If you haven’t been completely scared away by cruise ships in recent years, Carnival, the world’s largest leisure travel company (and a personal favorite) with ten global cruise line brands announced that they are dipping their hands into the gadget market with the world’s first interactive guess experience platform-the Ocean Medallion.
The Ocean Medallion is a first-of-its-kind wearable that is essentially a personal concierge while you’re out on the water. The sophisticated wrist wear was developed by Carnival Corp. to feature an Internet of Things (IoT) network to allow the user to expedite the port embarkation and disembarkation process, allow you to access your stateroom as you approach the door as well as locate friends and family while on the ship. In the middle of the ocean, there’s not really much reception, so the Ocean Medallion is a great idea for couples and families alike as you can enable other users to purchase merchandise without having to be there, perfect for that grandmother who enjoys pricing up the family photos, and jewelry at the stop and go. If you prefer to eat in your room, you can pick your options straight from your wrists. You might even see crew members wearing the Medallion as well, and with your own Ocean Medallion you can interact with them to receive personalized greetings and guest services. This is going to be a key feature for your next cruise as you can now securely pay for your experiences without having to always carry your wallet around, and leave it in the supplied safe in your stateroom, because who doesn’t want to pay for margaritas with their wrist?
“The Ocean Medallion creates an elevated level of service that’s made possible by technology but doesn’t feel like technology,” said John Padgett, chief experience and innovation officer for Carnival Corporation. “Whether guests are exploring new experience options, having a drink delivered to their seat at the night’s show or trying their luck gaming while lounging poolside, we will assist our guests wherever they are, while engaging with them in a uniquely personal way. Our mission is to help our guests make the most of every moment of their vacation.”
Pairing with the optional Ocean Compass, you can use the Ocean Medallion on your stateroom TV, smartphones and tablets as well. Debuting on the Princess Cruises’ Regal Princess ship in November, it will be followed by the Royal Princess and the Caribbean Princess in 2018. Looks like Carnival wants to bring their customers closer, and keep them engaged while on the boat, and I’m personally stoked to try out the Ocean Medallion. For more information, head over to Ocean.com.