by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 2:10 PM ET, Mon November 2, 2026
Carnival Cruise Line is bringing Dr. Seuss-inspired fun to 23 of its ships to celebrate the debut of Warner Bros. Pictures Animation’s “The Cat in the Hat.”
The limited-time programming, available during the two weeks leading up to the film's November 6 premiere, includes themed parties, character appearances, interactive activities and special surprises for families.
The additions also mark the 15th anniversary of Carnival's partnership with Dr. Seuss, which has introduced the author's characters and stories to millions of families sailing with the cruise line.
Among the new experiences are towering “Cat in the Hat” inflatables on select ships' open decks, a Hollywood-themed premiere party in ship atriums and surprise deliveries to select staterooms. The parties will feature balloon drops, a red-and-white striped premiere carpet, character appearances, crafts and family entertainment. Stateroom surprises may include themed postcards, snack packs and invitations to special meet-and-greets.
Families can also participate in themed Build-A-Bear workshops featuring Thing 1 and Thing 2 shirts for teddy bears and a specialty Cat in the Hat furry friend. At Camp Ocean, children can take part in movie-inspired activities such as The Cat's Messy Room Mission, The Cat's Stacking Challenge and The Cat's Rhyme-O-Rama. Ships will also offer movie-themed photo opportunities and green screen experiences.
Alongside the movie-themed celebrations, Carnival is expanding its existing Seuss at Sea program, which includes the Seuss-a-palooza character parade and Story Time, Thing 1 & Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast and Dr. Seuss Bookville.
Two new interactive experiences will give families additional opportunities to participate. Seuss-a-palooza Game Time will bring Dr. Seuss-inspired music, dancing, tongue twisters and games to the main theater ahead of Seuss-a-palooza Story Time. Seuss-a-palooza Family Time will invite families to move like their favorite Dr. Seuss characters, act out scenes from the author's books and compete in themed charades.
Carnival is also promoting the film's theatrical release through a co-branded advertising campaign across online, television and streaming platforms, as well as on ships' in-cabin televisions.
"We've seen millions of children light up as they experience the world of Dr. Seuss aboard our ships, and we're excited to give families even more ways to create those special memories together," says Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. "Celebrating the new 'The Cat in the Hat' movie adds a fun new chapter to our 15-year partnership and brings more family entertainment to life across our ships."
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