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WATCH: Cruise Passengers Share Terrifying Videos from 'Nightmare' Storm at Sea

The Carnival Sunshine cruise ship made it back to port safely on Saturday after being stuck in a storm between the Bahamas and Charleston, S.C. for 15 hours

The Carnival Sunshine cruise ship made it back to port nine hours later than planned after sailing through a terrifying storm on Friday night.

The ship was on its way to Charleston, S.C. from the Bahamas when it got caught in severe weather, including nearly 80 mph winds. Passengers on board shared details and footage of the chaos and destruction caused by the storm on social media. Thankfully, Carnival told PEOPLE in a statement provided below that "no one was seriously injured."

Crew Center, a cruise ship information site, posted a video on Twitter showing a flooded hallway, torn-off doors and other debris and destruction on board.

"The aftermath aboard Carnival Sunshine after a severe storm," the post read. "The crew from Deck 0-4 evacuated to the theater, and anywhere they could rest… the crew bar destroyed."

brad morrell/storyful

Passenger Daniel Taylor told Newsweek that the captain made an announcement around 4:45 p.m. saying that they would be experiencing a delay due to "adverse weather conditions," expressing that they "would do everything they could to minimize discomfort.

By dinner time, public decks had been closed off, and plates and cups were flying off the buffet areas, he recalled.

By the early hours of Saturday morning, he said, "We were no longer able to see where we were going, how fast we were going, what the wind speed was, or anything. We were blind to what was going on." Swells were hitting the ship "over and over," said Taylor, who also recalled seeing crew members wearing life vests.

At that point, the internet was also out, so those on board couldn't get any additional information or reach loved ones.

Matthew Branham, who was also on board, told The Washington Post , that "waves were hitting the boat so hard that it was like an earthquake experience, jarring you like a really rough roller coaster — even in the middle floor."

TVs were falling off walls and glasses shattering. “You could not stand up in your room,” he said. “You could be thrown from the bed."

Another passenger, RJ Whited, wrote in a since-deleted Facebook post cited by Newsweek , "Our cruise ship last night was literally sideways and slung everything in our room breaking, people in the hallways throwing up and sleeping on the stairs."

Added Whited, "We also found out that they knew about the storm and instead of us staying back to ride it out a few hours they hit it head-on so we could make it back for the other cruise to be on time."

Finally, the ship made it back to Charleston around 7:30 a.m., though it couldn't immediately dock due to continuing rough weather.

At 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, the ship was able to dock.

Summing up the "nightmare" experience, passenger Christa Seifert-Alicea told NBC News 4 : "What we endured is indescribable, not only to feel it yourself but to hear and see it set in on every single person around you from adult, child and the elderly is something I will never forget."

In a statement to PEOPLE on Wednesday, Carnival said: "Carnival Sunshine's return to Charleston was impacted by the weather and rough seas on Saturday. The weather's prolonged impact on the Charleston area delayed the ship's arrival and as a result, the next voyage's embarkation was also delayed. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all our guests." The statement claims that "the ship's crew followed our protocols for rough weather" noting, "thankfully, no one was seriously injured."

"The weather was unexpectedly strong, causing conditions that were rougher than forecasted," the statement continues. "Given the circumstances as they were, the ship's officers and our Fleet Operations Center team using real time meteorology data coordinated to keep the ship in its safest location. Attempting to sail out of the large front could have been dangerous. The ship proceeded to the port as soon as the weather began to clear." The cruise line's statement also said that the captain "made several announcements about the weather and the delay" but noted "some of the worst weather occurred in the overnight hours when announcements are not typically made."

The Carnival Sunshine is already on its next voyage, the cruise line confirmed.

Related Articles

Footage shows moment Royal Caribbean cruise ship was flooded during storm in the Gulf of Mexico

Water flowed into rooms and sunbeds were strewn across the deck as the vessel was battered by the fierce weather conditions.

Friday 2 February 2024 12:39, UK

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Footage has emerged of a cruise ship being flooded during a storm in the Gulf of Mexico - causing water to flow into people's cabins.

Travis Hair, a passenger on the Royal Caribbean vessel, filmed as the balcony of his room on the Voyager Of The Seas was swamped.

Mr Hair said he captured the video while the vessel was "sailing through a thunderstorm" on 26 January.

He added there were "high winds on the deck… platters of food crashing to the floor in the buffet, liquor and other glass breaking, water coming in through the balconies and flooding."

The footage also shows sunbeds piled up on the deck after being tossed around in the powerful storm.

The vessel was on its way back to Galveston, Texas, as part of a five-night trip to Cozumel, Mexico, according to USA Today.

Passenger Chelsea Ireland told the newspaper she felt the vessel tilt as it was battered by heavy winds.

She said: "When we tried to walk across our room, it felt like we were walking up a very steep hill."

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Fellow passenger Elaina Escobedo, 21, went to her grandparent's cabin to check on them during the storm. "There were just things flying all over the place," she said.

Ms Escobedo added that her grandmother was safe on the sofa, but her wheelchair had rolled across the room and cups of lemonade had been knocked over.

The footage emerged after another Royal Caribbean ship, Serenade of the Seas, reportedly flooded last month.

Sky News has contacted Royal Caribbean for comment.

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Watch: Massive rogue wave batters cruise ship in North Sea

A deadly storm in northern europe churned up a massive rogue wave which terrified cruise ship passengers on one vessel and disabled another ship. the cruise line initially reported no serious injuries, but german media reported that three passengers were taken to a hospital upon disembarking. passengers reported broken bones, scrapes and bruises..

Cruise ship rocked by massive rogue wave in the North Sea

Rough weather in the North Sea churned up massive waves which battered a cruise ship in the North Sea.  "I love it," said the tour operator. "However, a few of my guests are not so happy." 

A rogue wave terrified cruise ship passengers on the North Sea on Thursday as it towered over and tossed the ship, Tour Operator Thorsten Hansen told TMX.

"I love it," posted Hansen on social media . "However, a few of my guests are not so happy."

The video shows the rogue wave ahead of the Otto Sverdrup off the coast of Germany on Friday. The ship is over 450 feet long, 70 feet wide, almost 16,000 tons, and has eight decks, and still, the freak wave dwarfed the ship. The Otto Sverdrup can hold up to 500 passengers.

WHAT IS A ROGUE WAVE? THOSE MONSTERS OF THE OCEAN ARE MORE COMMON THAN YOU THINK

The rogue wave that tossed a Norwegian cruise ship.

(Credit: Thorsten Hansen/Tour operator and HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Agency /TMX / FOX Weather)

Storm Pia's hurricane-force winds punished the North Sea and much of Europe Thursday and Friday, according to the Danish Meteorological Institute. The rough seas interacting with the ocean floor and coasts built up the rogue wave, which can be twice the size of surrounding waves, according to NOAA.

Hansen said the wave was the same one that hit a nearby cruise ship, the Maud, at about the same time. The wave smashed at least two windows on the bridge of the more than 16,000-ton ship, and the incoming seawater knocked out the navigation system and radar . It threw the ship with 266 passengers and 131 crew into darkness as the power failed, according to local media and the cruise line HX .

The crew was able to restart one motor, according to a trade paper .

