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Carnival Jubilee

Cruise line Carnival Cruise Line

• Galveston (Texas)

Carnival Jubilee current position

Carnival Jubilee current location is at Caribbean Sea (coordinates 16.94117 N / -86.93718 W) cruising at speed of 13.5 kn (25 km/h | 16 mph) en route to USGLS>HNRTB. The AIS position was reported 1 hour ago.

Current itinerary of Carnival Jubilee

Carnival Jubilee current cruise is 7 days, round-trip Western Caribbean . Prices start from USD 879 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 27 Apr, 2024 and ends on 04 May, 2024 .

Specifications of Carnival Jubilee

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Carnival Jubilee Itineraries

Carnival jubilee review, review of carnival jubilee.

The 2023-built Carnival Jubilee cruise ship is CCL fleet 's newest and largest liner (fleet's 26th vessel) and the third/last unit of the XL-Class (aka EXCELLENCE) inaugurated in December 2023. Carnival's XL units in this series are from the German shipbuilder Meyer Werft (shipyard Papenburg ).

Jubilee is the first Carnival ship constructed in Germany. As with all other "Fun Ships", the shipowner is Carnival Corporation - the world's largest passenger shipping company .

The vessel (IMO number 9851737) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311001390) and registered in Nassau . Previously, it was Panama-flagged (MMSI 352002723) and registered in Colon .

The XL-Class is similar in design and facilities to Excellence/Helios-Class ships produced for Carnival Corporation's brands Costa and AIDA by Meyer Werft. Other Excellence-Class liners (Carnival Jubilee sisterships) are Carnival Mardi Gras (2021) and Carnival Celebration (2022), as well as P&O Iona (2020), P&O Arvia (2022), Costa Smeralda (2019), Costa Toscana (2021), AIDAnova (2018), AIDAcosma (2021).

Carnival XL-Class ship design features a new (red-white-navy blue) hull and was created by the NYC-based naval architecture firm "Bluarch Architecture". Among the world's largest passenger ships , the new liner has length 1130 ft (344 m), passenger capacity 5200 (lower berths) and boasts the most advanced maritime technologies as well as various fleet-first and industry-first innovations.

Like the sisterships Mardi Gras and Celebration, Jubilee has the industry's first-at-sea roller coaster. The facility ("BOLT Ultimate Sea Coaster") will be built by Maurer Rides ( Munich Germany -based company) specializing in roller coaster design and manufacturing. The race track has length 244 m (800 ft), with twists, turns, drops and speeds up to 64 kph (40 mph). Individual speeds are posted after the race. Carnival's roller coaster is all-electric and allows 2 riders to race along in motorbike-like vehicles at height 57 m (187 ft) above the sea. The experience features breathtaking top-deck 360-degree views and ends with a high-speed turn around the funnel/smokestack.

On January 25, 2019, was announced that the new Carnival XL-class vessels will have 6 themed zones (neighborhoods).

Mardi Gras ship's neighborhoods are named Grand Central, French Quarter , Lido-Pool, La Piazza , Summer Landing, The Ultimate Playground.

Jubilee ship's neighborhoods are named Grand Central, Currents , Lido-Pool, The Shores , Summer Landing, The Ultimate Playground.

Decks and Cabins

Carnival Jubilee staterooms (a total of 2626 passenger cabins) are divided into 22 different categories, including 2-deck apartments (duplex suites) and 80 wheelchair-accessible cabins (for disabled passengers). All cabin bathrooms feature CCL fleet's first glass-door showers and in-shower shaving bar. Over 70% of all staterooms are outside, 300 pairs are connecting/family cabins.

The boat has 18 decks , of which 15 are passenger-accessible and 11 with cabins.

Cabin balconies are accessed via sliding floor-ceiling glass doors. The lounge area is furnished with new-type sofabeds (couch bed with footstools opening up for storage), under-bed storage (for suitcases), flexible reading lamps (bedside), mini-refrigerator with transparent glass door, plenty of power outlets, USB ports (on the vanity table and bedside), more shelving (for electronic devices), large wardrobe (with folding shelves, sliding shoe rack, 2 pull-out bins).

Like the Vista-class Carnival liners, Jubilee has Havana staterooms with a patio (indoor-outdoor space) with direct access to an exclusive Sundeck area with loungers, Bar and swimming pool. Another Vista-class type of cabins are Family Harbor (clustered near Camp Ocean/kids club) and with direct access to the exclusive Family Harbor Lounge. Cloud 9 Spa staterooms traditionally offer exclusive amenities, including premium bathrobes and slippers and Elemis brand toiletries.

The new Carnival ship Jubilee offers 180+ suites in 11 categories, including CCL's new premium category "Carnival Excel" suites (32 staterooms in 4 categories) with new VIP amenities and exclusive access to Loft 19 (resort-style, open-air sundeck). All ship suites offer a VIP amenities package including priority boarding/debarkation, bottled water upon arrival, priority MDR (main dining room) seating, plush bathrobes. Passengers in "Carnival Excel" suites receive as additional amenities:

• Dedicated concierge phone line
• Unlimited access to Loft 19
• Guaranteed specialty dining times (except Bonsai Teppanyaki, and Chef's Table)
• Complimentary room service, laundry, and Bottomless Bubbles soda package
• Fresh fruit basket and sparkling wine upon arrival
• Upgraded bathroom amenities

Shipboard facilities and amenities

The sisterships Mardi Gras, Celebration and Jubilee have CCL fleet's largest Atriums and open-deck areas.

Grand Central (midship on Decks 6-7-8) is an expanded Atrium concept combining day-to-night entertainment complex with a bar lounge (overlooking the ship's starboard side) with 3-decks high floor-ceiling windows. From the Atrium are accessible the restaurants Bonsai Sushi, Bonsai Teppanyaki and Punchliner Comedy Club, as well as the intimate Piano Bar 88 (themed venue for sing-a-longs).

Currents (aft on decks 6-7) is lined with eateries and bars. This neighborhood is linked via 2-deck-high Promenade with "The Golden Mermaid" (bar lounge offering hand-crafted cocktails and live music).

The Shores (midship on Deck 8) is an ocean-themed zone housing two new 24-hour complimentary fast food venues - Coastal Slice (pizzas) and Beach Buns (mini-sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs), as well as the new Marina Bar (lounge with live music nightly).

Summer Landing (aft on Deck 8) houses Guy's Pig and Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse (Carnival's complimentary smoked-on-board BBQ food by Guy Fieri), The Watering Hole (outdoor bar with wide selections of cocktails and beers), ParchedPig (onboard- brewed craft beers), Heroes Tribute Lounge. Also in this neighborhood are located a lunch counter (for the Smokehouse-Brewhouse), an expansive outdoor deck area with two whirlpools and an infinity pool, a stage for live music, a sports bar featuring indoor and outdoor TV screens, hang-out space with trivia, dance classes, arts and crafts.

Heroes Tribute (bar lounge via partnership with Operation Homefront/USA-based nonprofit organization that provides services and supports military families and veterans) offers comfortable seating (leather armchairs with low tables) and large TVs (for live sporting events).

Lido (aft on Decks 16-17) houses Carnival's complimentary Pool Deck eateries Seafood Shack, BlueIguana Cantina, and Guy's Burger Joint, plus the fleet's new venues "Street Eats" (grab-and-go eatery) and "Big Chicken by Shaq" (lunch and dinner take-away food bar)

The Ultimate Playground (aft on Decks 18-20) is a large family-friendly outdoor playground area highlighted by the fleet's largest Carnival WaterWorks (aquapark) and an expanded SportSquare (sports complex). Also here is the "BOLT - Ultimate Sea Coaster" (first at sea).

The new Carnival Jubilee also has CCL's signature facilities Serenity (adults-only resort), Alchemy Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse. Further innovations are yet to be announced.

On Carnival Jubilee debuted two new for CCL ocean-themed zones/neighborhoods - Currents (decks 6-7) and The Shores (deck 8). Note: CURRENTS and THE SHORES on Jubilee replaced the Mardi Gras ship's respective zones French Quarter and La Piazza.

The Currents Zone (midship-aft on decks 6 and 7) changes from day to night and also throughout the current voyage. It is fitted with 6x large LED screens (serving as windows) and a wave-shaped LED ceiling for UHD media projections. Within the Currents Zone are the venues Dr. Inks Ph.D. Bar (serving ocean-themed and color-changing beverages, including cocktails and shots) and The Golden Mermaid Lounge (serving specialty cocktails and having a stage for live band music performances). Also on Deck 6 is the "Emeril's Bistro 717" (a specialty restaurant by Emeril Lagasse/CCL's Chief Culinary Officer).

