Elke Faulwetter slides down 'Green Thunder' for the first time

On the eve of her deployment to Sydney, Carnival Spirit has emerged from a USD$7 million dry-dock with a host of enhancements.

These enhancements include the world’s steepest and fastest waterslide at sea, ‘Green Thunder’, which was launched at an exclusive ‘Aussie only’ event aboard the ship in Hawaii on 28 January.

The winner of the national naming competition, Elke Faulwetter, was on hand as one of the first to trial the slide.

The water-based fun doesn’t stop there with the newly created ‘SplashZone’ featuring the soon to be designed ‘Power Drencher’ and ‘Twister’ waterslide.

Passengers can also look forward to the ‘Serenity’ adult-exclusive area, which features a pool, heated spa, hammocks, lounges and a cocktail bar all on an open-air deck and complimentary to guests over the age of 18.

For those who like to stay fit when cruising, the fitness centre has undergone a USD$450,000 upgrade with new cardio and weight equipment along with a spa positioned beneath a giant skylight.

Cabins have been fitted with flat-screen TVs along with new carpet, which has also been laid in all public areas.

Additional upgrades to food and beverages available onboard, including the Aussie Outdoor Barbeque area, along with the installation of Australian power points, poker machines and Australian currency will be rolled out before she arrives in October 2012.

View the complete photo gallery of images from Carnival Spirit’s dry dock here and the ‘Green Thunder’ launch here.