Have you ever found yourself daydreaming about a tropical vacation on a luxurious cruise ship, but quickly became overwhelmed with the sheer number of options available? As someone who values freedom and independence, I understand how important it is to make informed decisions when it comes to planning your dream vacation.
That’s why I’ve decided to dive deep into the world of Carnival Cruise Line and rank the best and worst ships based on reviews from independent sources.
With 25 ships in operation, Carnival Cruise Line is one of the most popular cruise lines in the world. However, not all ships are created equal, and it can be difficult to decide which one is the best fit for your vacation.
From family-friendly atmospheres to party-centric vibes, each ship offers a unique experience. In this article, I will provide an overview of Carnival’s fleet, rank the best and worst ships, and provide information on the features and atmospheres of each ship to help you make an informed decision on your next adventure at sea.
So grab your sunscreen and let’s set sail on this journey of discovery.
- Carnival has 25 ships in operation, with the oldest being Carnival Sunshine and the newest being Carnival Celebration and Carnival Venezia.
- The best ship according to reviews is Carnival Panorama, while even the worst ship still scored 3.3 out of 5 on average.
- Different Carnival ships have varying features and atmospheres, catering to different groups, so careful planning is necessary when choosing a ship.
- The best Carnival ship depends on the traveler’s preferences, with options for families, couples, parties, and relaxation.
Carnival Fleet Overview
I learned that the Carnival fleet has 25 ships, with the oldest being the Carnival Sunshine and the newest being the Carnival Celebration and Carnival Venezia. Compared to other cruise lines, Carnival has one of the largest fleets in operation.
The Carnival fleet offers a variety of features and atmospheres, with different ships catering to different groups. Despite the age of the Carnival Sunshine, all Carnival ships have modern amenities and offer a range of activities and dining options.
With the addition of the Carnival Celebration and Carnival Venezia, the Carnival fleet continues to expand and improve. Carnival ships are known for their fun and lively atmosphere, making them a popular choice for families and those seeking a party atmosphere.
Ship Rankings Overview
Unsurprisingly, opinions on each vessel in the Carnival fleet vary greatly, with some ships being praised for their exceptional features and others criticized for their lackluster offerings.
However, when compared to other cruise lines, Carnival’s ship rankings remain strong, with the worst-ranked ship still receiving a 3.3 out of 5 on average.
COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the cruise industry, including Carnival’s ship rankings. Many ships have been forced to cancel or postpone their sailings, causing a decrease in reviews and ratings.
However, Carnival continues to adapt and implement new health and safety measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable cruising experience for their guests.
Ship Features and Atmospheres
Ship features and atmospheres vary greatly across the Carnival fleet, making it important for travelers to carefully consider their preferences when choosing a ship.
Each Carnival ship has its own unique set of ship amenities that cater to targeted demographics. For example, families with children may prefer a ship with water slides and kids’ clubs, while couples may prefer a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere.
Carnival ships also vary in terms of dining options, entertainment, and onboard activities. Some ships have multiple dining venues, while others have a more limited selection. Entertainment options can range from Broadway-style shows to comedy clubs and live music. Onboard activities can include everything from mini-golf to spa treatments and fitness classes.
It’s important to research each ship’s amenities and targeted demographics to ensure that it’s the right fit for your vacation preferences.
Best Carnival Ship for Families
When planning a family vacation on a Carnival ship, it’s important to consider which ship offers the most variety of activities and amenities for all ages. For families looking for a ship that caters to kids, there are plenty of options.
Here are some of the best Carnival ships for families with kid-friendly amenities and onboard activities for all ages:
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Carnival Panorama: With its Sky Zone trampoline park, waterpark, mini-golf, and sports court, the Carnival Panorama is perfect for families who want to keep their kids active and entertained.
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Carnival Glory: The Carnival Glory offers a wide range of activities for all ages, including a waterpark, mini-golf, and an outdoor movie screen. Families with young children will also appreciate the Dr. Seuss-themed activities and Seuss-a-palooza parade.
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Carnival Breeze: The Carnival Breeze is known for its thrilling water slides and ropes course, as well as its wide range of dining and entertainment options. Families with teenagers will also appreciate the Club O2 teen lounge and the video arcade.
No matter which ship you choose, Carnival offers plenty of options for families who want to have fun together and create lasting memories. With kid-friendly amenities and onboard activities for all ages, a Carnival cruise is the perfect choice for your next family vacation.
Best Carnival Ship for Larger Families on a Budget
I’ve found that for larger families looking to save some money, there are Carnival ships that offer great amenities without breaking the bank.
One of the best options is the Carnival Glory, which has plenty of budget-friendly activities and dining options for families. The ship offers a variety of cabin options for larger families, including suites and connecting rooms, so there’s something for everyone.
In terms of activities, the Carnival Glory has a water park, mini-golf course, and sports deck, all of which are free to use.
For dining options, there are several complimentary restaurants and casual dining spots, as well as specialty restaurants that require an additional fee.
Overall, the Carnival Glory is a great choice for larger families on a budget who still want to enjoy all the amenities of a cruise ship.
Best Carnival Ship for Couples Who Want to Relax
As a couple looking to unwind on a Carnival cruise, there are ships that cater to a more relaxed atmosphere and offer plenty of options for relaxation and rejuvenation.
One such ship is the Carnival Conquest, which provides a serene environment with its adult-only areas. The Serenity Adult-Only Retreat is a peaceful haven with hammocks, lounges, and whirlpools for couples seeking tranquility.
The Carnival Conquest also boasts of a luxurious Cloud 9 Spa that offers a wide range of spa amenities such as massages, facials, and body treatments. Couples can indulge in a couples massage or enjoy a relaxing time in the thermal suites with heated loungers and steam rooms.
