Carnival Cruise Lines Scores High Marks on Affordability
Looking for a combination of fun and affordability in a cruise vacation? Carnival Cruise Lines may be perfect for you! Carnival cruise ships offer the best value at sea — as well as a ton of fun! Carnival ships sail to many popular destinations, such as the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, and The Bahamas.
When you sail with Carnival, you’ll depart from convenient ports like Long Beach, Port Canaveral, Jacksonville, and Miami. The newest ships in Carnival’s fleet are the Carnival Vista, Carnival Magic, and the Carnival Breeze.
Onboard, you can chill out in the pool or hot tub. Or if you have energy to burn, play games, dodge ball or compete in an obstacle course. On select ships, Splash down a waterslide, experience a SkyRide, catch an IMAX movie, and so much more! If you don’t want to break the bank but want a fun vacation, cruise with Carnival. Grab the kids or your best buds and get away today!
Recommended For:
First-time cruisers who want an active, high-energy, party atmosphere; young singles and couples; young-at-heart of any age; those who enjoy the flash and Las Vegas glitz or similar ambiance.
| Ship | Rating | Launched | Pax | Crew | Pools | Bars | Casino | Kids Programs | CDC Score | Minimum Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Carnival Breeze |
2012 | 3,690 | 1,386 | 3 | 11 |  |
|
97 | $359 | |
Carnival Conquest |
2002 | 2,980 | 1,150 | 4 | 12 | |
|
94 | $209 | |
Carnival Dream |
2009 | 3,646 | 1,367 | 4 | 11 | |
|
98 | $319 | |
Carnival Ecstasy |
1991 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 10 | |
|
97 | $239 | |
Carnival Elation |
1998 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 8 | |
|
93 | $249 | |
Carnival Fantasy |
1990 | 2,056 | 920 | 3 | 10 | |
|
89 | $259 | |
Carnival Fascination |
1994 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 8 | |
|
90 | $329 | |
Carnival Freedom |
2007 | 2,974 | 1,150 | 4 | 13 | |
|
95 | $369 | |
Carnival Glory |
2003 | 2,980 | 1,150 | 2 | 12 | |
|
93 | $339 | |
Carnival Horizon |
2018 | 3,936 | 1450 | 3 | 25 | |
|
96 | $429 | |
Carnival Imagination |
1995 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 10 | |
|
97 | $149 | |
Carnival Inspiration |
1996 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 10 | |
|
96 | $148 | |
Carnival Legend |
2002 | 2,124 | 930 | 4 | 10 | |
|
98 | $399 | |
Carnival Liberty |
2005 | 2,974 | 1,160 | 4 | 12 | |
|
95 | $219 | |
Carnival Magic |
2011 | 3,690 | 1,386 | 3 | 12 | |
|
96 | $319 | |
Carnival Miracle |
2001 | 2,124 | 930 | 4 | 12 | |
|
91 | $289 | |
Carnival Paradise |
1998 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 6 | |
|
97 | $279 | |
Carnival Pride |
2002 | 2,124 | 930 | 3 | 12 | |
|
97 | $489 | |
Carnival Sensation |
1993 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 9 | |
|
95 | $239 | |
Carnival Splendor |
2008 | 3,006 | 1,160 | 4 | 11 | |
|
93 | $433 | |
Carnival Sunshine |
1996/2013 | 3006 | 1,040 | 3 | 13 | |
|
91 | $299 | |
Carnival Valor |
2004 | 2,984 | 1,180 | 4 | 10 | |
|
93 | $269 | |
Carnival Victory |
2000 | 2,758 | 1,100 | 4 | 11 | |
|
98 | $204 | |
Carnival Vista |
2016 | 3,954 | 1,450 | 3 | 15 | |
|
92 | $499 |
Entertainment & Attractions
When the sun goes down, the fun continues. Carnival can show your group a great time, whether you want to mingle and network, enjoy a cocktail, attend a show, test Lady Luck in the casino or dance the night away. A Carnival ""Fun Ship"" is the perfect place for a perfect night out, any night of the week. A wide variety of singers, comedians, bands and musicians perform nightly out on deck or in one of the many clubs and lounges. Double over with laughter at a late-night, adults-only comedy show, show off your inner rock star with Karaoke, and your latest dance moves at one of Carnival nightclubs or at a party out on deck. The Main Show Lounge offers a variety of spectacular production shows.
