All aboard! Classic train stations and exotic ship terminals set the tone for The Gateway, a two-deck entertainment, dining and shopping neighborhood on Carnival Cruise Line’s Celebration, arriving this fall.
Located where the French Quarter is found on sister ship Mardi Gras, the new concept will include design and décor inspired by grand terminals, transportation stations and departure points around the world, Carnival revealed in a virtual press conference hosted by the line’s President Christine Duffy.
“The Gateway was created to celebrate the enriching experience we all feel when traveling – not only because of the destinations we travel to, but also the world of cultures we get to explore,” she said.
The zone will feature a promenade highlighted by 12 high-definition multimedia virtual windows displaying unique scenes. The virtual windows and a nearly 100 foot long LED ceiling will be complemented by show lighting and a state-of-the-art sound system to create an immersive experience throughout the zone.
By day, guests will be entertained with relaxing scenes like sunny skies, and by night, the zone will present themed presentations of travel around the world, including Europe, the Far East and Mexico.
The zone’s offerings will support the night’s theme – from the music and entertainment, to the drinks and food served.
For example, on Mexico Lindo night, the window displays and surrounding technology may take guests on a journey through ancient Mayan cities, beautiful beaches, lush jungles, or magical towns. Guests will enjoy themed offerings like special margaritas, palomas and agave tastings, accompanied by a specialty food item tied to the evening’s theme.
Or for Exploring South America night, as sunset views over the Amazon and Machu Picchu or a moon-lit Rio de Janeiro are featured, a Brazilian celebration will get everyone on their feet while they sip on Caipirinhas or Chilcanos and indulge in themed nibbles.
A new travel-inspired bar concept, Latitudes, will be reminiscent of a classic airport or train station with travel-themed chairs, menus and a mechanical split-flap display board, a modern take on the classic “departures” board that is being custom built by Oat Foundry in Philadelphia.
The zone also includes an already revealed bar and lounge, the Golden Jubilee, which celebrates Carnival’s 50 years of Fun Ships.
Restaurant features include a seagoing restaurant by Emeril Lagasse, whose Bistro 1396 is also found on Mardi Gras. On Carnival Celebration, Bistro 1397 (the number reflects the ship’s hull designation at the shipyard where it was built), will feature favorites from Mardi Gras like barbecue shrimp jambalaya and, new, the chef’s favorite international dishes.
The Gateway is the final zone to be revealed for Carnival Celebration, joining 820 Biscayne, Celebration Central, The Ultimate Playground, Summer Landing and the Lido. Celebration begins sailing Caribbean cruises from Miami in November.