WATCH: PLANES ABORT HARROWING LANDINGS IN ENGLAND AS STORM PIA RAKES US WITH 50-80 MPH GUSTS

File: A photo of the Maud at port before the accident.

(Refinitive Eikon, Magnus Thor Hafsteinsson / FOX Weather)

"Spent 4 hours in survival suits and life vests while the Danish Coastguard and local oil rigs sent out rescue boats to escort us and provide navigation as the crew manually steered the boat from the engine room," one passenger wrote on Facebook. "Hands down, one of the scariest nights of my life in gale force winds and 11 meter (36 feet) waves."

The ship was about 125 miles off the coast of Denmark on a trip from Norway to England.

PASSENGER KILLED AFTER ROGUE WAVE SMASHES INTO CRUISE SHIP

The purple shows the path of the ship from Norway to 120 miles off the coast of Denmark. The United Kingdom is to the west.

"There were about 20 minutes in which I thought the ship might capsize, it was rocking so much and we had no idea what had happened," an American passenger posted on X, formerly Twitter.

The cruise line initially reported no serious injuries, but German media reported that three passengers were taken to a hospital upon disembarking. Passengers reported broken bones, scrapes and bruises.

Storm Pia altered the course of the ship. Local media reported that about 200 people disembarked in Norway due to the bad weather before the accident. 

The ship limped to Bremerhaven, Germany, where many passengers had to stay aboard due to limited flights out of the area. 

VACATION TURNS INTO NIGHTMARE FOR A SEATTLE MAN AFTER ‘ROGUE WAVE’ PARALYZES HIM

Pia churned up huge surf swamping coastal towns. People walk on the pier in Hammerhavn near Sandvig on the Baltic Sea island of Bornholm, Denmark, on December 22, 2023, after storm Pia hit the country.

(PELLE RINK/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP / Getty Images)

HX reported that the ship is not expected to return to service until February after repairs.

Passengers and crew on the Otto Sverdrup were rushed off the vessel because Storm Pia flooding closed the harbor, according to Hansen.

High seas knocked containers from cargo ships as well. On Saturday, beaches in Norway were littered with goods.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Several containers stranded between Tranum and Slette beach, northern Norway, on December 23, 2023 after being lost in the North Sea during storm Pia. 

(CLAUS BJOERN LARSEN/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP / Getty Images)

Elsewhere, Storm Pia blew over a 65-foot Christmas tree onto a woman, killing her, in Belgium, according to AP . Another person was killed by another falling tree in the Netherlands.

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Cruise Ship Faces Near-Sinking in Storm Off South Carolina Coast

On May 27, a cruise ship sailed into a fierce storm off the coast of South Carolina , resulting in flooding and the evacuation of passengers. Videos posted by passengers showed flooded hallways, damaged pipes, and toppled doors as the Carnival Sunshine cruise ship prepared to dock in Charleston. Many passengers endured a harrowing journey, with reports of illness and crew members being ordered to evacuate their quarters, Daily Mail reported on May 28.

As a low-pressure system moved up the Atlantic coast, the National Weather Service issued a warning about treacherous boating conditions. During the weeklong trip, things took a turn for the worse as the ship encountered choppy waters. At 4:30 p.m. on Friday, the ship approached the tumultuous sea, with winds reaching 80 mph. Glassware crashed, and the ship slowed down to 5 knots, battling massive waves that forced the crew to distribute life vests.

Apparently the Carnival Sunshine waited out the Gulf Stream low outside of Charleston. Videos/reports starting to come in from the ship and passengers. https://t.co/58Qjnw6kif — Mike's Weather Page (@tropicalupdate) May 28, 2023

By 7:30 a.m. the following day, the ship’s cruise director announced that docking in Charleston harbor would not be possible. Nine hours after the scheduled arrival time, the ship finally reached the port at 5:30 p.m.

Passengers on the ship said that things got worse overnight on Friday and into Saturday while the crew kept quiet about what was going on. Daniel Taylor, one of the passengers, told Daily Mail about how much of the week-long trip to the Bahamas went well.

In a statement to WCIV, a Carnival spokesperson said that “the weather and rough seas on Saturday” impacted the ship’s return to Charleston.

“Guests on board the ship were safe. Our medical staff helped a small number of guests and crew members who needed minor assistance. The weather’s prolonged impact on the Charleston area delayed the ship’s arrival on Sunday, and as a result, the next voyage’s embarkation was also delayed. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all our guests.”

The Carnival Sunshine is currently departing on a cruise to the Bahamas that will last for a total of five days and will arrive back in Charleston on Thursday.

In 2022, Carnival Cruise Lines announced it will no longer sail from Charleston , starting in 2024.

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Breaking news, terrifying videos show norwegian cruise ship rocked by massive waves ahead of power outage that knocked out navigation.

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A Norwegian cruise liner carrying hundreds of passengers weathered a “terrifying” storm before a rogue wave temporarily took out its power, stomach-churning footage showed.

Tour operator Thorsten Hansen shared a video of the foamy waves battering the hull of the MS Maud, which made headlines Thursday when its electricity failed mid-voyage.

“A few of my guests are not so happy. But most of them are very brave and find it very interesting,” he wrote on Facebook.

“We’re watching films in our room. Every time we move we nearly go flying,” one passenger commented under Hansen’s post.

Another clip shared on X showed the view of the terrifying swells from the glamorous windows of an on-board suit, which tilted precariously toward the water between each wave.

“No fun on the Maud just now,” the person behind the camera captioned the footage.

The vessel carrying 266 passengers and 131 crew suffered shattered windows on its bridge when it encountered a powerful storm in the North Sea late Thursday, Danish authorities said.

Everyone on board was marked safe, and the ship is being towed to Bremerhaven in Germany, officials with the Danish Joint Rescue Coordination Centre said.

The ship’s main engine is still functioning, so the vessel can be steered from the engine room.

One passenger, Elizabeth Lawrence, wrote on X that the storm was a “terrifying experience.”

I’ll be honest, there was about 20 minutes yesterday where I thought the ship might capsize, it was rolling so heavily and we didn’t have any idea what had happened. It really hit home when they started handing out orange survival suits to everyone (2) — Elizabeth Lawrence (@eclairelaw) December 22, 2023

“I’ll be honest, there was about 20 minutes yesterday where I thought the ship might capsize, it was rolling so heavily and we didn’t have any idea what had happened,” she said.

“It really hit home when they started handing out orange survival suits to everyone,” Lawrence explained.

Lawrence said her group took shelter between buffet tables to avoid “flying chairs and furniture.”

The MS Maud, which is run by the cruise company HX, a unit of Norway’s Hurtigruten Group, left Floroe in Norway on Thursday and was scheduled to arrive in Tilbury in Great Britain on Friday.

The ship was named after a famous polar ship from the 20th century, the cruise line’s website explained .

The MS Maud’s on-board technology makes her “exceptionally well-suited” to trips through Norway and the British Isles, the company boasted.

A trip on the Maud can cost up to $10,000, according to the website.

With Post wires

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Footage has emerged of a Norwegian cruise ship facing terrifying weather conditions

Stomach-churning footage has revealed the terrifying moment a cruise ship was smashed by “terrifying” conditions.

