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Carnival Panorama

A member of Carnival Cruise Line's Vista class, the Carnival Panorama debuted in December 2019 as the first new Carnival ship homeported on the West Coast in 20 years. With a capacity of 4,008 guests and 1,450 crew, Panorama is one of Carnival's largest ships.

Among the ship's standout amenities is the Sky Zone – a trampoline park that offers dodgeball and basketball games, toddler bounce sessions and more. Other unique Carnival amenities found on the ship include a suspended bicycle in the air called SkyRide, a sprawling water park, the Cloud 9 Spa and an open-air recreation area and ropes course.

Dining options on board are just as diverse. In fact, there are more than a dozen dining venues aboard Carnival Panorama, including multiple Guy Fieri eateries, a sushi restaurant, a steakhouse, a seafood eatery and more.

Carnival Panorama offers the line's typical range of accommodation classes (Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite) along with Family Harbor and Havana staterooms and suites. Havana Cabana Suites feature rain showers and patios equipped with hammock chairs, along with exclusive access to the Havana Bar & Pool. Meanwhile, Family Harbor accommodations are located next to the ship's Family Harbor Lounge and afford guests special perks, such as a free evening of babysitting and complimentary kids meals in the onboard specialty restaurants.

Sailing from Los Angeles , the ship cruises to destinations in Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas . It also departs from Singapore for transpacific voyages. 

Carnival Radiance

Carnival Radiance (previously Carnival Victory) set sail in December 2021 after a full transformation. The ship, which holds 2,984 guests and 1,108 crew members, boasts plenty of fun indoors and outdoors for cruisers of all ages.

Carnival Radiance features a ropes course, waterslides, a mini-golf course, dive-in movies in the evening and a sports area for activities like soccer, basketball, volleyball and boxing. The ship also offers a kids club for youths ages 2 to 17. The pool is surrounded by lounge chairs – perfect for relaxing – and those seeking additional quiet space can spend some time at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. Inside, the spa, the piano bar, the comedy club and the performance event venue, which features musicals, concerts and more, round out some of Carnival Radiance's most popular offerings. Dining options (14 eateries in total, including a Chef's Table experience) abound on this ship as well: Cruisers can enjoy casual fare at Big Chicken or Guy's Burger Joint, or sit down for a more upscale meal at Cucina del Capitano, Bonsai Sushi or the Steakhouse.

Staterooms aboard the ship include Interior (porthole and picture window choices are available), Ocean View, Balcony and Suite category options. Carnival Radiance sets sail from Los Angeles to destinations in Hawaii and Mexico .

Carnival Mardi Gras

There's a good reason why Carnival named one of its newest ships Mardi Gras. The ship – which launched in July 2021 – is not only named after the first Carnival ship that entered service in 1972, but also features amenities and activities that keep guests entertained and the atmosphere energized. Carnival designed the ship with six different zones, each with a unique flair. Kids can play all day in the Ultimate Playground, which features WaterWorks (the onboard water park), SkyCourse (a ropes course) and Bolt: Ultimate Sea Coaster, an onboard roller coaster that travels up to 40 mph. Meanwhile, adults can take advantage of Lido, where the RedFrog Tiki Bar flanks one of the ship's pools. Additional activities include a comedy club, a casino, Family Feud Live (yes – it looks like the famous show's set) and a spa.

As you might expect from its large-scale amenities, Mardi Gras is sizeable: It accommodates up to 6,465 passengers and 1,745 crew members. To keep up with demand, the ship offers close to 20 different dining venues serving everything from sushi to burgers to fried chicken. When travelers need refreshments or a nightcap, they can visit one of seven bars and lounges.

Following a full day of fun, cruisers will need a quiet retreat to rest their heads. Staterooms feature Carnival Comfort Collection linens, TVs and a dedicated room steward. Upgraded rooms may include perks like exclusive access to ship amenities, bottles of water, in-room coffee makers and priority check-in and disembarkation. Rooms range in size from 158 square feet for interior staterooms to the massive 1,120-square-foot Carnival Excel Presidential Suite.

Catch Mardi Gras in Caribbean locales like San Juan, Puerto Rico ; Cozumel and Grand Turk .

U.S. News Insider Tip: To dine at Bonsai Teppanyaki (available on Celebration , Horizon , Panorama , Venezia and Mardi Gras), make your reservation as soon as possible. The restaurant only seats 16 people at a time, so reservations go fast. –  Karon Warren , Contributor  

Carnival Horizon

Carnival Horizon – which set sail in April 2018 – accommodates 3,960 passengers and 1,450 crew members. The ship offers a plethora of amenities for travelers of all ages. Children can ride the SkyRide suspended bike, play at the Dr. Seuss-themed water park and climb the ropes course, while parents can lounge on an adults-only deck and pamper themselves at the Cloud 9 Spa. At night, the whole family can enjoy live performances.

Onboard dining options are also plentiful, with 11 eateries that serve everything from steaks to Italian classics to burgers. Carnival Horizon was the first in Carnival's fleet to offer a teppanyaki-style restaurant and Guy Fieri's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Brewhouse. 

The ship has a variety of cabins for passengers to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly Interior staterooms to specialty suites with spa, nautical and Havana themes. Each comes with modern conveniences like a minibar, a flat-screen TV and a Carnival Comfort bed.

Carnival Horizon departs from  Miami  for voyages throughout the Caribbean. 

Carnival Celebration

Carnival Celebration debuted in early November 2022 and boasts a Las Vegas -style theater, a casino, an arcade, a saltwater pool and a top-of-the-line rooftop rollercoaster – the first one of its kind at sea. Complete with six separate zones to explore, including a summer-themed zone and a playground-themed zone, the 1,130-foot-long cruise ship has something for everyone. Celebration can hold up to 5,374 passengers and 1,735 crew members, and it features more than 20 dining venues, including a barbecue smokehouse and a full-service sushi restaurant.

Staterooms are comfortable with plush bedding, vanity mirrors and built-in reading lights, but for additional perks, guests can opt for a room with a balcony or ocean views. If you don't mind splurging a little, the Carnival Excel Suite offers upgrades like concierge service and complimentary admission to Loft 19, the ship's exclusive lounge fitted with infinity whirlpools and shaded cabanas.

Carnival Celebration explores an array of picturesque destinations, including Cozumel, Mexico ; San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Maarten and more. It sails out of Miami . 

Carnival Miracle

Like other Carnival ships, the 2,124-passenger Carnival Miracle boasts activities and entertainment geared toward travelers of all ages. Thanks to a renovation in 2020, the ship features upgrades like Guy's Burger Joint, WaterWorks, RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Cantina and more. The ship also received a minor refresh to interior and exterior spaces in 2022. 

Even with the added venues, a nearly 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio ensures service is a priority. And compared to other Carnival ships, Miracle offers a higher percentage of cabins with ocean views. While Interior staterooms provide more wallet-friendly digs, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite category cabins offer more space and scenery. All cabins come equipped with flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service.

During days at sea, grown-ups can enjoy poolside lounging or the adults-only Serenity Retreat, while kids ages 2 to 17 can play at age-specific programs.  There are also entertainment options like the Punchliner Comedy Club, the SkyBox Sports Bar and the Seuss at Sea program. Once the family works up an appetite, they'll have their pick of the main dining room, the Lido buffet, a specialty steakhouse (for an extra fee) and more.

Carnival Miracle departs from Galveston, Texas ;  Los Angeles  and  San Francisco  to destinations in the Caribbean, the Panama Canal,  Hawaii , Mexico , and Alaska . 

Carnival Luminosa

Formerly a Costa Cruises  ship, Luminosa joined the Carnival fleet in November 2022. This 2,260-passenger, 926-crew member cruise ship includes highlights such as a casino, a spa, an adults-only retreat and a comedy club.

There are plenty of ways to occupy your time on board, from deck parties and art seminars to karaoke and martini tastings. Plus, Luminosa offers a slew of amenities geared toward kids, including story time, supervised camps, a video arcade and a teens-only hangout space. When hunger strikes, this Carnival cruise ship offers around 10 eateries serving staples like sushi, steak and pizza.

Interior staterooms come equipped with a flat-screen TV, climate control, an in-room safe and a dedicated stateroom attendant. If you'd prefer accommodations with windows, consider upgrading to an ocean-view room or a cabin with a balcony. Guests seeking even more luxury can opt for a suite, which features exclusive perks like priority check-in; boarding and dining assignments; bathrobes and a pillow-top mattress. Cruisers looking for extra relaxation should consider a Cloud 9 Spa stateroom or suite, which includes a welcome ritual, two complimentary fitness classes, unlimited use of the thermal suites and hydrotherapy pool, priority spa reservations and more.

Carnival Luminosa departs from Seattle, Washington , and the Australian cities of Brisbane and Sydney . It sails to destinations in Alaska and the South Pacific, among others.

Carnival Breeze

The 3,690-passenger Carnival Breeze was introduced in 2012 and last updated in 2017. On board, cruisers will find outdoor activities like a water park and a SportsSquare with games like mini-golf, as well as supervised (and free) age-appropriate programs for kids and teens. While the younger passengers play, adults can relax at the adults-only Serenity retreat, get treatments at the Cloud 9 Spa and sip cocktails at one of the ship's bars. 

As far as dining goes, cruisers can choose between several food options, including sushi, Indian, 24/7 pizza and more. Guy's Burger Joint and Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, in partnership with celebrity chef Guy Fieri, are passenger favorites. Nighttime entertainment ranges from karaoke to shows at the Punchliner Comedy Club.

Carnival Breeze offers a variety of cabin categories, all of which include flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service. The ship maintains a nearly 1-to-3 crew-to-guest ratio. While some recent cruisers appreciated the family atmosphere, others were disappointed by long lines and wait times during dinner service. 

Carnival Breeze cruises to the Caribbean from Galveston, Texas . 

Carnival Conquest

Last revamped in 2022, Carnival Conquest features cosmetic enhancements to select staterooms, as well as upgrades like new carpeting and lighting in public areas. Still, some felt Conquest showed its age despite these upgrades and could use a more major refurbishment. The ship appeals to a wide range of travelers and budgets, with amenities like Seuss at Sea, The Punchliner Comedy Club and the Alchemy Bar. It also includes "Fun Ship 2.0" features like Guy's Burger Joint and an outdoor movie theater, as well as signature bars BlueIguana Tequila Bar and RedFrog Rum Bar.

The ship carries 2,980 passengers and 1,150 crew members. Accommodations, ranging from Interior staterooms to Grand Suites, offer standard amenities such as flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service. Those looking for more space should consider splurging on a Suite category room, which includes a large balcony, a walk-in closet and a whirlpool tub. 

Along with signature line amenities, including a full-service spa, a casino and an expansive pool deck, the ship provides supervised programs and entertainment for cruisers ages 2 to 17, with various activities geared toward specific age groups. 

Conquest departs from Miami  for sailings in the Bahamas , the Caribbean and the Panama Canal.

Carnival Vista

Introduced in mid-2016, Carnival Vista welcomes up to 3,934 passengers and 1,450 crew members. The ship offers unique dining, entertainment and cabin options not found on other ships in the fleet. In addition to staples like kids clubs, an adults-only retreat and a waterpark, new activities include the SkyRide suspended bike course, the first IMAX theater at sea and a Dr. Seuss-inspired library. The ship's next refurbishment is scheduled for early 2024. 

Recent passengers were most impressed with the accommodations. Typical cabin categories (Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite) are available, but cruisers recommend splurging on the Family Harbor or Havana staterooms and suites. Those who select Family Harbor cabins receive exclusive 24-hour lounge access with free breakfast and kid-friendly movies and games. Plus, children staying in these rooms enjoy free meals at most specialty restaurants and a free night of babysitting. Havana category rooms cater to adults, with access to a private bar and pool, as well as extra-large outdoor spaces and rainfall showers in suites. 

