In May of 2016, amidst an unforgettable journey aboard the Carnival Vista, I was presented with an extraordinary opportunity that few ever experience: attending the Carnival Horizon Keel Laying Ceremony. This momentous event took place at Fincantieri’s historic Castellammare shipyard, nestled just outside the vibrant city of Naples, Italy. It was a day etched into my memory, a privilege I honestly never imagined would come my way. As one of a select few members of the press, I joined esteemed Carnival executives, including Carnival President Christine Duffy and the beloved John Heald, to witness the birth of a magnificent new vessel.

Witnessing History: The Carnival Horizon Keel Laying Ceremony in Italy

At the time of this incredible ceremony, the ship had yet to be officially named Carnival Horizon. Enthusiasts and insiders affectionately referred to her as “Vista Sistah,” recognizing her lineage as the second ship in the groundbreaking Vista-class series. My anticipation leading up to the event was immense, yet I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. Maritime traditions often conjure images of grandeur, and I had heard whispers of a massive steel beam, the keel, being lowered into the water. In my mind, I pictured a dramatic drop from a towering crane, culminating in a colossal splash that would signal the ship’s genesis.

However, the reality of pulling up to the Fincantieri shipyard vastly surpassed any preconceived notions. I was utterly unprepared for the sheer scale of what unfolded before my eyes: nearly one-third of the colossal ship was already taking shape, poised to be released into the water. Even as we arrived, the air buzzed with activity; the constant hum of welding machines and the focused movements of dedicated shipbuilders underscored the incredible feat of engineering taking place. This ceremony, far from a mere symbolic gesture, is one of the oldest and most revered maritime traditions, a cornerstone in the journey of every vessel from blueprint to open sea.

The Ancient Roots of the Keel Laying Ceremony

The keel laying ceremony is steeped in centuries of maritime history and tradition, tracing its origins back to ancient times when ships were constructed almost entirely of wood. The keel, essentially the backbone of a ship, is the first structural component to be laid down, and upon it, the entire vessel is built. Symbolically, laying the keel marks the official beginning of a ship’s construction. It’s a moment of great significance, representing the foundation upon which hopes, dreams, and countless voyages will rest. In many cultures, a lucky coin is placed under the keel block to bring good fortune, ensuring the ship’s safety and prosperity, though modern ship construction has evolved, the spirit of this tradition endures. It’s a testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of humankind, a celebration of innovation and the intrepid spirit of exploration that defines the cruise industry.

True to tradition, the ceremony commenced with a poignant blessing. A minister, or Italian priest, delivered heartfelt words, invoking safety and good fortune for the ship and all who would sail upon her. This spiritual aspect, a deeply ingrained part of shipbuilding folklore, served as a powerful reminder of the respect and care embedded in the creation of these magnificent vessels. It was a moment of quiet reverence amid the industrial backdrop, connecting the ancient traditions of the sea with the cutting-edge technology of modern shipbuilding.

Christine Duffy: Godmother of the Carnival Horizon

A highlight of the ceremony was the pivotal role played by Carnival President Christine Duffy, who served as the ship’s godmother. This role, another time-honored maritime tradition, bestows upon the godmother the responsibility of bestowing good luck and protecting the ship throughout its life. With grace and enthusiasm, Ms. Duffy performed the ceremonial duties. Armed with a small, symbolic axe, she cut a cord, dramatically releasing a bottle of champagne that crashed against the ship’s hull. The resounding pop and spray of bubbly marked the official naming (though still informally at this stage) and sent shivers of excitement through the attendees. In a breathtaking display of engineering prowess, the massive section of the Carnival Horizon then majestically rolled into the Mediterranean Sea for the very first time, a truly unforgettable spectacle.

From Castellammare to Marghera: The Continuing Journey of Construction

The “launch” at Castellammare, while visually spectacular, was only one phase of the Carnival Horizon’s extensive construction. Following its initial dip into the Mediterranean, the substantial ship section was meticulously maneuvered by powerful tugboats. Its destination: Fincantieri’s larger Marghera shipyard, located near Venice. This transfer highlights the sophisticated modular construction process employed in modern shipbuilding. At Marghera, other sections of the vessel, meticulously crafted and assembled, awaited integration. It is at this vast facility that the second Vista-class ship would undergo its final stages of completion, a meticulous process involving the joining of these massive blocks, intricate interior outfitting, and rigorous testing. The ship was slated to officially enter service and welcome its first guests in spring 2018, a testament to years of planning, design, and dedicated labor by thousands of skilled individuals.

Introducing the Carnival Horizon: A New Era of Cruising

The Carnival Horizon, now a beloved ship in Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet, was officially unveiled with a name that perfectly encapsulates the boundless possibilities of a sea voyage. As a proud member of the innovative Vista-class, the Horizon was designed to carry forward many of the groundbreaking features and guest favorites first introduced on her sister ship, the Carnival Vista. Guests can anticipate the thrilling SkyRide, a unique open-air cycling experience that offers breathtaking views from high above the deck. The Havana Cabanas and Suites, with their exclusive access to a Cuban-themed pool and bar, provide a vibrant, adults-only escape. Family Fun Zone areas like the Dr. Seuss WaterWorks and SportsSquare cater to every age group, ensuring endless entertainment. Additionally, dining enthusiasts rejoice in the diverse culinary landscape, from the delectable burgers at Guy’s Burger Joint to the fresh seafood at Seafood Shack, and the tantalizing flavors of the Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse.

Beyond these established successes, the Carnival Horizon promised to introduce its own set of exciting new innovations and surprises. Carnival has always been at the forefront of evolving the cruise experience, and the anticipation for these new announcements was palpable. Learning about the unique enhancements that would distinguish the Horizon, making it truly special, was part of the thrilling countdown to its maiden voyage. The opportunity to witness the very beginning of such a magnificent vessel’s journey was not just a press event; it was a profound insight into the meticulous craftsmanship, historical reverence, and forward-thinking vision that defines Carnival Cruise Line and the entire world of shipbuilding. I eagerly awaited further revelations about the ship’s unique features and all the new wonders Carnival planned to roll out in the subsequent years, continuing to push the boundaries of fun and relaxation at sea.

Explore More Carnival Cruise Adventures

For those eager to dive deeper into the world of Carnival, we’ve curated a selection of articles that offer further insights and inspiration for your next cruise vacation:

Carnival Horizon Naming Ceremony: A grand celebration in New York City.

Carnival Horizon Photo and Video Tour: Get an up-close look at the ship’s stunning features.

Carnival Warm Chocolate Melting Cake Recipe: Recreate this iconic dessert at home.

Guy’s Burger Joint Burger Recipe: Master the art of Carnival’s famous poolside burgers.

Don’t forget to check out all of our comprehensive Carnival Cruise Travel Guides for tips, reviews, and planning advice!