Cruise Lines Add Onboard Breweries

Carnival Cruise Lines has recently unveiled plans for the first working brewery on an American cruise ship. The brewery will serve three house-made beers at the Red Frog Pub and Brewery on the line’s newest ship, Vista, which debuts in 2016.

“We started discussing the possibilities of having a brewery on board … at the end of 2011,” says Carnival VP of beverage operations Eddie Allen. “Not only will our guests have the opportunity to try beers only available on Carnival Vista, but they will also have an opportunity to learn more about brewing beer and all the work that goes into making their favorite pint.”

While further brewery details are still to come, Allen says there will be “exciting news [to announce in the future regarding] partnerships and collaborations.” Carnival currently has agreements with several regional breweries, including Abita and Cigar City.

But Carnival isn’t the only cruise line with beer-centered offerings. This month, Celebrity Cruises is offering a five-day Funky Buddha Craft Brew Cruise featuring several events centered on Funky Buddha’s brews and staff, like a beer pairing dinner and panel discussion with Funky Buddha brewers.

Across the Atlantic Ocean, German specialty cruise line AIDA has been brewing on the high seas since 2010. The brewery on the AIDAblu cruise ship is kept running smoothly thanks to special brew kettle stabilizers which compensate for ship movements, a large ingredient storage area, and desalinated water pulled right from the ocean. According to AIDA, the soft ocean water enhances the flavor profile of the hops, delivering “a sublime taste experience” for drinkers. ■