NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal will open a seagoing version of Big Chicken, his new Las Vegas restaurant, aboard the refurbished Carnival Radiance.
The menu will feature a  variety of fried chicken sandwiches and fries, with flavors to match Shaq’s larger than life personality, all free of charge.
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Like Carnival’s other speciality restaurants such as Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, created by Guy Fieri, passengers will be able to order at the counter and get their food right away.
O’Neal opened his first land-based Big Chicken restaurant in Las Vegas in late October.
The seagoing adaptation Big Chicken aboard Carnival Radiance will be among the many food, dining and entertainment innovations incorporated into the 102,000-ton ship following a US $200 million refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain, in 2020.
“Shaq has brought so much to our brand as Chief Fun Officer and we are always looking for ways to expand on this wonderful relationship and provide our guests with new ways to Choose Fun,” said Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line.
“Knowing his passion for food and fun, we’re thrilled to work with Shaq to bring the first Big Chicken at sea aboard the totally transformed Carnival Radiance,” she added.
Carnival Victory will become Carnival Radiance following a major refurbishment in 2020.
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“Now that our land-based restaurant is open, it’s only natural to bring it to sea, as well. I’m really excited that Carnival Radiance guests will be able to enjoy my own delicious creations alongside all the other great food offerings on board,” added O’Neal.
Located aft on Lido Deck, Big Chicken will feature an array of fried chicken favourites, all developed and taste-tested by the NBA Hall of Famer himself based on his own recipes.
This will be the first sea going version of the Las Vegas restaurant.
A variety of fried chicken sandwiches will be featured, with playful monikers inspired by Shaq’s litany of clever nicknames for himself, along with his own take on traditional sides.
Breakfast will be offered as well with choices like chicken and egg biscuits.
Big Chicken is among the many new culinary and beverage offerings that will be available on Carnival Radiance when it debuts in 2020.
Other outlets include Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse developed by Food Network star and longtime partner Guy Fieri, a classic American steakhouse called Fahrenheit 555, the Cucina del Capitano family-style Italian restaurant, and the Caribbean-inspired RedFrog Pub.
An expansive new WaterWorks aqua park featuring the new AquaTunnel slide as well as a SportSquare open-air recreation complex with a suspended ropes course will be added, as well.
All of the ship’s staterooms will be renovated with a tropical color palette and striking new décor.
Itinerary and homeport details for Carnival Radiance will be announced shortly. To find out more about her refit, see our full review here.
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