Carnival christened its newest (and biggest) ship, the Carnival Splendor, in Dover, England last week, with a party headlined by British pop star Myleene Klass.

Though the layout of the Splendor is similar to other Carnival ships, it features amenities and venues that rival many fine resorts, including a 21,000-square foot spa. Weighing in at 113,300 tons and able to accommodate 3,006 passengers, the ship boasts four swimming pools, seven Jacuzzis and a giant movie screen. There is also an Internet café and library, shopping promenade and 22 bars and lounges.

The Splendor also accommodates all different ages and interests - from the large fitness center featuring state-of-the-art machinery and personal trainers, to a children's water park and a teen club complete with dance floor, soda bar and game area - so that the floating party concept has not been lost, despite its enormity.

The chief designer for Carnival ships, Miami-based architect Joe Farcus, explains his theme for the Splendor as "splendid things." For instance, the two main dining rooms, the Gold Pearl and the Black Pearl, were based on the theme "splendid jewelry," while the El Morocco night club drew its inspiration from the "splendid night club" in New York City by the same name, known best for its popularity during the 1930's and 40's.

The ship also offers numerous options in terms of cuisine, from old staples like pasta stations and ice cream machines, to new flourishes like a sushi bar on Promenade Deck and a supper club restaurant, The Pinnacle, where $30 per person delivers a six-course gourmet meal. Carnival is also piloting an open seat dining program on two of its ships starting November 1, as an alternative to its traditional assigned time and table dinners, with plans to implement it fleet-wide if the testing period provides positive feedback.