In addition to your group's agenda and planned onboard events, there's so much to do and experience on a Carnival "Fun Ship".
Carnival offers a variety of activities and recreational pursuits, each and every day:
- Go for a work-out at Carnival state-of-the-art Fitness Center
- Take an Aerobics, Yoga, Tai-Chi or Pilates Class
- Get in your daily run or walk on Carnival ship-top jogging track
- Practice your putting skills at Carnival 9-hole miniature golf course
- Play a game of basketball, volleyball and try Carnival ropes course - available on select ships
- Jump in the pool for a refreshing swim or soak and relax in a whirlpool
- Join the Cruise Director and Social Staff for Fun and Games such as Trivia, Scavenger Hunt and "Survivor"
- Lose yourself in a good book in the library or out by the pool
- Enjoy live outdoor entertainment, games and activities poolside
- Catch a hit movie or watch a sports event at Carnival outdoor Seaside Theatre - available on select ships
View Less
Dining Options
For breakfast, lunch and dinner and throughout the day, Carnival ships offer a number of delicious dining options. Having all of your onboard meals included is an incredible value plus you won't have to worry about planning menus. You can eat as much as you want and any time of the day! Choose from an upscale black tie dining to a casual dining. Room Service is available 24 hours! Main dining room – these restaurant offers gracious service in an elegant atmosphere with a wide selection of menu choices for breakfast and dinner daily and lunch service during days at sea. The dining room menus also feature Spa Carnival Fare, offering health-conscious alternatives.
- Lido Restaurant: Buffet-style, casual dining restaurant serves a variety of hot and cold items for breakfast and lunch. The lunch buffets also feature an elaborate salad bar and specialty stations, such as pasta, carving, stir-fry, international cuisine and more. The Lido also features a grill and New York-style Deli.
- Seaview Bistro: Buffet-style, casual dining option for dinner offers an array of pastas, steaks, grilled chicken, specialty salads and desserts, along with a nightly Chef's Special.
- Specialty Dining Experiences: The Steakhouse offers an elegant, yet relaxed dining experience with a menu offering all of your steakhouse favorites. The Steakhouse is featured on select ships and there is a nominal, additional per-guest fee. The exclusive ""Chef's Table"" dinner is a unique culinary experience hosted by a master chef and includes a multi-course private dinner and galley tour for 12 guests for an additional per-guest fee.
View Less
Kids Activities
Carnival offers variety of entertainment spots for youth onboard - 3D movies, dance clubs, ice cream shops, Club O2 - teen hang out place, mini golf, sport activities and much more. From as young as age 2, kids can enjoy the Camp Carnival (available on each Carnival ship). It offers tons of activities designed for children in three different age groups: 2 to 5 years, 6 to 8 years, and 9 to 11 years. Carnival counselors, each with education or childcare experience, are on the clock making sure everyone in the small groups of kids are having fun. When it’s mealtime, kids get their own menus, with faves like mac & cheese, chicken nuggets, and more. And when the sun goes down, Carnival offers Camp Carnival Night Owls (fees apply) so kids get to stay up late having fun, while their parents also enjoy themselves well into the night.
Spa & Fitness
Treat yourself to a wellness therapy or a restorative treatment at Spa Carnival. When it comes to relaxation from the inside out, nothing beats a trip to the spa. From the minute you step inside, the soothing ambiance begins to work its magic. Renew yourself with premium beauty and wellness therapies, like hot stone massages, aromatherapy or full-body wraps. This is your time to be spoiled, indulged and beautified. Lay back, close your eyes, and feel the stress sail away as your body and mind experience total tranquility. (Oh yeah, and this feel-good stuff isn’t just for the ladies — there are plenty of treatments on the menu for men too.)
