vendors to ensure near 100% reuse of packaging materials by 2050

• Aspire to build ships without the need to discharge to the ocean or air (zero-emission ships) by 2050

As part of its longer-term sustainability plan and vision, Carnival Corporation has committed to significant investments to achieve its 2030 sustainability goals and 2050 aspirations, which incorporate six critical sustainability focus areas overall, including climate action; circular economy; sustainable tourism; good health and well-being; diversity, equity and inclusion; and biodiversity and conservation. Among these priorities, the company and its brands have committed to reducing carbon emission intensity by 40% by 2030 and have aspirations to achieve net carbon-neutral ship operations, supporting its efforts to establish a path to zero emission cruising by 2050.

More information on the company's sustainability efforts is available at www.CarnivalSustainability.com.

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CARNIVAL BRAND AMBASSADOR JOHN HEALD TALKS 50 YEARS OF FUN WITH VIDEO SERIES FEATURING CARNIVAL EXECUTIVES AND TEAM MEMBERS 

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE REVEALS NEW CARNIVAL CELEBRATION VENUE HIGHLIGHTING 50 YEARS OF FUN 

 The Golden Jubilee to Represent the Evolution of Carnival Fun Ships, 

Including Mementos from Earlier Vessels 

MIAMI, April 27, 2022 – As part of its ongoing 50th Birthday celebration, Carnival Cruise Line is introducing The Golden Jubilee, which will celebrate the 50-year history of America’s Cruise Line, on its newest ship Carnival Celebration, debuting this November. The new bar and lounge will be part of the ship’s final, to-be-announced zone, and will highlight Carnival’s evolution of ships over the last 50 years, weaving its past with its present and looking to the future. The announcement was made today at the Seatrade Cruise Global Conference in Miami.

The Golden Jubilee, on Deck 6, in the same location as The Brass Magnolia on Mardi Gras, will feature artwork, memorabilia and original pieces from Carnival’s earlier vessels that will be incorporated throughout the space bringing Carnival’s 50 years of fun full circle. These include:

• A striking bar beneath two-deck-high ceilings adorned with a multi-piece brass chandelier and surrounded by reproductions of blueprints depicting the evolution of Carnival’s Fun Ships, including some hand-drawn designs by world-renowned architect Joe Farcus.

• Chairs recreated from TSS Carnivale’s Riverboat Lounge paired with cocktail tables from Carnival Fascination’s Hollywood Boulevard adorned with signed sketches representing movie classics by iconic caricaturist Al Hirschfeld. 

• Original 17’ by 7’ full-height etched glass, nickel and mahogany partition wall with 24 windowpanes from TSS Mardi Gras’ casino, separating the bar from the promenade.

• Original decorative etchings of musical instruments as well as polished brass and glass night club doors from TSS Carnivale that will frame one of the lounge’s entrances, allowing guests to physically walk through Carnival’s history.

• Original bronze statue of Carnival founder Ted Arison and Finnish shipbuilder Martin Saarikangas, given as a gift from the Kvaerner Masa-Yards to the line upon delivery of Carnival Sensation in Helsinki, Finland, in 1993.

• Reproductions of hand-drawn sketches by Farcus blended into mirrors, offering guests a glimpse into special Carnival moments like Carnival Fascination’s naming ceremony and Carnival Inspiration’s first transit of the Panama Canal.

• Floor tiles surrounding the bar that feature a stylized maple leaf pattern reminiscent of the maple leaf design motif from the Grand Ballroom on TSS Mardi Gras that carried over from the ship’s former life as Empress of Canada for Canadian Pacific Line.

• Mirror inserts integrated into the bar front and bottle display inspired by the etched glass inserts of TSS Carnivale’s main lobby doors.

There will also be round windows instead of squared windows, reminiscent of the portholes on the line’s original ships, to create an ambience similar to the classic cruise ship bar and lounge, as well as a stage for live music and dance floor to enhance the overall feel of nostalgic elegance. 

The specialized bar menu will take guests on a journey through time as well, featuring an early version of line’s logo introduced in the ‘70s, and the most popular cocktails throughout the decades since 1972, Carnival’s founding year. Offerings will include classic and vintage cocktails such as a Harvey Wallbanger and Tom Collins, reimagined in Carnival’s own unique style with premium ingredients and elevated presentations.  

“The Golden Jubilee is the ultimate nod to our 50th Birthday – a nostalgic but timeless lounge where our guests can re-live and connect with Carnival’s yesteryears while enjoying a glamorous and elegant space that embraces our current Carnival style,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.  

The adjacent promenade will also serve as a unique look through Carnival’s history featuring:

• A first-of-its-kind porthole gallery installation that will tell the Fun Ships evolution story through a series of six decorative porthole windows featuring three-dimensional dioramas for each of the five decades of Carnival’s history and one representing the company today and a look to its future.

• Original vintage engine telegraph from 1955 installed on TSS Carnivale and permanently set to “Full Ahead” sign as a symbol of Carnival’s forward movement.

• Coins for every ship in the fleet, both past and present, embedded into the promenade’s floor design.

• TSS Carnivale model, recovered from MS Inspiration, at the entrance to the Carnivale Restaurant.

• 1:100 scale, 12-foot-long ship model of Carnival Celebration.

Carnival has announced five zones aboard Carnival Celebration – 820 Biscayne, Celebration Central, The Ultimate Playground, Summer Landing and Lido. Additional details and the final zone on Carnival Celebration will be revealed in the near future leading up to the ship’s inaugural sailing from Miami on Nov. 21. Once in Miami, the ship will sail five-, six-, seven- and eight-day cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. 

