SkyRide on Carnival Cruise Line: Everything You Need to Know

When Carnival Cruise Line first released SkyRide in 2016, I wasn't sure how to feel, since the amusement park ride would apparently require work from its riders to operate.

I will admit that SkyRide looked neat and unique. The attraction is suspended 150 feet in the air, with beautiful views as far as the eye could see. But having to pedal my own way around the course? I wasn't so keen on working up a sweat.

However, if you're going to sail on one of Carnival's "Fun" ships, it would be criminal not to try everything at least once. So I did and here's what I thought about it.

What Is the SkyRide on Carnival Cruise Line?

Carnival Cruise Line’s SkyRide, which was created by the same person who invented Rollerblades, is essentially a recumbent bike suspended from an 800-foot dual racing track 150 feet above the 12th deck.

Riders can either choose to race the cruiser in the bike across from them or go at a more leisurely pace to take in the 360-degree views. Speed enthusiasts will want to pedal hard; you can get up to 18 miles an hour if you push it.

Which Carnival Ships Have SkyRide?

SkyRide is currently available on Carnival Horizon, Carnival Panorama and Carnival Vista. You will find the entrance on Deck 14.

Our Experience on the SkyRide on Carnival Cruise Line

SkyRide is one of the most popular amenities on Carnival Cruise Line’s “Fun” ships, waits being as long as 30 to 45 minutes, so I decided to give it a go on a port day. I unfortunately wasn't alone in this thought; by the time I got up to the ride's entrance (five minutes before it opened), there were already 12 people in line.

But things moved pretty quickly, and I was getting strapped in about 15 minutes from when the crew opened the ride.

There are four SkyRide bikes. Two riders can be on the track at the same time; while these two bikes are on the track, the next two cruisers step into a harness and get hooked into their bikes, so they can pedal off once the first two bikers return.

It took less than a minute for me to get into my harness (the same type you wear on a ropes course) and into my bike. I'm fairly short and I immediately noticed I had to stretch my legs almost all the way to reach the pedals. I worried I might have trouble pedaling, but it wasn't a problem at all since seats can be adjusted forward or back for those who are taller or shorter than the average person. Nor did it take too much effort to pedal.

How Long Is the SkyRide Course on Carnival Cruise Line?

If you're hoping these recumbent bikes will help you burn off the Guy's Burger you had for lunch, you can forget that notion now.

My original intention was to take my time on the course, so I could enjoy the panoramic views and make the ride last longer. It really only takes about a minute and a half to finish and, of course, the faster you pedal the faster it's over.

I started off slowly, taking in Livorno stretched out beneath me. I'd pedal for 10 seconds, then stop and just let myself glide. But I soon noticed the other rider was pretty far in front of me and I suddenly felt like I needed to catch up.

Plus, the "dip" was up ahead and I wanted to work up some speed so I could zip down the small incline. (There is a brake on the bike so you can take the dip slowly if you want.)

Before I knew it, taking in the pretty scenery was the farthest thing from my mind, especially because as I got to the other side of the ship I found myself pedaling into the wind and that did require a bit more effort than the rest of the ride.

I was finished less than 20 seconds later -- and ready to go again! I can't say it was exactly adrenaline pumping, but it certainly was fun.

How Much Does SkyRide Cost?

SkyRide is free for all passengers.

Is SkyRide Worth a Try?

Absolutely. I'm not sure I'd want to wait a half-hour or longer, but it's certainly worth a 20-minute wait.

However, people with a fear of heights might have a problem with Carnival Cruise Line’s SkyRide. While just about everyone came off the ride with a smile on their face, two women who didn't like heights came off a little pale, saying once was enough.

Things to Note: Clothing, Height and Weight Restrictions on SkyRide

To go on Carnival’s SkyRide you need to be wearing closed-toe shoes. Shorts or long pants and a short- or long-sleeved shirt are also required so that the harness doesn't rub against bare skin.

The weight limit is 250 pounds per person; passengers must be at least 52 inches tall to ride.