Carnival Jubilee's Currents Zone is underwater-themed and provides a submarine-like experience.

• The "Seaquest: A Fun Sub Adventure" is a feature attraction comprising of the LED screens (Portals to the Sea/ flanking the Promenade), the LED ceiling (length 100 ft/31 m), interactive lighting, music and sound effects. Seaquest's "underwater excursion" visits different locations (including the fictional resort Carnival Seacation and the The Golden Mermaid's kingdom) and showcases various marine life.
• The Change the Currents activations transform the Currents Zone into six different underwater worlds, with each environment changing the Zone's ambiance (colors and sounds). The Create A Fish zone allows children to design their own sea creatures and watch them come to life on the LED screens.
• In the evenings, the Currents Zone displays different themes/destinations every night.
• The Soundwaves Jukebox is a music-activated visualizer that brings passenger-chosen songs to life through UHD media and light display.
• The Currents Atlas is an interactive map displaying real-time locations (satellite AIS tracking) of the entire CCL fleet, in addition to fun facts about marine creatures and their migratory patterns.

The Shores Zone (midship-aft on deck 8) is themed on seaside scenery (piers and beaches) and features a 3-deck-high (decks 6-7-8) fish art installation. The Shores' boardwalk features a Ferris wheel-themed ceiling and houses two complimentary fast food venues open 24 hours - Coastal Slice (pizza bar) and Beach Buns (mini-sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs), as well as the Cucina del Capitano (seafood restaurant) and the Marina Bar (lounge serving specialty coffees and cocktails, and with live music nightly).

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Carnival Jubilee's main dining rooms feature select items from the onboard steakhouse, available for an additional fee. Traditionally, shipboard dining includes a complimentary Lido Buffet Restaurant. A special venue is the New England-inspired casual eatery Seafood Shack. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating and the menu includes steamed lobster, lobster rolls, fried shrimp, fried clams, crab cakes, and other seafood surprises. Seafood Shack serves lunch and dinner and is priced a la carte starting at $4.

The ship has a Japanese specialty restaurant (named Bonsai Teppanyaki) located within the Bonsai Sushi restaurant (on Promenade-Havana Deck). The restaurant offers authentic Far East dishes and a live cooking show performance (by the chefs) at custom-built cooking stations positioned at the center of an 8-seat dining table. Due to the room's limited seating, reservations are required. Each meal at Bonsai Teppanyaki starts with a sampling of 5 appetizers (Miso Soup, Pork Belly Yakitori, Spicy Tuna on Rocks). Combo dinners are also offered. Each meal ends with the specialty desserts "Chocolate Bento Box" and "Green Tea Ice Cream". The restaurant is open for lunch (seadays only) and for dinner (every night of the voyage). The cover charge/price is per person and covers the entire meal.

Available on all Fun Ships is Chef's Table (VIP dining experience / 12-guest capacity) that includes multicourse dinner with the Master Chef, private cocktail reception and galley/kitchen tour. This dining option usually takes place in a non-traditional venue (a dedicated room in the galley) and can be booked onboard for USD 75 per person.

Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse has a specialty restaurant (located in the French Quarter of Deck 6 / portside). Lagasse is the chef and owner of 11 different restaurants, including 4 in New Orleans . He is a regular guest on Good Morning America (TV show) and has hosted 2000+ shows on Food Network (US pay-TV channel). Lagasse Restaurant offers New Orleans cuisine, including spicy creole specialties. Menu items include muffuletta sandwiches, oyster and cochon de lait po-boys, gumbo, jambalaya, side dishes (Creole potato salad with diced scallions, red beans, jazz-man rice), desserts (Bananas Foster, lemon icebox pie). For Breakfast are also offered Shrimp & Grits, and Shrimp Creole Omelet. A-la-carte menu appetizers cost US$2 each, entrees are priced at US$12.

New (currently available on XL-class Carnival ships only) drinking and dining venues are within the themed zones "Lido" (deck 16) and "Summer Landing" (Lanai/promenade deck 8 aft). These include RedFrog Tiki Bar, The Watering Hole, Street Eats, Big Chicken by Shaq.

• RedFrog Tiki Bar is a South Pacific Island-themed, 2-level bar designed as a variation of Carnival's poolside RedFrog Bar. New is the island-inspired outdoor decoration with floral patterns, vibrant colors, tiki heads. Located close to Guy's Burger Joint, RedFrog Tiki Bar offers refreshing cocktails (like Red's Rum Runner Jumper, Jungle Bird, Polynesian Punch) presented in souvenir glasses and pineapples.
• The Watering Hole (located within The Patio at Summer Landing) is a backyard-like designed outdoor bar with wide selections of cocktails and beers (including Carnival's own brands / canned and draft brews).
• Street Eats is an open-air complimentary eatery located next to Seafood Shack. It offers ready-to-eat street food via 3 themed kiosks (steamed, fried, and plancha food). The new grab-and-go dining venue has a daily rotating menu. Small plates (including falafel or empanadas) are available at the fried food station, siu mai or bao buns - at the steamed food outlet, and satay and kebabs at the plancha food kiosk.

Carnival Jubilee has the fleet's fourth "Big Chicken" restaurant at sea (by Shaquille O'Neal). Big Chicken by Shaq is located aft on Lido Deck. Many menu items are developed by the basketball player himself, the rest are based on the celebrity's favorite food recipes.

Rudi's Seagrill is another fleet-first dining venue (seafood restaurant by Rudi Sodamin / Holland America Line 's Master Chef). Rudi's Seagrill is a specialty restaurant (at surcharge / reservation fee) located on Deck 8 (between Summer Landing and The Shores) with indoor (80 seats) and outdoor seating (al fresco dining on The Lanai). The Seagrill offers appetizers, entrees and desserts, with all menu items presented as food faces. Signature dishes include Bigeye Tuna, Lemon-Stuffed Grilled Branzino, Seared Scallops, Salt-Roasted Prawns, Broiled Lobster Tails, Crab Cake, Caramel Apple Cheesecake, Chocolate Truffle Cake. Non-seafood options are also on offer.

Jubilee's 2-deck-high Lido zone houses fleet's biggest "Guy's Burger Joint" (by Guy Fieri), the Mexican food bar BlueIguana Cantina, the New England-inspired Seafood Shack, and Lido Marketplace (ship's buffet restaurant). Other signature facilities in the area are Beach Pool (midship) and the infinity swimming pool Tides Pool (aft) with a bar, great stern views and ample seating. Lido-Pool Deck also houses deck parties and Dive-in Movies (at Carnival Seaside Theater/outdoor cinema).

Follows the complete list of Carnival Jubilee restaurants and food bars.

• Pacific Restaurant (2-level Aft Dining Room)
• Atlantic Restaurant is a dinner-only Dining Room (complimentary) with sit-down waiter service.
• "Emeril's Bistro 717" is the second-at-sea (after Mardi Gras ship's) restaurant by chef Emeril Lagasse (celebrity chef and owner of 11 different restaurants in the USA). The restaurant is on Deck 6 (starboard) and was named after the Jubilee ship's hull/Papenburg shipyard number (S717). A-la-carte menu appetizers cost US$2 each, entrees are priced at US$12. The restaurant offers New Orleans cuisine, including muffuletta sandwiches, side dishes (Creole potato salad with diced scallions, red beans, jazz-man rice), desserts (Bananas Foster, lemon icebox pie). For Breakfast are also offered Shrimp & Grits, and Shrimp Creole Omelet. Signature dishes at Emeril's Bistro 717 are chef's favorites Slow-Cooked Cochon de Lait Po'Boy (Boston butt pork roast), BBQ-Grilled Shrimp (large shrimp/peeled-deveined, tails attached), Emeril's Classic Seafood Gumbo (shrimp, fish, oysters), Cajun Jambalaya (boneless-skinless chicken thighs).
• Bonsai Sushi restaurant (including Bonsai Teppanyaki) serves Japanese cuisine specialties and drinks (a la carte priced menu).
• Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse (indoor/outdoor seating, open between 6 - 9:30 pm) is a premium steakhouse-seafood restaurant at a surcharge (reservations recommended).
• The Chef's Table (private dining room) is a small room dedicated to the multi-course Chef's Table VIP dinner package (surcharged at $75 per person).
• The Shores Zone is ocean-themed and houses two 24-hour complimentary fast food venues - Coastal Slice (pizza bar) and Beach Buns (mini-sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs), as well as the Cucina del Capitano (seafood restaurant) and the Marina Bar (lounge serving specialty coffees and cocktails, and with live music nightly).
• Summer Landing houses Guy's Pig and Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse (Carnival's complimentary smoked-on-board BBQ food by Guy Fieri) and ParchedPig (onboard-brewed craft beers).
• Lido houses Carnival's complimentary Pool Deck eateries Seafood Shack, BlueIguana Cantina (Mexican fast food bar), and Guy's Burger Joint
• BlueIguana Cantina is a complimentary poolside (self-serve) fast-food bar with Mexican cuisine serving the Beach Pool area.
• Lido Marketplace (self-service buffet restaurant)
• Big Chicken by Shaq (specialty restaurant by Shaquille O'Neal)
• Rudi's Seagrill (specialty restaurant by Rudi Sodamin)
• RedFrog Tiki Bar
• The Watering Hole
• Street Eats (grab-and-go eatery)

