10 Mind-Blowing Cruise Ship Amenities

Carnival Cruise Line went all out when it installed a genuine IMAX Theatre on its Carnival Vista. For a subsidized ticket cost, guests can watch first-run films in the premier cinema format with enhanced video and audio quality. Plus, the feature will be reprised on 2018 sister-ship Carnival Horizon.

When Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Bliss debuts in Alaska this summer, it will have-of all things-a two-story electric-car race track on its upper decks. It's known how exciting this feature will be because a variation already exists on the Norwegian Joy sister-ship for the Chinese market (as speedily tested and pictured here).

Given the Regent Suite is its very own observation lounge-sized as wide as the public one below-it's easily the most palatial cruise ship suite ever. Only onboard Regent Seven Seas Cruises' Seven Seas Explorer, the accommodations stretch from one side of the ship to the other with a pair of balconies, private spa, solarium and so much more.

The reality is that observation venues with expansive windows are infrequently included on contemporary cruise ships. Thus, Viking Ocean Cruises' installation of an extensive double-decker Explorers' Lounge on its Viking Star and new sister-ships is a welcome change of pace to comfortably showcase more scenic views than ever before.

Not unlike the IMAX theatre aboard the Carnival Vista, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 showcased the Illuminations planetarium ahead of it but in resplendent art deco. Here, the genuine ocean liner's multipurpose venue includes a dome screen that descends from the ceiling to encircle the central audience in unique stellar video and surround sound.

Zip-lines on a cruise ship are not entirely new, but as lengthy 345-foot parallel racers on MSC Cruises' MSC Seaside, they are. Those spanning the central funnel to the vessel's stern make up quite a distance in the air for breathtaking thrills and views both in port and at sea.

Viking Ocean Cruises' sister-ships such as the Viking Star are some of the most soothing to begin with, and features like an infinity pool cantilevered over the stern make them even more so. Better yet, the suspended edge is translucent so guests can swim and see out above and below the waterline to wherever they are in the world.

Alternatively, if you'd rather get in the ocean itself, Windstar Cruises' Wind Spirit has a convenient water sports platform for swimming immediately off the ship. The inventive marina deck swings down right off the stern to also facilitate paddle boarding, kayaking and even water skiing-all just a short stroll from your private cabin and shower.

Also currently onboard Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Vista (and set to join Carnival Horizon) is the suspended cycling attraction-SkyRide. The self-propelled course is the closest thing there is to a roller coaster at sea, at least for now, as dips and turns pick up some good speed. Perched high atop the vessel, the racers are indeed thrilling.

The World Stage on Holland America Line's latest Koningsdam encircles the crowd with 270 degrees' worth of vibrant floor-to-ceiling video screens in a distinct round orientation. Spectators radiate from the central stage where live singers and dancers enthusiastically perform timeless Billboard hits and Broadway numbers.