Dining options are just as diverse. While the Lido buffet offers everything from pasta to stir-fry to salad, other complimentary venues include BlueIguana Cantina and Guy's Burger Joint. A number of specialty restaurants are also available for an extra fee, such as JiJi Asian Kitchen and Cucina del Capitano.  

Carnival Vista departs from Galveston  and Orlando for sailings in the Bahamas and the Caribbean. 

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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A Guide to All 27 Carnival Cruise Ships

With 27 ships and hundreds of itineraries, there’s a Carnival cruise for everyone.

Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line offers numerous cruise options worldwide with a fleet of 27 ships. Their cruises include all the hits: celebrity chef-driven restaurants, onboard rollercoasters, dedicated kids venues, serene spa moments, adults-exclusive pool decks, and exciting destinations. Carnival has it all — and can be relatively affordable. But which ship is right for you?

After sailing on eight Carnival cruises, including voyages on its oldest ship, Carnival Elation , and the newer Carnival Celebration, I’ve learned that sailing on newer ships is generally more expensive, and older vessels are more budget-friendly. However, I often consider more than the total cost before booking a cruise. I look at the ports of call, the space-to-guest ratio, the amenities and onboard activities, and the launch point.

When I select a sailing, I book through Carnival Cruise Line’s reservation number to see if I can snag an exclusive deal not listed online. Carnival's free-to-join loyalty program, the Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) Club, offers deals like reduced deposits, onboard credit, and room upgrades. The more you book with the cruise line, the better your deals will be. 

Before committing to a cruise, I break down the price per person per night, particularly if I need multiple cabins because I'm traveling with a group. I recommend you take advantage of Carnival's convenient 24-hour reservation hold, which displays the total cost, itinerary, and a countdown timer so you know when to purchase to secure the locked-in price.

Here, find guidance on every Carnival cruise ship, from the newest to the oldest.

Related: How to Save Money on a Cruise

Carnival Firenze

Inaugural Year: 2024

Ship Class: Venice Class

Ship Capacity: 4,126 double occupancy; 5,245 total guests

Standout Amenities: Amari bar for a peritivi and digestivi ; Serenity Adult-Only Retreat when you need time away from kids; and Pizzeria Del Capitano for hand-tossed pizza made with imported Italian ingredients  

Originally debuted in 2021 as part of the Costa Cruises fleet (an Italy-based subsidiary of Carnival), the Firenze will set sail as a Carnival ship — with an Italian twist — in Spring 2024. Across Firenze , you’ll see touches of Italy; think cute cafe set-ups that look like they were picked up from a Florence sidewalk. Terrazza staterooms access a private sun deck with whirlpools and a bar. Carnival’s fan-favorite dining options and amenities, like Guy’s Burger Joint and WaterWorks, will be on board.

Carnival Jubilee

Inaugural Year: 2023

Ship Class: Excel Class

Ship Capacity: 5,374 double occupancy; 6,631 total guests

Standout Amenities: BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster rollercoaster; relaxing Cloud 9 Spa thermal suites with adjustable humidity and temperature; pickleball courts for challenging family and friends

Carnival Jubilee is the newest Excel-class ship in the fleet, sailing from Galveston, Texas. The massive ship offers Camp Ocean, the onboard kids club. Adults also have their own space at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat with swaying hammocks and a bar.

Carnival Venezia

Ship Capacity: 3,934 double occupancy; 4,977 total guests

Standout Amenities: The Gondola Lounge, themed after Venice's beautiful canals; a pool area with a retractable roof

Initially built in 2019 for Costa Cruises, this ship joined the Carnival fleet in 2023. Carnival Venezia is ideal if you’re looking for a ship that celebrates one of Italy’s most iconic cities. Venice is the inspiration behind the indoor and outdoor areas, including the atrium, modeled after Piazza San Marco, and the Carnevale Lounge, inspired by Venetian masquerades. Don't miss the Venetian Toast, where the ship’s captain greets guests and crew don Venetian masks.

Carnival Celebration

Inaugural Year: 2022

Standout Amenities: Space Cruisers, a kids camp in partnership with Kennedy Space Center; The Golden Jubilee Bar for vintage cocktails; BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster

Carnival Celebration is all about never-ending good times. During my recent sailing, I found all the Carnival classics, like the Alchemy Bar and Guy’s Burger Joint, a thrilling ropes course, dive-in movies, and plenty of themed deck parties. If you’re looking to relax, it has that, too. Rent cabanas or lounge in the ocean-view whirlpools at Loft 19, where attentive staff take care of everything, like delivering you fruit and chilled towels. My favorite spot to hang out was the aft Patio Pool because it wasn't ever super crowded, and the view of the ocean was unmatched. 

Carnival Luminosa

Ship Class: Spirit Class

Ship Capacity: 2,260 double occupancy; 2,826 total guests 

Standout Amenities: Carnival fan-favorite Alchemy Bar; Circle “C” tween club; Cloud 9 Spa hydrotherapy pool for rejuvenating soaks

Carnival Luminosa (formerly the Costa Luminosa ) is for you if you want to sail to destinations like Alaska and Australia. It also offers occasional itineraries through scenic transpacific spots like Fiji, Tahiti, Hawaii, and Japan. The ship has all of the brand’s classic amenities, like the RedFrog Rum Bar and Punchliner Comedy Club, plus an array of dining options, including sushi, pizza, ice cream, and an over-the-top brunch.

Carnival Mardi Gras

Inaugural Year: 2021

Ship Capacity: 5,282 double occupancy; 6,456 total guests

Standout Amenities: BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster for adrenaline junkies; Havana Bar for Cuban drinks and live music; Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Brewhouse

Carnival Mardi Gras is a nod to Carnival’s first ship, also named Mardi Gras, which was launched in 1972. The vessel has six onboard zones where families can have fun together, including the Ultimate Playground, where BOLT and the SportsSquare are located. Of course, there’s no Mardi Gras without New Orleans, so the French Quarter zone is where you’ll find Big Easy-inspired amenities like an Emeril Lagasse restaurant.

Carnival Radiance

Inaugural Year: 2021 (formerly Carnival Victory , which set sail in 2000)

Ship Class: Sunshine Class

Ship Capacity: 2,984 double occupancy; 3,873 total guests 

Standout Amenities: BlueIguana Tequila Bar for great margaritas; ZSPA for teens who want a spa day; an outdoor gym on the ship's top deck

Carnival Radiance has culinary delights and family fun in spades. If you're a foodie, try Guy’s Burger Joint for loaded burgers straight from Flavortown or Shaq’s Big Chicken for the basketball star's incredible fried chicken sandwiches. Kids will love seeing The Cat in the Hat characters during activities like character parades, story time, and character breakfasts.

Carnival Panorama

Inaugural Year: 2019

Ship Class: Vista Class

Ship Capacity: 4,008 double occupancy; 5,146 total guests

Standout Amenities: Sky Zone trampoline park where families can bounce and play games; Skyride, a suspended bike on the top deck with great ship and ocean views; Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Brewhouse featuring Carnival Cruise Line exclusive craft beers

Carnival Panorama is smaller than today's mega-ships, but it packs a ton of fun into its 15 decks. Rooms are spacious; some come with exclusive perks like access to the Havana Pool area or unlimited use of the spa’s thermal suites. Kids will also love that there’s an onboard waterpark, kids club, and a Build-a-Bear Workshop at Sea.

Carnival Sunrise

Ship Capacity: 2,984 double occupancy; 3,973 total guests

Standout Amenities: Cloud 9 Spa cabins with access to the thermal suites; Lucky Bowl restaurant, which is only on Carnival Sunrise and only open for lunch

Carnival Sunrise  (formerly Carnival Triumph ) features an exciting splash zone for kids and a piano bar where adults can sing along to their favorite songs all night. The ship sails on two to five-night and six to nine-night cruises from Miami, Florida, to the Bahamas.

Carnival Horizon

Inaugural Year: 2018

Ship Capacity: 3,960 double occupancy; 4,977 total guests

Standout Amenities: IMAX movie theater for a family night out; Dr. Suess Bookville for family story time and character appearances; volleyball court where adults can test their skills or just hit the ball around

Carnival Horizon has all the makings of a fun family vacation. The kids clubs have dedicated counselors who ensure children are always having fun, and parents can slip away to an adults-only bar for a cocktail or the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat to catch some sun. Then, as night falls, you can come back together for a special meal in the main dining room or JiJi Asian Kitchen, which specializes in regional Asian cuisine.

Carnival Vista

Inaugural Year: 2016

Standout Amenities: The thrilling SkyRide suspended bike for great ship and sea views; Thrill Theater for a 3-D show with water, lighting, wind, and chair movement effects; RedFrog Pub & Brewery, the first brewery at sea in North America

Carnival Vista is perfect for new cruisers. Sailings range from two to nine days out of Port Canaveral, so you can get a taste of what a cruise is like without committing to a more traditional weeklong sailing. Expect an onboard brewery, incredible restaurants, and family-friendly fun.

Carnival Sunshine

Inaugural Year: 2013

Ship Capacity: 3,002 double occupancy; 3,758 total guests

Standout Amenities: Carnival WaterWorks with multiple slides and water features; BlueIguana Tequila Bar for poolside libations; an onboard steakhouse with a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for its exceptional wine list

Carnival Sunshine (formerly Carnival Destiny ) is 10 years old and a fan favorite. The lower guest capacity, at just over 3,000 for double occupancy, means you won’t have to fight hoards of people to get to and from activities. Families who want even more cabin space should book one of the aft-view extended balcony rooms with great wake views and ample private outdoor space.

Carnival Breeze

Inaugural Year: 2012

Ship Class: Dream Class

Ship Capacity: 3,690 double occupancy; 4,724 total guests 

Standout Amenities: Cloud 9 Spa for next-level relaxation; Mongolian Wok lunch restaurant; pickleball courts to get competitive with your family; waterslides

Carnival Breeze is ideal for a short cruise out of Galveston, Texas. The ship has plenty of activities throughout the day, including bingo, trivia, and live performances in the comedy club.

Carnival Magic

Inaugural Year: 2011

Ship Capacity: 3,690 double occupancy; 4,724 total guests

Standout Amenities: Cloud 9 Spa; a thrilling ropes course; Chef’s Table dining experience

Carnival Magic sails for a week or more from Miami, Florida. The ship debuted the restaurant Cucina del Capitano, which is now onboard multiple ships in the fleet. It’s also home to the original Guy’s Pig & Anchor. I sailed the Carnival Magic years ago, but I vividly remember spending an entire day enjoying the amenities at the Cloud 9 Spa and eating at the Mongolian Wok quick-service restaurant almost every afternoon for lunch.

Carnival Dream

Inaugural Year: 2009

Ship Capacity: 3,646 double occupancy; 4,631 total guests

Standout Amenities: Ocean Plaza, a multi-use entertainment venue that’s family-friendly during the day and a nightclub after dark; Guy’s Burger Joint for standout smash burgers; Cloud 9 Spa for adults to relax

Carnival Dream is known for exciting entertainment and food and beverage offerings, including Alchemy Bar, a vintage-themed cocktail "pharmacy." The ship sails from Galveston, Texas, on six to nine-day cruises. I loved playing the onboard mini-golf course.

Carnival Splendor

Inaugural Year: 2008

Ship Class: Splendor Class

Ship Capacity: 3,012 double occupancy; 3,734 total guests

Standout Amenities: Masala Tiger Indian restaurant, which is only open for lunch and only on this ship; a mini-golf course; a pool with a retractable cover

Carnival Splendor sails the Southern Hemisphere around Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific on cruises that range from two to 10 days. The ship has Carnival’s only quick-service Indian restaurant and boasts a pool with a retractable roof, so you can swim without worrying about the weather.

