With new eco-friendly ships entering service, larger vessels being built each year and ever-more ambitious itineraries added to popular lines, Carnival Cruise Line’s new ship Mardi Gras, debuting in 2020, is generating a lot of excitement. Families in particular will be drawn to a unique onboard attraction: the first roller coaster at sea.
Called BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster, this one-of-a-kind ride was developed through a partnership between Carnival and Munich-based Maurer Rides. Stretching almost 800 feet along the ship’s upper decks, BOLT delivers a sequence of fast turns, tight twists and exhilarating drops designed to thrill riders while cruising on the open ocean.
Top speeds reach about 40 mph—less than some land coasters but still plenty exciting when experienced at sea, with wind and wide open water adding to the sensation.
BOLT also stands out as an all-electric roller coaster, setting a new standard for sustainable onboard attractions. The ride accommodates two riders per vehicle in a motorcycle-style seating arrangement, and the track climbs to a height of roughly 187 feet above sea level. Besides the adrenaline rush, riders get brief panoramic views of the ship and surrounding seascape before and between the coaster’s runs, a perspective that combines the thrill of a coaster with the unique vantage point of being at sea.
By integrating innovative, guest-focused attractions like BOLT with more environmentally conscious ship design, Carnival aims to broaden the onboard experience for families and thrill-seekers while responding to growing demand for greener cruising options. Mardi Gras and its headline feature illustrate how modern cruise ships are blending entertainment, technology and sustainability to appeal to a wide range of travelers.