What smart technology means for cruises
The latest cruise technology provides a truly seamless experience at sea. Welcome to Carnival’s new Ocean Medallion.
It can do just about everything
Put the medallion in your pocket, around your neck or on your key chain, and then you never need to think about it again. Hardware and software work together across almost every element of the guest experience, from paying for extras to attending shows and finding your way around the ship. The lines hope it will offer the perfect blend of high tech and personalised service.
Sensors track you around the ship
The medallions will soon be found on the 144,000 ton Regal Princess, the largest ship in the Carnival Corp fleet. 7,000 sensors are spread across more than 155 kilometres of cable running throughout the ship, tracking passengers’ every move. These sensors work out where you are, what you’re doing and where you might want to go next. It’s all part of building a tailored, seamless experience for passengers by using data to anticipate their every need.
Your room knows you’re coming
First there were room keys, then swipe cards, then RFID wrist bands that would open the door when held up to the lock. Now, you don’t even need to do that. The ship’s sensors will track your movements and unlock the door just as you arrive. And based on your previous data, it can even set up the room the way you like, such as turning on the air conditioning.
It will cut down on lines
Everyone hates waiting in line and the Ocean Medallion promises to fix the problem. They will streamline plenty of processes, from embarkation and disembarkation to lining up for restaurants, ordering a drink and more. The technology identifies bottlenecks and allows the crew to work more efficiently, making for a less stressful experience for everyone.
It can be good for the environment
Because the sensors know where passengers are, they also know where passengers aren’t. That means the smart technology can turn off lights or air conditioning in individual cabins or in areas of the ship that are empty. On a huge ship, these small reductions could make a big difference.
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