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A Norwegian cruise liner carrying hundreds of passengers weathered a “terrifying” storm before a freak wave temporarily took out its power, stomach-churning footage showed.

Tour operator Thorsten Hansen shared a video of the foamy waves battering the hull of the MS Maud, which made headlines Thursday when its electricity failed mid-voyage.

“A few of my guests are not so happy. But most of them are very brave and find it very interesting,” he wrote on Facebook.

“We’re watching films in our room. Every time we move we nearly go flying,” one passenger commented under Hansen’s post.

Another clip shared on X showed the view of the terrifying swells from the glamorous windows of an on-board suit, which tilted precariously toward the water between each wave.

“No fun on the Maud just now,” the person behind the camera captioned the footage.

The vessel carrying 266 passengers and 131 crew suffered shattered windows on its bridge when it encountered a powerful storm in the North Sea late Thursday.

Danish authorities said, everyone on board was marked safe, and the ship is being towed to Bremerhaven in Germany, officials with the Danish Joint Rescue Coordination Centre said.

The ship’s main engine is still functioning, so the vessel can be steered from the engine room.

One passenger, Elizabeth Lawrence, wrote on X that the storm was a “terrifying experience.”

“I’ll be honest, there was about 20 minutes yesterday where I thought the ship might capsize, it was rolling so heavily and we didn’t have any idea what had happened,” she said.

“It really hit home when they started handing out orange survival suits to everyone,” Lawrence explained.

Lawrence said her group took shelter between buffet tables to avoid “flying chairs and furniture.”

The MS Maud, which is run by the cruise company HX, a unit of Norway’s Hurtigruten Group, left Floroe in Norway on Thursday and was scheduled to arrive in Tilbury in Great Britain on Friday.

The ship was named after a famous polar ship from the 20th century, the cruise line’s website explained.

The MS Maud’s on-board technology makes her “exceptionally well-suited” to trips through Norway and the British Isles, the company boasted.

More Coverage

A trip on the Maud can cost up to $10,000, according to the website.

With Post wires

This article was originally published by The NYPost   and reproduced here with permission.

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Watch CBS News

Rogue wave kills navigation system on cruise ship with nearly 400 on board as deadly storm hammers northern Europe

December 22, 2023 / 9:05 AM EST / CBS/AP

A cruise ship in the North Sea was hit by a massive rogue wave, causing a power outage and disabling the vessel's navigation system late on Thursday, Danish authorities said, as a deadly storm brought heavy rain and strong winds across northern Europe overnight and into Friday.

The Norwegian cruise ship MS Maud temporarily lost power on Thursday after encountering the rogue wave. Its operator, Hurtigruten Expedition, said in a statement that the 266 guests and 131 crew were uninjured and that the vessel, initially headed for the English port of Tilbury, would be diverted to Bremerhaven, Germany, for disembarkation.

Danish Search and Rescue said the vessel could "maneuver via emergency systems, and it has two civilian support vessels close by."

Reuters reported that the ship was being towed to Bremerhafen in Germany after the power outage. A spokesperson for the Danish Joint Rescue Coordination Centre told the news agency that a ship from civil rescue firm Esvagt had managed to connect a tow line to the MS Maud.

"An Esvagt ship is towing it slowly towards Bremerhafen in Germany at around 8-9 knots," the spokesperson told Reuters.

On Thursday, high winds also grounded flights in parts of the U.K., suspended train services and stopped Scottish ferries.

Women killed by falling trees

The storm also brought down trees and prompting warnings of flooding on the North Sea coast. A woman in Belgium was fatally injured by a falling Christmas tree, while another tree killed a person in the Netherlands.

The 65-foot Christmas tree collapsed onto three people at a busy market in Oudenaarde in western Belgium late Thursday, killing a 63-year-old woman and injuring two other people. The Christmas market was immediately canceled.

A woman who was struck by a falling tree on Thursday in the eastern Dutch town of Wilp later died of her injuries, her employer said.

Pre-Christmas rail travelers in parts of Germany faced disruption. National railway operator Deutsche Bahn said Friday there were cancellations on routes from Hamburg and Hannover to Frankfurt and Munich, while long-distance services from Hamburg northward to Kiel and Flensburg weren't running, among other disruptions.

The company said that falling trees damaged overhead electric wires or blocked tracks largely in northern Germany, but also in the central state of Hesse.

In Hamburg, the Elbe River flooded streets around the city's fish market, with water waist-high in places. German authorities warned of a storm surge of up to three meters (nearly 10 feet) or more above mean high tide on parts of the North Sea coast on Friday.

Streets around harbors flooded overnight in some Dutch North Sea towns including Scheveningen, the seaside suburb of The Hague.

The huge Maeslantkering storm barrier that protects Rotterdam from high sea levels automatically closed for the first time because of high water levels - meaning that all six major storm barriers that protect the low-lying Netherlands were closed at the same time. The nation's water and infrastructure authority said that was also a first. By Friday morning, all six barriers were open again as winds eased.

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Videos capture terrifying moments of Royal Caribbean cruise caught in bad weather

A spokesperson for royal caribbean said the turbulence did not last long and there were no serious injuries., by monica galarza and kaitlyn schwanemann • published june 23, 2023 • updated on june 26, 2023 at 7:27 am.

A sudden storm hit a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, sending passengers running for cover as furniture flew around the deck.

Passengers had just boarded the Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas docked in Port Canaveral in Cape Canaveral, Florida, and were about to depart for the Bahamas when gusts of hurricane-like winds hit the ship.

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Videos shared on social media show lounge chairs and tables flying across the deck.

One video captured the terrifying moment when a lounge chair narrowly misses a woman carrying a small child and hitting her stroller. Fortunately, the stroller was empty.

Get South Florida local news, weather forecasts and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC South Florida newsletters.

Another video shows cruise guests running from the turbulent weather.

A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean said the storm did not last long and there were no serious injuries reported.

The cruise was able depart for the Bahamas and arrived at CocoCay on time, the spokesperson said.

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@cornettahh Another angle from the 6/16/23 squall that hit #independenceofthesea while docked in #PortCanaveral around 4pm. It hit so fast and was gone in a matter of minutes! No ship announcements were made before or after so people on the lower pool deck were hit completely without warning. 😳 #hurricaneseason #floridaweather #cruiseship #royalcaribbean #chaos #ocean #sea #squall ♬ original sound - Cora Cornett

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Reporting by Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen Editing by Josie Kao, Deepa Babington and Cynthia Osterman

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Based in Copenhagen, Jacob oversees reporting from Denmark, Iceland, Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Specializes in security and geopolitics in the Arctic and Baltic Sea regions, as well as large corporates such as brewer Carlsberg and shipping group A.P. Moller-Maersk. His most impactful reporting on Arctic issues include a report on how NATO allies are slowly waking up to Russian supremacy in the region, uncovering how Greenland represents a security black hole for Denmark and its allies, and how an abundance of critical minerals has proven a curse for Greenland. Before moving to Copenhagen in 2016, Jacob spent seven years in Moscow covering Russia's oil and gas industry for Dow Jones Newswires and The Wall Street Journal, followed by four years in Singapore covering energy markets for WSJ and Reuters. As a Russian speaker, he has been involved in covering the war in Ukraine. He publishes a newsletter each weekday focused on the most important regional and global news. Contact Jacob via email if you are interested in receiving the newsletter.

