In the back and forth battle between cruise lines, Carnival has added another notch to its proverbial belt. The cruise line's newest ship, Carnival Vista, will debut with a first-at-sea IMAX theater when it sets sail in March 2016.
The ship, which will become the largest in Carnival's fleet at 135,500 gross tons, will feature an IMAX screen that's three decks high. Guests will be able to watch the latest Hollywood blockbusters in addition to IMAX classics and documentaries. Next door to the IMAX will be the Thrill Theater where moviegoers can take in a multi-dimensional special effects experience.
Both are part of what Carnival is calling the Multiplex. In true theater fashion, the venue will be outfitted with a concession stand offering popcorn and other movie snacks.
The IMAX at sea is just the latest in what's become a heavy push from the cruise industry to outfit their ships with some of the latest amenities and technologies. If you recall, Carnival unveiled a hybrid wireless network late last year that boosted connectivity speeds by a factor of 10.
Last year also saw the launch of rival Royal Caribbean's latest vessel, Quantum of the Seas. This floating marvel features a pair of robotic bartenders, NFC-enabled wristbands that let you book meals and entertainment on the fly, bumper cars, a skating rink, a skydiving simulator, a surfing simulator and a device called the North Star that lifts you 300 feet above sea level for an unprecedented view of the ocean below.