Carnival Freedom

Inaugural Year: 2007

Ship Class: Conquest Class

Ship Capacity: 2,980 double occupancy; 3,754 total guests

Standout Amenities: Space Cruisers kids program in partnership with Kennedy Space Center; RedFrog Pub, with Key West-inspired food and drinks; Dr. Seuss Bookville, a kids library that's themed after the famous author’s characters

Carnival Freedom is ideal for first-time cruisers because of the lower guest capacity and the smaller ship size. But don’t let the numbers fool you; this ship is packed with high-energy activities for all ages; from the kid's clubs to the casino, there’s no lack of fun to be had.

Carnival Liberty

Inaugural Year: 2005

Ship Capacity: 2,974 double occupancy; 3,576 total guests

Standout Amenities: Punchliner Comedy Club for family-friendly laughs during the day and adults-only fun at night; SkyBox Sports Bar to keep up with the big games back home; Mongolian Wok, a prime lunch spot with custom bowls

Looking to relax? Prefer a high-energy vacation? Carnival Liberty can do it all. Head to the main theater for enchanting live performances and shows every night, enjoy tacos and burgers on the pool decks, or find a lounge chair around the pool and soak up the sun.

Carnival Valor

Inaugural Year: 2004

Ship Capacity: 2,980 double occupancy; 3,756 total guests

Standout Amenities: Dive-in movies where you can catch a family-friendly flick under the stars; BlueIguana Tequila Bar for tequila and Mexican beer-based cocktails; Scarlett’s Steakhouse, where perfect steaks and impeccable sides await

Carnival Valor is almost 20 years old and still showing cruisers a good time. The ship's home ports are New Orleans, Louisiana, and Barcelona, Spain, and it offers two to over 10-night sailings. Don’t miss the epic Seaday Brunch, where you'll find all kinds of treats like huevos rancheros, french toast, loaded burgers, and chicken and waffles.

Carnival Miracle

Ship Capacity: 2,124 double occupancy; 2,680 total guests

Standout Amenities: Serenity Adult-Only Retreat where the 21-plus crowd can enjoy a kid-free space; pickleball courts that have great views of the ocean and ports of call

Fantasy worlds and elements inspired Carnival Miracle . Around the ship, you’ll find spaces like Phantom Lounge and Dr. Frankenstein’s Lab, where you can see shows or dance the night away. When you’re ready to soak up the sun, find a lounge chair at the adults-only pool deck or splash down on one of the slides at WaterWorks.

Carnival Glory

Inaugural Year: 2003

Standout Amenities: Camp Ocean kids club for children ages two to 11; AquaTunnel waterslide; 24-hour pizza delivery to anywhere on the ship

Carnival Glory is a vibrant ship inside and out. Think nightly dance parties in White Heat Dance Club, movies under the stars on the pool deck, and tacos from BlueIguana Cantina. The ship sails around the Bahamas, Caribbean, and more on two to 10-day itineraries.

Carnival Legend

Inaugural Year: 2002

Ship Capacity: 2,124 double occupancy; 2,610 total guests 

Standout Amenities: White Hot Night Party; jogging track with panoramic ocean views; Build-A-Bear Workshop at Sea where kids can make a new friend to bring home

Carnival Legend, themed around legends and lore around the world, has two pools and plenty of places to grab a bite, including the Golden Fleece Steakhouse for a stunning multi-course dinner. You're sure to return home with tales.

Carnival Conquest

Standout Amenities: Pickleball courts so you can keep up with weekly family matches; '80s Rock-In-Glow Party for an evening of throwback fun; Guy’s Burger Joint for tasty and quick meals between activities

Carnival Conquest takes cruisers to the Bahamas and the Caribbean on two to 10-day sailings. Special programs allow kids to see their favorite Dr. Seuss characters at sea, and adults can enjoy the enticing Alchemy Bar for one-of-a-kind cocktails.

Carnival Pride

Inaugural Year: 2002 

Standout Amenities: Mid-ship pool with a retractable roof; Heroes Tribute Bar, which recognizes each branch of the American military

For an extended cruise from Tampa, Florida, or Baltimore, Maryland, look to Carnival Pride . The ship has something for every type of traveler, including three kids clubs, adult-only spaces, and over a dozen different dining options.

Carnival Spirit

Inaugural Year: 2001

Ship Capacity: 2,124 double occupancy; 2,610 total guests

Standout Amenities: Domed swimming pool; two-deck fitness center; a pizza window open until 4 a.m.

Carnival Spirit sets sail from home ports around the United States to Alaska, Hawaii, the Caribbean, and the Panama Canal. The ship offers a wide range of entertainment options, including mini-golf, a jogging track, kids clubs, and adult-centric entertainment.

Carnival Paradise

Inaugural Year: 1998

Ship Class: Fantasy Class

Ship Capacity: 2,052 double occupancy; 2,606 total guests

Standout Amenities: Serenity Adult-Only Retreat when you need a place without kids; twin racing waterslides for all ages

With two to nine-day cruises from Tampa to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, Carnival Paradise literally takes cruisers to paradise islands. The ship brims with fun amenities like the WaterWorks splash zone and the relaxing Cloud 9 Spa.

Carnival Elation

Ship Capacity: 2,052 double occupancy; 2,606 total guests 

Standout Amenities: Duke’s Piano Bar for nightly sing-a-longs; Alchemy Bar for custom cocktails; BlueIguana Cantina for breakfast and lunch options with a Mexican twist

Carnival Elation is currently the fleet's oldest ship, debuting in March 1998, and the only cruise ship from any cruise line that sails from Jacksonville, Florida. Even though the ship is small, with a total guest capacity of 2,606, it’s ideal for a quick weekend away if you want a mix of relaxation and high-energy activities. I've sailed the most on Carnival Elation since the ship sails from my hometown of Jacksonville. Even though it's the oldest in the fleet, I love that the sailings are short weekend trips where I can sit outside in the sun enjoying a Guy's Burger Joint smash burger before heading inside to see a show or play bingo. And because the ship is so small, it's easy to navigate, and I always end up making friends with the delightful crew onboard.

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Carnival Cruises Review

Friday, April 12th

2024 Cruise Line Reviews

• Carnival Cruises
• Best for a party atmosphere and cruising on a budget
• Good for US port departures, with additional destinations in Europe

Carnival Cruise Line is a popular American cruise line that is part of the Carnival Corporation, the world's largest leisure travel company. The company was founded in 1972 by Ted Arison and has since grown to become one of the most recognized names in the cruise industry, offering affordable and fun-filled vacations to travelers of all ages.

Lots of ships and itineraries to consider

Carnival has a fleet of 24 ships that sail to destinations all over the world, including the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, Europe, and Asia. The cruise line offers a range of itineraries, from short weekend getaways to extended voyages, and caters to a variety of travelers, including families, couples, and groups of friends.

Fun fun fun

One of the defining characteristics of Carnival is its focus on fun and entertainment. The cruise line offers a wide range of onboard activities and amenities, including water parks, sports facilities, casinos, live entertainment, and comedy shows. Carnival's ships are known for their vibrant and colorful designs, which feature themes such as "Fun Ships" and "Carnivalization". The interiors of the ships are filled with bright colors, playful designs, and eye-catching art pieces, giving the vessels a lively and energetic atmosphere. But, depending on the Carnival ship you sail on, you might find that it has a somewhat outdated vibe - especially if you're been on other cruise lines that have been refreshed more recently.

Food is surprisingly good

Carnival features a variety of dining options, including casual eateries, upscale restaurants, and specialty dining venues that showcase global cuisine. Despite being a "bargain" cruise line, we were surprised to find that the food quality on our Carnival sailing rivaled other large cruise lines in the same class (not luxury or all-inclusive).

Over 50 options to spend spring break in the Caribbean

One of the reasons why Carnival is so popular is its commitment to providing an affordable vacation experience. The cruise line offers a variety of deals and discounts, making it possible for travelers to enjoy a cruise vacation without breaking the bank. Looking at our comparison sailing, a Caribbean cruise in March about a year in advance, Carnival was indeed one of the lowest-priced options out there - and with a whopping 53 results (where some rival cruise lines only had a handful or none at all during that time of year). There were several 4- and 5-day sailings from New Orleans, Tampa, Miami and Galveston, with starting prices under $400 per person (not including taxes, fees, and port expenses). Even on the high end, you'd still be paying under $1,000 per person, even on a 12-day Southern Caribbean sailing out of New York with stops in St. Thomas, St. Kitts, Barbados, St. Lucia, and St. Maarten.

Higher-than-average gratuities

But, in some ways, Carnival makes up for its lower cruise fares with its extras. For example, you'll pay more in gratuities here than in some places: Carnival's recommended service charges are $16 per person per day in standard staterooms and $18 pp per day in suites Fortunately, you can ask that those be modified once your onboard, but that should only be done if you've received poor service and Carnival can't make it right.

Kids' clubs don't compete with other cruise lines

And, even though Carnival cruises are advertised as being fun for the whole family, that wasn't exactly our experience. First, at least on an Alaskan cruise we experienced, the kids' clubs were only open periodically and rarely followed the posted schedule. Even when the kids were in the club, the counselors seemed to phone it in most of the time and often didn't do the activities that had been planned - instead leaving the kids to play video games or have open time in the club. There weren't as many all-ages entertainment options either, so the kids in our travel party wound up in the stateroom watching TV because "there wasn't anything else to do" .

Not exactly PG-rated sometimes

Beyond that, Carnival cruises almost always have a party atmosphere. That's totally okay if you're sailing to celebrate a bachelorette party or trying to have a wild spring break in the Bahamas! But, for those traveling with children, it isn't the most wholesome environment. ( Let's just say that while one of our staffers went to look at the northern lights on that Alaska sailing, their kids had to avert their eyes from some... adult activities happening on the loungers ). You might want to look at other cruise lines if you wouldn't enjoy that kind of experience.

Underperforms with respect to safety

The last factor in Carnival's lower-than-them-all ranking here is safety. While most cruise lines experience issues from time to time, Carnival typically ranks as one of the lowest-performing. There have been several incidents involving Carnival ships, including fires, power outages, and mechanical failures. The highest-profile issue was back in 2013, when the Carnival Triumph was stranded at sea for several days. People even referred to it as the "poop cruise" because of how a fire aboard knocked out the power and left cruisers without AC, lights, water, food, and working toilets.

You won't choose Carnival again once you've tried another cruise line

Now, we'll probably incur the wrath of devoted Carnival VIFP Club members, who wouldn't dream of sailing on any other cruise line. That's fine, but most people we found who've cruised with one of our higher-ranked options ( which is ALL of them, by the way ), have a hard time seeing Carnival in a very positive light once they've tried a rival's ship, service, and itinerary. Even if a super-big bargain is your deciding factor, with the right promotions you can probably get a great deal with a higher-performing cruise line. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or you've sailed with Carnival before, we really encourage you to see if you can make the numbers work with a different company before settling for Carnival.

More Cruise Line Reviews

• Royal Caribbean

• Disney Cruise Line

• Celebrity Cruises

• Virgin Voyages

• Viking Cruises

• Regent Seven Seas

• Norwegian Cruise Line

• Princess Cruises

• Holland America

• MSC Cruises

The 15 Best Cruise Lines

Which cruise line is the best.

Cruising is a popular way of traveling for many people, offering a unique experience that combines the convenience of a floating hotel with the excitement of visiting multiple destinations in one trip. In an average year, over fifteen million people say "all aboard" and set sail on an amazing vacation.