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Carnival cruise ship rescues 25 people stranded off the coast of Mexico

A Carnival Cruise Line ship responded to a call from the U.S. Coast Guard and rescued 25 people stranded in a small boat off the coast of Mexico, the company announced Saturday.

The 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance had left Long Beach, California, on Friday and was heading toward Ensenada Mexico for a three-day sailing when the cruise ship's officers were informed by the Coast Guard "about a distress call involving a small vessel," a news release said.

The ship immediately routed toward the location of the vessel, provided by the USCG, and "quickly" rescued all 25 people on board, including three children, the company said.

The U.S. Coast Guard did not immediately respond to USA TODAY's request for comment.

The rescued group was welcomed onto the cruise ship and given food, water, and medical assistance. Carnival coordinated with the Coast Guard to hand off the group.

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The incident did not disrupt the Carnival Radiance's schedule, the company announced.

A roller coaster in the ocean: What Carnival Cruise Line's BOLT ride is like

Another Carnival ship rescued a group of 28 Cuban nationals stuck at sea as it was sailing the Caribbean and saw people signaling for help in late April. The cruise ship was headed from Tampa, Florida, to Roatan in Honduras at the time. Also last month, a Celebrity Cruises ship sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to multiple destinations in the Caribbean rescued a small vessel adrift between Mexico and Cuba.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected]

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ONBOARD ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT INCREDIBLE IS ON THE ITINERARY 

Whatever thrills you seek, you’ll find all sorts of ways to fill your days onboard Royal Caribbean®. Each day and night brings something new to do, see and explore. From the robot mixologists at Bionic Bar® to the FlowRider®* surf simulators, and the tallest slide at sea, Ultimate Abyss℠, to hit Broadway musicals like Grease. And with the award-winning Adventure Ocean® youth program, kids and teens will have a blast— plus parents can get a little time of their own. The hardest part is deciding where to start.

North Star ®

360-degree views, 365 days a year

See the ship over nine decks above the Boardwalk® on the Zip Line

FlowRider ®

Score prime waves all day every day on the FlowRider® surf simulator.

Sports Court

Play 3-on-3 with an ocean view at the Sports Court

Play the classics and modern faves at the Royal Caribbean® Arcade

Ultimate Abyss℠

Take the plunge on the tallest slide at sea - the Ultimate Abyss℠.

Family fun takes a nostalgic turn on the handcrafted carousel

RipCord ® by iFLY ®

Feel the freedom of freefall on the only skydiving simulator at sea — RipCord® by iFLY®

Wonder Playscape℠

A whole new way to explore and discover an underwater-themed world full of fun

Bumper Cars

Buckle up for the only bumper cars at sea at the largest indoor activity space ever to set sail.

Escape the Rubicon

The entire room is a mystery to unravel in Escape the Rubicon

Harmony High

Jump, jive and wail at Harmony High, the most rockin’ show at sea

Piano Sing-Alongs

Sing along to a chorus of ivory tickling classics at Schooner Bar nightly.

Royal Escape Room℠ - Mission Control: Apollo 18

Decode the mysteries of Mission Control in the latest Royal Escape Room challenge.

Sip, Tour, Brunch

The best days begin with brunch and bubbles.

Swim & Tonic℠

The new Swim & Tonic℠ is your go-to for ice-cold drinks and sun-kissed beats.

Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠

Grab a friend and race down The Perfect Storm℠ twin waterslides Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠.

The Greatest 80’s Party Ever!

Get ready for a total blast from the past at the greatest 80's party ever.

Adventure Ocean ®

The new Adventure Ocean® youth program is designed to ignite the imagination.

Gear up, grab a foil and get ready for an introduction into the art of fencing.

Think you can get a bullseye? Take your best shot in our archery tournament.

Captain’s Welcome Aboard Reception

The Captain invites all guests to a formal night reception held in their honor. It’s a great photo op, so don’t forget your camera.

Category 6 Waterpark

Brave six record-breaking slides at Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea.

Hideaway Pool

Hit new heights of bragworthy at the first suspended infinity pool at sea.

Absolute Zero℠

See bold feats unleashed at Absolute Zero℠, our biggest ice arena ever.

Laser Tag: Clash for the Crystal City℠

Two clans collide in an icy new glow-inthe-dark laser tag faceoff for control of a mystical frozen city.

Mellow out to live Caribbean music in this open-air sanctuary that’s high above ordinary.

Up and Away

Join puppets Mia and Max as they embark on a glow-in-the-dark adventure.

Art Auctions

Bid on bold masterpieces at an action-packed onboard art auction.

Swirl through a champagne bowl funnel in Supercell℠, part of The Perfect Storm℠, the boldest waterslides at sea.

Star Moment

Become the star of your own show as you belt out all your favorite tunes, karaoke-style, at Star Moment.

Awe is inspired on a grand new scale at the shimmering AquaDome℠.

Crown's Edge℠

Dare to conquer the Crown’s Edge℠, a test of bravery like nothing you’ve ever seen.

Delve into your favorite card and board games at the Card Room

Royal Escape Room℠ — The Royal Society of Puzzles

Put your smarts to the test to unravel The Royal Society of Puzzles.

The Cove℠ Pool

The ultimate infinity pool for serene ocean views with sun-drenched action always close by.

Water's Edge

Unrivaled views for you while kids play steps away at Splashaway Bay℠ aquapark.

Let's Celebrate

The only parade where every holiday is celebrated at once

Dance Classes

Show off new moves during Dance Classes with the pros

Tidal Wave℠

Go airborne on the only boomerang slide at sea

All Access Tour

You’re the VIP (Very Important Passenger) behind the scenes

Bump up your game at SeaPlex®

Table Tennis

Serve up stiff competition during a table tennis face off

Soak up the relaxation and the horizon

Got game? Prove it on one of our interactive Game Shows

Totally Awesome 90s Street Party

Throwback to the decade that was all that and a bag of chips

Pool Parties

Stay up late for this top deck party

Outdoor Movie Nights

The poolside screen is huge - and so is the fun

Trapeze School

Make your circus dreams come true on the flying trapeze

The Perfect Storm℠

Soak up the thrills on all The Perfect Storm℠, the boldest waterslides at sea.

With onboard pools, you've got plenty of chances to make a splash

Enjoy mini golf with maximum fun

Art Collection

Browse and buy original art from our curated collection

Rock Climbing Wall

Rock out on the Rock Climbing Wall for full-scale adventure

Splashaway Bay℠

An aqua park that's cool, colorful and all kinds of crazy

Ice Skating

Lace up your skates and take a spin on the only rinks at sea

Extraordinary tech meets top-notch talent and epic imagination at Two70®

Mystery Dinner Theater

Be the detective at Mystery Dinner Theater, an evening of intrigue

Scuba Certification

Polish your PADI® skills and get dive certified on your vacation

Latin Fiesta

Get ready to shake your hips and find your Latin rhythm.

Dancing Under The Stars

Party with us poolside beneath the night sky.

