- Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines
check_circle VerifiedCarnival Cruise Lines operates 24 ships featuring voyages lasting three to fourteen days. Destinations include the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, Europe, Alaska, Canada, New England, Hawaii, Bermuda, and Australia. All cruises are family-friendly with lots of activities for children and teenagers to enjoy. Two formal nights are standard on cruises lasting seven nights. Normal attire for men includes dark suits or sport coats and ties. For shorter trips, one night is usually required. All other nights are casual and allow jeans or dress shorts to be worn in the dining areas. The cruise ships request that cutoffs and short-shorts not be worn after 6 p.m.
The Good
- Great entertainment options
- Discounts and deals available
- Vacation protection
Entertainment Options
Carnival ships contain high-energy entertainment options, from Las Vegas styled revues to glitzy casinos, live bands and comedy shows. You can work out in the fitness center or take a run along a jogging track that encircles the outer portion of the ship. Families can watch movies on a giant outdoor screen or head to the waterpark. Tons of activities are available for children of all ages. Shopping includes themed stores for kids including a candy store.
Discounts and Deals
The Carnival Cruise's website offers features to help you plan your vacation and find the lowest prices and discounts on upcoming cruises. Senior discounts, military discounts and other incentives are available as well. If you find a better Carnival advertised deal somewhere else within two days of booking a cruise, Carnival will give you 110 percent of the difference in onboard credit.
Vacation Protection
Carnival tries to protect their guests when making a reservation through their cruise lines. They understand that some may need to utilize travel insurance. Carnival's Cruise Vacation Protection protects you with a 100 percent cash reimbursement of applicable penalties for cancellations due to specified reasons, such as:
- Someone in your immediate family has an illness or injury, even if they aren't scheduled to travel with you.
- You become ill and can't travel.
- You are involuntarily terminated or laid off by an employer.
- A severe weather watch or warning is issued and affects your travel to the port of embarkation.
- A common carrier delay due to inclement weather causes you to miss more than 50 percent of your cruise vacation.
- Or, if you must cancel for any other reason, our new "Cancel for Any Reason" feature will provide a future cruise credit equal to 75 percent of the applicable penalties.
Amenities
Carnival Cruise Lines feature six dining options on their ships which include seafood, burgers, steakhouse, Italian cuisine, Mexican cuisine, and a themed restaurant for kids called Dr. Seuss Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast. A jogging track encircles the outer part of the ship. Spa services, hair salon, and fitness center services are also available. Standard amenities on each Carnival ship also include:
- 24 hour room service and room steward
- Soft cozy linens and bathrobes
- Nightly turndown services
- Telephone and Television
- Individual Climate Control
- Personal Safe for Valuables
Destinations
Carnival Cruise ships travel to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, Europe, Alaska, Canada, New England, Hawaii, Bermuda, and Australia. Dates and times for when these cruise ships depart depend on a number of contributing factors. Pricing information for some of these destinations are broken down as follows:
- Alaska: $697-$829 per person for a seven day trip
- Caribbean: $159 per person for four days
- Mexico: $169 per person for two days- $879 per person for thirteen days
- Europe: $749 per person for eight days - $1,599 per person for thirteen days
Transportation to and from the cruise ship (back to the airport) is also included. Transportation from the airports in New York, Los Angeles, Orlando, and others are available. Cruises are available all year long and can extend anywhere from three to fourteen days.
The Bad
- Not a relaxing environment
- Other fees can stack up
- Babysitting not included
Not for a Relaxing Getaway
For those who are looking for a quiet and relaxing getaway, Carnival Cruises may not be the ideal choice. Large crowds and boisterous entertainment options are ongoing throughout the length of the cruise. There are areas of the ship that are private retreats to get away from the bustle, but most options available on the ship are geared toward kids and teenagers and create loud noises that may be disturbing for those wanting to relax.
Other Fees
Offshore excursions cost extra and can be a bit pricey for families seeking an affordable vacation experience. Some of the activities onboard cost extra as well. It is too easy to rack up a large vacation bill with the extra costs involved. Most children's activities are free, but late-night party program fees and video game charges can add up quickly. On top of regular rates, other costs may include:
- Taxes, fees, and port expenses range from $42.38 to $324.27
- A $50 change fee per guest will be assessed for ship and/or sail date changes made prior to final payment due date.
- Gratuities cost $12 per person per day and covers dining and room steward services
Babysitting is not Included
Because of the large number of people on board the cruise ships, individual attention may lack on occasion and it may be hard to get the attention of attendants should you need anything. Babysitting is available, but it costs extra. The rate for babysitting is $6 per hour, and $4 for each additional child. For those with infants, you will be required to provide staff with diapers and wipes for children under two years old.