Carnival Celebration will be the second Carnival ship to be powered by a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion system, part of Carnival Corporation’s green cruising platform, and will include an award-winning roller coaster at the top of the ship. The ship will debut in November from the redesigned state-of-the-art Terminal F at PortMiami, the line’s third terminal at the port and its largest in South Florida. The terminal will be among the first at PortMiami to be shore-power ready in 2023. 

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Port Canaveral Welcomes Carnival Freedom to its New Homeport

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(L-R) Rene Jewell, Carnival Freedom Hotel Director, Carnival Freedom Capt. Josip Mladina, Capt. John Murray, Canaveral Port Authority CEO, Rachel Green, Carnival HR Director, Agostino Ceserale, Carnival Freedom Chief Engineer dockside at Cruise Terminal 6
(Photo: Canaveral Port Authority)

Port Canaveral, FL – April 22, 2022 – Port Canaveral welcomed Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Freedom on her first call to the Port at a dockside ceremony as the ship prepared for her inaugural sailing from the Port’s Cruise Terminal 6.  The Carnival Freedom, which will be homeported at Port Canaveral, will offer four- and five-night itineraries to The Bahamas and the Eastern Caribbean, with stops in Nassau, Princess Cays, Bimini, Freeport, Amber Cove, Grand Turk and Half Moon Cay. 

“We’re excited to welcome Carnival Freedom to the fleet of Carnival cruise ships homeported at Port Canaveral,” stated Capt. John Murray, Port CEO. “Her arrival adds even more quality cruise sailings available from our Port.  We’re very proud of our longstanding partnership with Carnival Cruise Line, and our collective efforts to provide an exceptional cruising experience.”

"Having Carnival Freedom join Mardi Gras, Carnival Liberty and Carnival Magic sailing from Port Canaveral to The Bahamas and Eastern Caribbean offers yet another option for our guests to enjoy all the fun a Carnival cruise offers from one of our most popular homeports,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “This is an exciting time for Carnival, as we just reached the milestone of our biggest booking week ever and the celebration of our 50th birthday. Our return to full guest operations continues to be successful thanks to our loyal guests and valued partners, like the team at Port Canaveral."

In keeping with tradition, Port executives presented Carnival Freedom Capt. Josip Mladina with a plaque marking the cruise ship’s first visit to Port Canaveral.

The 952 foot, 110,000-ton Conquest-class cruise ship has a guest capacity for approximately 3,000 passengers double-occupancy, and joins three of her sister ships that call Port Canaveral home, the Carnival Mardi Gras, the Carnival Magic and the Carnival Liberty.

The ship offers many of the features Carnival fan favorites, such as Guy Fieri burgers at Guy's Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, Bonsai Sushi Express, Alchemy Bar and RedFrog Rum Bar, etc. 

SOURCE Canaveral Port Authority

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE REVEALS NEW MIAMI-THEMED ZONE

ABOARD CARNIVAL CELEBRATION

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820 Biscayne to Celebrate the Culture of the Ship’s Homeport

and the City Where Carnival Began Sailing 50 Years Ago

MIAMI, March 23, 2022 – Carnival Cruise Line is revealing a new Miami-themed zone aboard Carnival Celebration, which will arrive to PortMiami this November. Named after the address of Carnival’s original headquarters, 820 Biscayne will celebrate the culture, architectural styles and flavors of the home city where the line was founded in 1972.

On Deck 8, in the same location as La Piazza on sister ship Mardi Gras, 820 Biscayne will feature a similar layout and venues but with influences and design elements that reflect the urban-meets-laid back vibes of Miami, perfect for relaxing and people watching or enjoying fresh sea air and ocean views. Bringing Miamian food and beverage offerings to the fleet, 820 Biscayne will feature:

• Bar 820 – a half inside, half outside retro-inspired bar that will feature a “vintage cool” design with grab-and-go Cuban and specialty coffees for early risers on their way outside for some morning sunshine, as well as Miami-inspired tropical frozen drinks and creative martinis day and night.

• Deco Deli – designed as a nod to Miami’s Art Deco mecca with colorful fonts and signage, the space will serve more than the classic deli sandwiches with an expanded menu that also highlights Miami staples including the Cubano (pork, ham, swiss cheese and mustard), a croqueta sandwich (ham and cheese croqueta, shaved ham and pickles), and pan con lechon (slow cooked pulled pork, melted onion and mojo sauce) all on Cuban bread.

• Miami Slice – continuing to give guests the 24-hour pizza they know and love, the always-popular walk-up spot will offer authentic, fresh-from-the-oven and hand-tossed slices of cheesy goodness amid a contemporary and vibrant décor reminiscent of the late-night eateries on Miami’s bustling Ocean Drive.

Throughout this zone, guests will experience a unique take on Miami, combining elements from its past with its present. From beautiful artwork to fun photo opportunities like posing with flamingoes on skateboards, guests will feel like they’re truly walking around the ‘305.’

“Miami has been our home for 50 years, and in bringing a brand new ship to its port, we wanted to show some extra love to the city that helped us become who we are today,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Carnival Celebration will celebrate all things Carnival, intertwining where we have been with where we are going, and we can’t think about where we started without thinking about Miami and all of the fun that it represents.”

“We wanted to continue to give our guests the delicious and fun offerings they know and love from Mardi Gras but with new identities that pay tribute to the rich culture of Miami, a city that is so special to all of us,” said Ben Clement, senior vice president of new builds, refurbishment and product innovation. “Miami is a one-of-a-kind city with many different sides to it, so we tried to capture all of that in 820 Biscayne – from the tropical feel and original Art Deco designs that can still be found on Miami Beach today to the modern city look of Brickell – and of course, with a huge emphasis on the delicious flavors throughout.”

