Mexican makeover for Carnival Spirit

A Carnival signature, BlueIguana Cantina will spice up Carnival Spirit’s mid-ship pool area with a range of tacos and burritos served with traditional toppings in a Mexican-style beach cantina. The neighbouring BlueIguana Tequila Bar will offer different varieties of tequila plus margaritas and Mexican beers.

The refit will also see Carnival Spirit welcome its first celebrity chef partnership, with Guy’s Burger Joint flipping out burgers hand-crafted for Carnival Cruise Lines by Californian chef Guy Fieri in an area featuring surfboards and car paraphernalia.

Other changes to Carnival Spirit will include a RedFrog Rum Bar and cocktails at the Alchemy Bar.

During the major refurbishment, scheduled for August 2015, the ship will also add an interactive EA Sports Bar featuring video games, daily tournaments, 16 flat screen televisions and two dozen local and imported beers, including the cruise line’s bespoke Australian-brewed Thirsty Frog summer ale.

The overhaul will include some fun additions that Australians will soon get a taste for on sister ship Carnival Legend, including Bonsai Sushi, RedFrog Pub and the Cherry on Top lolly shop, along with some new Playlist Productions with high-tech performances encompassing pop, soul and rock’n’roll.

Carnival Cruise Lines vp Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke said the dry dock would up the number of bars, lounges and dining options to 25 and she expected the Mexican additions in particular would create a ‘sizzle’.

Vandekreeke said, ‘Carnival Spirit is going to return to Australia jam-packed with delicious and fun features.’