- Serenity Adult Retreat: It wouldn’t be a dream vacation without a little "me time," right? That’s what Carnival had in mind when they created Serenity. It’s an adult only area available to guests 21 and older and features everything necessary to create the perfect tranquil "getaway within your getaway." Take advantage of complete bar service provided by attentive waiters. Chill in the sun, under one of the colorful, oversized umbrellas or in the separate shaded area. Enjoy a dip in one of the whirlpools looking out over the great blue sea. All while listening to mellow music to keep the vibe sweet and serene. (Serenity configurations vary by ship.)
- Cloud 9 Spa: This two-deck spa features both exclusive spa staterooms and an extensive range of top-quality facilities and treatments in an elegant, tranquil setting. You will love the massages, and enjoy being soothed with emollients, renewed with defoliants, and even relaxed with hot stones or aromatherapy. And yes... men love being pampered too.
View Less
Carnival Cruise Lines Scores High Marks on Affordability
Looking for a combination of fun and affordability in a cruise vacation? Carnival Cruise Lines may be perfect for you! Carnival cruise ships offer the best value at sea — as well as a ton of fun! Carnival ships sail to many popular destinations, such as the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, and The Bahamas.
When you sail with Carnival, you’ll depart from convenient ports like Long Beach, Port Canaveral, Jacksonville, and Miami. The newest ships in Carnival’s fleet are the Carnival Vista, Carnival Magic, and the Carnival Breeze.
Onboard, you can chill out in the pool or hot tub. Or if you have energy to burn, play games, dodge ball or compete in an obstacle course. On select ships, Splash down a waterslide, experience a SkyRide, catch an IMAX movie, and so much more! If you don’t want to break the bank but want a fun vacation, cruise with Carnival. Grab the kids or your best buds and get away today!
| Ship | Rating | Launched | Pax | Crew | Pools | Bars | Casino | Kids Programs | CDC Score | Minimum Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Carnival Breeze |
2012 | 3,690 | 1,386 | 3 | 11 | |
|
97 | $359 | |
Carnival Conquest |
2002 | 2,980 | 1,150 | 4 | 12 | |
|
94 | $209 | |
Carnival Dream |
2009 | 3,646 | 1,367 | 4 | 11 | |
|
98 | $319 | |
Carnival Ecstasy |
1991 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 10 | |
|
97 | $239 | |
Carnival Elation |
1998 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 8 | |
|
93 | $249 | |
Carnival Fantasy |
1990 | 2,056 | 920 | 3 | 10 | |
|
89 | $259 | |
Carnival Fascination |
1994 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 8 | |
|
90 | $329 | |
Carnival Freedom |
2007 | 2,974 | 1,150 | 4 | 13 | |
|
95 | $369 | |
Carnival Glory |
2003 | 2,980 | 1,150 | 2 | 12 | |
|
93 | $339 | |
Carnival Horizon |
2018 | 3,936 | 1450 | 3 | 25 | |
|
96 | $429 | |
Carnival Imagination |
1995 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 10 | |
|
97 | $149 | |
Carnival Inspiration |
1996 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 10 | |
|
96 | $148 | |
Carnival Legend |
2002 | 2,124 | 930 | 4 | 10 | |
|
98 | $399 | |
Carnival Liberty |
2005 | 2,974 | 1,160 | 4 | 12 | |
|
95 | $219 | |
Carnival Magic |
2011 | 3,690 | 1,386 | 3 | 12 | |
|
96 | $319 | |
Carnival Miracle |
2001 | 2,124 | 930 | 4 | 12 | |
|
91 | $289 | |
Carnival Paradise |
1998 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 6 | |
|
97 | $279 | |
Carnival Pride |
2002 | 2,124 | 930 | 3 | 12 | |
|
97 | $489 | |
Carnival Sensation |
1993 | 2,052 | 920 | 3 | 9 | |
|
95 | $239 | |
Carnival Splendor |
2008 | 3,006 | 1,160 | 4 | 11 | |
|
93 | $433 | |
Carnival Sunshine |
1996/2013 | 3006 | 1,040 | 3 | 13 | |
|
91 | $299 | |
Carnival Valor |
2004 | 2,984 | 1,180 | 4 | 10 | |
|
93 | $269 | |
Carnival Victory |
2000 | 2,758 | 1,100 | 4 | 11 | |
|
98 | $204 | |
Carnival Vista |
2016 | 3,954 | 1,450 | 3 | 15 | |
|
92 | $499 |
Entertainment & Attractions
When the sun goes down, the fun continues. Carnival can show your group a great time, whether you want to mingle and network, enjoy a cocktail, attend a show, test Lady Luck in the casino or dance the night away. A Carnival ""Fun Ship"" is the perfect place for a perfect night out, any night of the week. A wide variety of singers, comedians, bands and musicians perform nightly out on deck or in one of the many clubs and lounges. Double over with laughter at a late-night, adults-only comedy show, show off your inner rock star with Karaoke, and your latest dance moves at one of Carnival nightclubs or at a party out on deck. The Main Show Lounge offers a variety of spectacular production shows.
