Cruise Line Guide: Carnival Cruise lines
Carnival Cruise Line, often referred to as "The World's Most Popular Cruise Line" and "The Fun Ships," was founded by Ted Arison in 1972. It started with a single secondhand ship and has since grown into a major cruise corporation, known for its focus on a fun, lively, and casual cruising experience.
Please note: Activities, dining, and entertainment options can vary by ship. To see what is available on your specific cruise, please check the official Carnival website.
Journey Through the Pages
History of carnival cruise line
- Early Years: Carnival's first ship, the TSS Mardi Gras, ran aground on its maiden voyage, an event that ironically brought the new company significant publicity. The company grew by acquiring older ships before commissioning its first purpose-built ship, the Tropicale, in 1982. This ship introduced the iconic winged funnel that is now a trademark of the fleet.
- Growth and Modernisation: In the late 1980s and 1990s, Carnival began building its popular Fantasy-class ships and the Destiny-class, the first cruise ship to exceed 100,000 gross tons. Carnival Corporation & PLC was formed in 1993 as the parent company, which now includes brands like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Cunard Line.
- The Modern Fleet: Today, Carnival operates a fleet of over 25 ships, with a variety of sizes and amenities. The newest and largest ships belong to the Excel-class, including Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, which feature the first roller coasters at sea, BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster.
Carnival Cruise line fleet
Carnival Cruise Line operates a large fleet of ships that are known for their lively and fun-filled atmosphere. The fleet is made up of different classes of ships, each offering a unique experience, from the smaller, more classic ships to the massive, state-of-the-art vessels.
sHIP classes
Excel class
These are the newest and largest ships in the fleet, with a passenger capacity of over 5,000. They typically sail on Caribbean itineraries from major U.S. ports. These ships are known for their innovative "zones" or themed areas, a wide variety of dining options, and unique top-deck attractions like BOLT, the first rollercoaster at sea.
- Carnival Jubilee (2023): Carries over 5,300 passengers and sails to the Western Caribbean from Galveston, Texas.
- Carnival Celebration (2022): Has a capacity of over 5,300 guests and sails on Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages from Miami, Florida.
- Mardi Gras (2021): With a guest capacity of over 5,200, this ship sails on seven-night cruises to the Caribbean from Port Canaveral, Florida.
venice class
Originally built for Carnival's sister brand, Costa Cruises, they have been refurbished and rebranded with a "Fun Italian Style" theme. This means they blend Carnival's signature onboard activities with a design aesthetic inspired by Venice, Italy. They offer a slightly different cruising experience, combining the lively atmosphere of Carnival with unique Italian-themed venues, food, and decor. They carry around 4,100 passengers and primarily sail to the Caribbean and Mexico.
- Carnival Firenze (2024): Holds over 4,100 guests and sails to the Mexican Riviera from Long Beach, California.
- Carnival Venezia (2023): With a capacity of over 4,000 passengers, this ship sails to the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada/New England, and the Caribbean from New York City and Port Canaveral.
sunshine class
These ships were originally part of the older Triumph-class but were completely rebuilt and redesigned. The conversion added many of the most popular features found on newer ships, including the WaterWorks aqua park, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, and a variety of dining options like Guy's Burger Joint.They have a guest capacity of around 3,000.
- Carnival Radiance (2021): Carries almost 3,000 passengers and sails to Hawaii and Mexico from Long Beach, California.
- Carnival Sunrise (2019): With a guest capacity of almost 3,000, this ship sails to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Miami, Florida.
- Carnival Sunshine (2013): Holds over 3,000 guests and sails to the Bahamas, Bermuda, and the Caribbean from Norfolk, Virginia.
vista class
Ships in this class introduced features such as the SkyRide, an open-air cycling experience, and the Havana staterooms and suites with a private relaxation area. These ships can accommodate around 4,000 guests. They offer a mix of Caribbean and Mexican itineraries.
- Carnival Horizon (2018): Carries over 3,900 passengers and sails to the Southern Caribbean.
- Carnival Panorama (2019): Holds over 4,000 guests and sails on Mexican Riviera itineraries from Long Beach, California.
