Mardi Gras at Sea

For anyone who thought cruising was a stale industry with no more tricks up its sleeve, you haven’t been paying attention. With new, eco-friendly ships rolling out, larger vessels built each year and more impressive itineraries added, Carnival Cruise Line’s new vessel Mardi Gras, debuting in 2020, is just another thing to watch for. Families especially will love its roller coaster, the first ever at sea.

Known as BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster, a fitting title as it’s the only sea coaster, Munich-based company Maurer Rides partnered with Carnival to create the nearly 800-foot-tall ride, featuring a slew of speeding turns, twists and heart-pounding drops. Maybe not speeding, but 40 mph at sea sounds like a pretty thrilling ride.

In addition to being the only ride of its kind, BOLT sets a new standard in the industry as an all-electric roller coaster. Two riders can sit at a time 9picture a motorcycle-style seat), while racing 187 feet above sea level on a track. While offering thrills for cruise guests and roller coaster fans, the ride also offers the unique experience to see the ship and its beautiful surroundings with a panoramic view — even if it is just for a few moments before the ride begins.

Perfect for riders and guests of all levels of adrenaline seeking, BOLT allows passengers to choose their own speed. This not only lends well to the more nervous roller coaster riders of the bunch, but also guarantees each ride is unique.

As the ride begins to accelerate, passengers feel the track turn on a pin and set into high-powered motion. Just like at the theme parks your family may be used to, passengers have photos taken on the ride and get to keep them after as a keepsake. Stick around at the end to see your speed posted for other riders to see and maybe even set up a friendly competition with the kids.

The term Mardi Gras is synonymous with party and outrageous fun, so guests will expect the vessel of the same name to be no different. Expected at Port Canaveral, Florida, by 2020, more details and highly anticipated features of Mardi Gras are still to be announced, so keep up with Carnival Cruise news to know more.