Yes, Carnival cruise ship swimming pools typically use saltwater.
Most swimming pools aboard Carnival vessels are filled with filtered seawater. This approach leverages the ship's immediate environment, making it a practical and efficient choice for filling and maintaining large pool areas.
While various water types are used for different purposes on a cruise ship, swimming pools primarily draw from the ocean. For instance, the ship's potable water supply, used for drinking, showering, and in whirlpools, is generated onboard through sophisticated systems like Reverse Osmosis (RO) or evaporators that convert seawater into fresh, drinkable water. However, the water in the main swimming pools generally remains filtered seawater.
Why Saltwater Pools?
The use of saltwater in cruise ship pools offers several advantages:
- Abundant Supply: Ships are constantly surrounded by the ocean, providing an endless and easily accessible source for pool water.
- Reduced Freshwater Demand: Utilizing seawater for pools lessens the demand on the ship's onboard freshwater production systems, which are essential for drinking water and other amenities.
- Familiarity: Many passengers enjoy the feel of saltwater, reminiscent of ocean swimming.
- Maintenance: While still requiring treatment to ensure hygiene and safety, saltwater pools can sometimes simplify certain aspects of water management compared to traditional freshwater pools that rely on continuous chemical dosing.
This strategic use of natural resources helps Carnival and other cruise lines efficiently manage their water needs while providing enjoyable aquatic experiences for their guests.