Cruises have evolved from simple ocean voyages to floating mega-resorts, and one of the biggest draws these days is the incredible water slide action.
If you’re anything like me, the thought of speeding down a twisty slide into a cool pool is a big part of the holiday appeal. Forget just lounging by the pool; now you can get your adrenaline fix right on the top deck!
So, let’s dive into the best cruise ships for those of us who love a good splash.
A Brief History of Water Fun at Sea
It wasn't always about heart-stopping drops and swirling tunnels. In the early days of cruising, a simple swimming pool was considered a big deal. Back in the 1970s, cruise ships were much smaller, and the idea of a water park at sea was just a dream. But, as the industry grew, so did the ambition.
Carnival Cruise Line was one of the first to see the potential of adding slides, putting a small slide on their ship Festivale in 1978. This was a simple backyard-pool style slide, but it was the beginning of something big.
By the 1990s, they introduced the Carnival Fantasy, which had a 115-foot-long slide, which was considered huge at the time. Then, in 1996, they unveiled a 214-foot corkscrew slide on the Destiny, now known as the Carnival Sunshine.
In the past decade, other big names like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises also went all-in on water parks, adding ever more impressive slides to their ships. Today, you'll find cruise ships with sprawling water parks, packed with slides, splash zones and more.
Top Cruise Ships for Water Slide Lovers
If you're serious about waterslides, you need to know the best ships to book. Here are some of the standouts for aquatic fun:
Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas
This ship takes the crown for the most waterslides at sea, with a whopping six slides as part of its Category 6 water park. This isn't just a few slides; every single one of them sets a record, either for its type or for being unique to ships.
The Frightening Bolt is the tallest drop slide at sea, while the Pressure Drop is the first open free-fall slide at sea. There are also mat racing slides, family raft slides and more. If you're looking for the ultimate water park experience, Icon of the Seas is where it’s at.
Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas
This ship is home to the longest water slide at sea, The Blaster, an incredible 800-foot water coaster. This isn’t your average slide; it has water jets that propel you up, down, and forward, making it feel more like a rollercoaster than a simple slide. You’ll twist and turn around the ship's back deck, even going over the side at times, and often doing this in a raft with a friend. On top of that, it also features the Riptide, a head-first mat racer.
Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class Ships (Wonder, Harmony, Symphony and Oasis of the Seas)
The Oasis Class ships feature the impressive Perfect Storm complex. This isn't just one slide; it's a whole area with multiple thrilling options. The complex includes two four-deck-high racing slides called Typhoon and Cyclone, where you can race your friends. There is also the Supercell which swirls you around a bowl before dropping you into the pool.
Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Encore
The Norwegian Encore boasts a large Aqua Park with two multi-story waterslides, as well as racing slides and the exciting Ocean Loops slide that extends out over the side of the ship. This is a double loop slide which even has transparent sections so you get a great view. There are smaller slides for kids, a splash area, and water cannons to make sure everyone has a blast.
Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Breakaway and Getaway
These ships have the incredibly fast Free Fall slide, a dual-slide where the floor drops from beneath you, and you go down a nearly vertical drop. It includes a loop at the bottom to slow you down, and you'll experience a massive g-force. There are also twisting racer slides and a more family-friendly slide with a gentler drop.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Epic
The Norwegian Epic was one of the first ships to go big on water parks, and its Aqua Park is still very impressive. It includes the Epic Plunge, a 200-foot-long ride that ends in a large swirling bowl. This is a fun one that you can ride with or without an inner tube.
Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras, Celebration, Jubilee and Venezia
These newer ships have the biggest WaterWorks areas with three massive spiralling water slides, plus racing slides, and a big dumping bucket. On the Mardi Gras, for instance, you'll find the Blue Lightning and Orange Thunder slides with high-speed turns and drops. The Twister is also a big hit.
Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Vista
The Carnival Vista features the Twister Waterslide, a favourite for its fast and wet ride. It also has the Kaleid-o-slide, where you experience a colourful and immersive ride. There are also other features like the DrainPipe and PowerDrencher. The water park on this ship is guaranteed to get you soaked!
Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Sunshine
This ship offers the Speedway Splash, a 334-foot-long slide that starts four stories up, with amazing sea views as you slide down. The Carnival Spirit has the Green Thunder, known for being one of the steepest and fastest slides, with a near-vertical drop.
MSC Cruises’ MSC Seaside
This ship boasts the Forest Aquaventure Park with five slides and a children’s play area, as well as 525-foot-long duelling slides. The park is an extensive water play area for all ages, with a zip line soaring across the top deck.
MSC Cruises' MSC Meraviglia
The MSC Meraviglia has a winter-themed Polar Aqua Park, and an Aquaplay area for kids. There's also a ropes course that is suspended in the sky. Many of MSC’s other ships have multiple slides including the MSC Seaview with five slides, and the MSC World Europa, which has virtual reality waterslides.
Disney Cruise Line's Disney Dream and Fantasy
These ships both have the AquaDuck, a unique 765-foot-long water coaster. It’s a family-friendly ride with a gentle pace, designed to be enjoyable for all ages. It circles around the main pool, making it a central part of the ship. There are also smaller slides like Mickey’s Slide and play zones for toddlers.
Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Wish and Treasure
These ships have the AquaMouse, another family-friendly water coaster. Riders can view animated Disney shorts as they go around the ride. The AquaMouse is similar to the AquaDuck but with added visual elements.
Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Magic
This ship has the AquaDunk, which begins with a steep drop before going into a clear tube over the side of the ship. This 212-foot ride was added during a renovation in 2013.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Water Slide Time
Okay, so you've picked your ship, now it’s time to get ready for some action. Here are some tips to make sure you have the best time:
- Know the Peak Times: Like any popular attraction, water slides get busy. Try to hit the slides early in the morning or during meal times to avoid long queues. Mid-afternoon is generally the busiest.
- Safety First: Always follow the safety guidelines posted at each slide. Pay attention to height and weight restrictions. Some slides have very specific rules, so it's better to be safe than sorry.
- Buddy Up: Use a buddy system, especially if you’re travelling with kids. Make sure everyone is paired up and looking out for each other.
- Get the Gear: A waterproof phone case is essential if you want to capture photos or videos. Water shoes are also a good idea as they provide extra grip.
- Pack Smart: Bring multiple swimsuits so you always have a dry one. Quick-drying clothing and sunscreen are essential for staying comfortable. It's also helpful to have a water bottle and snacks on hand.
Why Water Slides Matter
Water slides are more than just a fun feature on a cruise ship; they've become a key part of the overall experience. They add a layer of excitement and adventure that appeals to all ages. They allow you to enjoy the thrill of a water park, all while sailing through beautiful oceans. From family-friendly rides to white-knuckle drops, cruise ship water slides have really upped the game for aquatic entertainment.
Whether you are a thrill-seeker or you are looking for a gentle ride, there is something for everyone. The ships highlighted in this article offer some of the best water attractions at sea, and I encourage you to consider them when planning your next cruise.
Book A Cruise with Water Slides Today!
So, there you have it – the ultimate guide to cruise ships with water slides. Whether you’re planning a family holiday or a solo adventure, these floating water parks will give you thrills and memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to make a splash on your next cruise vacation.