Guests can still expect to find their favorites in the zone like Rudi’s Seagrill, which was introduced on Mardi Gras, and Cucina del Capitano, which will be redesigned with a new look and feel that reflects the sleek and airy restaurants often found in Miami, as well. 

Carnival Celebration will be the second Carnival ship to be powered by a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion system, part of Carnival Corporation’s green cruising platform, and will include an award-winning roller coaster at the top of the ship. Celebration will debut in November from the redesigned state-of-the-art Terminal F at PortMiami, the line’s third terminal at the port and its largest in South Florida. The terminal will be among the first to be shore-power ready in 2023. 

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Carnival Corporation Announces that the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation Commits $3 Million to Support Ukraine Humanitarian Relief Efforts

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MIAMI, March 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), the world's largest cruise company, today announced that the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation pledged $3 million in donations to organizations providing vital medical and humanitarian aid to Ukrainian refugees displaced or forced to flee abroad.

The family foundation of Carnival Corporation's Chairman Micky Arison and his wife Madeleine will dedicate $1 million to each of the following organizations involved in relief efforts:

• World Central Kitchen: providing fresh meals to Ukrainian families fleeing home and remaining in the country

• Direct Relief: providing medical aid, medicines and supplies to people displaced within Ukraine and those who have fled to neighboring countries

• UNICEF USA: working with partners to reach vulnerable children and families with essential services – including health, education, protection, water and sanitation – as well as life-saving supplies

In addition, Carnival Corporation's namesake brand, Carnival Cruise Line, has made a $50,000 donation to World Central Kitchen, honoring its employees and crew members from Ukraine. In Europe, Costa Group – which includes the Costa Cruises and AIDA Cruises brands – was able to donate medical supplies and medicines to support the treatment of injuries and common diseases in Ukraine. Additional support efforts are underway by other Carnival Corporation brands.

"We stand for peace and our hearts go out to everyone whose lives have been upended by the invasion of Ukraine," said Arnold Donald, CEO of Carnival Corporation. "We have crew members from 145 countries and we sail with guests from nations around the globe, so we feel deeply the human impact of this humanitarian crisis and we join many others in supporting relief efforts."

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CARNIVAL BRAND AMBASSADOR JOHN HEALD TALKS 50 YEARS OF FUN WITH VIDEO SERIES FEATURING CARNIVAL EXECUTIVES AND TEAM MEMBERS 

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To commemorate Carnival Cruise Line’s 50th birthday celebration, Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald is taking his fans on a trip down memory lane. His new video series, “Between Two Banners,” is a historic and FUN-filled journey that delves into a half century of Carnival stories as told by those who have been with the brand throughout the last five decades. 

Over the next three weeks, fans will hear John reminisce with former and current Carnival team members as they relive some of their fondest memories while working with the brand. 

The interview series, which will air at noon ET on the dates listed below on John’s Facebook page, kicks off on March 21 with Terry Thornton, retired senior vice president of nautical and port operations. The series culminates in a special three-part interview with Carnival Corp. Chairman Micky Arison, who, with his father Ted, founded Carnival Cruise Line with the launch of the original TSS Mardi Gras in March 1972. The full interview schedule is:

• Monday, March 21: Terry Thornton, Senior Vice President, Nautical and Port Operations (Retired) with Carnival for 34 years.

• Wednesday, March 23: Vicky Rey, Vice President, Guest Care and Communications, a 40-year Carnival veteran.

• Friday, March 25: Stefan Christoffersson, Vice President, Housekeeping, Laundry and VSP with Carnival for 29 years.

• Monday, March 28: Gerry Cahill, President & CEO (2007-2014, Retired).

• Wednesday, March 30: Shahnaz Kashanipour, Director, Guest Operation Leader with Carnival for 34 years.

• Friday, April 1: Part 1 – Micky Arison, Chairman, Carnival Corp. 

• Monday, April 4: Part 2 – Micky Arison, Chairman, Carnival Corp. 

• Wednesday, April 6: Part 3 – Micky Arison, Chairman, Carnival Corp. 

Heald joined Carnival Cruise Line as a bartender aboard the since-retired Carnival Holiday nearly 35 years ago. His quick wit and engaging personality made him a natural for the entertainment world, and in 1989 he joined the entertainment department as a social host. He was promoted to cruise director a year later. As the line’s Brand Ambassador, he emcees unique events, hosts special voyages and keeps fans engaged through his highly popular Facebook fan page, which has close to 400,000 fans.

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE GIVES FIRST LOOK AT CARNIVAL CELEBRATION 

Line Reveals Details on Four Zones Including Celebration Central

MIAMI, Feb. 23, 2022 – In conjunction with the kickoff of the company’s 50th birthday festivities, Carnival Cruise Line is giving guests a first look at Carnival Celebration, sister ship to the incredibly popular Mardi Gras, that will debut in Miami this November, revealing details on four of its six zones including Celebration Central.

On a Carnival cruise, guests’ vacations start in the atrium, and on Carnival Celebration, that is in Celebration Central. Spanning Decks 6, 7 and 8, Celebration Central is an update to the fabulous starboard side atrium that debuted on Mardi Gras, designed as the heart of the ship’s celebratory spirit with a whole new look and the feeling of a festive party woven throughout.

