Cruise & Ferry Interiors 2021

1 0 2 Carnival worked closely with Mardi Gras’ designers on its Grand Central Atrium that was built into the side of the ship DES IGN PERSPECTI VE It’s this type of interaction that creates a unique bond between our entertainers and guests and really sets us apart from other cruise lines. Given that the seats are movable, the Liquid Lounge space can be used for a multitude of activities both day and night. Whenever we’re building a new ship or refurbishing an existing vessel, all departments, including entertainment, are asked to present a ‘wish list’ of their ideal features for the ship. From the entertainment side, this includes everything from the physical spaces to the technology that is currently available (sometimes this technology has never been employed on a cruise ship). For example, we worked closely with Mardi Gras’ designers on the entertainment aspects of a groundbreaking atrium design called Grand Central that was built into the side of the ship with a stage backed by 3,000-square-foot LED panels where we are presenting different shows each night. The results are simply stunning, and we can’t wait for our guests to see for themselves all that Grand Central has to offer. Our guests love comedy – we host upwards of 25,000 shows a year, the most on land or at sea – and we were also able to work with the designers to create two comedy clubs onboard, making Mardi Gras the first cruise ship to do so. The same consultation also works with refurbished ships as we have retrofitted ships with new entertainment technology and, in some cases, built brand new entertainment venues. Space is always at a premium on a cruise ship, but I think our designers have done an amazing job with the Grand Central Atrium on the new Mardi Gras. It is truly a transformative space – during the day it’s ideal for sipping a coffee or savouring a light snack while guests enjoy panoramic views of the ocean via large picture windows overlooking the ocean. Then at night, it comes alive with awe-inspiring shows specifically created for Mardi Gras that incorporate talented performers with 16 interactive LED panels. There’s nothing else like it at sea. CFI Chris Nelson is vice president of entertainment at Carnival Cruise Line