Spanish Classes

Brush up on your Spanish skills in an interactive onboard class.

Plunge into new thrills on the only headfirst mat racer waterslide at sea, Riptide℠.

Latin Dance Classes

By the end of this class, you’ll be dancing like the stars.

Amplified Pool Deck

It’s time to take your pool game to the next level.

See what happens when you wish upon a star in Away We Go .

Laser Tag: Battle for Planet Z℠

Forces collide in a glow-in-the-dark laser tag faceoff in Battle for Planet Z℠.

The Blaster ®

Hang on tight for The Blaster® aqua coaster, the longest waterslide at sea.

70s Disco Party

You’ve scored a one-way ticket to funky-town.

Cupcake Class

Sprinkle on the memories.

Royal Escape Room℠: The Observatorium

Have you and your team got what it takes to beat the clock?

Sushi Making Class

Turn lunch into a hands-on adventure.

Virtual Concert

Relive original performances in stunning 4K at Two70's Virtual Concert .

Larger than life festival

Supersized games go big on bonding at the Larger Than Life Festival.

The big shark block party

The Big Shark Block Party makes a big, bold splash with your favorite dance tunes.

Adrenaline Peak℠

Test your bravery. Rock climb to the top of Adrenaline Peak for unmatched views.

Thrill Island

The most adrenaline-amping adventures converge at Thrill Island — only on Icon of the Seas℠.

Royal Escape Room℠

Decode the mysteries that will set you free and Escape the Room

Fuel bolder bonding at Surfside℠ — the ultimate stay-all-day family neighborhood.

The vibe is always on at this off-the-grid.

Get hooked on pickleball, the new trendy sport for everyone.

Lost Dunes℠

Tee off for friendly competition at Lost Dunes℠, the ultimate mini-golf course

Steel Pan Family Jam™

Groove to your own tropical tunes at the Steel Pan Family Jam.

Chill Island℠

Sip to the rhythm of live music and DJs at every turn at Chill Island℠.

Royal Bay℠ Pool

This sprawling oasis is the largest pool at sea — with over 40,000 gallons of water.

Once upon a bedtime story

Once Upon a Bedtime Story is the coziest way to end a sun-filled day.

DISCOVER ALL NEW ICONIC THRILLS & CHILLS

Only on icon of the seas.

Dining Room

Go on a flavorful globetrotting journey at The Dining Room— serving mouthwatering international dishes for every meal.

Surfside Eatery℠

Whatever your little ones are into right now, the expansive Surfside Eatery buffet has it on deck — steps away from all the action.

Pearl Café℠

Pearl Café offers toasted sandwiches, ready-made salads, and sweet treats with a show.

Izumi in the Park℠

Stop by this all-day window for Japanese street food and sushi rolls in to-go boxes.

Celebration Table

Level-up special occasions with VIP treatment and your choice of prix menus at Celebration Table.

AquaDome Market

Find five unique food stands serving a smorgasbord of options for your crew at AquaDome Market.

Basecamp is your family’s headquarters to refuel between adventures onboard. Walk up to any window for delicious provisions or head to the bar for drinks.

Surfside Bites℠

Refuel on the run between adventures at Surfside Bites, your quick stop for sweet and salty noshes and tasty twists on classics.

It’s grub time anytime at Pier 7 with beachside bites, all-day brunch and chill vibes

Empire Supper Club℠

Treat yourself to a lavish night of luxury with premium American cuisine at Empire Supper Club

Suite Neighborhood

It’s time you discover just how suite life can be at the Suite Neighborhood.

The Wizard of Oz

Our biggest cast and orchestra ever in the Broadway hit musical, The Wizard of Oz — only on Icon of the Seas℠.

Showband! Live. Music. Now.

Enjoy phenomenal vocal artists accompanied by sixteen top tier musicians.

The Hideaway

Once you’ve uncovered The Hideaway, your sea days will never be the same.

The Grove Suite Sun Deck

Discover your own private slice of paradise.

SHOWS & ENTERTAINMENT

CASINO ROYALE

YOUTH & TEEN PROGRAM

CRUISE NIGHTLIFE

Try it with your, #adventuresquad.

Drenched Days

Family Time

The Royal Promenade fills with dancing, confetti and junkanoo drums

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

These Are The Most Dangerous (& Remote) Cruise Routes On Earth

Thinking of a thrilling cruise? From icy waters to isolated islands, these cruise routes are the most dangerous and remote.

• Adventurous remote cruises offer a chance to explore uncharted territories and connect with nature off the beaten path.
• Remote routes have unique challenges including unpredictable weather, rough seas, and limited access to resources and medical facilities.
• The world's most remote and dangerous cruise routes, like the Drake Passage and the Bering Sea, offer unforgettable and challenging experiences.

The world is full of hidden places, beautiful islands, and cultures untouched by time. There are plenty of epic cruise lines for every type of traveler , but for the adventurous, remote cruises are a chance to explore uncharted territories. Imagine sailing next to towering glaciers in Antarctica, seeing the volcanic wonders of the Galapagos Islands and their fascinating wildlife , or cruising through the crystal-clear waters of Raja Ampat, full of marine life.

These trips offer an escape from the ordinary and a chance to connect with nature and visit places far from typical tourist spots. However, exploring beyond familiar harbors means facing potential risks. Unlike traditional cruises offering family-friendly destinations with established routes and easy access to resources, remote routes come with unique challenges.

Unpredictable weather, rough seas, and limited access to medical facilities are some things to consider for those seeking adventure off the beaten path. Still, that doesn’t stop the excited traveler from exploring remote regions. With that aside, these are some of the most remote and dangerous cruise routes on Earth.

The Strangest Theme Cruises You Can Go On 2024-2025

5 the drake passage – antarctica, one of the most treacherous voyages for ships to make.

Spanning roughly 600 miles (1,000 kilometers) wide, the Drake Passage is a climatic and ecological divide, separating the cool, temperate waters of the Southern Ocean from the frigid polar regions.

Unimpeded by any landmass, strong westerly winds whip up colossal rogue waves (which can impact cruise ships) , sometimes reaching over 40 feet (12 meters) in height. Besides turbulent waters and giant icebergs, temperatures in the Drake Passage can plummet well below freezing, especially in the Southern Hemisphere's winter months (June to August).

The 1916 sinking of the schooner "Endurance," carrying Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton, serves as a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of these waters. Tragically, the passage's unforgiving nature was recently highlighted in November 2022 when a passenger onboard the Viking Polaris died after a large wave struck the ship during severe weather.

This region of the world is a harsh and unforgiving place, but successful, reputable cruises to Antarctica offer a sense of accomplishment and unforgettable memories.

How To Plan For A Cruise To Antarctica (Plus Helpful Tips)

4 the northwest passage – arctic, a frigid challenge through the arctic labyrinth.

The Northwest Passage is not a single, well-defined channel but rather a complex network of waterways snaking through islands and around the northern coast of Canada. Sea ice plays a dominant role, dictating the very possibility of navigation.

Besides thick sea ice and unpredictable weather, the region's remoteness means limited resources and assistance in an emergency. Medevacs from the harsh Arctic environment can be treacherous and time-consuming.