- Carnival Vista (2016): With a capacity of over 3,900 passengers, this ship sails to the Caribbean from Galveston, Texas.
dream class
These ships are a great combination of size and popular features, including the WaterWorks aqua park and The Lanai, a half-mile outdoor promenade. These ships have a guest capacity of around 3,600 and are popular for their spacious feel and a wide variety of activities. They primarily sail to the Caribbean.
- Carnival Breeze (2012): Carries over 3,600 passengers and sails to the Caribbean from Galveston, Texas.
- Carnival Dream (2009): With a capacity of over 3,600 guests, this ship sails to the Caribbean from Galveston, Texas and New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Carnival Magic (2011): Holds over 3,600 passengers and sails to the Caribbean and Bahamas from Miami, Florida.
splendor class
The Splendor class is a single ship, the Carnival Splendor, which is unique in its design. It's a larger version of the Spirit class and is known for its dramatic public spaces, including a magnificent three-deck-high atrium with a glass dome. This ship has a capacity of about 3,000 passengers. It is currently homeported in Sydney, Australia, and sails to Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific.
conquest class
They are known for their expansive public areas and a wide variety of entertainment and dining venues, including the Punchliner Comedy Club, Alchemy Bar, and a large casino. These ships are a popular choice for families and groups looking for a lively atmosphere and a great value. These ships can hold around 3,000 passengers and are known for their classic "Fun Ship" features. They typically sail on shorter itineraries to the Caribbean and Bahamas.
- Carnival Conquest (2002): Has a guest capacity of almost 3,000 and sails to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Miami, Florida.
- Carnival Freedom (2007): With a capacity of almost 3,000 passengers, this ship sails to the Caribbean from Port Canaveral, Florida.
- Carnival Glory (2003): Carries almost 3,000 guests and sails on Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral, Florida.
- Carnival Liberty (2005): With a capacity of almost 3,000 passengers, this ship sails to the Caribbean from New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Carnival Valor (2004): Holds almost 3,000 guests and sails to the Western Caribbean from New Orleans, Louisiana.
spirit class
These ships are smaller and more intimate, with a guest capacity of around 2,100. They are often used for longer voyages and a wider variety of destinations.
- Carnival Legend (2002): Carries over 2,100 passengers and sails to Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, and Hawaii from various ports.
- Carnival Luminosa (2009): With a capacity of over 2,200 guests, this ship sails to Alaska, Australia, and the South Pacific.
- Carnival Miracle (2004): Holds over 2,100 passengers and sails to Alaska, the Caribbean, and Europe.
- Carnival Pride (2001): Carries over 2,100 guests and sails to the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, and the Caribbean from Baltimore, Maryland.
- Carnival Spirit (2001): Holds over 2,100 guests and sails to Alaska, Hawaii, and the Bahamas from various U.S. ports.
fantasy class
The oldest class in the fleet, the Fantasy-class ships offer a classic and more intimate cruising experience. Despite their age, they are a solid option for budget-minded travellers seeking shorter getaways. These ships have a guest capacity of around 2,100. They typically sail on shorter cruises.
- Carnival Elation (1998): Carries over 2,100 guests and sails to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Jacksonville, Florida.
- Carnival Paradise (1998): With a capacity of over 2,100 passengers, this ship sails to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Tampa, Florida.
Onboard Experience
Dining options
Included Dining
- Main Dining Room: This is a traditional sit-down restaurant experience, included in your cruise fare. It offers a rotating menu for breakfast, lunch (on sea days), and a three-course dinner. On some ships, you can choose between set dining times or "Your Time" dining, which offers more flexibility.
- Lido Marketplace: This is the main buffet on the ship's Lido Deck, serving a variety of food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It often includes different stations such as a deli, a pasta bar, and a salad bar.
- Guy's Burger Joint: A very popular poolside spot created with celebrity chef Guy Fieri. It serves complimentary, made-to-order burgers with a wide array of toppings and hand-cut fries.
- BlueIguana Cantina: Located near the pool, this is a Mexican-themed spot for breakfast and lunch. You can get custom-made burritos and tacos with various fillings and a salsa bar.
- Pizza Pirate/Pizzeria del Capitano: A 24-hour pizza place serving thin-crust pizza by the slice or a whole pie.