There are many different cruise lines to choose from, and each one offers a different type of experience. Some are geared towards families, while others are more focused on luxury or adventure. What would you like to see and do while you're onboard? Is a casino a must-have or a rather-avoid? Would a Broadway-caliber show tip the scales for you? Do you need a wide range of activities to keep the kiddos happy while the adults live it up or relax? The onboard activities and amenities can really make or break your vacation, so be sure you know what you're getting.

Cruise Line FAQ

Which cruise line is the best, what is included in the cost of a cruise, what is the minimum age to cruise, what are the dining options on a cruise ship, are cruise ships crowded, do i have to dress up, are activities included at destination ports, can i bring my own alcohol onboard.

Continued from above...

Another factor that can influence which cruise line you choose is the itinerary. Cruise ships travel all over the world, but some cruise lines may not have destinations available where you're hoping to go. You should also consider the size of the ship: larger ships offer more amenities, but smaller ships can access ports that bigger ships can't.

Speaking of amenities, make sure you understand what you'll get as part of your fare and which extras will come with an additional cost. For example, most cruises offer drink packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but a few have drink stations where you can get complimentary lemonade, coffee and tea. Other amenities that might be important to you are Wi-Fi, spa services, babysitting, fitness classes, and upgraded dining experiences. You can usually get a decent discount if you sign up for an amenities package before you sail, so keep an eye out for promotions in the months leading up to your sailing.

When you take a cruise, it's almost always expected that you'll tip the crew members who have attended to your needs while onboard: your cabin steward ( who probably leaves your towels folded into fun shapes every night ), your servers at your nightly meals, and the head waiter. Cruise lines have a recommended gratuity to cover all three of those staff members, usually $15-$20 per traveler, per day; the total gratuity amount may be charged automatically to your account, or you may be given envelopes to make cash payments.

While it usually isn't mandatory to pay those gratuities - you can ask to have them removed if they're applied automatically, especially if you've received poor service - it's typically considered in poor taste not to tip at the suggested levels (because crew members' salaries, much like servers at your local restaurant, are based on the expectation of tips paid by guests). And, if you receive service that goes above and beyond, adding to the recommended gratuity is always appreciated. Be aware that tips for bartenders, poolside servers, and professional services provided in the spa or elsewhere are not included in the daily suggested gratuity and may be charged automatically at the time of service.

Now that you have a good overview of the cruising experience, which cruise line should you choose? Beyond the points we already covered, here are a few additional criteria that might make it easier to pick:

• Embarkation port. You could get a great deal on a cruise, but what will it cost you to get to the port? That could involve airfare, an overnight stay or two in a nearby hotel (so that you're less likely to be affected by travel delays), and transportation from the airport or hotel to the port. This is especially true if you're taking a cruise that departs from an international destination.
• Perks for repeat cruisers. Like frequent flyer programs on airlines, most cruise lines offer benefits the more you sail. If you find yourself absolutely loving cruise vacations, it can be advantageous to put all of your eggs in one basket, so to speak. Rewards programs can include casino benefits, complimentary meals at the upgraded dining experiences, exclusive sail-away parties with free cocktails and tchotchkes, early-access booking on future cruises, and much more.
• Reputation. It's a really smart idea to see what other travelers have said about their overall experience with a cruise line before booking your trip. The ads on TV may make that private island look amazing, but someone who's been there might point out that you'll pay extra to get on that waterslide. Or, previous cruisers could tell you that despite having several formal nights on the schedule, a particular cruise line has no problem with people showing up to dinner in flip-flops and swimsuit coverups. Find out if the cruise line you're considering lines up in reality with what they advertise.

Here at Top Consumer Reviews, cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel and experience new things. And with so many different cruise lines to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But, don't worry: take a look at our in-depth analysis of today's most popular options, find the one that's the best match for your vacation ideas and your travel party, and book that trip you've been dreaming of. Bon voyage!

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If you’re thinking of booking a Carnival cruise, be it on the new Carnival Celebration or any of Carnival's other massive ships, here’s what to expect and how to enjoy your time at sea.

If you’re not yet familiar with the cruise line, there’s lots to learn about the company. It has been around since 1972 and is part of the Carnival family of cruise lines that includes Princess, Holland America and Cunard.

About Carnival cruises

With plenty of routes from the U.S. and international destinations, countless member benefits and a wide selection of cabins to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect cruise for you.

Cabin types: There are a number of different cabin types to choose from depending on which ship you’re on, including interior rooms, ocean view rooms, balconies or suites. There are sometimes even themed or spa rooms.

Main U.S. routes: Carnival is best known for its Caribbean cruises, most of which depart from Florida, Texas or Louisiana.

Points currency and loyalty program: Carnival’s loyalty program is called VIFP Club (Very Important Fun Person). Members earn benefits like special offers, a free drink on board, priority boarding, cabin upgrades and more. Perks increase the more you sail.

» Learn more: How to leverage hotel elite status for a $100 Carnival cruise

Carnival cruise destinations

Carnival may be best known for its Caribbean cruises, but ships depart from every coast in the U.S., and Carnival ships sail to dozens of destinations all around the world, including transatlantic and transpacific routes. Expect to sail to such destinations as:

New Zealand.

Pacific Islands.

Panama Canal.

Papua New Guinea.

There are cruises as brief as two days and some as long as 31 days, depending on where you’re headed.

» Learn more: The pros and cons of cruises

Carnival cruise prices

Depending on where you’re headed, prices for cruises vary based on:

Carnival cruise rooms.

Carnival ship classes.

Destination.

Length of trip. 

A four-day trip from Miami to the Caribbean might cost under $200 for an interior cabin while a 10-day trip from Sydney, Australia to the Great Barrier Reef might start at $450 and go up from there.

The time of year you sail matters, too. For example, an off-season cruise to the Bahamas in February might cost $189 while the same cruise in June could be $684 for the same cabin on the same ship.

Likewise, the nicer the cabin, the higher the price. An interior room might cost $469 while a suite costs $1,799.

Learn more : The best ways to book a cruise

What is the best Carnival ship?

Carnival has an impressive fleet of vessels and adds more every year. There are currently 24 ships with more maiden voyages scheduled later this year. Which one is the best depends on what you’re after.

If it’s family fun you want, the Carnival Breeze or Carnival Freedom may be just the thing. For luxury, it’s the Carnival Liberty. If the ship is more important than the route, take a look at Carnival’s ship lineup and what each has to offer, plus where they sail.

What is the newest Carnival ship?

The Carnival Celebration ship, which sails to the Caribbean from Miami, is the line’s newest ship, and debatably the best carnival cruise ship.

The Excel-class ship features an on-board roller coaster, can transport 5,282 passengers, has 20 dining venues, a dozen bars and lounges and is only the second Carnival ship to use liquid natural gas as fuel — a more eco-friendly fuel source.

Learn more : Do you need a passport for a Caribbean cruise?

What’s included on a Carnival cruise?

On any Carnival cruise you can expect the following to be included with your booking:

A stateroom based on your booking selection.

Three meals a day. 

Free non-bottled water, lemonade, iced tea, hot chocolate and some coffees and teas.

Fitness center.

Shows and entertainment.

Pools and other water-based fun.

Youth programs.

» Learn more: Are cruises all-inclusive?

Carnival loyalty program: VIFP

Carnival’s loyalty program is called VIFP which means Very Important Fun Person. Members earn benefits like special offers, a free drink on board, priority boarding, cabin upgrades and more. Perks increase with every sailing.

VIFP levels

The VIFP Club has five levels: Blue, Red, Gold, Platinum and Diamond.

How to earn: Sail once.

Best benefit: Members-only offers.

How to earn: Two sailings for 24 points.

Best benefit: Complimentary 1.5 liter bottle of water.

How to earn: Earn 25-74 points.

Best benefit: A free drink on 5+ day cruises.

How to earn: Earn 75-199 points.

Best benefit: VIFP Party on 5+ day sailings with complimentary drinks.

How to earn: Earn 200+ points.

Best benefit: One-time free cabin upgrade OR third and fourth guests sail free.

How to earn VIFP points

Earn one point for every day you spend cruising. The more you cruise, the faster you earn.

How to redeem VIFP points

VIFP points are earned and credited to your account automatically. Some benefits are linked to your Sail & Sign account and credits or perks will be applied when the benefits are redeemed.

Carnival Credit Card

While it won’t earn you VIFP points, the Carnival World Mastercard is a way to earn FunPoints, which you can use like cash toward your next cruise booking.

Earn 20,000 FunPoints after your first purchase or balance transfer, which is worth a $200 statement credit towards your next cruise. You’ll then earn 2 points per dollar on Carnival and partner cruise lines and 1 point per dollar on everything else.

How to Redeem FunPoints

You can cash in your FunPoints by applying them as statement credits toward any Carnival purchases you make over $50, including:

Additional travel expenses.

Carnival cruise excursions.

Onboard amenities and more.

To use them, you can log into your Barclays account online or call to redeem points after you’ve made a purchase.

Point value varies depending on how much you’re spending. For example:

Carnival purchases between $50.00-$1,499.99 have a 1.00% redemption value.

Carnival purchases between $1,500-$5,000 have a 1.50% redemption value.

Purchases with other World’s Leading Cruise Lines cruises have a 1% redemption value.

Airline or hotel statement credits have a .90% redemption value.

Learn more : The best cruise lines

Wi-Fi doesn’t come free on Carnival ships. To get connected, you’ll have to purchase a Wi-Fi package, which you can do in advance of your trip or on board, which may cost more. Expect to pay from $12.75-$22 per day per device.

All Carnival ships include food and beverages, though there are speciality dining and beverage options and packages on most ships that cost extra.

There are two drink packages you can purchase on Carnival cruises: Bottomless Bubbles and Cheers!

Bottomless Bubbles offers unlimited soda during your voyage for $6.95 per day for children and $9.95 per day for adults.

Cheers! offers a flat price for alcoholic (and speciality non-alcoholic) beverages throughout your trip for $59.95 per person per day.

For cruises that last 15 days or less, neither pre-cruise COVID testing nor vaccinations are required for children or adults cruising with Carnival.

For cruises longer than 15 days, depending on the destination, guests may be required to provide proof of vaccination and/or a negative test prior to embarkation.

Make sure to check the details of your booking to ensure you abide by current rules.

What is Carnival Cruise Line known for?

Carnival Cruise Line offers many budget-friendly sailings, many of which are designed with families in mind. Especially if you want to cruise to and around the Caribbean, Carnival is possibly the cruise line for you.

(Top photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)

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I'm an avid cruiser who always recommends Carnival for first-timers. It's barely a step down from pricier competitors — and usually cheaper.

• I've sailed on over 12 Disney, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival ships in the past decade.
• Carnival is the best option for first-timers — it costs less than the others and is just as great.
• I suggest that people avoid splurging on pricier lines until they know they like to cruise.

Cruises aren't for everyone, but they're one of my favorite ways to see the world . 

Throughout the past decade, I've taken over a dozen voyages with three different cruise lines: Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, and Carnival. 

I'm convinced that Carnival is the best cruise line for first-time cruisers . Here's why.

The Carnival cruises I've taken have been the most economical

My parents and i stayed in a junior suite aboard the carnival elation. megan dubois.

My parents and I set sail for a four-night trip from Jacksonville, Florida, to the Bahamas on the Carnival Elation , a Fantasy-class ship.

Our junior suite cost less than $950 for all three of us, which is an absolute bargain compared to the rates I've paid for similar accommodations on Disney and Royal Caribbean ships. 

For example, for a single traveler to stay in an interior stateroom during a three-night cruise from Florida to the Bahamas in December 2023, it would cost about $664 with Carniva l, about $762 with Royal Caribbean , and about $2,378 with Disney . 