When it comes to accidents and recent incidents, the ill-fated Franklin Expedition of the 1840s, where all 129 crew members perished, serves as a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of the Arctic. More recently, in 2018, the research vessel " MV Akademik Ioffe " became beset by ice and required a dramatic rescue mission involving multiple countries. These incidents highlight the ever-present dangers in this challenging environment.

3 The Bering Sea – Between Alaska & Russia

A treacherous triangle where east meets west.

Encompassing over 770,000 square miles, the Bering Sea is a complex ecosystem. Powerful currents churn its depths, while fierce storms rage across its surface. Sea ice plays a significant role, blanketing the northern reaches in winter and presenting a seasonal obstacle to navigation.

Besides a thick blanket of ice and isolation, the Bering Sea is notorious for its sudden and violent storms. Ferocious winds, dense fog, and high waves can create treacherous conditions, making even routine voyages a test of seamanship.

Several fishing vessel disasters have occurred in the Bering Sea, resulting in tragic loss of life. These cases involved the Vestfjord (1989), Aleutian Enterprise (1990), Arctic Rose (2001), Alaska Ranger (2008), and Katmai (2008).

Almost All The Ice Covering The Bering Sea Has Melted Earlier Than Expected

2 cape hatteras – north carolina, the graveyard of the atlantic.

Cape Hatteras is a narrow finger of land jutting out from North Carolina's Outer Banks, which holds a captivating yet chilling allure. This scenic stretch of coastline boasts breathtaking beaches and diverse wildlife, but beneath its surface lurks a dark reputation – strong currents, powerful winds, and shallow shoals.

Cape Hatteras, also known as the "Graveyard of the Atlantic," has claimed over 2,000 vessels throughout history due to a confluence of treacherous dangers. This treacherous area is a collision zone where the warm embrace of the Gulf Stream clashes with the icy fingers of the Labrador Current. These currents churn over a treacherous underwater landscape – Diamond Shoals, a maze of shifting sandbars and ever-changing bays.

In 2016, a cruise ship bound for the Bahamas was forced to turn back to New York after a fierce storm near Cape Hatteras injured passengers, serving as a reminder of the power this area still wields.

1 The Bay Of Biscay – Northeast Atlantic Ocean

A sea of beauty and fury.

The Bay of Biscay stretches roughly 86,000 square miles from Brittany in France to Galicia in Spain, forming a large triangular basin. While it boasts undeniable beauty, its allure comes with a price tag of inherent dangers – rough seas and extremely stormy and unpredictable weather.

Sudden storms, dense fog banks, and strong winds can appear at alarming speeds, creating hazardous conditions for unsuspecting mariners. As recently as 2023, a terrifying ordeal unfolded on the cruise ship Spirit of Discovery after it encountered a fierce storm in the Bay of Biscay. Roughly 100 people were injured , and five passengers were hospitalized upon docking in Portsmouth.

Cruise Lines & Dangerous Ports – Staying Safe On Land & Sea

Besides conquering risks in the ocean's vastness, danger can lurk on land, too. Cruise lines, focusing on profit and passenger safety, avoid ports with a reputation for trouble. Take Egypt, for example. Once a popular stop for pyramid exploration and historical immersion in Cairo and Alexandria, the country has seen a sharp decline in cruise ship visits since the Arab Spring upended the region.

The year 2005 serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking beyond ports. The Seabourn Spirit (now known as Star Breeze), a luxury vessel, faced a harrowing attack by pirates off the coast of Somalia. Fortunately, the crew managed to fend off the attackers with a well-aimed water hose, highlighting the potential threats even on the open seas.

What To Do If Your Cruise Is Canceled

So, the world of remote cruises offers a thrilling paradox: a chance to discover untouched beauty while facing the raw power and inherent dangers of the natural world. However, for every thrill-seeker, there should be a responsible traveler.

By acknowledging the risks, choosing reputable cruise lines with experience in navigating these challenging routes, and prioritizing safety measures for a stress-free cruise , adventurers can ensure their remote cruise becomes an unforgettable memory, not a cautionary tale.

New cruise ship coming to Florida. 10 things to know about Margaritaville at Sea's Islander

There's a new "kid" in town.

Margaritaville at Sea will launch its second ship, the Islander, in June out of the Port of Tampa Bay. Margaritaville's first ship, Paradise, cruises out of the Port of Palm Beach .

Tampa Bay was chosen for the company's second ship since the Port of Palm Beach was too small to accommodate the newest addition.

Margaritaville's Paradise: What's more Jimmy Buffett-like than a cruise to Key West - Margaritaville's latest destination

Here's everything you need to know about Margaritaville at Sea and its newest ship, the Islander.

Margaritaville at Sea Islander inaugural cruise scheduled for June 14

The inaugural cruise for the Islander is scheduled for June 14 out of the Port of Tampa Bay.

Margarit avil le at Sea Islander by the numbers

• 2,650 passengers
• 1,105 staterooms
• 12 different stateroom and suite types
• 700 balcony staterooms
• 12 passenger decks
• 14-story atrium
• 3 multi-story floating margarita glass chandeliers.

The Islander underwent "extensive reimagining" at the Harland & Wolff shipyard in Belfast, Northern Ireland, before beginning its three-week trip to Florida May 19, according to a Margaritaville at Sea Facebook post.

The custom styling is "reminiscent of the sand, sea and sky" and includes Margaritaville’s signature bedding, pillows and linens.

There are more than 700 Breezy Balcony staterooms, Grand Terrace Suites, "luxurious" Corner Suites, and "ultra-exclusive" Islander Signature Suites.

What is the itinerary for Islander's inaugural cruise out of Tampa Bay?  

Margaritaville at Sea Islander’s inaugural sailing takes place over four nights, featuring a stop in Cozumel, Mexico, and two sea days.  

Christopher Ivy, CEO of Margaritaville at Sea, said the purchase of the second ship was to accommodate requests from customers for longer itineraries and new ports of call.

What type of cruises will Margaritaville's Islander offer?

The Islander will offer four- and five-night cruises to Key West and Mexico, with stops in Cozumel and Progreso. 

Coming in 2025 will be six- and seven-night voyages to Belize, Jamaica and Grand Cayman, according to a news release.

How much do Margaritaville at Sea cruises cost?

Cost for inaugural cruise to Cozumel

• Interior rooms: $379
• Ocean-view rooms: $429
• Breezy Balcony rooms: $639
• Grand Terrace suites: $799

Special deals: Get 50% off and kids ages 3-12 sail free.

Depending on dates, cruises out of Tampa Bay can drop as low as $299 for an interior room and $689 for a Grand Terrace suite.

In 2025, a seven-day cruise to Key West; Cozumel, Mexico; and Progreso, Mexico, range from $479 for an interior room to $879 for a Grand Terrace suite.

What about entertainment? What is there to do on Margaritaville's Islander?

"From adults to young travelers, everyone onboard the Islander will find their own entertaining slice of paradise — including live music enclaves, thrilling outer deck adventures, an all-ages lounge and arcade, and a first-ever cornhole-meets-mini-golf challenge course.  

“The new Islander is packed with an exciting variety of active and interactive ways for cruisers of all ages to enjoy their fun in the sun,” said Karen Maybury, vice president of entertainment at Margaritaville at Sea.