The Bottom Line
Carnival cruises are designed for families seeking a high-octane and affordable vacation. Carnival Cruises is perfect for those seeking colorful and boisterous entertainment options in a laid-back party-style atmosphere. If you are looking for luxury options or personalized attention Carnival Cruises may not be the best choice for you.
All in all we recommend Carnival Cruise Lines for having a great get-a-way experience.
User Reviews
Star Rating
711 Reviews
Review Breakdown
Sentiment Criteria
lani tuihalamaka
Carnival fantasy was a great first cruise. Cheaper but still got our money's worth.
Jenn0507
Fun and entertaining experience. Employees constantly making sure customers are having fun. Lots of activities for the entire family to enjoy with several dining options to fit anyone’s needs. Very relaxing vacation.
stevey shumway
I went on a Carnival cruise last May. It was a fun way for me and some friends to celebrate us just graduating. Although we did have a good time, I wasn't too impressed with all that Carnival had to offer. I felt that the ship was dirty, not organized and the service wasn't the best. The tables in the food area were always dirty and I had to ask for them to be cleaned several times before sitting down.
Seth Boudoin
I rode on the carnival triumph and it was a well catered and relaxing vacation for me to get off my feet. From very cozy rooms to an event going on every hour to fun movie nights. This was a great trip for the whole family. Activities for kids and adults aren’t left out either with fantastic excursions and events for each.
Fife32
I loved my cruise through Carnival Cruise Lines. I went to Mexico and it was such a needed family get away.
Greg
I have only been on one cruise and it was a short cruise to Mexico from California on Carnival. I loved it. The food was fabulous. There were fun things to do. The ship is beautiful and the service great. It was a great experience.
Lorna Johnston
We have only been on one cruise and it was on Carnival. I have heard that it is not one of the better cruises but we had a fabulous time. The ship was beautiful with fun activities, the food fabulous, and the service great. It was everything I hoped a cruise would be.
Stacey
I have been on 2 carnival cruises and have enjoyed them both. They are good with kids and entertainment. I will go again.
Hallieford
Carnival cruise line is always our go to! We usually go with a big group and it is great. The wide selection of food has something for everyone. The Variety of entertainment Options keeps everyone entertained, no matter your personality or interests.
Dwhoush
Don’t get my wrong, Carnival puts on a great cruise, but I feel like it is a budget cruise or an entry level cruise experience. I also don’t like all the kids that are typical on carnival cruises. Carnival is great for a quick short get away.
Cade Boudreaux
I went on a Carnival cruise three years ago. The staff was very fun and friendly and made me and my families stay a great one. They make an amazing chocolate cake and the entertainment on board was top notch.
Megan Johnston
We loved our cruise on Carnival. We thought it had wonderful entertainment and delicious food. Such an amazing time!!!
MaryAnn
We recently returned from a cruise on Carnival. The ship, Carnival Magic was a great ship. The kids (7-15) were always finding something to do on board. They did not like the kids groups. I didn't think the buffet was very kid friendly. Thank goodness for Guys Burgers and the Blue Iguana.
Jeremy Webb
Took my first cruise last year with Carnival out of New Orleans and had an amazing time. It was a 5 day cruise to Cozumel and we had so many things to do on the ship. Food was amazing and the entertainment was great. Comedians were probably the best entertainment aspect. They offered many activities on the ship as well as many shore excursions off the ship. Overall a great time with my wife and would definitely go back!
Zabsanti
I have been on 2 carnival cruises and On one of my cruises we had to go and save the elation because their boiler rooms got caught on fire. I would say reliability would not be at its highest point
Holly Brown
Went on a family trip with all of my relatives, and stayed in the presidential suite. It was an amazing experience between the food, locations, and services on the cruise ship. Loved it, truly.
JDWain
I have sailed on a few different Cruise Lines and Carnival is one that I keep coming back to. It is one of the more economical cruise lines where you can still have lots of fun with the whole family. the staff on the ships are always top notch and make sure that you have everything you need
Makya Love
me and my family absolutely loved the carnival cruise we went on. it was so much fun and they had such great service and you never run out of things to do!! 10/10 recommended!!!
Jacobrobot321
I’ve been on two carnival cruises and I have to say it’s the best experiences of my life, so friendly, the food is excellent, and the shows are amazing. I wish i could go back!
Nicholas Cloward
First cruise. It went fine. Quality of food was meh. The best part was getting off the boat and going exploring away from everyone
Jessica
Carnival is a family friendly cruise line. The rooms are nice and they have excellent customer service.
Jasmyne Love
The Carnival Crusie Lines is one of the best cruise lines to exists in my opinion. I have used this cruise line three times now and every time I have a great experience. They served the best food and service. The boat was very clean and tidy. They had a dance floor near the pool where the blast loud music that is family-friendly. They also had small clubs that were meant for young kids, which I thought was nice. If you want to take a family trip then I would consider investing in the Carnival Cruise Lines.