Of course, rates vary by ship and itinerary, and each comes with different perks, packages, and cons. But Carnival tends to be the most budget-friendly line across the board. 

Carnival's dining options are just OK, but its ships have one of my favorite celebrity-chef restaurants

Of the three different companies, Disney Cruise Lines serves my favorite food . I can find Mickey-shaped waffles for breakfast and gourmet meals in the dining rooms for dinner.

The Disney ships I've been on have three different dining rooms, and guests can opt for a rotational dining plan that allows them to visit a different one each night. Their staff and tablemates rotate with them.

The main dining rooms I've seen on Carnival's older ships can feel a little outdated, and I think the food is just OK. But if you know where to look, you can find some hidden gems.

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For instance, Carnival is known for its partnership with celebrity chef Guy Fieri , who has multiple burger and barbecue restaurants across the fleet. These restaurants are my favorite places to eat on Carnival ships, and I try to dine there as much as possible since the food is consistently good. 

The Royal Caribbean ships I've boarded have more dining options than the other two cruise lines — with complimentary dining in the main dining room, café promenade, and Windjammer Café buffet along with amazing specialty restaurants. 

I can always find an onboard restaurant with dishes that satisfy my cravings. The only negative, in my eyes, is that cruisers have to pay extra to eat at Royal Caribbean's specialty dining restaurants (or buy a specialty dining package). So if I dine at these restaurants multiple times during a cruise, my spending can skyrocket . 

Paying less doesn't mean you're sacrificing service level

Cruises are one of my favorite ways to vacation because, after embarkation, virtually everything is taken care of for me. Across all three cruise lines, I've found that the service level is about the same . 

Before I even get a chance to settle into my stateroom , a host is usually already there to introduce themselves, and sometimes they already know my entire party by name. 

In the dining rooms, servers and hosts seem to know each family, and by the end of the cruise, it's common for everyone to crack jokes and share life stories with each other.

And when I find my favorite bartender on a ship, they often memorize my drink order and have it ready before I even sit down at the bar. 

Carnival's onboard attractions for kids, adults, and families are just as good as the ones on pricier lines

All three cruise lines have exciting kids clubs, where adults can drop off their children for a day of supervised fun. The ships I've sailed on have also had plenty to do as a family , including pools, sports, and nightly shows. Each of the different cruise lines also hosts its own array of movie characters, which kids tend to love. 

Many Disney ships have classic Disney characters, like Mickey Mouse and all of his pals from the Magic Kingdom, available for meet and greets on the ship . Some Carnival ships host Dr. Suess characters , like Cat in the Hat and Thing 1 and Thing 2. And Royal Caribbean's DreamWork Experience ships are home to characters like Shrek and King Julien.

Adults can also stay entertained with comedy shows, variety acts, and adult-centric games. For example. the Disney ships I've sailed on have adult-only districts , and on my trips with Carnival and Royal Caribbean , the ships had adult-only casinos, bars, and nightclubs. 

The overall experience on Carnival is just as good as it is on more expensive lines, making it the perfect way to dip your toes into cruising

Any cruise line can give you a good experience — but Carnival is definitely my recommendation for first-time cruisers. 

If you choose a voyage with a more expensive cruise line, you could end up shelling out thousands of dollars for a vacation style that may not be for you . Plus, Carnival ships' activities, entertainment options, and service levels are just as good as the more expensive cruise lines, in my opinion.

After sailing on Carnival, you can decide if you like cruising and then try out other lines , like Royal Caribbean or Disney. It's better to save money when you're testing something new instead of spending a lot on an experience you might not enjoy.

• Main content

7 Best Carnival Cruises for Families in 2024- Complete Guide

Sharing is caring!

Are you planning a Carnival Cruise and wondering about the best cruise ships for families? As someone who has cruised with Carnival with my own family, I know first hand which Carnival cruise ships are best.

Choosing a cruise for a family vacation, isn’t one size fits all. Carnival is known for having some of the best cruise lines for families and kids. However, you’ll want to find the best Carnival cruise ship to fit your needs, budget and vacation preferences.

With that being said, here are the 7 best cruises for families.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my  disclosure policy  for details.

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7 Best Carnival Cruises for Families

1. Carnival Vista

The Carnival Vista is a fun ship for every member of the family. This cruise first set sail back in 2016, and has been a popular favorite ever since!

Since the Carnival Vista isn’t super new anymore, it’s going to be more affordable than newer ships. This is great is you’re cruising on a budget or just trying to save some money on your family vacation .

The Carnival Vista has some great restaurants onboard including: Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguanna Cantina, and you can’t forget the main dining room!

Some unique attractions on the Carnival Vista are the IMAX theatre, the SkyRide, the ropes course and water play areas. Kids and young adults who enjoy fun thrills will absolutely love these cruise ship attractions!

Carnival Kid’s and Teen Club Information:

The great thing about all Carnival Ships is that they have kids clubs which are separated by age group.

• Camp Ocean is for younger kids ages 2-11
• Circle C is for young teens ages 12-14
• Club O2 is for teenagers ages 14-17

When I was a younger kid, I would spend my days hanging out at the kid’s club, making new friends and having a good time. There are activities for kids 17 years and under, going on throughout the day and in the evening.

Activities like scavenger hunts, sports games, movie nights and dance parties are always fun. There’s also an area to hang out, a dance floor and an area to play video games, which every kid likes!

2. Carnival Mardi Gras

The Carnival Mardi Gras is a fan favorite, which gets a lot of repeat cruisers. The Mardi Gras is one of the largest ships and newest ships in Carnivals fleet, with over 5,200 passengers onboard!

The Carnival Mardi Gras cruise ship has 26 total dining options. You can bet that there is something for everyone to eat on this cruise ship!

Whether you’re cruising with young children, teens or young adults , this cruise is fun for the whole family.

The Mardi Gras is one of the best cruise ships at sea for families , as there is so much to do for every member of the family. Whether it’s hanging out by the pool, playing in the waterparks or relaxing in the hot tubs, the Carnival Mardi Gras makes for an awesome family vacation.

The main attraction on the Carnival Mardi Gras is the Bolt Roller Coaster, which is the first roller coaster at sea. This does have an additional cost, however going on a roller coaster at sea is not something you do everyday!

3. Carnival Panorama

The Carnival Panorama is the sister ship to the Carnival Vista and Carnival Horizon. This cruise ship first set sail back in late 2019, and is known for having plenty of cruise ship activities and attractions.

Some of the attractions on the Carnival Panorama include the SkyRide, Sky Zone (trampoline park), a ropes course, an enclosed basketball court, mini golf and an outdoor exercise area. This cruise ship is amazing for teenagers !

There are also two water slides called Red Fun (raft slide) and Blue Fun, which is a standard water slide. If you’re cruising with older children who are afraid of water slides, there is a splash park which is also really fun.

Onboard the Carnival Panorama there are also plenty of bars, places to eat at and a Casino. In the evening time, there are parties going on around the ship.

There is a great kid’s club on Carnival, so you leave your children in the kids club (there is a fee after 10 pm) and let loose for the evening!

There is so much included on a Carnival cruise , which makes it a good time and great value for everyone.

Related: Carnival Cruise Packing List – The Ultimate Guide

4. Carnival Sunrise (Refurbished)

The Carnival Sunrise is a mid-size ship that is known for it’s shorter sailings (2-5 days). If you’re looking for a short family getaway, the Carnival Sunrise is perfect.

This cruise ship holds over 2,700 passengers and was originally built in 1999. The Carnival Sunrise was recently refurbished in 2019, so the look of this cruise ship is pretty modern and new looking.

The Carnival Sunrise has two waters slides, a splash park and a ropes course. There is also a nice pool area, which has fun activities and games going on throughout the day.

By the pool, you’ll find is a giant screen that will play movies and shows throughout your cruise. This is a great place to take it easy with the family and spend some quality time together.

Since this cruise was recently refurbished, the kids clubs and teens club looks super modern. If you’re cruising with kids , good luck getting them out of the teens club or kids club!

Related: 50 Popular Cruise Essentials from Amazon

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5. Carnival Horizon

The Carnival Horizon is the sister ship to the Carnival Vista and the Carnival Panorama. Unlike the Carnival Panorama, this ship does not have a SkyZone, however it does have an IMAX theatre.

Like its sister ships, the Carnival Horizon has a ropes course, SkyRide and water slides.

If you like fine dining, then you will love the wide variety of specialty restaurants onboard the Carnival Horizon. Please note that specialty restaurants do have an extra charge.

Carnival Horizon Specialty Restaurants:

• JiJi Asian Kitchen
• Seafood Shack
• Cucina Del Capitano
• Bonsai Teppanyaki
• Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse

Overall, the Carnival Horizon is a fun ship for the whole family. A Carnival cruise is quite affordable, which is one of the reasons why cruising is the best family vacation!

Related: How to Save Money on a Cruise: 27 Tips, Tricks & Hacks

6. Carnival Dream

The Carnival Dream launched back in 2009. However it was refurbished a few years ago in 2017. The ship received the Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades, which includes new restaurants like Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguanna Cantina, the Alchemy Bar and Bonsai Sushi.

This Carnival cruise ship has multiple pool areas, water slides and serenity, which is the adult only area. Serenity is a great place to relax while your kids are on the water slides or at the kids club.

In the evening time, there are family friendly shows, as well as adult only shows. The Punchliner Comedy Club is a great spot to go see some hilarious comedians onboard the Carnival Dream.

The Carnival Dream has something for everyone, so expect the whole family to love this cruise.

Related: 27 Cruise Packing Tips All Cruisers Need to Know

7. Carnival Celebration (coming soon!)

The Carnival Celebration looks like it might be the best Carnival cruise ship yet! The Carnival Celebration is a new cruise ship that will set sail in November 2022, in celebration of Carnival Cruise Line’s 50th anniversary.

Some of the highlights on the Carnival Celebration include it’s 6 zones to explore: Celbration Central, The Gateway, Summer Landing, 820 Biscayne, Lido and The Ultimate Playground.

You’ll have The Bolt, the world’s fastest, and first (along with Mardi Gras) roller coaster at sea. The kids and all family members will love Waterworks, an incredible water slide and water park area onboard the ship.

You’ll also experience some of the best entertainment onboard Carnival cruise ships, including the popular Family Feud Live game show.

This Carnival Celebration is a sister ship to the Carnival Mardi Gras, so it has similar restaurants and onboard activities. Although the Carnival Celebration is similar to the Mardi Gras, they did add three new restaurants.

New Restaurants on the Carnival Celebration:

• The Golden Jubilee
• Emeril’s Bistro 1397

Going on new cruise ships are usually more expensive than cruising on ships that are a few years older. If you want a really special cruise for the whole family, consider the Carnival Celebration for a vacation no one will forget.

However if you’re on a tight budget, consider waiting a few years before booking the Carnival Celebration and choose one of the slightly older cruise ships.

Related & Popular Posts:

• What’s Included on a Carnival Cruise – Everything You Need to Know
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Final Thoughts on Best Carnival Cruises for Families

Well there it is, the best Carnival cruises for families!

When it comes to a family cruise, it’s hard to beat the value you get with Carnival. The endless entertainment, amazing attractions and plentiful food options makes Carnival one of the best cruise lines for families.

When are you booking your Carnival cruise? Let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer writes about fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com . As a frequent cruiser, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like for teens and young adults.

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Guide To Carnival Cruise Line

C arnival Cruises are a great option for anyone looking for a budget friendly cruising option. This line is known for packing each sailing with as much fun as possible. You won’t find these ships lacking in entertainment and activities, unique dining options, and stellar bars and lounges perfect for relaxing. These ships are perfect for families with Camp Ocean for kids and Club 02 for teens. Carnival also offers amazing shore excursions to help you immerse yourself in the port cities’ cultures. No matter what you choose to do on a Carnival Cruise it’s sure to be a vacation you’ll never forget. Use the guide to Carnival Cruise Line to choose the best options to make your trip a once in a lifetime experience. 