(deck 16/Lido) Chibang! is a new (introduced on the ship Mardi Gras) restaurant for signature Chinese and Mexican dishes (a la carte-priced), with two separate food menus plus a beverage menu (including specialty cocktails, like Chibang! Margarit, Smokey Mezcal Negroni, Green Tea Martini). The decor is marked by floor-ceiling windows (wall-to-wall), heavy red and green, with gold accents, a colorful dragon (at the entrance). Dishes include favorites like Kung Pao Chicken, Singapore Chili Shrimp/Prawn, Slow-Braised Pork Belly, Egg Drop Soup, Crispy Pork Carnitas Tacos, Steak Ranchero, Mole de Pollo Mexicano, Pork Lomito, Pescado Frito Crujiente, Camarones a la Diabla (shrimp).

In mid-January 2018, CCL announced 4 new craft beers that will be brewed onboard Carnival Horizon (and on the new XL-class ships/Mardi Gras, Celebration, Jubilee). The brews were developed by brewmaster Colin Presby. They are offered at Guy's Pig and Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse (Brewhouse), The names of the new draft beers are inspired by the BBQ offerings at the Smokehouse/Brewhouse.

• "ParchedPig Farmhouse Ale" is a lightly hopped dry finish beer.
• "ParchedPig Smoked Porter" is brewed with in-house smoked malt, hickory smoke, and molasses.
• "ParchedPig Toasted Amber Ale" has rich amber color and notes of toasted caramel and biscuit.
• "ParchedPig West Coast IPA" is a traditional West Coast India Pale Ale loaded with bitterness and a distinctive aroma of pine and citrus.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The outdoor activity complex on Carnival Jubilee is named "The Ultimate Playground" (2-deck high) with SkyCourse, SportSquare, Carnival WaterWorks (fleet's largest aquapark with 3x spiraling waterslides, 1x 2-lane racing slide, 1x tipping bucket) and "BOLT - Ultimate Sea Coaster" (world's third rollercoaster at sea).

A signature outdoor fun facility is the ropes course SkyCourse (length 600 ft / 183 m). SkyCourse is part of the SportSquare (sports complex) with an indoor hangout, mini-bowling, mini-golf course, The Clubhouse, Ping-Pong area with tables, jogging track, interactive sports gaming, arcade basketball.

Located on top-deck ( deck 19 ), Loft 19 is a new VIP leisure concept (secluded retreat for adults) designed as a premium resort complex. Here are offered full bar service, swimming pool, sunbathing area with cabanas, deckchairs and sun loungers available for rent. The cabanas are fully stocked with beverages, chilled towels, plush bathrobes and provide dedicated concierge service with lunch delivery and fresh fruits. Carnival Excel Suite passengers enjoy priority cabana reservations.

Follows the complete list of Carnival Jubilee lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens, and adults.

• Family Harbor Lounge (a dedicated to families space with 24-hour complimentary dining, concierge and babysitting service, movies, video games, board games by Hasbro).
• Jubilee Theater is the boat's main show lounge for grand-style show productions featuring live performances (tribute acts - singing and dancing) combined with sound and lighting special effects.
• Currents Zone's "The Golden Mermaid" bar lounge is a music-themed venue with live performances and hand-crafted cocktails.
• Punchliner Comedy Club/brunch (Karaoke, art auctions, nightly shows).
• Piano Bar 88 (cocktail bar) offers themed music nights, a grand piano for live performances by a resident pianist, singalongs, trivia quizzes.
• JavaBlue Cafe (open between 7-10 am, and between 4 pm-12:30 midnight) is a specialty patisserie/coffee bar.
• Havana Bar is an authentic Cuban cafe (cocktail/coffee bar) with live Latin music in the evenings. After midnight, the bar transforms into a Latin disco/nightclub.
• Cherry on Top (open between 4-10:30 pm) is a Carnival signature shop selling bulk candies by the oz (mix and match, sugar-free, assortments), confections (lollipops, sweet apples, truffles, chocolate deep cheesecakes and pretzels, cupcakes, fudge, cookies /and sugar-free).
• The Fun Shops is named the shipboard duty-free shopping complex of retail stores (open between 8 am - 12 midnight).
• Special Occasions shop sells Bon Voyage wines/champagnes/liquor, Carnival cruise packages, specialty items, and gifts.
• Jubilee Casino is a Vegas-style gambling casino equipped with various slot machines (Coinless Fun Slot Machines) and gaming tables (Craps, Roulette, Black Jack 21, Caribbean Stud Poker, dealer-free poker tables).
• Limelight Lounge offers live evening entertainment by vocalists, musicians, comedians, karaoke.
• Lanai promenade (with outdoor seats, served by Lanai Bar-BQ Bar).
• Alchemy Bar is a vintage-themed cocktail bar (drink pharmacy) where professional mixologists (dressed in lab coats) serve handcrafted cocktails and made-to-order drinks from unique ingredients.
• Dreams Studio (photo sessions studio)
• Pixels Photo Gallery and Shop (professional photo-video services, duty-free equipment, and accessories, photos on display available for purchasing)
• Havana Outside is the Havana complex' pool area (1 swimming pool /Havana Pool, live palm trees).
• Tides Pool (aft) has 1 swimming pool flanked by 2 Whirlpools and a large sunbathing area served with drinks by the Tides Bar.
• Circle C (kids club lounge), Club O2 (teens club lounge)
• Warehouse (Video Arcade)
• Camp Ocean (formerly known as "Camp Carnival" - youth activities program)
• Creative Cove (a dedicated room for kids arts-crafts and workshops)
• Dr Seuss Bookville is a family-themed indoor playground (kids room/library) fitted with all Dr Seuss books (available for reading), fun games, themed decorations and activities (Dr Seuss characters, memorable phrases from the books, character meet-and-greets). Other themed events held on the ship include Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast (at Main Dining Rooms), Story Time (at Camp Carnival), Seuss-A-Palooza Parade (Promenade Deck show).
• Carnival Cloud 9 Spa (wellness complex)
• The Fitness Center/Gymnasium (complimentary)
• Serenity Retreat (adults relaxation area served by Serenity Bar, with 2 cantilevered Whirlpools and sunbathing area)
• Loft 19 Retreat offers full bar service and a swimming pool surrounded by cabanas.
• The Ultimate Playground is a large (2-decks high) family-friendly outdoor playground with fleet's largest Carnival WaterWorks (aquapark), expanded SportSquare (sports complex with a basketball court, ropes course, jogging track, mini-golf) and "BOLT - Ultimate Sea Coaster" (world's 3rd rollercoaster at sea).

Grand Central (midship on Decks 6-8) is an expanded Atrium concept combining day-to-night entertainment complex with a bar lounge (overlooking the ship's starboard side) with 3-decks high floor-ceiling windows.

Carnival Cruise Line's entertainment team partnered with celebrity directors from Los Angeles (Broadway) and London (West End) to create 3 new signature shows - part of the onboard "Playlist Productions" revues. The new shows (named "Celestial Strings", "Soulbound", "Vintage Pop") use the full capacity of the interactive LED screens. A 4th show ("Amor Cubano - A Caribbean Dance Romance") is also available on the Horizon ship. It was introduced in 2017 on Carnival Vista.

• "Celestial Strings" show is themed on classical music mixed with modern pop.
• "Soulbound" is a gothic-inspired, New Orleans-themed show featuring R&B music favorites.
• "Vintage Pop" show is themed on "Gatsby's Cotton Club", featuring modern songs recomposed into classic jazz interpretations performed live by a 6-piece jazz band.
• "Amor Cubano - A Caribbean Dance Romance" show is themed on classic Latin songs mixed with modern music hits. It is held at the Havana Bar and highlighted by a 7-piece Cuban music band.

To pay homage to Texas, to Jubilee's Playlist Productions shows was added the new interactive pop musical "Dear Future Husband". The onboard live entertainment also includes CCL's popular game shows "Family Feud Live" and "Deal or No Deal".