Celebration Central will also feature the awe-inspiring, three-deck-high atrium that guests are quickly getting to know and love, but with a ceiling that appears as a burst of a confetti canon made of approximately 1,400 color-changing lighting fixtures that will transform from day to night. Functional as it is eye-catching, the space will include 3,000-square-foot floor-to-ceiling windows on the side of the ship that will change into 16 individually controlled, six- by 14-foot LED screens to work hand in hand with the ever-changing entertainment options, including live music, special effects, aerial acrobatic performances, and high-energy shows.

Introducing nods to Carnival’s Fun Ship history, guests will spot pieces from former Carnival ships that will be repurposed to blend with the ship’s modern decor throughout Celebration Central and beyond. For example, in the Aquaria Bar, ocean-themed glass murals from Carnival Victory by Italian artist Luciano Vistosi will be incorporated into a striking two-deck-high decorative wall behind the bar to create an aquarium-like effect, inspiring the name. And the Tropicale Bar is named after Carnival’s first ship to sport the line’s iconic funnel.

“From a design perspective, we are incorporating elements from our former ships, paying homage to the history of Carnival, and also showcasing Carnival Celebration as a modern, innovative and forward-looking vessel,” said Ben Clement, senior vice president of new builds, refurbishment and product innovation. “While similar to Mardi Gras with a plethora of options for dining, entertainment and relaxation, Celebration will have her own personality, one that celebrates all things Carnival, intertwining where we have been with where we are going.”

Celebration Central will also include food and beverage options, such as JavaBlue Café, Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Teppanyaki, and feel-good entertainment such as Piano Bar 88 and The Punchliner Comedy Club.

The Ultimate Playground

After such an incredible response from guests on Mardi Gras, the centerpiece of Carnival Celebration’s Ultimate Playground (Decks 18-20 Aft) will be BOLT, The Ultimate Sea Coaster, soon to be the second roller coaster at sea, recognized by Popular Science with a “Best of What’s New” award. Guests can expect the thrills they’ve raved about as all-electric, motorcycle-inspired vehicles race along an 800-foot-long track 187 feet above the sea achieving speeds of up to 40 miles per hour.

Reaching a very exciting milestone, Mauer Rides, the manufacturer of the groundbreaking top-deck attraction, has fully assembled BOLT on land and is currently conducting initial shoreside unmanned test runs in Munich, Germany. BOLT will soon be reassembled and installed aboard Carnival Celebration. To see a video, click here https://youtu.be/rhqp444r7E8.

Designed for fun for all-ages, the zone will also be home to the WaterWorks aqua park and SportSquare featuring a mini-golf course, full-court basketball and an exhilarating ropes course.

Summer Landing and Lido

Carnival Celebration’s Summer Landing zone (Deck 8 Aft) will continue to serve as the greatest chill spot at sea with Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse, offering smoked-on-board favorites created by Guy Fieri and an assortment of Carnival’s ParchedPig craft beers brewed on site, in addition to pools and whirlpools, The Watering Hole poolside bar, and the Heroes Tribute Lounge honoring military personnel.

And the poolside zone, Lido (Decks 16-17 Aft), will feature all of the delicious and fun experiences from Mardi Gras including the two-level RedFrog Tiki Bar designed to transport guests to a South Pacific paradise, Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken restaurant, guest-favorite Guy’s Burger Joint, Seafood Shack, and BlueIguana Cantina, with offerings perfect for any tastebud, any time.

Carnival Celebration will be the second Carnival ship to be powered by a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion system, part of Carnival Corporation’s green cruising platform. The ship will debut in November from the redesigned state-of-the-art Terminal F at PortMiami, the line’s third terminal at the port and its largest in South Florida.

Additional details and zones on Carnival Celebration will be revealed in the coming months leading up to the ship’s inaugural sailing from Miami on Nov. 21.

For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.

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Two Ships to Leave Fleet in 2022 as Carnival Prepares for Its Two Additional Excel Class Ships and Costa Magica Transfer to Carnival Fleet 

              MIAMI, Feb. 3, 2022 – Carnival Cruise Line is notifying guests and travel advisors of changes to its fleet deployment plan, including two ships leaving the Carnival fleet, as it continues to implement its successful restart of guest operations in the U.S. and adjusts for the continued uncertainty of cruising in Australia.

              Carnival had previously shared that Carnival Sensation’s restart was delayed, and that Carnival Ecstasy would move from Jacksonville, Fla. to Mobile, Ala. to operate what were previously planned as the Carnival Sensation itineraries, effective with the Mar. 5, 2022 restart.  In addition, Carnival said that Carnival Spirit would go to Jacksonville to take over the Mar. 7, 2022 restart in Jacksonville, operating the previously scheduled Carnival Ecstasy itineraries.

Carnival is now announcing the following updates:

Jacksonville: As previously announced, Carnival Spirit will replace Carnival Ecstasy in Jacksonville. While that will happen for departures from Mar. 7 through Apr. 9, 2022, the next two cruises are being cancelled, and then a new ship will be assigned from the Carnival fleet to Jacksonville for the Ecstasy itineraries, effective Apr. 23, 2022. That announcement will be made shortly.

Mobile: Carnival Ecstasy will reposition to Mobile for departures from Mar. 5 through Oct. 10, 2022. Cruises from Mobile that were planned for Carnival Sensation from Oct. 15, 2022 through Sep. 30, 2023 have been cancelled. At a later date, Carnival will be announcing a new operating plan for Mobile cruises.

Australia: Carnival is cancelling planned operations of Carnival Splendor from Jun. 10, 2022 through Sep. 26, 2022, and of Carnival Spirit from Jun. 5, 2022 to Oct. 5, 2023. Details for a two-ship return to Australia will be announced when they are confirmed.

