15 Things You Shouldn't Miss on the Carnival Vista (the Cruise Line's Biggest, Best Ship Yet)

Carnival Vista boasts the first-ever IMAX theater at sea, which peaks at three decks high and is almost as wide as the ship itself. Guests can enjoy recent hits and documentaries as well as the latest blockbusters the week they're released. During my sail, The Greatest Showman and Fifty Shades Freed were available to watch.

In addition to the jaw-dropping IMAX theater, guests are also able to experience the Thrill Theater, a 4D movie-watching experience that taps into multiple senses. Feel the wind in your hair and prepare for your seat to get in on the action, all while enjoying 3D visual effects. Showings range from kid-friendly to adults-only (17+).

This open-air cycling experience is the first of its kind! Pedal your way around the top deck's 800-foot track while being suspended 150 feet above the sea. The views from your seat are unparalleled. Pro tip: you must wear dry clothing and close-toed shoes to ride.

Race against your neighbor or soak in the views in a leisurely ride. But prepare to pick up speed when the track curves and dips!

The Carnival Vista also features the very first onboard brewery. The cruise line partnered up with Miami-based Concrete Beach Brewery to craft its own microbrews: ThirstyFrog Port Hoppin' IPA, ThirstyFrog Caribbean Wheat, and ThirstyFrog Java Stout. Order beer straight from the bar or pour yourself a glass via unique tabletop taps.

The biggest water park in the fleet includes the Kaleid-o-Slide, Carnival's first raft-riding tube slide. Riders will feel like they're sliding down through a kaleidoscope as the 455-foot-long twisting, enclosed slide offers awesome light effects.

Take a break from the Lido buffet and dining room to explore the five specialty dining options on board. Although these restaurants are not part of the all-inclusive offerings, they are completely worth the splurge.

The Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse has an elegant atmosphere and an excellent menu featuring premium cuts, fantastic seafood, and gourmet appetizers, as well as an impressive wine selection.

Another personal favorite includes JiJi Asian Kitchen, a modern restaurant that serves a variety of delectable items inspired by dishes across the continent. The family-style dining experience allows you and your party to enjoy a little bit of everything — and trust me, you'll want to try it all.

A number of shows, from comedy to Playlist Productions, are offered every night of your sail. In addition to my favorite Love and Marriage show, which tests how well three couples from the crowd know their spouses, the Lip Sync Battle is another one to check out. Carnival goes all out for the main event, which has cruisers going head to head for the championship belt. Contestants who auditioned at the beginning of the sail rehearse all week with their own back-up dancers for their final performance.

Sip on café Cubanos during the day and handcrafted Cuban cocktails at night. You'll be transported to Havana when you step inside this vibrant bar, which is filled with live music every evening. And when the sun goes down, take advantage of the private Havana pool area that's exclusive to Havana Cabana residents until 7 p.m.

Above the ship's SportsSquare and Clubhouse is the thrilling SkyCourse, a challenging, elevated ropes course open to all ages. Strap in and test your abilities on either of the two levels.

The outdoor SportSquare below features everything from shuffleboard to mini golf. And if the winds are ruining your game, head inside the Clubhouse for mini bowling, arcade basketball, and more.

Escape from family fun for a while by visiting the 21 and over pool deck. Towels, beach chairs, and cabanas are available for grabs, as well as delicious cocktails at the bar. Finally finish that book you've been meaning to get through or soak in one of the two whirlpools.

Book-lovers especially will appreciate this amenity that serves as both a library and wine bar. Choose from the ship's small selection of books or get in lost in your own in this quiet space. The intimate lounge features state-of-the-art self-serve dispensers, allowing you to be as generous as you wish with your pours.

It really doesn't get any better than having access to free pizza 24 hours a day. Although the line can get a bit long, the personal-size, made-to-order pies are well worth the wait. Each pizza is made from hand-tossed dough, imported Italian flour, and fresh mozzarella. This was my go-to midnight snack of choice, followed by a soft-serve cone, which is also available all day, every day.

Take a seat and make a request. The piano player is there from early evening to late at night to play all your go-to songs. This is the perfect spot to grab a drink before dinner or sing along with a night cap.

Travel and accommodations paid for in part by Carnival Cruise Line for the purpose of writing this story.