Carnival Cruise Departure Ports

• Baltimore, MD
• Barcelona, Spain
• Brisbane, Australia 
• Charleston, SC 
• Galveston, TX
• Jacksonville, FL
• Lisbon, Portugal 
• London, England 
• Los Angeles, CA 
• Miami, FL 
• Mobile, AL 
• New Orleans, LA
• New York, NY
• Norfolk, VA 
• Port Canaveral, FL 
• Rome, Italy 
• San Diego, CA 
• San Francisco, CA 
• Seattle, WA
• Sydney, Australia 
• Tampa, FL 

Carnival Cruise Destination Ports

• Alaska 
• The Bahamas 
• Bermuda 
• Canada + New England 
• Caribbean 
• Europe 
• Hawaii 
• Mexico 
• Panama Canal 
• Transatlantic 
• Australia 
• New Zealand 
• Papua New Guinea
• South Pacific 
• Transpacific 

Carnival Cruise Classes

Carnival Cruise ships are divided into 8 different classes including Excel, Dream, Splendor, Conquest, Spirit, Sunshine, and Fantasy. Each class differs in amenities, type of cruise, and destination. This can help you with narrowing down which Carnival ship is the best option for you. 

Excel Class  

Featured On: Mardi Gras, Celebration 

Excel Class ships are the largest and newest in the fleet. The ships with Excel Class also have the most amenities and activities on board. Noteworthy amenities include restaurant options, bars, roller coasters, and fun games such as Family Feud. Due to their size these ships may be more crowded and have less of an intimate feel.  

Vista Class

Featured On: Vista, Horizon, Panorama

Vista is the second more extravagant Carnival Cruise class. If you’re looking for a more classic Carnival experience, Vista Class is a great option for you. Highlights include SkyCourse and IMAX theaters. 

Dream Class

Featured On: Dream, Magic, Breeze

Dream Class ships are very similar to Vista Class ships, although they are slightly smaller in size. Dream Class is great for families and includes amenities such as video arcades, waterparks, mini golf, and a karaoke bar. 

Spendor Class

Featured On: Splendor

Larger than the conquest (below), Splendor Class activities include things like casinos, comedy shows, waterparks, multiple pools, and so much more. 

Conquest Class

Featured On: Conquest, Glory, Valor, Liberty, Freedom 

While Conquest Class ships are slightly smaller they have plenty to offer guests in terms of amenities. They include activities like an adult-only top deck, great restaurants and dining options, and mini golf. If you’re looking to avoid crowds these ships are a great option for you. 

Spirit Class

Featured On: Spirit, Pride, Legend, Miracle 

If you’re looking for adventure then the spirit class is for you! These ships sail to amazing locations such as Australia, Alaska, and Europe. There are plenty of amenities and activities on board to keep you busy such as spas, pools, waterparks, and the famous SkyCourse. 

Sunshine Class

Featured On: Sunshine, Sunrise, Radiance

These are Carnival’s smaller and older ships. Don’t worry, these ships have all undergone various renovations and offer similar amenities to the newer Carnival cruises. 

Fantasy Class

Featured On: Ecstasy, Sensation, Elation, Paradise 

Fantasy Class ships are the smallest in the Carnival fleet. If you’re looking for a more intimate cruise experience then Fantasy Class is a great option for you. Be aware that there are fewer amenities onboard these ships. 

Carnival Cruise Cabins and Suites

Carnival offers several different cabins and suites for cruisers to choose from. These include…

Specialty Suites

Offer: Family Harbor, Cloud 9 Spa, Havana 

The specialty suites are the most extravagant on the ship. Depending on the specialty suite you choose, some of the suites cater specifically to families with kids, while others cater to couples, and those wanting more outdoor space. Specific ships offer different specialty suites. 

Suites are the most spacious onboard Carnival Cruises. They sleep 5 guests, have their own balconies, and offer a host of amenities. These include things like priority embarkment and disembarkment, priority dinner reservations, complimentary water, pillow-top mattresses, and comfy bathrobes. 

Balcony staterooms are a step down from suites and feature their own balconies, which are fantastic for longer cruises with more time at sea. 

Ocean view staterooms are larger than interior rooms and include a window. These rooms can accommodate up to 5 people, but only 3 people comfortably. You can request a connecting room for a bit more space.

Interior rooms are the most basic and budget friendly option on Carnival Cruises. Much like ocean view staterooms these rooms can accommodate up to 5 people, but only 3 people comfortably. You can request a connecting room for a bit more space.

What To Consider When Choosing A Ship

Of course destination and budget needs to be taken into consideration when choosing a Carnival Cruise. While many of the cruises contain similar amenities, they may not all be included in certain packages. 

If traveling as a family, parents will want to consider places to unwind and relax as well as kids clubs and fun spaces. Solo travelers and singles will want to consider the nightlife and choose a cruise geared more toward entertainment for adults. 

The Best Carnival Cruise Ships

Carnival Mardi Gras 

Sails To: Caribbean 

Sails From: Port Canaveral, FL 

Duration: 6-9 days 

Carnival’s Mardi Gras is a salute to where the cruise line has been and where it’s headed in the future. The Mardi Gras is made for anyone and everyone! The goal was to create an atmosphere where cruising is a bit less stuffy and fancy. This new ship features zones, six themed areas bursting with new and innovative dining, drinking, and entertainment. Mardi Gras offers BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, as well as Emeril’s Bistro 1396. Enjoy new bars like The Brass Magnolia and Fortune Teller. 

Carnival Radiance  

Sails To: Caribbean, Mexico 

Sails From: Galveston, TX – Los Angeles, CA

Duration: 2-5 days, 6-9 days

Carnival Radiance is new to the fleet in 2022 and was designed for a more intimate cruising experience. With a mass occupancy of 2,984, this ship is perfect for you and your close travel buddies. Radiance features some exciting new restaurants including Shaq’s Big Chicken, Guy Fieri’s Burger Joint and Pigs & Anchor BBQ Smokehouse. Kids on board will love interacting with their Dr. Suess favorites including an onboard meeting with the Cat In The Hat. The ship also features a plethora of adult entertainment options including a SkyCourse, Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, and Alchemy Bar. 

Carnival Glory

Sail To: Caribbean, Panama Canal 

Sail From: New Orleans, LA

Duration: 6-9 days, 10+ days 

Although Glory is a bit of an older ship, built in 2003, it is a beloved favorite with Carnival cruisers. The ship offers a wide variety of entertainment and activities. For adults there is a stand up comedy club, and Playlist Productions that features singing and dancing. Kids can enjoy Seuss at Sea, where they can meet their Dr. Suess favorites and watch the books be brought to life. The ship also features WaterWorks waterpark, Dive-In Movies, and many more fun activities. 

Carnival Splendor

Sails To: Alaska, Australia, New Zealand, South Pacific, Transpacific 

Sails From: Sydney, Australia – Seattle, WA

Duration: 2-5 days, 10+ days 

If you’re looking for exciting destinations and adventure you can’t do better than Carnival Splendor. This ship will ensure that you have a great time at sea with amazing entertainment and activities. Enjoy the El Morocco Lounge that offers musical performances, comedy shows, and fun karaoke. Have a great time at the Carnival WaterWorks or relax at the onboard Jazz Club, The Cool. For extra fun you can Lip Sync Battle fellow cruisers and make the crowd go wild! To fully unwind enjoy Serenity Adult-Only Retreat or the Cloud-9 Spa. Dining options include Masala Tiger, where you can get signature Indian cuisine and MongolianWok, where you can chow down on Asian goodness.

Highest Rated Carnival Shore Excursions

Segway Boardwalk Ride & Riviera Museum 

Ensenada, Mexico

$74 per person 

This shore excursion explores beautiful Ensenada, Mexico. You’ll visit the famous fish market, Plaza Civica, dancing fountain, and Riviera Del Pacifico. Learn more about the Segway Boardwalk Ride excursion here. 

Avalon Certified Scuba Adventure

Catalina Island, CA

This guided dive takes you to the beautiful and pristine kelp forest of Casino Dive Park. This site has become a bucket list destination for divers around the world. You’ll also get to see an abundance of local wildlife on this dive. Find out more about the Avalon Scuba Adventure here. 

Secret Sands Beach & Skyline Drive

St. Thomas, USVI

Adult – $59.99

Children – $49.99

How does a relaxing day in a tropical paradise sound? Well, that’s exactly what you will get with this secret sands beach excursion. You’ll get 2.5 hours to lounge and sunbathe or enjoy the warm turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Find out more about this shore excursion here. 

Kayaking The Panama Canal

Colon, Panama 

$94.99 per person 

Minimum age of 12 

If you’re looking for adventure then kayaking the Panama Canal is a great shore excursion for you. Wildlife is abundant in the area so keep your eyes peeled while paddling. This tour lasts about 5 hours and includes kayaking on Gatun Lake and the Agua Clara Locks where you can see how the Panama Canal operates. To find out more about this shore excursion click here. 

Helicopter Flightseeing & Glacier Trek

Juneau, Alaska 

$483.99 per person 

Known as one of the most exciting shore excursions, adventure lovers can trek 2  hours througha a  glacial landscape in Alaska. This 4.5 hour excursion is considered difficult and you will need to learn the proper use of mountaineering gear. The tour includes a once in a lifetime Glacial Walkabout. Make sure to wear comfortable and sturdy hiking boots for this excursion. You can find out more about the Glacier Trek here. 

Bermuda Triangle Shipwreck Snorkel

Adult – $71.99

Child – $59.99

Minimum age of 5

Bermuda is home to around 200 miles of coral reef, and while it may be absolutely stunning it’s also treacherous. There have been over 300 shipwrecks in the area and on this shore excursion you’ll get to snorkel among them. Specifically, two of the most famous shipwrecks, the Montana and the Constellation. You can find out more about this Carnival shore excursion here.

French Cooking Class & Marigot Shopping 

St. Marteen, NA

$129.99 per person 

The chance for a cooking experience like this won’t come around often as you’ll learn to cook both European and Caribbean cuisine. A world renowned French chef will instruct you as you gaze out over Marigot’s waterfront. The chef will share trade secrets that you won’t learn anywhere else, and you’ll learn French cooking skills with Caribbean spices thrown in for good measure. Learn more about the French cooking class here. 

Family Fun Entertainment On Carnival Cruise Ships

Carnival offers a variety of family fun options onboard their ships such as parties, activites, and fun for the whole family. These are a few of the family fun options onboard Carnival Cruises…

Sail Away Party

This is a great way to kick off your cruise! The Sail Away Party is full of energy and fun for the whole family. If you weren’t in the vacation mood before attending, you certainly will be after the epic Sail Away Party. 

Dive-In Movies

Featuring different genres of movies, the Dive-In Movie entertainment allows cruisers to watch movies on a jumbo screen from the comfort of poolside lounge chairs or even from the pool. You’ll find action, comedy, and even date night favorites at these family friendly events. You’ll discover that Carnival has you covered with delicious popcorn, plenty of blankets, and a night unders the stars you won’t soon forget. 

Thrill Theater

At the Thrill Theater you are part of the action on the screen. These state-of-the-art 3D video effects transport you as you feel the wind in your hair, special lighting effects, and your seat even moves to fully immerse you in this theater experience. There are a variety of shows including family friendly showings, and adult only (17+) options. 

Entertainment and Activities for Kids and Teens

The entertainment and activity options onboard Carnival ships are perfect for kids and teens during days and nights on ship. These are great ways for kids and teens to socialize and make new friends while parents get to enjoy time together. 

