Biz Bits

The big cruise lines are preparing to introduce their new generation of ships, and cruise travelers are in for some innovations and surprises. We're talking merry-go-rounds, giant water parks, hot nightspots and a big focus on the ocean and outdoors.

Carnival's new 130,000-ton Carnival Dream, which was scheduled to debut this month, will be the largest ship in the 'Fun Ship' fleet. The Bahamas is slated to benefit, as the New York cruises will visit Nassau and Freeport.

Constructed in Italy, the 3,646-passenger ship will offer a new space called The Piazza, an indoor/outdoor cafe and live music venue with a circular dance floor and whirlpools that extend over the ship's beam, so you feel like you're floating above the water. The ship will also have what are being promoted as the 'most elaborate' children's facilities at sea, including a huge Carnival WaterWorks water park with two waterslides.

Adults will get their own quiet outdoor retreat and pool called Serenity, and the ship's Cloud 9 Spa is being billed as the 'largest and most elaborate' to date. Other cool features include a two-level mini golf course.

The ship is set to debut in Europe and will do two cruises from New York on Nov. 15 and 23, 2009, before taking up its permanent home in Port Canaveral, Fla.