The ship's new and reimagined live entertainment offerings for families with children also include:

• "Space Cruisers Program" (via partnership with Kennedy Space Center) - Jubilee introduced a high-tech space wall (inside Camp Ocean) with a large LED screen resembling a space capsule dashboard and showcasing NASA imagery.
• "See The World Program" (based on LED technology creating virtual "portholes"/Currents Zone) - allows kids to design unique sea creatures. The program is for teens and was expanded with the Panagbenga Festival (flower parades and culture-themed activities).
• "Night Owls Camp Out" is a new evening entertainment program with outdoor activities like fort building and obstacle courses.
• "Dr. Seuss Celebrations" is an extension of CCL's popular Dr. Seuss Breakfast transformed into a birthday party. The Seuss-a-palooza Parade on Jubilee has a new character - Fox in Socks, who creates an underwater world on LED screens.
• "Seuss-a-palooza Story Time" (interactive storytelling program) includes the book "Green Eggs & Ham".
• "Planet Play at Sea" is a space-themed toddler playground modeled after the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex's Planet Play.

Enhanced facial recognition technology in the youth area ensures secure authentication for child and adult matches during entry and exit.

Itineraries

Carnival Jubilee's itinerary program is based on year-round Caribbean roundtrips leaving from homeport Galveston (Texas USA) . The inaugural cruise season was originally planned to start on October 30, 2023, with an 18-day Transatlantic crossing from Southampton to Texas (call ports Vigo, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Funchal Madeira, Grand Turk). The Caribbean Maiden Voyage was scheduled for November 18th. However, due to construction delays, the liner's delivery was postponed and the Maiden Voyage was rescheduled for December 23rd (6x sailings were canceled in Dec 2022/the Transatlantic from Europe to the USA plus 5x Caribbean departures).

The 7-day Western Caribbean roundtrips from Galveston visit Mexico ( Cozumel and Costa Maya ) and Honduras ( Isla Roatan's Mahogany Bay ).

Carnival Jubilee cruises were open for booking on January 25, 2021.

CCL's homeporting operations in Galveston started in 2000. From Galveston Carnival offers cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, visiting ports in Bahamas (Nassau, Freeport, Half Moon Cay), Florida (Key West), Mexico (Cozumel, Costa Maya), Honduras (Roatan), Belize City.

During their inaugural seasons, Jubilee's sisterships were homeported in Florida's Port Canaveral (Mardi Gras/2021) and Miami (Celebration/2022).

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Carnival Jubilee Wiki

The shipbuilding order (Meyer Werft yard number / hull S717) was placed by Carnival Corporation (shipowner) with the shipbuilder Meyer Werft ( Papenburg Shipyard Germany) on February 27, 2018. The order was for a 3rd unit (EXCEL/Excellence class) and was originally planned for the Corporation's German subsidiary AIDA Cruises as a sistership to/same designed as AIDAnova and the AIDAcosma . Back then, this was the 98th cruise ship order for the industry's global fleet (vessels in the order book 2018-2026). However, in June 2021 was announced that the newbuild will be instead assigned to the CCL fleet.

On June 23, 2021, CCL-Carnival announced plans to add two additional ships to its fleet by 2023. The vessels included an EXCEL-class unit (Carnival Jubilee/2023-built) and Costa Magica (2004-built/joins CCL in 2022-H1).

The vessel's name (Carnival Jubilee), IMO number (9851737) and homeport ( Galveston TX ) were officially announced on November 11, 2021, by Christine Duffy (CCL's President). The new ship's name honors MS Jubilee (1986-built/2017- scrapped in Alang India ) - CCL's second (out of three) Holiday-class liners, with sisterships MS Holiday (1985-built/2021-scrapped as " CMV Magellan ") and MS Celebration (1987-built/2021-scrapped as " Grand Celebration ").

For the newbuild (yard number S717), on October 1, 2021, Meyer Werft contracted Silverstream Technologies ( London UK -based company specializing in the development and installation of hull air lubrication systems). The technology is based on releasing air bubbles from the full-length hull's flat bottom (12x ARUs/Air Release Units) that generate a dense carpet of microbubbles for reducing water resistance (resulting in better fuel efficiancy/~5%) and improving maneuverability during navigation. The same system (by Silverstream Technologies) was installed on P&O Arvia (2022) and on Diamond Princess (2004).

Like most large -sized newbuilds , the new Carnival Jubilee is LNG-powered , with 4x Caterpillar Marine LNG engines (model MaK 16M-46DF) generating combined output 57,2 MW. The propulsion system is based on two Azimuting thrusters with combined power output 37 MW. The ship has 3x LNG tanks (cryogenic steel) with total capacity ~3200 m3. Two of the tanks are larger (length 35 m / 115 ft, diameter 8 m / 26 ft, gas capacity 1525 m3), while the 3rd tank has length 28 m (92 ft), diameter 5 m (16 ft) and gas capacity 520 m3. The vessel's bunkering takes ~8 hours and her LNG capacity is enough for ~14 days of operation (navigation and onboard electricity production).

For its LNG-bunkering operations in Florida (at homeports PortMiami and Port Canaveral ), CCL-Carnival partnered with Royal Dutch Shell plc as fuel supplier.

The vessel's construction officially started on March 18, 2022, with the steel-cutting ceremony held at the Papenberg shipyard. The special event was attended by Christine Duffy (CCL's President) and Jan Meyer (Meyer Werft GmbH's Managing Director).

The physical construction/assembly started with the keel-laying/coin ceremony held on July 21, 2022, at Meyer Werft Papenburg and attended by Christine Duffy, Ben Clement (CCL's Senior VP of Newbuilds, Refurbishments & Product Innovation) and Bernard Meyer (Meyer Werft's Managing Director).

CCL's 26th ship was launched/floated out from drydock, on July 22, 2023, then was moved to the shipyard's outfitting pier. Carnival Jubilee's hull livery has a unique feature - a Texas star on the bow. During the launch ceremony, Christine Duffy commented that this is a symbol of CCL's commitment to Port Galveston, as Carnival was the first cruise line that started homeporting in Galveston year-round.

CCL's symbolic winged funnel/smokestack was installed on July 25th.

In August, CCL announced that Jubilee's senior officers - Captain Andrea Catalani (Master, with CCL since 1999), Vittorino Perasole (Chief Engineer, with CCL since 1998), Pierre Camilleri (Hotel Director, with CCL since 2004), Kyndall Magyar (Cruise Director, with CCL since 2016), Matthew Boyd (Entertainment Director, with CCL since 2010).

During the Ems River conveyance (from Papenburg to Eemshaven Holland ), the vessel navigated the waterway in reverse/backward, being assisted by two tugboats. It left Papenburg at 8:30 AM UTC (Oct 30) and arrived in Eemshaven at 3:56 AM UTC (Oct 31).

North Sea/Baltic Sea trials were completed in two phases - November 7-10th and November 14-17th. On Nov 10th, the ship visited Skagen Denmark and remained at anchorage for 5 hours. Following technical and nautical trials in open sea, Carnival Jubilee returned to Eemshaven for further outfitting.

In November Carnival announced that Jubilee would be the fleet's first liner offering 5G connectivity/mobile phone service. The service is provided via partnership with WMS/Wireless Maritime Services LLC (2005-founded, Miramar Florida-based company) specializing in cellular networks for high-performance/fast connectivity at sea.

Carnival Jubilee was officially delivered to CCL by Meyer Werft GmbH & Co KG on December 4th (2023) in Port Bremerhaven . The delivery event was attended by Christine Duffy, Ben Clement, Jan Meyer, as well as the ship’s senior officers.

For Carnival Jubilee, Meyer Werft contracted Almaco Group for planning, designing, building, supply/installation and commissioning of the ship's all provisioning stores. The project (completed in December 2023) included fixed furniture, air supply connections, electrical works, carpeting, ceiling enhancements, finishing of 1000+ staterooms. All cabins were prefabricated, delivered and installed by the subcontractor EMS PreCab GmbH.

The ship's christening ceremony was on February 24, 2024, held at Port Galveston. The naming event was invitation-only and led by godmother Gwen Renee Stefani (1969-born American singer and songwriter, co-founder and lead vocalist/songwriter of "No Doubt"/1986-formed rock band). Live-streamed online, the 45-min event was hosted by Kyndall Fire (Carnival Jubilee's Cruise Director) and attended by Christine Duffy and Craig Brown (Galveston City's Mayor). The live entertainment included a rope trick performance and rendition of the Star Spangled Banner (USA’s national anthem). Galveston's Mayor bestowed CCL's President with the city keys and proclaimed February 24th as "Carnival Jubilee Day". Notably, the date coincided with what would have been the 100th birthday of Ted Arison (CCL's Founder/1924-1999).

