- 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
Kimsreview
Took a cruise on Carnival several years ago. Weekend party cruise. Fun for the money but wouldn’t do it again.
Lindsay
It was a nice experience except that I didn’t really know to expect that it would feel so much like a casino party boat. Food was always flowing though.
Darbles32
The carnival cruise line was ok for me only because I don’t drink, smoke, or gamble and I feel that most of the activities revolves around that
Reckholdt
We cruised Carnival with all adults. It has such great entertainment and everything was well organized. We had a blast and I love having everything paid for upfront.
Juliann Mecham
This is the way to get some quality family time in together. You can’t go anywhere besides on the ship. I loved the Carnival cruise and I would totally recommend to anyone for the cruise.
terryjamison
Been to Mexico on carnival cruises and couldn’t ask for any better . The food was incredible and so was the staff
Tiffany Nguyen
I love the cruise, looking out to the ocean was wonderful on the ship. The food and the customer service was absolutely wonderful. One complaint I have, however, is the prices that the cruise sold on the ship.
Danielle Powell
Love this line especially the spa lines. Wish the lunch diners had extended hours to help when you sleep in way too late
Cara McAffee
Never a dull moment ! Each day and night was filled with fun and activity! The pools were clean and there was always something delish at the buffets. So many options !!
Madison Kneiss
EXCEPTIONALLY BAD EXPERIENCE WITH THIS CRUISE NOT QUITE WHAT YOU ARE TOLD WHEN YOU BOOK IT WOULD NOT PLAN TO USE THIS COMPANY ANYTIME SOON
Karen Hartnack
Carnival cruises are not the best cruise out there the prices for the most part are ok but not overly happy with experience
Cam McClellan
While not the most elegant cruise line, Carnival had a decent amount of kid friendly activities and the food was good.
Rai Durant
I love carnival cruise line! I learned a lot about the culture of of destinations and had all the free ice cream I could have!
Taylor Walker
Carnival has great rates when looking for cruises. They also let you pay money towards your trip in parts if the trip is far in advance. The boat is very beautiful and they care about your safety. It is very fun to drink if you are legal age.
Mikayla Ralston
Great price for what you get. Offers the opportunity to have an amazing experience. Never got bored. Would recommend bringing your own sodas
Madison Kneiss
I have been on 3 cruise all of them on Carnival. The staff is amazing, love the cruise director Mikey and I will continue to be a loyal customer
Susanna Collins
Carnival cruises accommodate for people of all ages. The food and service is absolutely wonderful and is a great family trip.
Asia Bui
When I go on cruises Carnival Cruises are so affordable and so nice! I always have so much fun when i go on them because the service is great for me!
ChanceyParker
I had a wonderful first cruise and will be going back in March! The waiters were the nicest people on the ship!
SkylarPickens
The best vacation my family and I have EVER been on! Great staff and very fun activities!
Christyan Bennett
During a cruise to Mexico there was plenty to do aboard the Carnival Cruise. The workers are always friendly and ready to any answers coming their way. Definitely would recommend booking a cruise with them.
Mrs.LadyTee
We enjoyed ourselves on our family cruise. Staff was phenomenal. There was tons to do at each port and while just staying on board the ship. The Lido Deck was my favorite.
Andrea
Love cruising! My family has always cruised with Carnival. Fun times onboard and budget friendly! My son is a “picky” vegetarian and they always fix him something he will eat, with no fuss! So nice!
Julie Martin
I've only been on 2 cruises. Both were Carnival, so I don't have much to compare to. Overall, I really enjoyed myself, but be prepared, the extras add up quickly!
Laurie Massie
The cruise Director on our cruise was fabulous! He made sure that we enjoyed our trip! Our excursions were well worth the price of the tickets. Formal dining night was a blast, & I LOVED that they offered professional pictures of the occasion. We had SOOO much fun on our Carnival cruise out of Mobile!! Would TOTALLY take another!!
Patricia Broadus
My family have always gone with carnival for family vacations and have the most fun! The staff are very sweet and the food is delicious! Especially the 24/7 pizza!
kaylee
Not the greatest cruise line to go on, but the food wasn’t too bad nor is it too good. My family and I been on one of the cruise ship, and the service was alright. But if you want to go on a cheap cruise line, then Carnival would the best one.