As part of this deployment plan, Carnival Sensation will not restart guest operations and Carnival Ecstasy’s last cruise in guest operations will be the Oct. 10, 2022 departure from Mobile and both ships will leave the Carnival fleet. 

“Our guests have remained passionate and supportive throughout the restart and 2022 gives us plenty of reasons for enthusiasm and excitement as we reach full operations in the U.S., prepare for our 50th birthday celebration, and await the arrival of Carnival Celebration this fall,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.  “Our very loyal guests, our vibrant homeport strategy and our fleet of popular ships are strengths to our advantage as we adapt to changing opportunities and circumstances.”

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Thursday, Jan. 27 is National Chocolate Cake Day. To celebrate, this favorite dessert across the high seas Carnival has shared the recipe!

Luckily, there are 5 ingredients and only 15 minutes are required to make its signature Melting Chocolate Cake, so anyone can replicate the ooey-ness and gooey-ness from home! See Recipe below!

Watch me take a stab at making a warm chocolate melting cake! A truly iconic dessert when cruising with Carnival Cruise Line! I put a new spin on this classic as we are working with the ingredients we have in the kitchen!

Pro Tip: While cruising order your Chocolate Melting Cake with a side of peanut butter!

Here is the full list of ingredients and directions you will need to make a traditional Carnival Chocolate Melting Cake this National Chocolate Cake Day!

Five Simple Ingredients

• 6oz Dark Chocolate

• 6oz Butter

• 4 Eggs

• 3oz Sugar

• 2oz Flour

Five Easy Steps 

1. Melt the chocolate and butter

2. Mix eggs and sugar and whisk for a few minutes, then add flour

3. Add the egg mix to the melted chocolate and mix

4. Pour the mix in a greased mold

5. Bake directly in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes

Bite-size Facts about Chocolate Cake

• The first chocolate cake was made in 1765.

• In the 1800s, an Austrian chef created the modern chocolate cake when he spread jam between two layers of chocolate dough and covered it with chocolate frosting. 

• Until about 1840, chocolate was primarily consumed in liquid form as a drink.

• The first chocolate cake mix was invented in the 1920s by a company called O. Duff and Sons. 

• In 1948, Pillsbury released the first instant chocolate cake mix

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Most Decorated Chef at Sea to Lead Culinary Arts Innovation at World's Leading International Premium Cruise Line

SANTA CLARITA, Calif., Jan. 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Princess Cruises, the world's leading international premium cruise line, today announced Chef Rudi Sodamin will become its first head of culinary arts, effective immediately. Sodamin is currently the master chef for Holland America Line, a position he will retain as he takes on his new role as head of culinary arts for Princess.

"Chef Rudi is a hands-on leader with proven ability to motivate teams to achieve new levels of creativity and inspiration," said Jan Swartz, group president serving Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn and P&O Cruises Australia brands. "Princess is already well-known for its strong culinary culture. We are bringing in Chef Rudi to build the kind of excitement and dining experiences that will impress our guests. He is the perfect person to bring an entirely new level of excellence and innovation to our culinary product, environmental dining experience, and service delivery."

Sodamin's Other Restaurant, Rudi’s Seagrill on Mardi Gras; Courtesy of Carnival

Throughout his career, Sodamin has been the driving force behind revolutionizing culinary practices and elevating the perception of fine dining in the cruise industry. An internationally-respected food authority, Sodamin is the most highly-decorated chef working on the world's oceans and is widely considered one of the most innovative, energetic, and influential chefs in the hospitality industry. Among his most recent accomplishments has been the highly successful launch of Rudi's Sel de Mer restaurant onboard three Holland America Line's ships. Carnival Cruise Line was so impressed by the restaurant concept, leadership commissioned Sodamin to create Rudi's Seagrill for its new Excel class ship Mardi Gras, which had its inaugural cruise in August 2021.

Sodamin began his career at the age of 14 with a kitchen apprenticeship in Kurhotel Heilbrunn in Bad Mitterndorf, Austria. By 23, Sodamin was appointed Chef de Cuisine on the luxury line Vistafjord with Norwegian American Cruise Line—he was the youngest chef in the cruise line world to have responsibility on that scale. By 26, he was named corporate executive chef onboard the legendary Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2)—again, the youngest chef at sea to attain such a title. Under his stewardship in the 1990s, the food served by the historic Cunard Line was widely acclaimed as the best in the world. After a dozen years at Cunard Line as vice president of food and beverage and corporate executive chef, Sodamin joined Royal Caribbean Cruise Line as director of corporate food and beverage operations and culinary spokesperson. During his tenure, he built an international culinary team from across 50 nations and launched the brand's first test kitchen. Sodamin has continued his impactful tradition of innovation with Holland America Line, instituting the line's first Culinary Council (of which he is Chairman) as well as spearheading the Holland America Line Culinary Art Center. Additionally, Sodamin championed professional development of all Holland America Line culinary staff and led the development and launch of a residential Culinary Training Center in Manilla, the Philippines, working with the Culinary Institute of America to develop curriculum.

Related: Rudi Sodamin's MOST INSTAGRAMABLE RESTAURANT

"I see food as the way to our guests' hearts, and the individuals on the Princess Cruise culinary team bring great heart to what they do and take tremendous pride in their work," said Sodamin "My goal is to grow that pride and lead the culinary workforce to new performance heights through innovative approaches to teamwork and creativity, collaboratively creating new signature interactive dining experiences, and motivating this talented team to new levels of culinary artistry."