Inaugural cruise itineraries 2023

The next tables show the ship's Maiden Voyage/inaugural Caribbean cruise out of Galveston (Texas USA) .

Note: Due to construction delays/shipyard issues, 6x voyages scheduled for 2023 (Nov 30 through Dec 16/including) were canceled.

(Maiden Voyage/ CANCELED ) 18-day westbound Transatlantic crossing from Europe/UK to Texas USA ($1445 pp)

(new MAIDEN VOYAGE ) 7-day Western Caribbean itinerary ($945 pp)

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Carnival Dream – Western Caribbean Itinerary tips

By @joetolley , November 16, 2010 in Carnival Cruise Lines

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We recently got back from our Halloween cruise aboard the Dream. It had a Western Caribbean itinerary. Here are a few thoughts on how to enhance your experience. You can also read a day-by-day review of our cruise here , as well as find a link to some photos from the week.

1. Lighten up Francis

First off, when you board this ship you need to keep one thing in mind. There are close to 4,000 fellow cruisers and when you first board they are wanting to do the exact thing you are. The buffets are packed. The pools are packed. And the elevators are being used by the crew for luggage so only the atrium elevators are available to cruisers. Basically, its a madhouse. Don't lose it, This is the only time during the cruise its this bad. Just chill out, have a drink and don't expect to catch the elevator anytime soon.

2. Get to know the crew,... immediately

The waitstaff is awesome, the stewards will do anything for you (even help you with your Halloween costume), the bartenders will let you "sample" things and the "entertainment" team will tend to include you in activities if they know you by name. So, why not make them your best friends on day 1. That's their job, remember, and they looking for the interaction.

3. Take advantage of the Dream

Half of the things to do on this ship seem generic, boring and so beneath you. And you should keep that attitude if you want the week to suck. It's only as fun as you make it. DO EVERTHING. What else are you going to do out in the middle of the ocean? You never know where laughter may live. Besides, some of these things involve free drinks. Just sayin'.

4. Don't settle for the buffet

Get away from the herd and you will find great alternatives to the gastro-fest that is the the main buffet. The second floor of the Gatherings (where the buffet is) is the pasta bar, made fresh to your order. Outside in the very back of the ship is Tandoor, and Indian buffet (excellent) and the deli. And on deck 5, the sushi bar (form 5pm - 8pm) is a full-on salad bar during lunch. One tip if you have to buffet on day 1, though: there are actually 2 buffets in the Gatherings. Go to the one in the back. No one's discovered it yet.

5. No excursions through the ship

You can find cheaper, less crowded and less "Americanized" excursions if you do your homework. cave(dash)tubing.net in Belize is one of these gems. Four in our group, zip-ling through the rainforest, and cave-tubing through sacred caves. $90 each. It was the same price just for one or the other through the ship. And in much larger groups. Of course, there is one caution. If you're late getting back to the ship, you're pretty much screwed.

6. Get away from the port

You're never where you think you are until you leave the port area. You're still in the grasp of the cruise line. Heck, in Roatan, Carnival built Mahogany Bay and the beach right next to it. You have to get outside for the good deals, for the cheap taxis and for authentic merchandise and cuisine. Plus, wouldn't you rather give to the community you're visiting rather than even more to Carnival or whatever cruise line you're on?

7. Reef snorkeling on the cheap

If you just want a quick, fun, do-it-yourself snorkel adventure, $2 will get you a taxi to Mahahual Beach in Costa Maya. There you can find 1-hour snorkel excursions from the beach, by boat, to the reefs for $15/person. And no groups, just you and whoever's with you.

8. Make use of the locker-room showers

The Dream has two showers in the men's locker room (interestingly, the Elation – much smaller ship – has 6) and they are bigger than the entire bathroom in the cabins. All the towels, soap and shampoo you need, as well as hair coloring? Not sure what that was about. That's where I showered every day and never even had to wait.

9. Pack a couple rolls of quarters and some laundry detergent

Not much to this one. There are laundry facilities onboard that come in handy, but they take a boat-load of quarters (no pun intended.)

10. TURN OFF CELL PHONE DATA

I've heard nightmare stories of iPhone users racking up $1,000s on their next bill. It's the data "push" that'll kill you. Turn off data and by some wifi. Much cheaper in the long run. We were even able to Skype from the middle of the Caribbean. The onboard broadband WAS fast enough.

Well that, along with the last 7 posts, is our cruise in a nutshell. Back to reality.....

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crewsweeper

Thanks joetolley:)...some great tips...but sssshhh...don't tell them about the showers...that's a secret;).

Add to #1...grab a DOD at the atrium bar and people watch before heading up to the Lido...they won't run out of food before you get there.

Add to #9 pack 2-3 sheets of the Purex all in one wash/softener sheets in a ziplock instead of buying laudry powder on th eship or crating it in yourself.

And my take on #10...if you need to "helicopter" work, home, or the world while you're away, don't cruise. But as long as you've got data up...do a "live" review:D

Great post! I agree with everything you said, and with crewsweeper about the Purell sheets (great for travel!)

I did follow up our cruise with a letter to Carnival about the lack of elevators. No more on the Dream than on the conquest class ships....hope they figured it out and put more on the Magic! We are able bodied, but after dinner we witnessed elderly and physically challenged waiting up to 20 minutes to get an elevator!

Thanks for the post. We also do private tours.

Did like the beach next to the ship in Roatan. Had a nice beach day at no extra cost. Easy walk did not need to moving chairs.

Great post! I agree with everything you said, and with crewsweeper about the Purell sheets (great for travel!) I did follow up our cruise with a letter to Carnival about the lack of elevators. No more on the Dream than on the conquest class ships....hope they figured it out and put more on the Magic! We are able bodied, but after dinner we witnessed elderly and physically challenged waiting up to 20 minutes to get an elevator!

Manners. It's a disgrace that no one would let those folks get on an elevator before them.

I agree 100%!!! And sad to say it was adults that were being selfish...not kids!

ReadytoGoAgain

Thanks @joetolley,

We will be on Carnival Dream doing Western Caribbean in 10 days!

I forgot to mention, please add to this list. Very interested in everyone else's tips as well.

Can't wait to experience 9 wonderful days on the Dream. The family we are traveling with is now saying "9 days! What are we going to do for 9 days?" Meanwhile, my family is saying "9 days! How are we going to fit it all in in 9 days!" It all comes down to your attitude. :D

My family is singing that song too....:p We can't wait and I loved your review...

Awesome tips....where did you zip line? We are going in Jan and I'm thinking about ziplining in Roatan.

I can't wait!!

I've got to remember that data thingy. Both hubby and I have iPhones! YIKES!!

We'll be doing the Eastern route but most of your recommendations apply there too- thanks!

Gotta agree with the beach in Costa Maya. Best message ever and only $40 per hour. "Charlie Brown" at the Maya Bar is also an excellent waiter. though they don't serve it, he somewhow manages to secure Sol beer every time we are there.

We went in Belize through cave(dash)tubing.net with Major Tom. Roatan has a few spots. One right across from the terminal. We also passed one nestled in the hillside over at West Bay, but not sure of the name. Amazing views though.

Lunchtime, pick up a salad where they serve sushi. Smaller lines than hot dog and buffet lines

Lookup Dawuud in St. Thomas. Great tour. Search in Trip Advisor.

Just thought I'd put in my 2 cents about the Western Car. stops and on board info.

In Cozumel we did the Speedboat, Snorkling, Kayak, beach break, which we booked thru Carnival. We loved it! Only 15 people, the beach to ourselves and a b-que lunch.

In Belize, I did the Barrier Reef Snorkeling which I really enjoyed and we got a rum punch back on the boat. My husband did the Search For Mayan Caves and it is one of the best times he's had. (it is for very fit people)

In Roatan we took the chair lifts to the little beach, got lounge chairs with clam shells, and rafts ($40 total). It was so relaxing and had a great Hurricane coctail. Also liked the shopping--even if it is a Carnival creation.

In Costa Maya we toured the Chachoban ruins and had a fabulous guide, also saw quite a bit of the island. On returning to our bus, the bus driver gave of us each a glass of beer and had put paper bag snacks in each seat. Nice little touch.

We really enjoyed our dinners in the Scarlet room each night. We had wonderful dinner mates from Canada.

Loved our cabin with a veranda. We were in 8217 right behind the bridge. We did have a hike from one side of the ship to the other, but the room was private and quiet.

Best dinner was the meat duet. Excellent. Best dessert was tiramissou. I also really liked the cheese plate for dessert.

