Eastbay, I cannot disagree with you regarding the appearance of most (all) new cruise ships including Norwegian Escape and the RCL Quantum-class vessels, they also suffer from being poorly proportioned designs - in my view. Carnival Vista is nowhere near as boxy as Norwegian Epic for example but I cannot look at her and think that she has 'near-perfect' proportions.

Clive Harvey aesthetics are obviously subjective. However, I suggest you take a look at other newbuilds including the NCL Escape and RCL Quantum class ships and run your checklist for comparison purposes. Notice especially their squat funnels, as those appear camouflaged amongst the clutter.

Each to their own :)

Near-perfect proportions?
Way off being anywhere near perfectly proportioned in my eyes; her bow is too short when compared with the extended lower part of her stern.
The upper aft structure is stacked almost vertical where as the forward superstructure is sharply raked.
The mast is a weak little structure surrounded with clutter.
The funnel appears too squat for the over all bulk of the vessel.
Over all, nothing perfect about the appearance of this vessel at all - as far as I'm concerned. I expect that her passengers and Carnival management think otherwise though.

Not to mention the near-perfect proportions of this vessel. Great image.

Finest looking modern cruise ship, thanks to that well designed aft!