Camp Ocean is designated for kids from the ages of 2-11 years old. They have enough fun and entertainment to keep even the most restless kids busy throughout the duration of the cruise. Kids are placed into age related groups and constantly supervised while enjoying activities such as Pirate Game Nights, Musical Icebergs, and Marine Life Trivia.

Carnival understands that teenagers need their own space, and they’ve got something special just for teens aboard their ships. Club 02 is made for teens from 15-17 years old and is the perfect hangout space on ship. Teens can watch movies, listen to music, have fun karaoke sessions, and enjoy their time aboard the ship in this entertaining hangout space. 

Adult Entertainment and Activities

Adult Only Retreat 

The adult only retreat is aboard each Carnival ship and offers a great escape for adults. Whether you are a solo traveler, part of a couple, or a parent, you’ll find complete relaxation in this adult only space. Relax and unwind in well appointed hammocks or day beds as you read your vacation book or do absolutely nothing at all. 

Cooking Demonstrations – Carnival Kitchen

World class chefs aboard Carnival ships perform hour long cooking demonstrations, including taste testing. These events are incredibly popular and fill up quickly, so if you are interested in taking part in a cooking demonstration make sure to get there early. 

Nightclubs 

Carnival’s resident DJ’s spin the latest hits, as well as old favorites that are guaranteed to get you on the dance floor. The Carnival Nightclubs stay open until the early hours of the morning! Don’t miss out on some of the incredibly fun theme nights. 

Each Carnival ship has a casino onboard. They are usually right in the center of the main entertainment deck. Casinos include gaming such as Blackjack, dice/Craps, Roulette, Texas Hold’ Em, Caribbean Stud Poker, Three Card Poker, and Slots. There are also casino tournaments in Blackjack, Slots, and poker for fun prizes! 

Best Restaurants On Carnival Cruises Ships

Chef’s Table

Ship: All Ships 

Meal: Dinner 

Cost: Adults – $75-$95

Attire: Cruise Casual, Elegant 

The top dining experience on any Carnival Cruise is a meal at the Chef’s Table. This is a culinary experience of a lifetime in a meal prepared by the Master Executive Chef. Reservations are necessary for this small group experience as seating is limited to 14 guests total. This VIP experience will begin with hor d’oeuvres and cocktails, followed by a full service dinner of amazing appetizers, entrees, and delicious desserts.

RedFrog Pub & Brewery

Ship: Vista 

Meal: Drinks, Snacks 

Cost: Additional $

Must be 21 years of age or older 

The RedFrog Pub & Brewery, aboard Carnival Vista, gives you the unique ability to experience North America’s first brewery at sea. Beer lovers can delight in a great selection of craft brews including IPAs, Stouts, and Pale Ales. The brewmaster also has small batch season brews that are made aboard the ship. You’ll love the drinks but you’ll stay for the atmosphere including live music, delicious small bites, and fun pub games.

Best Places For Breakfast On Carnival Cruises

For breakfast on ship head to the Dining Room for a made to order meal. If you miss breakfast, don’t worry, you can grab Seaday Brunch ! It’s a vacation, so sleep in and enjoy a delicious assortment of breakfast favorites and this included brunch spot. Dine on scrumptious favorites like huevos rancheros, french toast, or loaded mac-n-cheese. For a special morning on ship, kids will love the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast . For an additional fee you can sit down for breakfast in the world of Dr. Suess.  

Best Places For Lunch On Carnival Cruises

There are an incredible number of options for lunch on Carnival Cruise ships. These include quick grabs like Big Chicken , Guy’s Burger Joint , and Street Eats . All feature classics like fried chicken, juicy burgers, and street food favorites. For something a little different try Mongolian Wok , where you can create your own stir-fry. At Masala Tiger enjoy fantastic Indian cuisine, while Carnival Deli provides juicy cuts of meat piled high, just like your neighborhood deli.    

Best Places For Dinner On Carnival Cruises

Although you won’t find Carnival Cruise ships lacking in dinner options, many of them are specialty and are not included in your cruise fare. The Dining Room offers a three course meal each night without being pretentious. Other dinner options included in cruise fare are Big Chicken , Lido Marketplace , Carnival Deli , and the Kids Meal for Campers . 

Carnival Cruises are perfect for anyone wanting to have a great time on a budget! You’ll have plenty of opportunities between entertainment, activities, and shore excursions. There won’t be a dull moment on ship. Dine at one of the many amazing restaurants or have a culinary experience at the Chef’s Table. What are you waiting for? Pack your bathing suite, sunscreen, and book a Carnival Cruise today! 

The post Guide To Carnival Cruise Line appeared first on Sunny Sweet Days .

43 Carnival Cruise Line tips, tricks and hacks to enhance your vacation at sea

Want to hear a secret that will enhance your upcoming Carnival cruise? How about 43?

Carnival Cruise Line 's affordable rates and plethora of U.S. departures means it attracts a lot of first-time cruisers. No matter how much research you do, it's hard to be completely prepared to step onto a ship for the first time.

You learn so much on that first sailing that you may wish you could go back and get a do-over to maximize your time on board and ashore.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

As someone who's sailed Carnival for 15-plus years, I have learned a lot of useful information about how to make the most of a "Fun Ship" sailing.

Learn from my experiences — and mistakes. Here are 43 Carnival Cruise Line tips, tricks and hacks that you can use to get maximum enjoyment out of your first Carnival cruise or next vacation at sea.

Book early for low fares, but check the fine print

Carnival's Early Saver fares offer some of the lowest base prices for cruises outside of special promotions. They also come with price protection should the rate drop on your sailing after you've booked.

You can only book these fares on cruises departing more than two or three months from the booking date. However, make sure you read the fine print before committing. If you have to cancel or change your cruise before final payment date, you will be assessed a $50 per-person fee, and your deposit will be returned only as a future cruise credit that expires within the year.

In general, booking cruises early is a good idea to lock in the best rates, as well as the best cabin availability.

Book shoulder-season cruises to save

Carnival can be a budget-friendly line, but you can save more by sailing at less popular times of year.

For example, Alaska cruises in May and September will be cheaper than peak-season sailings in July. Caribbean cruises in November before the holidays will be more affordable than the same itineraries during winter or spring break weeks.

Take advantage of drive-to cruise ports

Carnival ships embark passengers from more U.S. ports than any other major cruise line.

That means beyond the main ports in Florida, New York and California, you can sail from places like Baltimore, Jacksonville, Charleston, Mobile, Norfolk and Tampa.

Driving to your cruise port can save you money over flying. Also, the older ships sailing from these destinations often have an abundance of affordable cabins.

Be rewarded for your military service

Carnival Cruise Line rewards servicemen and women with a military appreciation gathering on every sailing, a Heroes Tribute Lounge on select ships and military discounts on every cruise .

Active and retired members of the U.S. and Canadian militaries can take advantage of a few extra dollars off their cruise bookings.

Use the best price guarantee to combat buyer's remorse

If the cruise fare drops within 48 hours of your booking, you can take advantage of Carnival's best price guarantee to receive 110% of the difference back in onboard credit.

The line also guarantees shore excursion pricing. The fine print is complicated, so make sure you understand it before submitting a claim.

You don't have to pay all at once

Various cruise payment plans are available for Carnival cruisers who need them.

Carnival EasyPay is available on select cruises booked at least five months in advance. Pay the deposit when you book, and the cruise line will charge your credit card once a month until the cruise is paid in full, with no added fees.

Alternatively, travelers can book their cruise and pay using Financing Powered by Uplift. It's essentially a loan that you can pay back over up to 18 months.

Earn more on your purchase when you pay with a rewards card

A cruise can be an affordable vacation or a hefty investment, so make sure you make the most of your purchase.

Book your Carnival sailing with a credit card that earns points, miles or cash back. Even better, use a card that earns extra rewards on travel purchases.

If you're in the market for a new card, apply for one before you book your vacation at sea and apply the cost of your cruise toward your minimum spend to earn the signup bonus.

Research your ship before you commit to it

The oldest, smallest ships in Carnival's fleet are the 2,130-passenger Carnival Elation and Carnival Paradise. The newest, largest vessel is the 5,282-passenger Carnival Celebration .

All of the line's cruise ships, built over decades, do not offer all of the same public spaces, restaurants and cabin styles. Make sure you look up information about what your ship offers before booking. You don't want to get excited about a specific restaurant or onboard roller coaster only to discover it's not available on the ship you booked.

Protect your vacation investment with insurance

Life is unpredictable. A snowstorm, illness, car accident or flight delay could all cause you to miss your Carnival cruise.

If it would be a hardship to lose your cruise payment or pay out of pocket for last-minute travel changes, make sure you purchase travel insurance from a third-party provider to protect your vacation investment.

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, you'll need to sign up for a plan within a few weeks of booking your cruise.

Take advantage of stockholder benefits

Do you own 100 shares of stock or more in the Carnival Corporation? Cruise line stockholders are entitled to receive an onboard credit of $50 to $250, depending on the length of your cruise.

Alert the line at least four weeks before your sail date to request the credit. Once on board, you'll have free money to spend on drinks, specialty dining, shore excursions or souvenirs.

Book your drinks package before you sail

A beverage package can be a great way to save on your bar bill if you typically order a lot of extra-fee sodas, beers and cocktails when you travel. Carnival Cruise Line has one of the most affordable beverage packages in the industry. Add it to your reservation before you cruise, and you can save 10% on the package price.

Book shore excursions in advance

You won't save any money by booking your shore excursions pre-cruise, but you will be able to lock in a spot on the tours you most want to take.

The most popular tours often sell out, especially ones with limited space (such as snorkel trips on small boats). You can always cancel if your plans change. Just do so more than 24 hours prior to sailing in order to get a full refund. Cancel on board and you'll be subject to a 25% cancellation fee. Tours canceled within 24 hours of arriving in that port are not eligible for any refunds.

Book specialty dining before you sail or as soon as you board

Carnival offers amazing free food, but its specialty restaurants are also worth the splurge if you're looking for variety or a date night out.

Its teppanyaki venues are hugely popular and often book up. If you want to make a reservation for an extra-fee eatery, you will want to reserve your spot as early as possible.

If you can, make restaurant reservations online as soon as you can after booking your cruise. If not, get on the ship as early as possible and reserve your table as soon as you get on board. Otherwise, you'll find yourself eating at 9 p.m. or missing out on the dining experience entirely.

Arrive a day early

When you fly or even drive to your cruise port on the day of your sailing, you're taking a risk that flight delays or traffic will cause you to miss your ship's departure.

It's always safer to build in some buffer time by planning to arrive in your embarkation port city the day before your ship is scheduled to set sail. It's an added cost, for sure, but it means you'll be less stressed going into your cruise vacation. You might also be able to explore a little in town before you board.

Choose an early arrival time

Like many cruise lines these days, Carnival attempts to make the boarding process less chaotic and crowded by assigning cruisers boarding time slots – usually half-hour windows. While you won't be turned away if you turn up late (unless you're so late that embarkation has ended), you won't be allowed in the terminal if you show up early.

If you want to make the most of your time on board, choose an early arrival time by checking into your cruise as soon as possible. That way, you can be one of the first people on board and have extra time to make reservations, eat lunch before the crowds come and enjoy top-deck attractions before everyone else discovers them.

Pay more to get to the fun first

Suite guests and high-level members of Carnival's VIFP Club loyalty program receive extra perks and priority that average cruisers do not.

However, you can buy your way into a better cruise experience with Carnival's Faster to the Fun program. Perks include access to priority boarding on embarkation day, early access to your cabin to drop your bags, expedited luggage delivery, priority access to the guest services desk, priority dining reservations, priority boarding of water shuttles from ship to shore and flexible disembarkation options.