- Carnival Deli: An included option for sandwiches and wraps, available from late morning to late at night.
- Swirls: A self-serve station for soft-serve ice cream and frozen yogurt, typically open 24 hours.
- Big Chicken: On newer ships, this venue (inspired by Shaquille O'Neal) offers a variety of chicken sandwiches and tenders.
- Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse: Some ships feature a complimentary lunch at this venue, offering smoked meats and classic barbecue sides.
- Street Eats: A food truck-style venue on newer ships with rotating international options.
- Room Service: While some items may be a la carte, many basic sandwiches, salads, and desserts are complimentary and available 24/7.
Speciality Dining (extra charge)
- Steakhouse (Fahrenheit 555): An upscale, reservation-only steakhouse offering a premium four-course dinner with a la carte pricing for appetisers, entrees, and desserts.
- Cucina del Capitano: An Italian restaurant with a family-style dining experience. On some ships, it's a paid speciality restaurant for dinner, but on others, it may be complimentary for one dinner service.
- Bonsai Sushi/Bonsai Teppanyaki: These venues offer Japanese cuisine. Bonsai Sushi is a la carte for sushi rolls, sashimi, and other items. Bonsai Teppanyaki provides an interactive, entertaining hibachi-style meal with a fixed price.
- Emeril's Bistro: On select ships, this restaurant by chef Emeril Lagasse offers a menu of Creole and Cajun-inspired dishes, typically with a la carte pricing.
- Rudi's Seagrill: A seafood restaurant created with chef Rudi Sodamin, offering a variety of fresh seafood dishes for a fee.
- Seafood Shack: A casual New England-style spot where you can order fried or steamed seafood for a fee.
- The Chef's Table: A very exclusive and high-end multi-course dining experience hosted by one of the ship's master chefs. It's a special event that requires reservations and has a high cost.
Onboard Activities
Thrill rides
- BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster: The first roller coaster at sea, available on the Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee. This electric, motorcycle-style coaster allows riders to control their speed as they zoom around an 800-foot track high above the water.
- SkyRide: A pedal-powered aerial ride that lets you bike high above the deck on a suspended track, available on select ships like the Carnival Horizon, Carnival Panorama, and Carnival Vista.
- Carnival WaterWorks: A popular water park with multiple slides, including the high-speed Twister Waterslide, racing slides, and the PowerDrencher tipping bucket. The features vary by ship, but it's a complimentary experience.
sports & games
- SportSquare: An outdoor recreation area with a ropes course (SkyCourse), a basketball/volleyball/soccer court, mini-golf, and other games like foosball and ping-pong.
- Family Feud Live: A live, onboard version of the classic TV game show where guests compete against each other.
- Hasbro, The Game Show: Life-size versions of popular Hasbro board games like Connect 4 and Simon Flash.
- Bingo: A classic cruise activity with a chance to win prizes.
- Video Arcade: Open day and night for video game enthusiasts.
relaxation & wellness
- Serenity Adult-Only Retreat: A secluded deck area with loungers, whirlpools, and uninterrupted sea views for guests 21 and older.
- Cloud 9 Spa: A full-service spa offering massages, facials, and a thermal suite on select ships.
- Pools and Hot Tubs: Multiple pools and hot tubs are available on deck, including the mid-ship pool with a large screen for "Dive-In Movies" and more serene pools at the aft of the ship.
entertainment
live shows & theatre
- Playlist Productions: High-energy stage shows with professional singers and dancers, featuring a variety of themes like "80s Pop to the Max," "America Rocks," and "Amor Cubano."
- The Punchliner Comedy Club: Featuring family-friendly and adults-only comedy sets from professional comedians.
- Live Music: You can find a wide range of live music, from rock bands and solo artists to sing-along piano bars and DJs at the nightclub.
- Dive-In Movies: Watching movies on a large screen by the pool, sometimes while floating in the water.
nightlife
- Nightclub: Carnival's nightclub is the place to be when the sun goes down. A live DJ spins a mix of current chart-toppers, classic dance hits, and other party jams to keep the energy high. The venues are designed with a vibrant atmosphere, complete with state-of-the-art sound systems and lighting to create a true club experience at sea.