“The new lineup of programming and activities designed specifically for children, teens, and families will greatly enhance the cruise experience, creating unforgettable memories for all of our guests.” 

Among the family-friendly offerings on the Islander, as described by Margaritaville at Sea, are:

• Caribbean Amphibian Play Pad & Slide : Designed for young adventurers, this paradise playground will feature an elevated play space, waterslide, and splash-and-spray “lily” pad for fun-filled exploration.
• Dis and Dat Activity Zone : The whole family can join the challenge with the first-ever cornhole-meets-mini-golf course at sea. This unique take on two fan-favorite games on the outer deck will put guests’ skills to the test for one-of-a-kind fun.
• Paradise Pickleball at Sea : Join the craze with some friendly competition on the high seas with the ultimate pickleball match.
• Defying Gravity Experience : A family experience for all ages with unbelievable circus-themed workshops, interactive game shows, and scavenger hunts.
• Far Side of the World Arcade and Lounge : Teens can sip on Boba Milk Tea, sing their favorite karaoke songs, and take the arcade by storm in this family-forward lounge area.
• 5 o’Clock Somewhere: It’s always island time at this signature pool, where the music never stops and the vibe is just right to relax, grab a bite, or make a splash. 
• Coral Reef Lounge : Dive into this aquarium-inspired lounge with mermaids and mocktails, family karaoke, hilarious comedy acts, and other surprises.   

There also are four complimentary kid’s programs:

• Jolly Mon (ages 3-5) : A fun-filled day of ocean-inspired games, arts and crafts, immersive experiences, mermaid storytelling, and visits from friendly characters.
• Parakeets Kid’s Club (ages 6-9): A full itinerary featuring magic workshops, the “Escape from Chichen Itza” game, mini-DJ academy, sports hour on deck, ship tour, and crazy hat party.
• The Hang Out (ages 10-12): High-energy games and sports such as pickleball classes, basketball, mini golf, and corn hole tournaments, along with DJ academy sessions, magic workshops, Mar-glo-ritaville glow party, pop star jam sessions with musicians, and more.
• The Far Out (ages 13-17) : This teens-only club offers a movie night, a nightclub takeover, a scavenger hunt with prizes, percussion workshops, and a Tik-Tok/Instagram content battle

Parking at Port of Tampa Bay for Margaritaville cruises

Parking at the Port of Tampa Bay for Margaritaville at Sea cruises depends on the cruise dates. For the June 14-18 cruise, parking costs are:

• 1 vehicle: $63
• 1 vehicle, valet: $83
• Oversized valet: $146

Parking costs for other dates are either the same as the inaugural cruise or:

• 1 vehicle: $78.75
• 1 vehicle, valet: $98.75
• Oversized valet: $177.50

Where is the Port of Tampa Bay?

The Port of Tampa Bay is located in Tampa on the northeast section of Tampa Bay.

Tampa is located on the west coast of Florida about 70 miles southwest of Orlando.

What is Margaritaville at Sea?

"Margaritaville at Sea brings Margaritaville’s iconic hospitality to the open ocean for a one-of-a-kind offshore vacation experience," the company said in a news release.

"The ships also feature numerous inclusive and specialty dining restaurants centered around chef-crafted, island-inspired cuisine, uniquely themed bars and lounges that provide non-stop live entertainment paired with premium cocktails, kids’ clubs and arcades, the action-packed Margaritaville Casino, the St. Somewhere Spa & Salon, multiple pools, hot tubs, and plenty of quiet spaces."

Margaritaville at Sea is a new venture with the owners of the former Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line and Margaritaville Enterprises, according to its website.

The company launched Margaritaville at Sea Paradise out of Palm Beach in May 2022.

Follow Margaritaville at Sea on social media

Follow Margaritaville at Sea on both Facebook and Instagram .

Contributor: Mike Diamond, Palm Beach Post

The 6 best cruise ship waterslides and watery fun zones

MSN has partnered with The Points Guy for our coverage of credit card products. MSN and The Points Guy may receive a commission from card issuers.

Call it the Battle of the Waterslides.

In the last few years, the big boys of the cruise industry — Royal Caribbean , MSC Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line — have been locked in a game of one-upmanship when it comes to waterslides and watery fun zones on vessels.

In addition to such over-the-top, new attractions as go-kart tracks and roller coasters , the brands behind the biggest megaresorts at sea have been packing the top decks of their vessels with even more over-the-top watery allures.

For more cruise guides, news and reviews, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

Royal Caribbean, for instance, added an 800-foot-long “water coaster” to the back of its 3,386-passenger Navigator of the Seas just a few years ago. It’s one of more than two dozen giant waterslides the line has added to more than half a dozen ships in the last seven years.

Royal Caribbean also plans a record six waterslides on its next new ship, Icon of the Seas, which is scheduled to debut in January 2024.

But as recently as early 2016, Royal Caribbean didn’t have a single waterslide on any of its vessels.

MSC Cruises also has gone big with giant water parks in the past seven years, with as many as four waterslides on more than half a dozen of its newest vessels. Norwegian has loaded up its most recent ships with giant water parks, too — some have as many as five waterslides!

Not to be outdone, Carnival, an early adopter of waterslides on ships, has added sprawling water park areas with multiple waterslides to almost every vessel in its fleet.

A brief history of water attractions at sea

In the beginning, there was the pool. As watery cruise ship attractions go, it has long been the staple — something found on nearly every cruise vessel going back to the 1970s.

But as early as 1978, at least one line was spicing up its Lido decks with a little waterslide fun — little being the operative word. That’s the year Carnival added a single slide into the pool on its 728-passenger Festivale — a slide so small it’s now hilarious to think it was touted as an attraction.

Often cited as the first waterslide ever on a cruise vessel, the Festivale slide was of a sort that was found at backyard pools at the time. The cruise industry was still in its infancy, of course, and ships were orders of magnitude smaller than they are today. Festivale measured just 32,697 tons, about one-seventh the size of today’s biggest cruise vessels.

Carnival, the so-called Fun Ship line, would go on to become the early leader in waterslides at sea. The 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy, which debuted in 1990, was the first cruise ship with a significant waterslide. It measured 115 feet in length.

Related: A beginner’s guide to picking a cruise line

Just six years later, in 1996, Carnival would make news with the unveiling of a 214-foot-long corkscrew waterslide on what then was called Destiny. (The ship currently sails as the Carnival Sunshine after being rebuilt in 2013.) At the time, Destiny was the biggest cruise ship in the world.

In more recent years, Carnival has gone into waterslide-building overdrive. The line has added full-blown water park areas with waterslides, watery play zones and other features to all but four of its 25 ships. All but one of Carnival’s ships (Carnival Luminosa) now have at least one waterslide.

One of the Carnival water parks, on the line’s 5-year-old Carnival Horizon, even has Disney-style theming revolving around Dr. Seuss characters.

Norwegian, MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean only began going big with waterslides on ships in the past decade or so. Many of the newest vessels from the brands have massive water park areas. Some of the brands are retrofitting big waterslides onto older ships, too.

Additionally, family-focused Disney Cruise Line now has major water attractions on all its vessels.