Pack bathing suits and closed-toe shoes in your cruise carry-on

Most cruisers hand their larger suitcases over to the porters at the cruise terminal, and the suitcases are delivered to their cabins later in the afternoon. Be smart about what goes in the bag you'll carry on board , so you can make the most of your first day on the ship.

Pack a bathing suit so you can hop in the pool, hot tub or water slides before they get crowded, and bring closed-toe shoes so you can try out Carnival's ropes course, roller coaster or elevated bicycle ride. You'll also want to carry electronics and valuables, and important medications on board with you as well.

Don't overpack — Carnival cruises are casual

We know you want to take all your fun outfits on your vacation but overpacking means lugging around heavy suitcases and potentially paying extra to check multiple bags. A Carnival cruise is a casual affair, so it's easy to keep things simple and not overpack.

According to Carnival's dress code , jeans and nice shorts (i.e. not gym shorts or cut-offs) are acceptable dinner attire on most evenings.

A couple of evenings will be deemed Cruise Elegant, but you don't need a tux. Just look dressy, and you'll be fine. We've all seen people wear jeans on these nights, and no one turns them away. Or, eat at the buffet, where it's always casual.

Pick one color scheme so you don't need as many shoes. Also, feel free to wear items more than once — you'll never see most of these people again anyway.

Bring your own toiletries

Carnival cruise ships provide the bare minimum of toiletries — bar soap to wash your hands, dispensers of generic shampoo and body wash in the shower.

You'll be better off bringing your favorite skin and haircare brands. You'll also want to bring a first aid kit with common over-the-counter medicines, bandages, feminine hygiene products and aloe cream for sunburns.

In a pinch, you can usually purchase these items on board, but they'll be overpriced and restricted to only a few products.

Pack these other key items for your Carnival cruise

We know you're good with sunscreen and underwear, but there are a few cruise-specific items new cruisers might not think to add to their cruise packing list .

Carnival cabin walls are magnetic, so bring magnetic clips and hooks to keep baseball hats, lightweight jackets and shore excursion tickets off the desk and couch and neatly hung on the walls.

Lanyards are ideal, especially for little kids, to keep your cruise card close when your clothes don't have pockets. Pack towel clips to keep your pool towel from blowing off your lounge chair. Pick fun designs to readily identify your chair in the sea of sunbathers.

Bring your own beverages

Port and ship security will shut you down if you try to smuggle most alcoholic beverages on board.

However, Carnival does allow each guest to bring 12 cans or cartons of nonalcoholic drinks (like soda, juice or seltzer), as well as one bottle of wine. This can save you money if you don't buy a drinks package. You will be charged a $15 corkage fee if you wish to drink your own wine in an onboard restaurant or bar.

Download the Carnival HUB app

The Carnival HUB app is essential for planning your cruise both before and after you're on board. It allows you to make reservations for dinner and purchase tours, spa treatments and onboard Wi-Fi.

It allows you to view the daily schedule of activities and create a personal schedule of your favorites, peruse menus for onboard restaurants, check your onboard bill and look up deck plans of your ship. You can also order food delivered to your poolside lounge chair and text your friends for a nominal fee.

The app is free, and you do not need a cruise ship internet plan to access it.

Keep your phone in airplane mode

You'll use your phone for all sorts of things on a Carnival cruise — snapping photos, scanning QR codes to pull up menus and using the HUB app.

Purchase a Wi-Fi plan, and you can text, browse the internet and post to social media. However, you must remember to put your phone on airplane mode as soon as the ship sets sail. Otherwise, your phone will switch to satellite roaming, and you'll be charged an expensive fee for data and phone use while at sea.

Book the Bolt roller coaster soon as you board

Bolt is Carnival's new roller coaster attraction found on Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration. The thrill ride is tons of fun, but a maximum of four people can ride it at any one time. Reserve a spot as early as you can to make sure you get to try the attraction.

Because the roller coaster cannot operate when it's especially windy, the top-deck ride often gets shut down on sea days. Choose a port day for your turn on the coaster, or book a spot on the first sea day, so you have time to rebook if the attraction closes before you can ride it.

Request tables early for open-seating dining

When you want to eat at a non-reservation sit-down dining venue for breakfast and lunch (and dinner, if you've chosen Carnival's Anytime Dining plan), you must request a table on the HUB app, and you'll be alerted when one is ready.

Sometimes a table is ready right away. However, if you're aiming for a popular restaurant at dinner, you may be in for a wait.

Instead of booking immediately when you want to eat, request your dinner table 30 minutes early, especially if you want to eat between 6 and 7:30 p.m. At worst, you'll get a spot a little earlier or later than you desire, but you won't be forced to eat at 5 or 9 p.m.

Ask for a real menu

Carnival has gone digital with restaurant and bar menus. You can find them on the HUB app or by scanning the QR codes set on every table.

However, if you left your phone in the cabin or your eyes can't take the small print, ask for a traditional paper menu. The bars and restaurants always have some on hand.

Don't miss the sea day brunch

One of Carnival's best-included meals is the sea day brunch, offered all morning long on days with no port stops.

The wide menu runs the gamut from traditional breakfast items to more savory lunch entrees and includes menu items you won't find on other days. If you don't get to try every dish you'd like, don't worry; you can always come back the next sea day.

You can sit down for lunch at specialty restaurants

At lunchtime, most Carnival cruisers flock to the line's counter-service venues — Guy's Burger, Shaq's Big Chicken, the pizzeria, the deli counter and the buffet.

However, don't forget about sit-down options, many of which are free. Both Cucina del Capitano and Chibang! offer complimentary lunches, or you can enjoy Emeril's New Orleans fare or sushi for an extra charge.

Take your little kids for breakfast with Dr. Seuss

Once per cruise, Carnival transforms a section of one of its main dining rooms into a Dr. Seuss-themed wonderland and invites families to dine on whimsical morning fare.

Kid-friendly music plays in the background and favorite Seuss characters come out to pose for photos. The Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast (and, yes, you can order that famous storybook meal) does cost extra. Make reservations early in the cruise via the HUB app. This one's a must for the preschool set, but older kids might be too cool for Seuss school.

Look for breakfast venues beyond the buffet

Carnival ships have many overlooked breakfast spots that can make dining a pleasure when the buffet is packed.

You can find a buffet outpost of breakfast staples at Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse, eggs and biscuits at Big Chicken and breakfast burritos at BlueIguana Cantina. Or, pick up a ready-made bite with your coffee at JavaBlue Cafe.

Ask for off-menu veggie burgers at Guy's Burger Joint

Guy's Burger Joint is an homage to the carnivore. Order up patties made from bacon or burgers covered in chili.

However, if you lean toward a more plant-based lifestyle, you can still indulge in burgers topped with onions and mushrooms from the toppings bar.

It's not on the menu, but you can request a veggie burger, and the dining staff can heat you up a meatless burger (with or without cheese). It might take a few minutes longer than the ready-made cheeseburgers, but it's worth the wait.

Don't miss the dinner show

Carnival's dining room staff is an energetic lot, and they strut their stuff in nightly song-and-dance routines in the ship's main restaurants.

It is perfectly acceptable to get up and dance along with them or wave your napkin to the beat. (But please, shake the crumbs out first.) Some crew members are more talented dancers than others, but everyone loves to join in the fun.

You don't have to finish your bottle of wine

It's always cheaper to buy wine by the bottle than by the glass, and Carnival's restaurants are no exception to this rule.

However, if you think you might want a glass or two with dinner on several nights, go ahead and order that bottle. If you don't finish it, Carnival's wait staff will save it for you, and you can request it on another night.

They'll even pass the bottles from one restaurant to the next, so you can order something special in the steakhouse and finish it in the main dining room the next night.

Say no to the souvenir glass

Many fun drinks come in souvenir glasses, especially at Carnival's poolside bars. What you're going to do with a container that's shaped like Carnival's iconic split funnel once you're back home is anyone's guess.

Instead of cluttering up your suitcase with souvenir cups bound for the dusty back corners of your cabinets, ask for the same drink in a regular glass. It will also shave a buck or two off the cost of your drink.

Bring refillable bottles

Don't waste money and landfill space on endless bottles of water on your Caribbean cruise. Instead, bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up at the buffet or in your cabin each morning.

In the same vein, only coffee you pay for comes in a to-go cup. Bring a travel mug to get complimentary tea and coffee from the buffet and take it with you wherever you go on board.

Use your loyalty benefits

Free bottled water and cocktails, a special chocolate dessert, complimentary laundry and free specialty dining are some of the perks you can enjoy when you gain higher tiers of status in Carnival's VIFP Club loyalty program.

While some perks may be delivered to your cabin (such as souvenir gifts and special event invites), others you may need to seek out. Read up on which perks you're eligible for and be sure to take advantage of the money-saving offers.

Don't miss the Towel Animal Takeover

Once per cruise, often on the last sea day, Carnival's room stewards really work their magic by "taking over" the pool deck with their towel animal creations.

Stop by the pool around breakfast time and you'll be amazed to find a different towel animal on every lounge chair, plus some extra-large critters huddled around the pools and hot tubs. It's a fun photo opp not to be missed.

Line up early for shows

Carnival's comedy shows and musical numbers in the Celebrations Central venues on its newest ships often have more demand than seats available. If you want to guarantee a spot at a specific show, or get a preferred seat without blocked sightlines, you'll need to line up early.

Don't think you can sneak into the end of the show before and stay through to the next one. Carnival staff will clear the theater before inviting the next crop of audience members in to find a seat.

Don't miss the live music

Carnival puts special emphasis on live music, and you can often find a solo artist or small ensemble performing in the atrium, casino, bar areas or by the pool. If you like pop songs by piano, the piano bar always attracts an enthusiastic crowd. Country, classical and covers — you can make your way through the musical gamut as you bar hop at night.

Take your little ones to Camp Ocean

Camp Ocean, Carnival's kids club, takes children as young as 2 and doesn't mind if your kid is still in diapers. This is unusual in the cruise world, as most kids clubs on other lines start at age 3.

In addition, the extra-fee Night Owls group babysitting (from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.) welcomes junior cruisers as young as 6 months. Parents can use these services to get a break or a night out away from their toddlers and tykes.

Watch sailaway from a secret deck

On many Carnival cruise ships, you can find small outdoor seating areas at the forward end of several of the cabin corridors. These tucked-away public verandas of sorts are not well known, so you can often have them to yourself during scenic cruising, such as sailaway or when you're approaching a port.

You'll know you're getting close to a secret deck when you find a door with a porthole window at the end of a cabin corridor, instead of another hallway with doors leading to forward-facing cabins. The doors are sometimes locked at night or in high winds, so try again later if you can't get through.

Don't double tip

Carnival adds an 18% service charge to your bill whenever you order a drink at a bar or pay for a meal at an extra-charge restaurant. Gratuities are automatically added to spa bills, as well.

You do not need to tip above this, though many passengers get confused or add a tip because they're used to always adding one back on land. Tip extra for impressive service if you like, but do not feel compelled to add an additional gratuity above the automatic one.

Seek out shade past the cabanas on Half Moon Cay

Half Moon Cay, Carnival's private island in the Bahamas, is a great stop for a beach day. Its shores are full of soft, white sand, but there's not much shade to be found for those of us who burn easily.

You can pay extra for a clamshell to cover your lounge chair or to rent a cabana . If you seek shade without a price tag, though, you do have an option — but you have to walk for it.

Head past the bars and cabanas and main rows of lounge chairs to the far side of the beach. Here's you'll find a few hammocks tucked among the trees and loungers you can pull into the shade. (You'll also find the off-duty crew hanging out here as well.)

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