I did think the pools were a joke. Way too small for such a large ship.

I wish we had tried the tandoori grill and afternoon tea. I also didn't have sushi.

The pizza was surprisingly delicious- likewise the deli. If you went in early afternoon around 2 or 3 there were no lines.

Least favorite part of the ship was the Lido deck and the Gathering. Too many people, smoking and just not appealing.

Had a blast in the Song Halloween night. Mambo Kings played and we danced. Everyone danced.

I reccomend booking excursions through Carnival because it saves time and seems more reliable.

Agreed. Even though I prefer and will probably never book through the cruise line again, I did overhear a couple of noncruise-excursion stories in Belize where people were left hanging at the port and never even had the excursion.

I you do go online to book, just make sure to research. This board is probably the best resource.

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8 Best Cruises to Jamaica for Every Type of Traveler

T here’s no other voyage quite like a cruise to Jamaica , the Caribbean island that’s the birthplace of both reggae music and the legendary musician Bob Marley. When your ship arrives in port, you’ll find reef-lined sandy beaches, soaring mountains, tropical rainforests, and rum cocktails you’ll be daydreaming about for months. 

Jamaica is home to five cruise ports equipped to handle everything from intimate yachts to mega-ships. Ocho Rios is Jamaica’s largest port and a gateway to attractions like Dunn’s River Falls. Montego Bay is a golfer’s dream while Kingston, the Jamaican capital, offers an opportunity to visit the Bob Marley Museum and dine at a restaurant owned by Olympian Usain Bolt. Here's everything to know about booking a cruise to Jamaica .

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This story has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

What cruise lines sail to Jamaica?

Several cruise lines sail to Jamaica with most itineraries departing from the United States. Royal Caribbean sails to Jamaica from Tampa, Florida. Celebrity cruises to both Ocho Rios and another Jamaican port, Falmouth. Carnival has several itineraries that stop in Jamaica, including a few that sail the Panama Canal. Carnival Cruise Line and Princess Cruises sail to both Montego Bay, located on the northern side of the island, and Ocho Rios. MSC, Norwegian , and Holland America also include Jamaica on their cruise itineraries. 

MSC alone offers more than 50 cruises that stop in Jamaica.

Jamaica cruise itineraries often depart from Texas or Florida and include other Caribbean islands. Some include more adventures, sailing to Central America or through the Panama Canal. 

What cruise ships sail to Jamaica?

Cruises to Jamaica tend to be longer, with many itineraries falling into the five- to seven-night range, so you’ll need more than a long weekend for this vacation. Ships sailing here tend to be larger and stacked with onboard entertainment and activities. Most ships sailing to Jamaica, like Royal Caribbean’s Grandeur of the Seas , the Norwegian Escape , and the MSC Meraviglia , carry thousands of passengers, but Viking Cruises and Oceania Cruises sail to Jamaica on ships that carry 1,200 passengers or less.

Whatever kind of cruise experience you’re looking for, you can find it on a ship headed toward the sandy beaches and reggae beats of Jamaica. These are some of the best Jamaica cruises for every kind of traveler. 

Which Jamaica cruise port is better?

Ocho Rios on Jamaica’s northern coast is the island's largest and best-located cruise port. It offers easy access to two of Jamaica’s top attractions—Dunn’s River Falls and Mystic Mountain, where you’ll find bobsledding and zip-lining—and several of Jamaica’s most popular activities. In Ocho Rios, you can ride horses on the beach, take a tour to learn about Bob Marley and the roots of reggae music, or relax on sandy beaches. The port is a quick walk from town, making it easy to explore on your own if you choose not to take an excursion.  

What is the best month to cruise to Jamaica?

There’s no place like Jamaica to escape winter. Jamaica’s dry season stretches from mid-December through April and brings sunny days with pleasant temperatures. Cruise to Jamaica between mid-December and April for perfect beach days and good weather for exploring rainforests and local markets. Avoid cruising the Caribbean in August and September, which is peak hurricane season. 

Find the right cruise for you:

• Best Jamaica cruises for solo travelers  
• Best Jamaica cruises for thrill-seekers  
• Best cruise to Jamaica for families  

Best cruise to Jamaica for relaxing

• Best cruise to Jamaica for partying  
• Best megaship cruise to Jamaica  
• Best smaller ship Jamaica cruise  
• Best long cruise to Jamaica  

Best Jamaica cruises for solo travelers 

Holland America, one of the best cruise lines for solo travelers , offers a seven-night Western Caribbean itinerary that includes a full day in port in Ocho Rios. Check out Dunn’s River Falls and go for a swim at the Blue Hole. Relax on a bamboo raft, ride horses, listen to reggae or try zip-lining. Back on board the Nieuw Statendam , enjoy having one of the ship’s 12 oceanview solo staterooms all to yourself. These solo staterooms are small —between 127 and 172 square feet— but with so much to do onboard that might not matter. The Nieuw Statendam is a Pinnacle Class ship with several live entertainment venues, an expansive fitness center, shopping, and a spa. There are multiple dining options on board, and the cruise line hosts several events for solo travelers each sailing. The Nieuw Statendam ’s Western Caribbean itinerary departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and also stops in Cozumel, the Cayman Islands, and the Bahamas. 

Book now with Holland America

Best Jamaica cruises for thrill-seekers 

Royal Caribbean cruises to Falmouth, Jamaica, on the Independence of the Seas , a modern cruise ship made for unforgettable adventures at sea. Spend your Jamaica port day zip-lining, bobsledding, or snorkeling. Try white-water rafting or go tubing through the Jamaican jungle. Climb to the top of Dunn’s River Falls or opt for a lazy day on a gorgeous beach eating beef patties. Back on board the Independence of the Seas , try out the 40-foot-long FlowRider surf simulator or scale an outdoor rock climbing wall with epic ocean views. Play glow-in-the-dark laser tag or race down dueling waterslides. You might just find yourself wishing for more sea days. The ship sails from and returns to Miami . Five-night itineraries also stop in Labadee, Haiti. 

Book now with Royal Caribbean

Best cruise to Jamaica for families 

If you’re looking for a cruise line that’s got something for everyone , MSC has you covered. The MSC Meraviglia starts its Caribbean journey in Port Canaveral, Florida, giving families a chance to visit Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, or the Kennedy Space Center before heading out on an unforgettable Caribbean vacation. The  11-night itinerary visits the Bahamas, Aruba, Curaçao, Dominican Republic, and Ocho Rios, Jamaica. In Ocho Rios, guests can choose from several excursions including a traditional bamboo rafting tour. Adults may prefer the island tour and rum-tasting excursion. That excursion dives into the history of the island, taking travelers to historical sights as well as scenic spots. Guests learn about rum production on the island while sampling locally made rums. Juice tastings are available for any kids who may want to join this experience. 

But there’s so much to do on the Meraviglia , it may be tough to get your kids off the ship. The ship is home to a full-size bowling alley, F1 simulators, an epic waterpark with twisty slides and a sports field. There’s also a kid’s club, several shows to choose from, and an expansive pool. 

Book now with MSC

For a relaxing Jamaican cruise, jump on board the brand new Celebrity Beyond , which sails a  nine-night Caribbean itinerary round trip from Fort Lauderdale. The Celebrity Beyond is the cruise line’s newest ship. It boasts 32 restaurants, bars, and lounges and has a spa that offers a selection of more than 120 treatments. The cruise makes its first stop in Grand Cayman before stopping in Aruba and Curacao. Its last stop is Falmouth, Jamaica, a town with cobblestone streets lined with Georgian architecture that sits between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. From Falmouth, cruise passengers can opt to ride a bamboo raft along the Martha Brae River, climb to the top of Dunn’s River Falls, or lounge on the beach. This is an area of Jamaica known for its long emerald rivers, caves, waterfalls, and beaches, there may be no better place to relax in Jamaica. 

For a longer cruise, consider the  Celebrity Beyond ’s 11-night Southern Caribbean itinerary which adds a stop in Cartagena, Colombia. 

Book now with Celebrity

Best cruise to Jamaica for partying 

If you’re looking to party on your Jamaican cruise , look no further than Carnival Cruise Line. Carnival is the cruise line for travelers looking to let loose on vacation and is known for its fun onboard atmosphere. Carnival sails to Ocho Rios and Montego Bay from Florida. 

The  Carnival Sunrise sails roundtrip from Miami to Ocho Rios, Jamaica's most popular cruise port. This five-night itinerary starts with a day at sea—the perfect way to ease yourself into vacation mode, especially if you spent the night before sailing sampling Miami’s epic nightlife. The ship’s first port is Ocho Rios, where travelers can climb the 600-foot Dunn’s River Falls, drive a dune buggy through Jamaican woodlands, swim with dolphins, ride horses on the beach or try out river tubing. The ship stops in Grand Cayman before making its way back to Miami. 

