Carnival Sensation Undergoes Major Refurbishment

Carnival Cruise Lines’ 2,052-passenger Carnival Sensation has undergone a multi-million-dollar renovation and emerged with a new water park, an adults-only retreat and a redesigned tropical themed main pool. Ninety-eight balconies were also incorporated onto existing ocean-view staterooms and a new Circle C facility for 12- to 14-year-olds was added as well.

The extensive renovation, which took place during a 35-day dry-dock, is part of Carnival’s “Evolutions of Fun” refurbishment program for the line’s eight Fantasy-class vessels. Carnival Sensation is the fourth ship to receive the upgrades, joining the Carnival Imagination, Carnival Inspiration and Carnival Fantasy.

The four remaining Fantasy-class ships will be refurbished over the next few years. Carnival Sensation resumed its year-round three- and four-day Bahamas cruise program from Port Canaveral last week. Three-day cruises depart Thursdays and visit Nassau while four-day voyages depart Sundays and call at Freeport and Nassau.

A highlight of the upgrades is Carnival WaterWorks, an aqua park designed to appeal to guests of all ages. Towering over Verandah Deck, the open-air facility includes a 300-foot-long water slide, twin 82-foot-long racing slides and water spray apparatus.

Another signature element is the redesigned main pool area. Located mid-ship on Lido Deck, the area has a resort-style ambience, with colorful, oversized umbrellas, thatched roofing, vibrant tile work and other tropical-themed design elements. Also new on Carnival Sensation is Serenity, an adults-only retreat located aft on Promenade Deck. Serenity offers plush chaise lounges and chairs, and two large whirlpools.

Shade is provided by oversized umbrellas, along with an area covered by thatched roofing. Within Serenity, guests can enjoy a wide range of cocktails and frozen drinks or dine at the nearby casual Seaview restaurant.

Ninety-eight existing ocean-view staterooms have been retrofitted with balconies, creating new cabins measuring approximately 230 square feet. Twenty-four of the new balcony cabins are located mid-ship, 12 are located near the stern, and the other 62 are located aft, with several of these accommodations featuring extended balconies.