Kellen
Amazing. It was the first cruise I've gone on and it blew my mind. The food was good and there was always something to do!
Deryl
My wife and I went on a carnival cruise and we enjoyed our time there. It was fun and the food was delicious.
Ron Vincent
I’ve been on many cruises and Carnival is my least favorite! I get the feeling that I’m on a low class ship. Friendliness and service needs improvements. The food isn’t very good either.
tania moe
i always have a good time on carnival cruises. they make it very affordable to vacation and the service has always been fantastic. the room service is always top of the line and they have always been friendly and excited to see me when i pass by. overall the staff is kind and so helpful.
Braylyn Linford
Took my family on our first cruise 2 years ago ! We can’t wait to go back my family had the time of their lives .
Mykahla Nelson
I loved the food it was awesome ! I loved the activities that they provided both on the ship and off! Would highly recommend going on a cruise with this company !
Nichole Hiatt
The food was the best part of our Carnival cruise, the ship itself was dated but for the price we paid, I didn't care.
Mandi Smith
Carnival Cruise is the best cruise line anyone could ever go on! I love waking up and being able to go to the lito deck and get endless amounts of delicious food. Plus, I feel so safe on that big boat!
Riley Smith
My wife and I went on a cruise for our honeymoon. It was definitely a fun time and we made a lot of memories! Thanks carnival!
Kaysha Love
This cruise line is extremely family oriented and has something fun for everyone to do. Not only is it an exciting get away but the ship itself offers some of the best food and entertainment ever.
Justin McMurtrey
Carnival Cruises are party central. I think these cruise are designed more for young adults. I would look for another cruise line for better quality. Prices are affordable.
Stephanie Love
I have been on a few carnival cruise lines and I have never been disappointed. The food has always been amazing and we have always enjoyed their entertainment. They have stuff for everyone. It’s been perfect for my family. The kids love it and have so many things to entertain them and they have plenty of things to do for the adults. They treat you like royalty, so the staff was always amazing. I will continue using carnival. I haven’t been disappointed yet.
Poundesk
Carnival is a great cruise for families! We've been several times and have always had a great experience. Thg he staff is super friendly. The ship is clean but could be updated in a few areas.
Nesha Leonard
Literally the best cruise line. The only one I go on. I wish the age limit wasn’t so strict in who can be in a room, but other than that, I love these ships.
Annie Robbins
I have been on 1 Carnival cruise. The boat was older. My husband and I found we were avoiding many parts of the ship due to smoke and drinking. Not a great cruise ship for families. I would not take my kids on a Carnival Cruise.
Mhorne182
Cruises are fun. Carnival gets a bad rap as a "party cruise line." I have never had a bad experience. The food is good and the service is good too.
David T
I love cruises for family vacations. You have your entertainment planned and great food. Carnival did a great job in both these aspects. Our waiters for the week were so funny and made dinner fun!
Nicole Sohm
I just came back from a Cruise on Carnival Elation and we had so much fun. The food definitely is not my favorite but they offer great prices and entertainment!
Jami Lucas
I went on my first and only cruise with Carnival and loved every minute of it! The good was my favorite part!
Corinne Craig
I have cruised on carnival 2 times now and have loved it. I’ve enjoyed the fun activities and yummy food. I was impressed with the cruise directors as well
Audrey Mitchell
Carnival is a great company to cruise with it you have you get children due to the super fun activities, food, and entertainment. The experience is I credible and we had a great experience in Mexico cruising with them
A’lea Richardson
A great cruise line. Wonderful food and activities on board. Nice bed rooms with great room service and amenities
Katie evans
My husband and I went on the carnival cruise not that long ago with are two kids , one is a 15 year old guy and one is a 17 year old boy and they had so much fun.This cruise is fun for all ages even adults. My husband and I had a romantic/ fun trip.The employees where absolutely amazing and so nice.
Lacey Horne
Descent ships, entertainment, and food. Not as nice as some other cruise lines, but you’re able to get better deals here, and worth it for the money.
Ana LaBorde
I had a great time on my carnival cruise! It was entertaining and a good value. The only downside is the bill you get at the end with all these random fees they don’t tell you about.
Bryndie
Really solid option for a cheaper price. They do a good job at taking care of you and providing an awesome experience. Good cruise line
Lori
I have gone on several Carnival cruises and have enjoyed each and every one! Staff is phenomenal and accommodations are top notch.
Beverly Schacher
My very first cruise was on a Carnival ship. The second night at sea we had very rough weather, high waves and winds. The ship was rocking and everyone was getting sea sick. Water was dripping from the ceilings and things were being knocked over. We were not kept informed about the situation at all. There were all kinds of rumors going around but the only official explanation was in a letter stuck under our cabin door the following day. The final unboarding process left us standing in a small, hot, crowded room for over an hour. The cruise was reasonably priced but in my opinion there are other better options available.