Sodamin's Other Restaurant, Rudi’s Seagrill on Mardi Gras; Courtesy of Carnival

John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises, particularly appreciates Sodamin's extensive track record for engaging with culinary crews to provide the best possible guest experiences.

"A food experience is about human passion, energy, excitement, and expertise all channeled together to create an emotional, multisensory experience with a true human connection," said Padgett. "Chef Rudi is one of the few who truly understands this and how to consistently create culinary magic for guests, and we are fortunate to be able to tap his extensive know-how and leadership to further elevate the Princess on-board dining experience and inspire our culinary teammates throughout the fleet."

Sodamin's many accolades include a rating of 17 (out of 20) and Three Toques from the prestigious Gault-Millau Guide (1998)—the first for an onboard restaurant and the only such award presented at sea. Sodamin has also authored 14 cookbooks, the most recent of which is Rudi's Sel de Mer: For the Love of Seafood (2021).

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New Excel-Class Ship Sailing From Galveston, Bringing LNG Propulsion, Roller Coaster, Exciting Dining and Entertainment Features in 2023

MIAMI, JAN. 25, 2021 – Carnival Cruise Line's new Carnival Jubilee, the most-anticipated new ship coming to the Port of Galveston – is now accepting reservations for its inaugural 2023 and 2024 schedule. The ship’s first available bookings coincide with National Plan for Vacation Day, a day encouraging consumers to plan their time off from work.
            Carnival Jubilee, the cruise line’s third Excel-class ship featuring all the fun already wowing guests aboard its sister Mardi Gras, will offer seven-day Western Caribbean itineraries from its homeport of Galveston, Texas beginning Nov. 18, 2023 with stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico, as well as Mahogany Bay (Isla Roatan), Honduras.
            “Since it’s National Plan for Vacation Day, it’s the perfect time to open Carnival Jubilee for sale and give our guests another incredible choice for their cruise vacation with the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful ports in the Western Caribbean,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.   

Related: Menu Options Aboard Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras & Celebration

            Before settling into its new home, Carnival Jubilee will depart on Oct. 30, 2023 from London (Southampton) on an 18-day transatlantic voyage. The ship will visit the Port of Vigo in Spain, Las Palmas and Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Funchal in Portugal and Grand Turk, before arriving in Texas.
            Carnival Jubilee joins sisters Mardi Gras, sailing from Port Canaveral since mid-2021, and Carnival Celebration, which will be based in Miami beginning later this year. The ships run on a liquefied natural gas (LNG) technology platform. Carnival Corp. pioneered the introduction of LNG fuel in the passenger cruise sector as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and emissions reduction.
            Carnival Jubilee will share features from her sister ships that guests know and love, including the award-winning and pulse-racing BOLT roller coaster, expanded dining options, more than 20 different stateroom categories and multiple levels of spacious and luxurious suites, and a stunning, three-deck atrium on the starboard side of the ship that overlooks the ocean and converts to an entertainment venue at night.
            The ship will also have six fun-filled zones like her sisters, two of which will be brand-new concepts to be revealed at a later date. Details on these just-for-Jubilee firsts and other exciting news will be shared over the coming months.

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE ADDING MORE EMBARKATION ENHANCEMENTS AS IT COMMITS TO CURRENT PROTOCOLS FOR THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE

              MIAMI, Jan. 21, 2022 – Carnival Cruise Line said today that it will be the largest cruise line to use the VeriFLY solution for its operations from U.S. homeports, with a pilot program that will start this Saturday for guests boarding Mardi Gras at Port Canaveral, in addition to finalizing plans to expand in-terminal testing capabilities for vaccinated guests prior to embarkation, specifically for short itineraries of 3- and 4-day voyages.  Carnival also said it will continue to operate under its current protocols, sailing vaccinated voyages, requiring pre-embarkation testing and following onboard indoor mask requirements until further notice.

              VeriFLY by Daon is now widely used in the airline industry, and it will allow Carnival guests to upload their proof of vaccination and testing information so that it can be verified in advance of the sailing – resulting in a streamlined embarkation experience at the terminal.  Once the pilot at Port Canaveral is complete, Carnival intends to move quickly to implement the solution across its fleet.

Carnival is also working to expand testing capabilities at the terminal for vaccinated guests, specifically for short itineraries (3- and 4-day voyages).  Once implemented, vaccinated guests will be able to meet the pre-cruise testing requirement as part of the embarkation process. Pre-registration will be required, and there will be capacity limits based on the resources of testing providers.  Testing sites to support short itinerary cruises will be phased in and announced by the end of January. 

Carnival also said it intends to follow its Have Fun. Be Safe. operating protocols until further notice.  Guests and travel agents will be receiving more details on operations for February and beyond over the coming days.

On Jan. 13, Carnival restarted operations from another homeport, with Carnival Sunshine returning to its year-round schedule from Charleston, SC.  To date, Carnival has 19 of its 22 U.S.-based ships in guest operation, sailing from eight homeports on the Atlantic, Gulf and West coasts.

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 CARNIVAL CFO SHAQUILLE O’NEAL GETS MIAMI FUNDERSTRUCK AT MIAMI HEAT GAME

Carnival Cruise Line’s Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O’Neal helped fans at the Miami Heat game Saturday night get Funderstruck by giving away a cruise in celebration of his and Carnival’s upcoming 50th birthdays in March.

O’Neal surprised the crowd by taking to the court and asked fans if they were ready to get Funderstruck. He then released parachutes carrying T-shirts and QR codes. One lucky fan also found a gift card with their T-shirt that can be applied for a Carnival cruise of their choice. When scanned, the QR codes also gave fans the chance to opt-in for updates on all of Carnival’s Funderstruck moments to come this year.

