Carnival Corporation is transforming the cruise experience with a new guest service called Ocean Medallion. This small Bluetooth-enabled disc replaces traditional plastic key cards on upcoming ships and adds a range of personalized, convenient features.
John Padgett, Carnival’s chief experience and innovation officer since 2013 and the designer behind Disney’s MagicBand, developed the Ocean Medallion concept. Like the MagicBand, the Medallion functions as a seamless wearable that enhances the guest experience.
Beyond quick and secure stateroom access, the Medallion enables onboard payments, improves security, and personalizes service by learning guest preferences for dining, drinks, excursions, activities and shopping. As guests use services and make choices, the system tailors recommendations and notifications to match their interests.
The technology relies on sensors throughout the ship that detect the Medallion’s Bluetooth signal. There’s no need to pair devices, tap readers, or press buttons. The wearable can be worn as a bracelet or necklace, or simply carried in a pocket. It pairs with a mobile app called Ocean Compass, which securely stores guest preferences and enables many of the system’s smart features.
Ocean Medallion Class offers several practical conveniences: guests can order drinks for delivery to their location, pay without paper or cards, and receive timely recommendations. For example, Compass can suggest a cocktail as a guest walks past a bar or alert them when an activity matching their interests is about to start.
“We are in the business of providing our guests incredible vacation experiences that create memories that they will cherish for a lifetime,” said Jan Swartz, president of Princess Cruises. “Ocean Medallion Class will deliver an elevated cruise vacation experience by connecting people, places and cultures from around the world in a more profound way. The service Princess guests have always loved will be amplified by the Ocean Medallion.”
The Medallion is intentionally simple to use: there are no screens, menus, or on/off switches to manage. It acts like a personalized concierge that operates in the background, streamlining interactions and anticipating needs without added complexity.
The first brand to introduce the wearable will be Princess Cruises. The Ocean Medallion program debuts Nov. 12 on Regal Princess departing from Fort Lauderdale. The medallion is included in the cruise fare and can be mailed to guests before sailing or picked up at the pier.
