New Waterpark & Heroes Tribute Bar Added to Carnival Cruise Ship

Travel Echoes Hub June 11, 2025

Carnival Cruise Line’s ship Carnival Valor returned to service today after a comprehensive dry dock, which provided major upgrades for guests. The newly refreshed ship welcomed guests in Barcelona, marking the debut of the enhancements, and will now sail across the ocean home to New Orleans on a special Carnival Journeys transatlantic voyage.

Along with adding new features, the refurbishment prioritized accessibility, with sweeping upgrades throughout public areas. One of the ship’s most significant additions is the WaterWorks aqua park, featuring twin waterslides. On deck 5, the Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge was added, creating a dedicated gathering space that honors active-duty military and veterans. The venue is now featured on 16 vessels across the Carnival fleet.

(Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)

heroes tribute bar and lounge carnival valor — (Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)

Staterooms have also been upgraded, with new USB outlets and enhanced lighting. The ship’s casino was refreshed and expanded, and the spa and gym facilities were rebranded as Cloud 9 Spa.

A Dream Studio, for personalized photo sessions, was added on Deck 3, and guests can learn about and book shore excursions at the new Carnival Adventures on Deck 5. Younger cruisers will also enjoy refreshed spaces with amenities tailored to various age groups and interests, including Camp Ocean’s new fleet-first LED feature wall that offers engaging programming and multi-player video gaming for little ones, as well as new gaming and karaoke experiences in Circle “C” and Club 02 for older kids and teens.

LED feature wall camp ocean carnival valor — (Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)

Other improvements include upgraded carpets and general refurbishments across all public areas, creating a fresh, modern atmosphere.

Once home in New Orleans, Carnival Valor will continue its popular year-round schedule of four and five-day western Caribbean voyages that feature stops in Mexican ports including Cozumel and Progreso.