Carnival Cruise Line announced today that the line’s second Vista-class ship will be named Carnival Horizon, scheduled to be delivered in March 2018.  We could stop right there with the announcement, let you wonder why all of the sudden we’re covering news here and move along.  But there is more to this story.

“The name Carnival Horizon not only reflects the ship’s unique connection with the sea with so many spectacular indoor and outdoor spaces but also the boundless array of options that guests of all ages are sure to enjoy,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

Currently under construction at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Marghera, Italy, 133,500-ton Carnival Horizon will be the line’s second Vista-class ship.  The first ship in the series,  Carnival Vista,  entered service in May 2016.

Carnival Horizon will offer many of the options available on Carnival Vista including SkyRide, the IMAX Theatre, WaterWorks aqua park, Seuss at Sea program in partnership with Dr. Seuss Enterprises and Alchemy Bar.  Not exactly a twin sister, Carnival Horizon will also offer a number of (secret) new innovations unique to this vessel.

What has been announced is good news. To be included: the popular Havana staterooms and extra-roomy Family Harbor cabins.

The Theory Behind The Carnival Horizon Name

Carnival Horizon’s name and layout is set to ‘inspire guests to discover extraordinary views, new perspectives and amazing experiences’.  On the surface that might sound like more of the standard marketing spin.  It’s what we commonly hear from big ship cruise lines launching new ships.

But wait.

When Carnival Vista was first announced, that first in the series ship was promoted as one that would ‘connect guests to the ocean. Carnival Vista was promoted as  having abundant venues accessible from both inside the ship and from exterior deck spaces.  The reality of Carnival Vista?  The end product was every bit of what was promised and more.  Venues ranging from eateries to shops opening on to a wraparound Promenade deck.

Carnival Horizon: Fun From The Beginning

Carnival is hosting a fun social media contest on Instagram that will award a stateroom for up to four people when the ship debuts in 2018.

“… in keeping with our reputation for bringing fun and enjoyment to our guests and fans,  we’ve come up with an engaging social media contest encouraging the sharing of your favorite Horizon photos,” added Duffy.

To enter, post your favorite photo of a horizon and tag @Carnival and use the hashtag #CarnivalHorizonSweepstakes to enter to win the cruise giveaway. The contest will begin July 29, and run through July 31, at 11:59 p.m.

Homeport and itinerary details for Carnival Horizon will be announced at a later date.
SEE MORE: Want to get an idea of what Carnival Horizon might look like?     Check our USAToday Carnival Vista First Look Gallery