Dorrie2001
It was first cruise and an asking experience. Our server for dinner was the best, and I enjoyed all of the cruise activities. I made the best empties thank you.
Anita
I'll preface this review by saying that I'm not a cruise person. If you're a cruise person, you'll love this company. It delivers the friendly staff, entertainment, food, games, lounging, etc that it promises. Everyone on board is clearly working hard to make sure vacationers are happy. With that said. I'm not a cruise person. I had a good time with great friends... and I'm not a cruise person. I give Carnival 3 stars because they're a company that does not appear to have much concern for the environment. The hot tubs were warm at best, the pool was perpetually over crowded, and there were too many children on board. Everything else was great. If the 3 things I named don't bother you - consider this a solid 4 star experience.
Honey LeBlanc
Carnival may not be the fanciest cruise line out there, but the amount of fun for the money is great. The rooms are clean, the staff is friendly, and there is ALWAYS something fun to do on the ship. The sea day brunch is my absolute favorite.
Katie
We have taken several cruises via Carnival Cruise Lines. We also have a credit card through Carnival. Although some of the shops could benefit from some minor upgrades. Service has always been great.
Louis pierocich
Absolutely love cruising with Carnival!! Will be taking my 15th cruise shortly. Best vacation bang for your buck there is!! Highly recommend cruising Carnival!!
Rebecca Harvey
Went on my first cruise about six months ago! It was an absolute blast. This cruise line has it all, and made my experience so amazing!
Debbie Fish
My favorite cruise line. We always have a great time with Carnival. Food is good, sure do miss my warm chocolate melting cake when I’m home!
Kristie Pierocich
By far the best cruise line and I’ve cruised 14 cruises. Everything about Carnival is superior.
Yanesezah Fenelon
I recently took a cruise to the Island of Bahamas, the staff on the ship was amazing. They provided great service every night for dinner and was very helpful. I also enjoyed the numerous amount of activities the cruise provided.
Deanna Bernard
Best Cruise line ever. This is highly recommended! I had such a great time on this cruise. I would go back again.
DAVID HADAWAY
Love Carnival Cruise Line! We recently took a family cruise and my family had a blast. Carnival really makes a family vacation about the family.
Angela Sims
Best cruise in value for money. Very fun experience and all inclusive! Great food and fun and definitely worth every penny.
Nyla
I take annual cruises with this cruise line and have never been disappointed. The service is always great and issues are resolved immediately.
Kayla
I took a trip to Mexico and Key West on Carbonval and it was great experience. Awesome staff and great service. I would definitely go again and recommend others as well.
Khori Howard
I went on a cruise through Carnival to the Bahamas and the staff is really amazing. They are always really nice, even early in the morning and don't mind helping you or bringing you new towels. The boat was clean. Never had any issues while I was on there.
Star Stewart
I went on a Carnival Cruise last summer and really enjoyed my time on the boat. There was many events to go to on the boat when we were at sea or after dinner. The workers were really nice. Every night was a party at dinner.
Geneve Pierre
I really like this cruise line because they ensure individuals on their cruises safety and are very informative to their passengers to make sure everything runs smoothly.
Zharia Allums
My experience was alright. Other cruise lines seem fun and seem to offer more than Carnival. I enjoyed the comedy show and the night club. The internet connection was a little wonky, though.
Mindy
My husband and I did one of their Bahama cruises. It was delightful! The food, accommodations, and overall ship experience was fantastic.
Jacob
Carnival Cruises are fun and often cheaper. A great place to vacation out at sea with family!
Stacie
Loved the staff. Friendly and helpful. Did not enjoy the loud entertainment during when dining.
Jill Story
We've taken 4 cruises on Carnival. We like their itineraries and their prices compared to other cruise lines. The steward staff is always amazing. The food is pretty good. The entertainment is just OK.
Eric Wilkinson
Carnival is a great cruise for a low cost. Lots of fun activities for everyone, young and old. Be ready for a fun time.