Onboard, spend your sea days sipping cocktails by the pool. Spend your evenings at the Red Frog Pub, the onboard piano bar, or laughing your heart out at the ship’s comedy club. 

Book now with Carnival

Best megaship cruise to Jamaica 

To cruise to Jamaica with everything you could ever want on board, book yourself on the Norwegian Escape , a ship built in 2015 that can accommodate more than 4,200 passengers. This is a ship with dining options to suit even the pickiest palates. There’s even an American Diner on board should you get a little homesick. 

The Escape cruises to Jamaica on a  seven-day itinerary that includes stops in Cozumel, Mexico, George Town, Grand Cayman, and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas, in addition to Ocho Rios, where it spends a full day in port. Excursion options in Ocho Rios include a 4x4 safari to Dunn’s River Falls, island sightseeing and beach breaks.

The itinerary includes two sea days, offering plenty of time for lounging by the pool or relaxing by the spa. Or try your hand at the ship’s ropes course and catch a show at the onboard comedy club. 

Book now with Norwegian

Best smaller ship Jamaica cruise 

If you’re looking for a luxury cruise experience and a trip of a lifetime that stops in Jamaica, Viking has you covered with its  15-day Panama Canal and Central America itinerary on board the Viking Star. The Viking Star is smaller than most of the cruise ships that call on Jamaica. It accommodates just 930 guests, ensuring top-notch service for everyone on board. 

​​Being a smaller ship, you won't find the same breadth of dining and entertainment offerings on board the Viking Star as you may on other cruise lines calling on Jamaica, but you're guaranteed not to get hungry or get bored on this luxury vessel. The Viking Star has two pools, a spa, and a fitness center. It also has a sports deck, piano lounge, and a handful of dining venues. This is a cruise line that focuses on enrichment, so expect lots of opportunities to learn about your destinations along the way. 

Viking’s Panama Canal and Central America journey begins and ends in Fort Lauderdale. It takes passengers on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Cozumel, Mexico; Belize City, Belize; Roatan, Honduras; and Puerto Limon, Costa Rica, before sailing through a portion of the Panama Canal. Its last stop before returning to Fort Lauderdale is Montego Bay. 

Book now with Viking

Best long cruise to Jamaica 

Oceania's  27-day Rome to Miami Grand Caribbean Crossing may be the most exciting way to make your way to Jamaica. This epic journey begins in Rome and spends a day sailing the Mediterranean Sea before sailing to Valencia and Santa Cruz de Tenerife in Spain. From Spain, the Oceania Vista crosses the Atlantic Ocean for just over two weeks of hopping around some of the Caribbean's top destinations. The cruise stops in Antigua, Puerto Rico, and Cozumel, before eventually making its way to Montego Bay. 

This itinerary does include several sea days, but with cabins that feel more like a home than a room on a ship, lots of great food, and a selection of cocktail experiences, you may not mind. The luxurious ship also offers cooking classes, shows, a spa, and lots of gorgeous photo spots. 

Book now with Oceania

5 - Day Eastern Caribbean from Miami, FL

Cruise itinerary.

Day 1: Miami

Day 2: Fun Day at Sea

Day 3: grand turk, day 4: half moon cay, day 5: freeport, day 6: miami.

Get to Know Carnival Sunrise

Catching a great sunrise isn't just for early-risers. Carnival Sunrise has enough warm fun for everybody to bask in. So, everybody — here's a little of what you can expect from Carnival Sunrise. If you're ready for some amazing things to do let's start with the musical stage-show stylings of Playlist Productions ™ . Also up on stage find laugh-out-loud performances at Punchliner ™ Comedy Club . Kids get to have a blast with others their age at one of three youth spaces , while adults will find Piano Bar 88 ™ a melodious place to grab a drink in the evening. And who doesn't love a good waterslide? Carnival WaterWorks ™ is the ship's designated splash zone. RedFrog Pub ® could be called Carnival Sunrise's center of good cheer and great beers! For delicious bites served with that same casual, can-do-fun attitude, look to Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse | Brewhouse ™ . Or for something a little more refined, swing by Bonsai Sushi ™ . And for doing the ever-important — but also fun — work of saluting heroes, raise a glass at the Heroes Tribute Bar . Fancying things up a little are the Italian classics of Cucina del Capitano ® , while another notch up you'll find Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse ™ . We think you see by now that, from sun-up to sunset and well into the night, you'll find a day aboard Carnival Sunrise full of amazing ways to have fun. (Plus, don't forget the amazing destinations to see!) Best of all, at the end of the day... remember that your vacation on Carnival Sunrise features another great one tomorrow.

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7-Day Western Caribbean

Fun with a capital F is what you can expect on a Carnival Cruise. With the largest fleet at sea Carnival offers sailings perfect for the whole family.

Cruise to the Caribbean for tropical weather and splendid beach-side excursions.

The seafood is fresh, the sun is shining and there’s a whole lot to do, so get out there and explore the city before, during and after your cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida.

• Carnival Venezia - Passenger Capacity: 4,082 (double occupancy) Year Built: 2019 Last Refurbished: 2023

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Port Canaveral, Florida , Nassau, Bahamas , Montego Bay, Jamaica , Georgetown, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

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7-Day Western Caribbean sailing on the Carnival Venezia

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*** All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Please confirm your itinerary on the Review page before purchasing your cruise.

Carnival reserves the right to re-instate the fuel supplement for all guests at up to $9 per person per day if the NYMEX oil price exceeds $70 per barrel. Rates & offers are subject to select dates & categories, cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy, in US Dollars, & include NCCF. Government taxes & fees are additional. All rates & offers are capacity controlled, are subject to availability & confirmation, & may change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed -- please confirm details at time of booking. Stateroom photos are for sample purposes only -- actual design and layout may vary.

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The 4 newest royal caribbean ships.

Explore the newest amenities onboard including surf simulators, fine dining and more.

The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's highly anticipated Icon of the Seas is set to debut in 2024.

The world's biggest and most ambitious cruise lines never stop building out their fleet of ships, and Royal Caribbean International is no exception. The Florida-based cruise line currently boasts 28 incredible vessels for cruisers of all ages, including the four newest ships that have been added to the fleet since 2021. An even newer ship, Star of the Seas, is also being constructed with a planned launch date during the summer of 2025.

If you're interested in trying out one of the most over-the-top cruise ships sailing the world today, consider Royal Caribbean's newest vessels from the last few years. Read on to learn about the brand-new Icon of the Seas, the jaw-dropping action offered on the Wonder of the Seas, the Utopia of the Seas and the Odyssey of the Seas and all the amenities and unique experiences they have to offer.

Book a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Icon of the Seas

Scheduled to set sail in early 2024, the Icon of the Seas is one of the most celebrated and anticipated new cruise ships across all the major cruise lines. This Icon Class vessel was built to dazzle and entertain cruise passengers of all ages, and it features eight unique neighborhoods, seven pools and the largest waterpark at sea.

In total, Icon of the Seas offers 2,805 individual staterooms with space for 7,600 guests at maximum and 2,350 crew members. The vessel is 1,198 feet long with gross tonnage of 250,800.

• Sails to: The Icon of the Seas will offer alternating seven-night sailings between the Eastern and Western Caribbean. The vessel's Western Caribbean itinerary includes stops at Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, Roatan in Honduras and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas . The alternative itinerary also stops at the cruise line's private island , as well as Basseterre in St. Kitts and Nevis and Charlotte Amelie in St. Thomas. All itineraries will depart from Miami .
• Cabin types: Cabins on the Icon of the Seas are spread across eight unique neighborhoods with their own themes and amenities. Cruisers will find the basic interior, ocean view and balcony staterooms they would expect. The ship also features 179 suites that vary in size and in terms of their features, with some really spacious and over-the-top options. For example, the vessel's Ultimate Family Townhouse (UL) is more than 1,700 square feet with three stories, a multi-level slide, an outdoor space with a ping pong table and more.
• Dining options: Icon of the Seas offers 11 included dining options plus room service that's available 24/7. There are also nine unique specialty restaurants on board, including options like Izumi Hibachi and Sushi, the Empire Supper Club and Chops Grille Steakhouse. A Starbucks is also available.
• Features: The Icon of the Seas boasts the largest cruise ship pool at sea, as well as seven pools and nine whirlpools in total. There are also six record-breaking waterslides located in what Royal Caribbean says is the largest waterpark at sea. Nightlife and entertainment options run the gamut from the ship's dueling piano bar to its jazz and blues club to its AquaTheater with mesmerizing shows that feature incredible diving feats and acrobatics.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Utopia of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas is another vessel that is set to debut in 2024 with sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida. This Oasis Class ship will offer up a total of 2,834 guest rooms and is 1,188 feet in length and 236,860 gross tons in size.