Showing some extra love to the port where Carnival first began sailing, the line’s newest Excel-class ship and sister to Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, will debut later this year from PortMiami and coincide with the line’s 50th birthday celebration.

“This will be the most Funderstruck year ever, and who better to spread that message than our very own Chief Fun Officer Shaquille,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Miami is where Carnival first started, so we can’t wait to welcome our newest ship Carnival Celebration to our hometown to help us ring in our big 5-0.”

Built upon Carnival’s brand platform Choose Fun, the line recently introduced an entirely new word and marketing campaign – Funderstruck – to describe the unmistakable feeling uniquely experienced when choosing fun on Carnival.

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE RESUMES GUEST OPERATIONS FROM CHARLESTON WITH CARNIVAL SUNSHINE

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 CHARLESTON, Jan. 13, 2022 – Continuing its successful restart, Carnival Cruise Line resumed guest operations today from Charleston, S.C., with Carnival Sunshine. 

To commemorate the special day, the Carnival Sunshine team greeted their first guests on board with a special welcome conveying their excitement in resuming operations from Charleston.  The ship departed today on a four-day cruise to Nassau, Bahamas.

“We have been sailing from Charleston for 12 years, so we are excited to be back offering guests from all over the southeastern U.S. the opportunity to cruise from this beautiful, historic and charming community, all while providing support to the local economy,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. 

Carnival Sunshine is sailing year-round from Charleston, offering a variety of cruises to The Bahamas and the Caribbean.

With 19 ships already in guest operations and its remaining three U.S.-based ships scheduled to resume in March, Carnival continues to implement a rigorous set of public health protocols focused on the health, safety and well-being of its guests, crew and the communities it visits.  All Carnival voyages are vaccinated cruises, all guests must show proof of a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours of boarding, masks are worn by all guests and crew in virtually all venues of the ship, as well as other enhanced health and safety measures that can be found on its Have Fun. Be Safe. page on Carnival.com.

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December 16, 2021 10:00 AM EST

Carnival Cruise Line Introduces 'Funderstruck,' New Marketing Campaign Engineered To Highlight Heightened Joy And Fun Experienced Together On A Carnival Cruise

MIAMI, Dec. 16, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Carnival Cruise Line will launch a new marketing campaign, "Funderstruck," that invites people to choose fun again by booking and taking a vacation with America's cruise line.  

Carnival Cruise Line’s 2022 Funderstruck marketing campaign.

Built upon Carnival's brand platform Choose Fun, the company introduces an entirely new word – Funderstruck – to describe the unmistakable feeling uniquely experienced when choosing fun on Carnival. Funderstruck will celebrate what travelers want right now and something that Carnival is precision engineered to deliver – unapologetic fun together with those you enjoy spending time with the most.

Carnival will introduce Funderstruck first through CRM and owned social followed by a series of back-to-back campaign activations during two pivotal Holiday cultural moments. The first Funderstruck spots will air on ESPN and ABC during the NBA on Christmas Day games, in addition to game and pre-game sponsorships. Funderstruck will then be featured prominently with Carnival sponsoring the iconic Times Square New Year's Eve Celebration, through a robust collaboration with ABC and the New York Times Square Alliance. 

Carnival is finishing the year with a very successful restart of its guest operations, following an industry-wide, 16-month pause in the U.S. Carnival has returned 19 of its 22 U.S-based ships – including its newest ship, Mardi Gras, as it solidifies its position as America's Cruise Line sailing the most guests of any cruise line. Looking to 2022, its entire U.S. fleet and all ten of its year-round home ports will be back to full guest operations in March, in time for the cruise line's 50th birthday. Carnival will also take delivery of two more ships in 2022 as it grows its guest capacity to more than pre-pandemic levels.

The integrated campaign coincides with the cruise industry's 2022 wave season, which is the annual kick-off to cruise planning for millions of Americans and travel advisors. In addition to the Christmas and NYE integrations, the Funderstruck message will be used across all Carnival owned channels, OOH placements in key port and feeder markets, :15 and :30 National TV commercials, and digitally led efforts highlighted by streaming video, streaming audio, podcasts, unique high impact display and video efforts, and social presence across TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook.

To experience what it feels like to be Funderstruck, click here.

In several spots, guests enjoy the many Funderstruck experiences that Carnival has to offer, from riding BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, to simply enjoying a delicious chocolate ice cream, most notably with other passengers who share an unabashed sense of euphoria and delight in being together again.

"Funderstruck is the unmistakable feeling when you choose fun on Carnival, and the kind of joyful experience essential to people's health and happiness," said Pete Callaro, senior vice president of brand and product marketing for Carnival Cruise Line. "Carnival cruises are the perfect vacation to enjoy with those you've missed having fun with over the past year." 

The campaign, created by Anomaly, is an extension of the brand's Choose Fun campaign that launched in 2018. All paid media and integration elements were created by Initiative and supported by the public relations consultancy LDWW.

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Carnival Cruise Line today reopened Camp Ocean, its supervised children’s program for fully vaccinated children ages 5 to 11, for the first time since its ships have resumed service. 

To ensure the health and safety of its young cruisers, Carnival has implemented enhanced protocols for Camp Ocean that are consistent with other onboard procedures, including required face masks, limited capacity, encouraged physical distancing, twice daily deep cleanings of the spaces, and one-parent-per-family drop-offs and pick-ups. Activities will be adjusted as needed to meet these guidelines.

The colorful ocean-inspired facility offers a variety of fun and engaging experiences ranging from educational activities to crafts and active games. Activity sessions will be offered daily, and guests can refer to the HUB App during their sailings for times and details. 

