Carnival Horizon: Your Guide to a High-Tech, Fun-Filled Cruise Experience

Getting to know Carnival Horizon

Carnival Horizon is one of the standout ships in Carnival Cruise Line’s “Vista” class, featuring advanced amenities and a modern design that makes it perfect for families, couples, and groups seeking a fun-filled vacation at sea. Launched in 2018, Carnival Horizon blends the best of Carnival’s signature playful atmosphere with some truly unique amenities, creating a floating resort experience that appeals to travelers of all kinds. Known for its tech-forward features, exciting dining options, and expansive entertainment areas, Horizon is more than just a cruise ship – it’s a vacation destination in itself.

As one of the newest additions to Carnival’s fleet, Carnival Horizon is designed to elevate the cruise experience with state-of-the-art attractions like an IMAX theater, a SkyRide, and family-focused accommodations. If you’re looking for a getaway that combines adventure, relaxation, and Carnival’s famous “fun” factor, here’s everything you need to know about this unique ship.

Ship Overview and Key Features

Carnival Horizon is a large, impressive vessel that can accommodate over 3,900 passengers. At 1,055 feet long, it’s part of Carnival’s Vista class, which emphasizes innovation, modern design, and diverse amenities that appeal to a wide range of travelers. Horizon is designed with a distinctive layout, featuring open, airy spaces that connect indoor areas with the sea through floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor seating areas. This design allows guests to enjoy scenic ocean views and a breezy, resort-like atmosphere.

Some of Carnival Horizon’s most distinctive features include:

- IMAX Theater and Thrill Theater

   Carnival Horizon is the first ship in the fleet to feature an IMAX theater, offering guests the chance to watch blockbuster movies on a three-story screen. For an even more immersive experience, the Thrill Theater provides 4D effects, making it a hit with both families and thrill-seekers.

- Havana Area

   For guests seeking a touch of the Caribbean, the Havana area offers a distinct Cuban-inspired ambiance. This area includes private pool access, cozy lounge areas, and colorful decor inspired by Havana. Only accessible to Havana stateroom guests during the day, it provides an exclusive retreat with a relaxed, tropical vibe.

With its blend of high-tech entertainment, unique attractions, and open spaces, Carnival Horizon is designed to deliver a memorable cruise experience that caters to all ages and interests.

Dining Experiences

Carnival Horizon brings an impressive array of dining options, from specialty restaurants to casual eateries, catering to all tastes and dietary preferences. With both fine dining venues and quick-bite spots, Horizon ensures every meal is memorable and adds a unique flavor to the cruising experience.

1. Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse | Brewhouse

   A standout venue on Carnival Horizon, this smokehouse and brewhouse combination offers an authentic barbecue experience with slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and mouthwatering sides created by celebrity chef Guy Fieri. The brewhouse serves craft beers brewed right on board, making it a hit among barbecue and beer lovers.

2. Bonsai Teppanyaki and Bonsai Sushi

   Bonsai Teppanyaki is Carnival’s first teppanyaki-style restaurant, offering an interactive dining experience where chefs prepare fresh seafood, steak, and veggies right at the table. Bonsai Sushi, located nearby, provides a casual setting with fresh sushi, sashimi, and Japanese-inspired dishes. Together, these venues offer an exceptional Japanese dining experience with entertainment built right in.

3. Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse

   For an upscale dining option, Fahrenheit 555 offers premium cuts of steak, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list. Known for its elegant ambiance and attentive service, this steakhouse is ideal for a special night out or celebrating a special occasion at sea.

4. Ji Ji Asian Kitchen and Cucina del Capitano

   For international flavors, Ji Ji Asian Kitchen serves Asian-inspired dishes, from sweet and spicy to savory. Meanwhile, Cucina del Capitano provides classic Italian fare in a cozy, family-style setting. Each restaurant offers a unique cultural experience with authentic flavors that transport diners to far-off places.

5. Lido Marketplace

   This buffet-style marketplace offers a wide range of dishes throughout the day, from fresh salads to comfort foods and international cuisine. It’s perfect for guests who want to grab a quick meal while enjoying a variety of flavors.

6. Casual Dining Options

   Carnival Horizon’s casual options include Guy’s Burger Joint, where guests can enjoy chef Guy Fieri’s signature burgers, and BlueIguana Cantina, a vibrant spot for tacos and burritos with a customizable salsa bar. These casual eateries allow guests to enjoy great food without the formality of a sit-down meal.

With such diverse dining venues, Carnival Horizon ensures that guests can explore new flavors, enjoy classic favorites, and satisfy every craving during their cruise.

Entertainment and Activities

Carnival Horizon goes above and beyond to entertain guests of all ages with a wide range of activities and entertainment options that keep the excitement alive both day and night.

1. SkyRide

   One of Horizon’s signature attractions, the SkyRide offers an exhilarating experience where guests can pedal along a suspended track high above the deck. It’s a great way to enjoy the sea breeze, take in panoramic ocean views, and add a little adventure to your day.

2. WaterWorks Aqua Park

   With colorful waterslides, splash zones, and the PowerDrencher tipping bucket, WaterWorks is a popular area for both kids and adults looking to cool off and have fun in the water. The Twister and Kaleid-O-Slide water slides provide thrills for those looking for a bit of excitement.

3. IMAX Theater and Thrill Theater

   Carnival Horizon is one of the few cruise ships to feature an IMAX theater, offering a larger-than-life movie experience at sea. With the latest blockbusters and nature documentaries, guests can enjoy high-definition viewing on a massive screen. For more thrills, the Thrill Theater adds 4D effects to classic films, making it a must-visit for families and movie buffs.

4. Family-Friendly Fun and Dr. Seuss at Sea

   Horizon’s family-friendly activities include the Dr. Seuss at Sea program, where children can enjoy Seuss-themed activities, including character parades, storytime, and a Green Eggs and Ham breakfast. Carnival also offers Camp Ocean, Circle “C,” and Club O2, which are age-specific programs for kids and teens that provide a variety of supervised activities.

5. Serenity Adult-Only Retreat

   For those seeking a quieter atmosphere, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat offers a tranquil escape with comfy lounge chairs, hot tubs, and a peaceful ocean view. Exclusively for guests aged 21 and over, Serenity is a great place to relax away from the bustling activity on the main decks.

6. Nightlife and Casino

   When the sun goes down, Carnival Horizon comes alive with nightlife options, including a casino with slots and table games, as well as live music, comedy shows, and nightclubs. The Punchliner Comedy Club offers both family-friendly and adult-only shows, while the Havana Bar and Liquid Lounge provide a lively atmosphere with Latin-inspired music and dancing.

With such a wide range of activities and entertainment, Carnival Horizon ensures every guest finds something that suits their mood and interests, creating a fun, dynamic environment at sea.