Carnival Cruise Line’s Bolt: Ultimate Sea Coaster has once again earned the distinction of the Best Cruise Ship Feature of 2025. This exhilarating ride on board has not only been the winner for the past five years in a row but also has been able to get the goodwill of cruise passengers and among the Cruise Hive Awards. Receiving the votes of 22.9 percent of the total voters, it was the year’s most wanted feature, and thus, Bolt has shown that it is not just a revolutionary idea but a constant favorite as well.
A Roller Coaster Like No Other
First introduced on Carnival’s Mardi Gras in 2021, the Bolt Roller Coaster was a groundbreaking addition to the world of cruise ships. It was the first-ever roller coaster at sea, offering a thrilling ride experience that combines the excitement of a traditional amusement park roller coaster with the unique challenge of being built aboard a moving vessel.
Built by German manufacturer Maurer Rides, the Bolt coaster boasts impressive statistics. Measuring 721 feet in length and rising 187 feet above the sea level, it delivers a heart-pounding adventure, including two floater hills for that coveted airtime. With an acceleration of 1.2 Gs and a rider capacity of 190 per hour, the ride is as intense as it is popular.
Despite the challenges of constructing a roller coaster on a cruise ship, Carnival’s engineers have pulled off a thrilling experience that lives up to the excitement of its land-based counterparts. With the whale tail funnel as a backdrop, the track twists and turns, providing riders with spectacular ocean views that make the ride even more memorable.
The Ultimate Ride at Sea
For cruise enthusiasts, the Bolt roller coaster is more than just an attraction; it’s an experience that elevates the entire journey. Riders have the unique opportunity to control their speed, adding an element of personal thrill to each ride. By twisting a grip, passengers can opt for a boost, increasing the intensity of the ride. This added layer of control has made Bolt particularly appealing to thrill-seekers who enjoy pushing the limits of speed while surrounded by breathtaking ocean views.
As the first roller coaster ever installed on a cruise ship, Bolt has become a signature feature aboard all three of Carnival’s Excel-class ships: Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee. Guests aboard these vessels have flocked to the ride, making it a staple of Carnival’s reputation for innovation and fun at sea.
Bolt’s Reign: A Five-Year Streak
This is the fifth consecutive year that Bolt: Ultimate Sea Coaster has been crowned as the Best Cruise Ship Feature. Having first debuted in 2021, the ride has received top honours in each year since its inception, an incredible achievement in an industry where features often change and evolve with new ship designs. The consistent recognition of Bolt by guests and cruisers around the world speaks volumes about its enduring popularity and the impact it has had on the cruise experience.
The fact that Bolt has maintained its status over the years speaks to the ride’s innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and guest satisfaction. As more cruise lines look to innovate and enhance their offerings, Bolt has set the bar high, proving that fun, excitement, and technology can combine in ways never seen before on the open seas.
What’s Next for Bolt and Carnival’s Future Ships?
While Bolt has cemented its place as the best cruise ship feature of 2025, Carnival Cruise Line has made a significant announcement regarding future vessels. The two new Excel-class ships, Carnival Festivale and Carnival Tropicale, currently under construction, will not feature Bolt. Instead, these ships will boast the much larger and more expansive Carnival WaterWorks Ultra, a massive waterpark set to elevate Carnival’s commitment to family fun and relaxation on board.
This shift in focus reflects Carnival’s ongoing efforts to diversify its attractions and create more options for guests of all ages. The new waterpark promises to bring even more excitement and thrills, ensuring that Carnival continues to lead the way in innovative cruise experiences.
Guest Guidelines and Thrills Await
While Bolt’s popularity continues to soar, it’s important to note that not all guests are eligible to ride. To ensure the safety of all passengers, riders must be at least 52 inches tall to board the roller coaster, with a maximum height limit of 77 inches (6’5″). Additionally, there are weight restrictions, with a 300-pound limit per person and a combined weight of 440 pounds for two riders sharing a vehicle.
Despite these limitations, the excitement surrounding Bolt remains palpable, as it offers a thrilling escape for many guests seeking an adrenaline rush. Whether cruising through the Caribbean or along the coastlines of Europe, Bolt ensures that every rider experiences a one-of-a-kind adventure that only Carnival can deliver.
A Unique Draw for Carnival Cruise Guests
Bolt has undoubtedly become more than just a ride; it has become a signature attraction for Carnival Cruise Line. As the first-ever roller coaster at sea, it stands as a testament to Carnival’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible at sea. Its continued popularity reinforces the fact that passengers are looking for new and exciting ways to make their cruises unforgettable, and Carnival has responded with a thrilling and innovative experience that has earned the admiration of cruisers worldwide.
It is advised that guests interested in Bolt, or who want to book a Carnival cruise, go to the Carnival website for the most up-to-date information and to see all the exciting things that will be available on Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee.
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