Carnival's Mardi Gras Bolt

Carnival Cruise Line has revealed details on BOLT, its first roller coaster at sea, and the centrepiece of the Ultimate Playground - an expansive open-air recreation area on Mardi Gras, set to enter service in August 2020. The announcement was made at the annual International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Conference in Orlando by Carnival President Christine Duffy, who was joined by Carnival Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O’Neal.

BOLT’s all-electric, motorcycle-inspired vehicles will be adorned with metallic red and blue stripes and yellow lightning bolt. The vehicle will also feature a digital speedometer display and speakers with sound effects that will enhance the experience. Cameras will be located along the 800-foot track, as well as within the vehicle itself, providing riders with unique photo keepsakes as they take in 360-degree views and race 187 feet above the sea with drops, dips and hairpin turns achieving speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. Guests choose their own speed so no two rides will ever be the same.

“Whether guests want to get an adrenaline rush or take it slow and enjoy the breathtaking views, BOLT will have it all,” said Duffy. “Combining the most talented designers, technicians and attractions professionals in the industry, we’ve taken FUN to a whole new level with this amazing onboard experience that is also a true game changer in our industry.”

BOLT will be part of the Ultimate Playground, one of Mardi Gras’ six themed zones, spanning Decks 18 to 20 and home to the largest WaterWorks aqua park in the Carnival fleet featuring three unique slides designed for all-ages. Blue Lightning will offer 312 feet of high-speed twists and turns, while the 229ft-long Orange Thunder drop-down slide will propel guests into a wet ‘n wild splash zone. Carnival’s signature Twister slide encompasses 265 feet of thrills for all ages. Other features will include a ‘splash-tastic’ zone just for kids with a 150 gallon PowerDrencher tipping bucket and numerous water toys. The expanded SportSquare recreation complex features a 600ft-long suspended ropes course, the longest in the fleet; a nine-hole miniature golf course; a jogging track; outdoor fitness equipment; and a basketball court.