In addition to Camp Ocean, Circle “C” and Club O2 have been and will continue to be open for vaccinated early teens ages 12 to 14 and for vaccinated teens ages 15 to 17, respectively.

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE’S BOLT ROLLER COASTER RECOGNIZED WITH “BEST OF WHAT’S NEW” AWARD BY POPULAR SCIENCE MAGAZINE 

MIAMI, Nov. 30, 2021 – Proving that the first roller coaster at sea is both fun and a feat of modern engineering, Popular Science magazine has recognized Carnival Cruise Line with its “Best of What’s New” engineering award for the innovation and design work that resulted in the July 2021 debut of BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea on board the line’s flagship Mardi Gras.

Photo Opportunity outside the ride with stand alone Bolt car.

Since 1988, Popular Science annually reviews thousands of new products and innovations and chooses the top 100 winners across 10 categories. To win, a product or technology must represent a significant step forward in its category.

“Normal roller coasters use gravity to send thrill-seekers zooming and looping. But if you want to build a ride on a cruise ship—where stable, level ground is far from guaranteed—you have to get creative,” according to Popular Science.

Ready for our ride on the 1st Roller Coaster at Sea!

“As you’re whipping around the Mardi Gras’ funnel while riding BOLT, I doubt many people are thinking about how we got the roller coaster built, but this recognition from Popular Science underscores the tremendous work that went into making this happen,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “While ultimately, we’re about providing new ways for our guests to have fun, we’re also honored and appreciative of this incredible recognition for our team.”

A marvel in maritime engineering, BOLT is an all-electric roller coaster encompassing an elevated track across Mardi Gras’ upper decks with 800 feet of exhilarating twists, drops and turns, including hairpin turn around the ship’s iconic funnel. Riders can achieve speeds of up to 40 miles per hour as they enjoy views to the sea 187 feet below.

Highly Recommend the “BOOST” Button!

Established in 1872, Popular Science is one of America’s oldest and most trusted magazine brands with a legacy of bringing readers groundbreaking innovations and discoveries.

Sister ships to Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee will also feature BOLT: The Ultimate Sea Coaster when they debut in late 2022 in Miami and in 2023 in Galveston, Tex., respectively.

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Navigator of the Seas Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

A DECADE IN THE MAKING: ROYAL CARIBBEAN MAKES HOLLYWOOD COMEBACK

The Amplified Navigator of the Seas Sets Sail from Los Angeles for the First Time

MIAMI, Nov. 19, 2021 – Royal Caribbean International is back in California after more than a decade, and it’s rolling out the red carpet for families and travelers of all ages looking to get away on a memorable vacation. The cruise line’s bold and adventure-packed Navigator of the Seas set sail from Los Angeles today, beginning its highly anticipated year-round season of 3-night weekend to 4- and 5-night weekday cruises to Catalina Island, California, and the Mexican Riviera.

Now cruising from the City of Angels, Navigator premieres the ultimate getaway that combines adventures ashore, in destinations like Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and on board – from the longest waterslide at sea to the industry’s first standalone blow-dry bar.

Guests who cruise on Navigator can enjoy a $115 million series of enhancements introduced on board the ship in 2019. There’s a star-studded lineup of never-before-seen experiences and fan favorites, including:

Rip Tide Water Slide, Navigator of the Seas Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

• Resort-style pool – Kids and adults alike enjoy Caribbean vibes from day to night, thanks to vibrant colors, a variety of seating – from in-pool loungers to casitas – live music, and the three-level poolside bar known as The Lime & Coconut.

• The Blaster – The longest aqua coaster at sea propels thrill seekers through more than 800 feet of dips, drops and turns.

• Riptide – The industry’s only headfirst mat racer waterslide joins The Blaster and Navigator’s lineup of top-deck thrills. A highlight, the exhilarating finish through a translucent tube that goes off the side of the ship makes for inspiring ocean views.

• To Dry For – The first standalone blow-dry bar at sea. For a quick fix to seamlessly transition from a day out to getting ready for a night out on the town, there is a menu of services that includes blowouts to hairstyling.

• The Bamboo Room – Royal Caribbean’s take on the tiki-chic bar and lounge serves up spice-infused handcrafted drinks and shareable bites.

• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade – Families can enjoy gameday classics, 50 big-screen TVs, tabletop games, classic arcade hits alongside bar bites, ice-cold beer and zero-proof cocktails for the kids.

• Adventure Ocean and teens spaces – Kids 11 and under have a redesigned venue that sports an open format made for free play and where young travelers can easily switch between types of activity. Teens have an enhanced dedicated space with games, movies, music and more in The Living Room and a private outdoor patio called The Back Deck.

• Royal Escape Room: The Observatorium – A challenge for teams of families, friends or fellow travelers to solve mind-bending puzzles before time runs out

Resort Style Pool Deck , Navigator of the Seas Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Also new to Navigator as part of its major makeover are Hooked Seafood, serving up fresh New England-inspired dishes like just-shucked oysters, Johnny Rockets Express, Starbucks and Jamie’s Italian, with a menu of rustic Italian recipes – including fresh pastas – from celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. Many returning favorites take the stage as well, including the FlowRider surf simulator, rock climbing wall, the Studio B ice-skating rink, Far East flavors at Izumi and a new mini-golf course.

The biggest, boldest vacation along the West Coast, Navigator features something for everyone to spend quality time together and on their own on a short getaway. And for vacationers looking to take more time off, they can choose from several 7-night sailings that visit beach-lovers paradises like Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan, Mexico.

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