Carnival Corp. has
partnered with Samsung and AT&T to offer a "fully immersive virtual
reality cruise experience” using VR headsets at select AT&T stores.
Carnival said the project,
which kicks off Feb. 19, will let consumers use a Samsung Gear VR headset to
"be surrounded by the sights and sounds of a warm and sunny cruise
vacation.”
The demos will be
available in 133 AT&T stores in 37 states, Carnival said. A full list of
participating AT&T locations is available.
Carnival said its VR
content highlights decks, staterooms, entertainment venues among other
features. It showcases ships from Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and
Carnival Cruise Line, plus beach and excursion offerings in Barcelona, Mexico
and other destinations.
The promotion includes a
sweepstakes that consumers can enter via an in-store tablet or on online. Participants
will be eligible to win one of 10 seven-day cruises on Carnival, Princess or Holland
America.
The partnership will be
promoted in Chicago through a Carnival Corp. glass-bodied truck driving city streets
from Feb. 21 to Feb. 27, featuring models and brand ambassadors on a “traveling
cruise ship deck” complete with lounge chairs, bartenders and palm trees.
On Feb. 27, at the
AT&T Michigan Avenue store on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, customers can
experience a variety of cruise atmospherics, including a mocktail bar,
caricature station, hand massages, a photo booth and a live DJ.
Also, visitors to the store
will be able to step into a “VR Lounge,” a simulation of the deck of a luxury
cruise ship at sea, featuring lounge chairs and palm trees that complete the
virtual reality adventure. Sensory inflection points will add to the
experience, including heat and ocean breezes timed to match the unique VR
program, Carnival said.