The ship has space for 5,668 passengers at double occupancy and eight different neighborhoods with cabins for guests. Interestingly, this huge ship will not offer seven-night sailings throughout the Caribbean and will instead focus on offering three-night and four-night itineraries, at least at first.

• Sails to: The all-new Utopia of the Seas will offer shorter sailings to the Bahamas. The ship's three-night sailings will stop only at the cruise line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, whereas four-night sailings from Port Canaveral stop at the cruise line's private island and at Nassau, Bahamas.
• Cabin types: The Utopia of the Seas has interior rooms, ocean view rooms and balcony rooms just like other ships. Upgraded room options also abound and include a range of luxury suites at sea. For example, you can book the iconic Ultimate Family Suite, a Solarium Suite with Wraparound Windows, a Royal Loft Suite and more.
• Dining options: There are 10 different included dining experiences on the Utopia of the Seas, with room service also offered 24 hours a day. These include a Main Dining Room experience, several cafe options, a pizzeria, a coastal kitchen with California and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and more. In addition, there are 10 different specialty restaurants that can also be booked on the Utopia of the Seas, and a Starbucks is on board. Special dining experiences include a hibachi and sushi restaurant, a seafood restaurant, a Chef's Table experience for up to 16 diners at a time, a Johnny Rockets and more.
• Features: Utopia of the Seas has everything you would expect in a new Oasis Class ship from Royal Caribbean. For example, passengers will find five huge pools, eight hot tubs, three water slides, 23 different bars and two on-board casinos. Other features include an ice-skating rink, two rock climbing walls, a zip line, a basketball court, two FlowRider Surf simulators and of course the line's famous AquaTheater. Like other Royal Caribbean ships, Utopia of the Seas also features special spaces for kids and teens, including dedicated clubs, an Imagination Studio and an on-board arcade.

Read: The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

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Wonder of the Seas

Sailing the friendly seas since March 2022, the Wonder of the Seas boasts more individual rooms and suites than Icon of the Seas. The Oasis-class ship features 2,867 staterooms with a total guest capacity of 7,084. There are also eight unique neighborhoods for cruisers to choose from, each with its own decor and flair.

This Royal Caribbean vessel is also huge at 1,188 feet long and 235,600 gross tons. A total of 2,204 crew members run the ship and assist guests.

• Sails to: Wonder of the Seas is currently sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida and offers seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. The Eastern itinerary includes stops in Charlotte Amelie, St. Thomas and Phillipsburg, St. Maarten as well as Perfect Day at CocoCay. Meanwhile, the Western loop stops at the cruise line's private island as well as Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico and Roatan, Honduras.
• Cabin types: Wonder of the Seas also offers all the normal cabin types you would expect, including interior rooms, sea view rooms and balcony staterooms. There are also over-the-top suites to choose from, including an Ultimate Family Suite, a Royal Suite, an Owner's Suite and more.
• Dining options: Nine complimentary dining options are included on the Wonder of the Seas, with a main dining room, a buffet option and plenty of other eateries available to grab a bite to eat. There are also 11 unique specialty restaurants on board, including a steakhouse and a seafood restaurant, a Johnny Rockets, a sushi and hibachi restaurant and Giovanni's Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar. For coffee lovers, a Starbucks is also on board.
• Features: The Wonder of the Seas has its own Central Park, along with 11 different bars, as well as special kids and teens-only areas like a social club and an arcade. Other notable features include the vessel's AquaTheater, rock-climbing walls, whirlpools, laser tag and more. There are also 19 swimming pools, an ice rink and a casino on the Wonder of the Seas.

Read: The Top Cruises for Teens

Odyssey of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas is a Quantum Ultra Class cruise ship that's smaller than the other newest vessels from the line. The impressive ship completed its first sailing in 2021 when it became the first ship of its class to sail from the United States. Odyssey of the Seas currently departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and other ports and offers a range of six-night and seven-night sailings throughout the Caribbean in the coming months.

Up to 4,198 guests can sail on the Odyssey of the Seas with double occupancy, and 1,612 crew members are on board to tend to their every need. The ship is approximately 1,138 feet long and is 167,704 gross tons.

• Sails to: Odyssey of the Seas will depart from various ports in the United States and elsewhere in the world in the coming years. For example, there are upcoming six-night sailings from Fort Lauderdale that include stops in Labadee, Haiti and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic in addition to Perfect Day at CocoCay. The vessel will complete a 14-day transatlantic cruise in April and May of 2024, which begins in Fort Lauderdale and ends in Rome, Italy. From there, the vessel will offer Greek Islands cruises from Rome before moving back to Cape Liberty (New York), New Jersey in the fall of 2024. At that point, itineraries will include stops in Port Canaveral, Florida, Nassau in the Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay.
• Cabin types: Odyssey of the Seas offers interior staterooms, ocean view rooms and balcony staterooms. Guests can also book interior rooms with a virtual balcony that boasts a floor-to-ceiling virtual view of the outdoors. Over-the-top suites available on the Odyssey include an Owner's Loft Suite, a Royal Loft Suite, a Grand Loft Suite and more.
• Dining options: As a smaller vessel with considerably fewer passengers than Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class and Icon Class ships, Odyssey of the Seas has fewer dining options overall. Guests can dine at seven included eateries including a main dining room, a bistro, a cafe and the main ship buffet. There are also seven specialty restaurants and experiences on board including the Chef's Table, a Chops Grille and a sushi and hibachi restaurant. Like other newer ships from Royal Caribbean, the Odyssey also has its own Starbucks.
• Features: The Odyssey has eight dedicated bars and lounges on board, bumper cars, laser tag, a rock-climbing wall, an outdoor movie screen and a casino, along with kid and teen features like an arcade, a kids' splash area and a social club. A FlowRider surf simulator is on board, as well as a sky diving simulator. Note that the Odyssey of the Seas doesn't have an AquaTheater like Oasis Class ships.

Find a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea.

Look Out for Star of the Seas

Royal Caribbean is already offering limited information about its newest ship, the Star of the Seas. This vessel will also be an Icon Class ship like the Icon of the Seas, meaning it will be big and beautiful with all the bells and whistles.

The Star of the Seas is scheduled to debut in 2025.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a travel expert and content creator who has covered cruises and other family travel for more than a decade. She has cruised dozens of times with most of the major cruise lines and has ventured on itineraries throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to write this article, along with information provided by Royal Caribbean.

You might also be interested in:

• What to Pack for a Cruise
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival
• Cruise Line Drink Packages
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Royal Caribbean Cruises

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Royal Caribbean is canceling all stops at this private island port due to over 2,500 deaths & injuries in 3 months

• Updated: Apr. 29, 2024, 1:15 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 29, 2024, 1:05 p.m.

Royal Caribbean has stopped ships from docking at a private island port in Haiti due to ongoing violence in the region. AP

• Katherine Rodriguez | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Royal Caribbean has stopped ships from docking at a private island port in Haiti due to ongoing violence in the region.

The cruise line canceled ships from docking at that port through May, but last week Royal Caribbean modified cruise schedules to avoid the port throughout the summer and into September, according to a post on the Royal Caribbean blog.

“Guests booked on cruises in the summer and early fall are getting notifications from Royal Caribbean that their visits to Labadee have been canceled,” the blog post stated . “On Tuesday (April 23), cruisers began to share updates they received from Royal Caribbean that their itineraries have been updated to drop Labadee and replace it with another port or a sea day.”

Labadee is a beach area owned by Royal Caribbean located on a peninsula in northern Haiti. It is barricaded from the rest of the country and has its own security force.

Between January and March of this year, more than 2,500 people were killed or injured due to violence across Haiti, specifically in the capital of Port-au-Prince.

Royal Caribbean International did not formally announce any changes on its website. Royal Caribbean Blog is not connected with Royal Caribbean International and is just a site for fans of the cruise liner.

However, the blog reposted a notice from the cruise liner about the itinerary changes without mentioning the violence.

“Due to the continuing situation in Haiti, we’ll now visit Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos, instead of Labadee, Haiti,” the notice reads. “We’re sorry for the change – your safety is our top priority. Nevertheless, we’re excited to visit a new port with you!”

This decision by Royal Caribbean comes after the U.S. issued a warning to tourists to avoid traveling to Haiti at this time due to an increase in gang-related violence.

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