- Piano Bar: A perennial favourite, the piano bar is a lively and interactive venue. A skilled pianist entertains the crowd by playing a wide variety of songs, from sing-along classics to personalised requests. The atmosphere is social and upbeat, and guests are encouraged to join in the fun by singing along with the music.
- RedFrog Rum Bar & BlueIguana Tequila Bar: These two distinct poolside bars offer a taste of the Caribbean and Mexico. The RedFrog Rum Bar serves up a variety of "frog-approved" rum-based cocktails, including Carnival's own private-label draft beer, ThirstyFrog Red. For a different vibe, the BlueIguana Tequila Bar offers a menu of Mexican beers and a wide selection of tequila and frozen concoctions. Both bars are perfect for a refreshing drink and a laid-back, tropical feel.
- Alchemy Bar: For those who appreciate a unique and handcrafted cocktail, the Alchemy Bar is a must-visit. The skilled mixologists, or "mix-masters," act as modern-day pharmacists, creating custom drinks with a creative twist. The menu features a variety of intriguing cocktails, each with a unique name and ingredients, promising a sophisticated and memorable drinking experience.
interactive experiences
- Karaoke: A chance to perform your favourite songs in front of other guests.
- Lip Sync Battle: An onboard version of the TV show where guests compete with professional choreography and backup dancers.
- CLUE: The Mystery Murder: A free, interactive game that takes you across the ship to solve a murder mystery.
Cabins & staterooms
Main stateroom categories
Interior Staterooms
These are the most budget-friendly option and are located on the inside of the ship with no windows. They are a good value for guests who plan to spend most of their time enjoying the ship's activities. Some interior staterooms have porthole windows with an obstructed view.
oceanview staterooms
These rooms have a window or porthole that provides a view of the ocean, but no balcony. They are ideal for guests who want natural light and a scenic view without the added cost of a balcony.
balcony staterooms
These rooms feature a private balcony with a table and chairs. They are a very popular option and come in various sizes and locations on the ship, including larger "extended" balconies or "cove" balconies on lower decks.
Suites
Suites are the most spacious option, offering a separate sitting area and a larger balcony. They come with a number of exclusive perks, such as priority check-in and boarding, priority dining reservations, and upgraded amenities like pillow-top mattresses and bathrobes.
Speciality Staterooms
family harbour
Designed for families, these staterooms and suites offer exclusive access to the Family Harbour Lounge, which provides daily breakfast, snacks, and a selection of board games and family movies. Guests also get a free night of babysitting.
cloud 9 spa
Located near the onboard spa, these staterooms and suites give guests priority access to spa reservations and unlimited use of the Thermal Suites and Hydrotherapy Pool.
havana suites
Available on select ships, these accommodations have a unique decor and provide exclusive daytime access to the Havana Pool area, a private resort-style space.
The Seas Are Calling, but who is Answering?
Carnival Cruise Line's demographic is broad and diverse, but it primarily caters to a value-driven audience looking for a fun and engaging experience. While the brand has historically been associated with a "party" reputation, its customer base is more accurately described as a mix of different groups.
- Families: Carnival is highly popular with families, and its ships are designed with a wide range of activities and amenities for all ages, including kids' clubs, water parks, and family-friendly entertainment.
- Couples & Young Adults: The average age of a Carnival cruiser is around 45, but the line attracts a significant number of travellers in their 30s and 40s. The lively onboard atmosphere, diverse dining options, and value-focused pricing appeal to young adults and couples.
- First-Time Cruisers: Carnival has a high percentage of "new-to-cruise" passengers, drawn by the perceived value and wide range of itinerary options.
- Geographic Base: A large portion of Carnival's customers are from the United States, particularly from the Southern states, and they are often attracted by the convenience of sailing from many U.S. homeports.
vibe check - is this cruise line for you?
The vibe on a Carnival cruise is often described as a "fun ship" atmosphere—lively, casual, and focused on having a good time. It's generally more laid-back than some other cruise lines.
- Energetic & Social: Carnival attracts a younger, more family-oriented crowd and is known for its high energy. There are deck parties, live music, comedy shows, and various activities designed to keep guests entertained.
- Casual & Relaxed: The overall atmosphere is unpretentious and casual. People are there to relax and have fun, not to adhere to a strict social code.