With its focus on relaxation and rejuvenation, the Carnival Conquest is an ideal ship for couples who want to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Best Carnival Ship for Couples Who Want to Party
For couples who want to party on a Carnival cruise, there are several ships that offer a lively atmosphere and a range of entertainment options.
The Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Radiance are popular choices for those seeking a party atmosphere. These ships have a variety of nightlife options, including clubs, bars, and casinos. The Carnival Sunrise even has a Havana Bar with live music and dancing.
In addition to nightlife options, both ships offer a wide range of onboard entertainment. The Carnival Sunrise has a WaterWorks water park, mini-golf course, and a ropes course, while the Carnival Radiance has a sports square, outdoor movie theater, and a spa.
Both ships also have a variety of dining options, including Guy’s Burger Joint and the BlueIguana Cantina. Overall, these ships provide a fun and exciting atmosphere for couples who want to party on their Carnival cruise.
Best Carnival Ship for Wedding or Honeymoon Cruises
When planning a wedding or honeymoon cruise, couples may want to consider older Carnival ships which offer a more intimate and romantic atmosphere. The older ships, such as Carnival Elation, Carnival Paradise, and Carnival Sensation, have been updated and refurbished to provide modern amenities while still maintaining their original charm. These ships also offer more affordable prices compared to the newer and larger ships, making them a great option for couples on a budget.
For a truly romantic getaway, couples can take advantage of the amenities offered on board. Some ships have special honeymoon packages that include champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries upon arrival, couples massages, and private dinners on the ship’s balcony. Other amenities for honeymooners on Carnival ships include secluded adult-only areas like Serenity, where couples can relax and enjoy stunning ocean views, and the Havana pool exclusive for guests who have a Havana Cabana stateroom.
With careful planning, couples can make their wedding or honeymoon cruise on a Carnival ship a truly unforgettable experience.
Best Carnival Ship for a Party Atmosphere
Personally, I believe that the Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Radiance are the best options for those wanting to party on a Carnival cruise. Both ships offer a lively atmosphere with a variety of nightlife options, making them perfect for those seeking a fun-filled vacation.
The Carnival Sunrise has been recently renovated and features a variety of onboard entertainment, including a comedy club, piano bar, and nightclub. The ship’s Red Frog Pub is also a popular spot for drinks and socializing.
Meanwhile, the Carnival Radiance offers a more intimate party atmosphere with its smaller size and unique features like the Piano Bar 88 and the Alchemy Bar. Overall, these two ships are sure to provide guests with a memorable party experience on their Carnival cruise.
Carnival Panorama Details
As I delve into the details of the Carnival Panorama, I’m struck by the ship’s vibrant and diverse offerings. It’s like a colorful tapestry woven with activities and amenities for all ages and interests.
With a focus on family fun, the Panorama boasts a water park, mini-golf, a ropes course, and a Sky Zone trampoline park. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the Cloud 9 Spa offers a range of treatments and a thermal suite. Foodies will delight in the variety of dining options, including the popular Guy’s Burger Joint and the Bonsai Teppanyaki restaurant.
While the Panorama is a newer ship, it holds its own when compared to other Carnival vessels. Unlike the crowded and noisy Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Vista, the Panorama manages to offer a range of activities without feeling overwhelming. It also has a more laid-back vibe than the Mardi Gras, which can feel like a party ship.
However, it may not be the best option for couples seeking a romantic atmosphere, as it’s geared more towards families and groups. Overall, the Carnival Panorama’s pros outweigh the cons, making it a top choice for those seeking a fun and diverse cruise experience.
Mardi Gras Details
Now let’s turn our attention to the Mardi Gras, which is the largest ship in the Carnival fleet and boasts some of the best features and amenities. This ship is truly one-of-a-kind, with a roller coaster, the first-ever at-sea BOLT roller coaster, and a stunning array of 22 dining options, including Emeril’s Bistro. But that’s not all – the ship also has the best pools among all the Carnival ships, as well as the best collection of water slides.
When it comes to top attractions on Mardi Gras, the BOLT roller coaster is definitely a must-try experience. This adrenaline-pumping ride takes you around the ship’s top deck at speeds of up to 40 mph.
Another highlight is the Havana pool, which is exclusive to guests who have a Havana Cabana stateroom. This area has a lively Cuban vibe and is a great place to relax and soak up some sun.
Overall, Mardi Gras is a fantastic choice for those who want an action-packed cruise experience. Compared to other large Carnival ships, Mardi Gras definitely stands out as the most unique and exciting.
What is the cost of a Carnival cruise and are there any discounts available?
I found some great Carnival cruise package deals, and there are benefits to signing up for the Carnival cruise loyalty program. Discounts vary depending on the time of year and destination, so it’s best to check the website for current offers.
What is the dress code for Carnival cruises?
Carnival Cruise Dress Code: What to Wear, Dos and Don’ts, Style tips, Formal Nights, Packing List, Etiquette, Fashion Trends. Decoding the Different Dress Codes, from casual to elegant. Remember to pack appropriate shoes and avoid swimwear in public areas.
Are there any age restrictions for certain activities on board Carnival ships?
Yes, there are age restrictions for certain activities on board Carnival ships. Kid friendly activities include water parks, video arcades, and youth clubs, while adult only options include bars, casinos, and spas.
What is the policy on bringing pets on board Carnival cruises?
Unfortunately, Carnival Cruise Line does not allow pets on board, except for service animals. This policy is in place for the safety and comfort of all guests. There are also vaccination requirements for service animals.
Are there any special events or themed cruises offered by Carnival?
Yes, Carnival offers a variety of themed cruises and special events throughout the year. Some examples include holiday cruises, music-themed cruises, and even a Dr. Seuss-themed cruise for families. Check the Carnival website for more information.