Where you’ll find the biggest waterslides at sea

If your idea of the perfect cruise ship is one loaded to the gills with waterslides and watery fun zones (plus all sorts of other over-the-top attractions), you’ll want to stick to the biggest floating megaresorts operated by Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC Cruises and Carnival.

At Royal Caribbean, that means the giant Oasis-class vessels , which include Wonder of the Seas — the world’s largest cruise ship. At Norwegian, you’ll find the biggest waterslides and water parks on the line’s relatively recently built Breakaway Plus-, Breakaway- and Epic-class ships. At MSC Cruises, the new Seaside-, Meraviglia-, Meraviglia Plus- and World-class vessels have the line’s big water parks.

Big lines that have steered clear of the water-park-at-sea trend include Princess Cruises, Holland America and Celebrity Cruises. Geared more toward couples than families and typically drawing an older demographic, all three of these lines have stuck to a more subdued feel for the outdoor areas of their ships. The top decks of vessels operated by Princess, Holland America and Celebrity still mostly revolve around traditional swimming areas with pools, hot tubs and lounge chairs.

Ready for a splashy, top-deck thrill? These are the most spectacular watery attractions at sea.

The Perfect Storm

Where you’ll find it: Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas.

This isn’t just one giant waterslide; it’s a whole complex of waterslides, each one among the most exciting you’ll find anywhere on the world’s oceans.

The Perfect Storm is found on four of Royal Caribbean’s massive Oasis-class vessels — Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas — as well as the smaller Liberty of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas. The complex includes two four-deck-high racer slides called Cyclone and Typhoon, where you can do side-by-side speed tests with your travel partner.

On the four Oasis-class ships, there’s also a third, Champagne bowl-style slide called Supercell. It’ll swirl you around a big basin before plummeting you “down the drain” into a plunge pool. On Liberty of the Seas, a third slide called The Tidal Wave sends you screaming down a steep hill on an inner tube to a nearly vertical incline. Zooming upward, topping out and dropping back, you’ll get a blissful moment of complete weightlessness.

Note that Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas also has a waterslide area called Perfect Storm — but it’s completely different. More on that in a moment.

The Blaster

Where you’ll find it: Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas.

The Blaster is the Big Daddy of waterslides at sea. At 800 feet, it’s the longest ever built on a cruise ship. Added to Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas in 2019, it’s a seemingly endless stretch of yellow and orange tubing that winds around the back deck of the vessel like a snake.

A true sight to behold, The Blaster is so long because it’s what’s known as a water coaster. It features water jets that propel you up, down and forward — extending the ride — as you careen around the ship’s basketball court and surfing simulator in an inner tube. At times, you go flying over the side of the ship, over open water (not that you have much time to take in the view).

Royal Caribbean has named the area on Navigator of the Seas where The Blaster is located the Perfect Storm — the same name used for waterslide areas on six other ships — but the area is completely different than what you’ll find on the other vessels. In addition to The Blaster, the Perfect Storm area on Navigator of the Seas includes a headfirst mat racer slide called Riptide — the first of its kind at sea.

Where you’ll find it: Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream.

Leave it to family-focused Disney Cruise Line to come up with the coolest watery family attraction at sea. AquaDuck is a water coaster, like The Blaster on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas, and is found on Disney’s two Dream-class ships. But don’t expect anything too white-knuckle. The ride is relatively gentle by water park standards, mainly because it’s designed for kids of all ages (and their parents, who can ride along on inner tubes for two).

While AquaDuck is slightly shorter than The Blaster at 765 feet in length, it has a bigger presence, thanks to its prime location encircling the main pool area. If you’re lounging up top, it’s hard to miss the massive, clear acrylic tubing of the ride, which is held up by 46 giant white stilts.

In addition to AquaDuck, the two Disney ships with the attraction (Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream ) have a relatively small, kid-friendly waterslide next to the centrally located Mickey’s Pool. Dubbed Mickey’s Slide, it’s held up by a giant Mickey hand, which is delightful. Both ships also have a watery play zone for toddlers called Nemo’s Reef. Plus, Disney Fantasy has a watery fun zone with water jets, geysers and bubblers called AquaLab.

Note that Disney’s newest ship — Disney Wish — has a water coaster attraction similar to the AquaDuck called the AquaMouse. The big difference: Riders will see animated shorts while riding up the ramp at the start of the ride.

Carnival WaterWorks

Where you’ll find it: Nearly all Carnival ships.

When it comes to waterslides on ships, cruise giant Carnival is still the undisputed king. The Fun Ship line began adding them to vessels way back in 1978, and there’s now at least one waterslide on every ship in the Carnival fleet — something no other line can say.

Indeed, on all Carnival ships, there’s now not just a single waterslide but a whole water park area. Called WaterWorks, these areas vary in size and features from vessel to vessel, but they typically have one or two big waterslides, a watery play zone with interactive water features and a large continuously filling dump bucket that periodically soaks everybody within range.

You’ll typically find the biggest Carnival water park complexes on the newest Carnival ships, such as Mardi Gras , Celebration and Carnival Venezia . All three have three waterslides — one more than most Carnival ships.

Aqua Park (Norwegian Cruise Line)

Where you’ll find it: Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore.

Norwegian Cruise Line began going big with waterslides in 2010 when it debuted Norwegian Epic. And boy, did it go big! Norwegian Epic offers three monster waterslides, including the thrilling Epic Plunge — a 200-foot-long tube ride that ends in a swirling bowl. Epic Plunge is part of Norwegian Epic’s Aqua Park, the first water park on a Norwegian ship. Norwegian has since added Aqua Parks to six more new vessels, including its biggest ship, the 4-year-old Norwegian Encore .

Norwegian’s Aqua Parks vary in size and attractions from ship to ship, but some of them, such as the one on Norwegian Breakaway, have as many as five separate multistory waterslides. Yes, you read that right: Five waterslides on a single cruise ship!

On Norwegian Breakaway, the lineup includes twin free-fall slides that drop passengers nearly straight down several stories; two side-by-side twisting racer slides; and a family-friendly slide with a more modest drop. For sheer variety, the complex is hard to beat.

Aqua Park (MSC Cruises)

Where you’ll find it: MSC Seascape, MSC Seashore, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Euribia, MSC World Europa.

Fast-growing MSC Cruises has joined the waterslide wars in the last few years — and in a massive way. Each of the 10 ships the line has unveiled since 2017 offers a full-blown water park on its top deck that’s packed with waterslides and other watery fun.

On North America-based MSC Seaside, the Aqua Park has four waterslides and a children’s play area with interactive water features. The waterslides include two massive, 525-foot-long dueling slides that extend over the sides of the ship. The top of the Aqua Park on MSC Seaside is also home to the liftoff point for a zip line that soars 344 feet across the top of the vessel.

Other MSC Cruises water parks at sea include the winter-themed Polar Aqua Park on MSC Meraviglia, which offers a suspended-in-the-sky ropes course in addition to four waterslides. There’s also the Aquaplay area for the little ones.

A handful of ships even have virtual reality waterslides that involve riders wearing virtual reality headsets as part of the experience.

In all, 14 of MSC Cruises’ 22 vessels now have at least one waterslide on their top decks.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.