- Varies by Cruise Length: Shorter cruises (3-5 nights) often have a more pronounced "party" atmosphere, while longer cruises (7+ nights) tend to have an older demographic and a slightly more relaxed vibe.
The Dress Code Compass
The dress code on Carnival is generally "Cruise Casual" with one or two "Cruise Elegant" nights depending on the length of the cruise.
Cruise Casual: This is the standard for most of the evenings. Think resort wear.
- Men: Dress pants, jeans, elegant shorts, or polo shirts.
- Women: Casual dresses, skirts, trousers, blouses, or summer dresses.
- Not Permitted: Tank tops, swimsuits, gym shorts, cut-off jeans, and flip-flops in the main dining rooms at dinner.
Cruise Elegant: These are optional dress-up nights. The purpose is to provide a special evening, not to enforce a strict formal code. While some people go all out, it's not required.
- Men: Dress slacks, dress shirts, and sport coats are recommended. Suits or even tuxedos are also welcome, but not the norm.
- Women: Cocktail dresses, pantsuits, or elegant skirts and blouses.
Many people opt for "business casual" or "Sunday best" and feel perfectly comfortable. The main dining room has a relaxed atmosphere, and you can always choose to eat at the casual Lido buffet on these nights if you don't want to dress up.
accessibility on carnival cruise line
General Accessibility
- Accessible Elevators: Located at each elevator bank with tactile controls and audible signals.
- Accessible Routes: Available throughout most areas of the ship, with signs to assist in locating them.
- Accessible Dining: Accessible tables are available in dining venues.
- Public Restrooms: Accessible public restrooms are available on all ships.
- Pools: Pool lifts are available on several ships.
For information about specific ships' accessibility facilities and amenities, visit the official Carnival website.
staterooms
Carnival has four classifications of staterooms for guests with disabilities.
- Fully Accessible Cabins (FAC): Designed for guests with highly limited or no mobility who use a wheelchair, scooter, or similar device. They feature turning space, accessible routes, and bathrooms with roll-in showers and grab bars.
- Fully Accessible Cabins – Single Side Approach (FAC-SSA): A type of FAC with an accessible route and clear floor space on only one side of the bed.
- Ambulatory Accessible Cabins (AAC): For guests with mobility limitations who may use a cane or walker. These cabins have features like grab bars but may have a step to the bathroom or balcony.
- Standard Cabins: These have an entry doorway of approximately 22 inches.
mobility assistance & devices
- Mobility Questionnaire: Guests needing an accessible stateroom must complete a Mobility Questionnaire to confirm their need for the accessibility features.
- Scooters and Wheelchairs: These must be stored and charged in your stateroom. Note that not all staterooms on Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee, and Mardi Gras can accommodate scooters, so guests traveling with a scooter should review the ship's accessible deck plan.
- Ground Transportation: Special transportation service with a hydraulic lift is available for guests who have purchased transfers from Carnival Cruise Line.
assistance for specific needs
- Hearing Impairments: A portable room alert kit, which includes a visual-tactile alert system for door knocking, phone ringing, and smoke alarms, is available on request.
- Visual Impairments: Braille signage is available on all ships. Menus and other written information are available in large print upon request. Service animals are also permitted onboard.
- Medical Equipment: Guests can bring their own medical equipment, medications, and supplies. It is recommended to hand-carry these items. For medication that needs refrigeration, the onboard Medical Centre can arrange storage.
- Dialysis: Guests requiring peritoneal dialysis can bring their own supplies to perform self-dialysis in their stateroom.
cruise critic score
Based on 31,000 reviews on Cruise Critic, Carnival Cruise Line has an overall rating of 3.8 out of 5.
Here is a summary of the positives and negatives from the reviews:
Positives: Reviewers often praise the staff for being friendly and attentive. Many enjoy the food, especially dinner and desserts, and find the shows and activities like karaoke to be fun. The family-friendly options for children are also well-regarded.
Negatives: Common complaints include crowded conditions, with some describing the ships as too small and the buffet as "cut throat." Other issues mentioned are high prices for medical services and drinks, a lack of entertainment for a younger crowd, noise from children, and a dated interior design on some ships.
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Last Updated (All Information Correct as of): 20 August '25