In addition to your group's agenda and planned onboard events, there's so much to do and experience on a Carnival "Fun Ship".
Carnival offers a variety of activities and recreational pursuits, each and every day:
- Go for a work-out at Carnival state-of-the-art Fitness Center
- Take an Aerobics, Yoga, Tai-Chi or Pilates Class
- Get in your daily run or walk on Carnival ship-top jogging track
- Practice your putting skills at Carnival 9-hole miniature golf course
- Play a game of basketball, volleyball and try Carnival ropes course - available on select ships
- Jump in the pool for a refreshing swim or soak and relax in a whirlpool
- Join the Cruise Director and Social Staff for Fun and Games such as Trivia, Scavenger Hunt and "Survivor"
- Lose yourself in a good book in the library or out by the pool
- Enjoy live outdoor entertainment, games and activities poolside
- Catch a hit movie or watch a sports event at Carnival outdoor Seaside Theatre - available on select ships
View Less
Dining Options
For breakfast, lunch and dinner and throughout the day, Carnival ships offer a number of delicious dining options. Having all of your onboard meals included is an incredible value plus you won't have to worry about planning menus. You can eat as much as you want and any time of the day! Choose from an upscale black tie dining to a casual dining. Room Service is available 24 hours! Main dining room – these restaurant offers gracious service in an elegant atmosphere with a wide selection of menu choices for breakfast and dinner daily and lunch service during days at sea. The dining room menus also feature Spa Carnival Fare, offering health-conscious alternatives.
- Lido Restaurant: Buffet-style, casual dining restaurant serves a variety of hot and cold items for breakfast and lunch. The lunch buffets also feature an elaborate salad bar and specialty stations, such as pasta, carving, stir-fry, international cuisine and more. The Lido also features a grill and New York-style Deli.
- Seaview Bistro: Buffet-style, casual dining option for dinner offers an array of pastas, steaks, grilled chicken, specialty salads and desserts, along with a nightly Chef's Special.
- Specialty Dining Experiences: The Steakhouse offers an elegant, yet relaxed dining experience with a menu offering all of your steakhouse favorites. The Steakhouse is featured on select ships and there is a nominal, additional per-guest fee. The exclusive ""Chef's Table"" dinner is a unique culinary experience hosted by a master chef and includes a multi-course private dinner and galley tour for 12 guests for an additional per-guest fee.
View Less
Kids Activities
Carnival offers variety of entertainment spots for youth onboard - 3D movies, dance clubs, ice cream shops, Club O2 - teen hang out place, mini golf, sport activities and much more. From as young as age 2, kids can enjoy the Camp Carnival (available on each Carnival ship). It offers tons of activities designed for children in three different age groups: 2 to 5 years, 6 to 8 years, and 9 to 11 years. Carnival counselors, each with education or childcare experience, are on the clock making sure everyone in the small groups of kids are having fun. When it’s mealtime, kids get their own menus, with faves like mac & cheese, chicken nuggets, and more. And when the sun goes down, Carnival offers Camp Carnival Night Owls (fees apply) so kids get to stay up late having fun, while their parents also enjoy themselves well into the night.
Spa & Fitness
Treat yourself to a wellness therapy or a restorative treatment at Spa Carnival. When it comes to relaxation from the inside out, nothing beats a trip to the spa. From the minute you step inside, the soothing ambiance begins to work its magic. Renew yourself with premium beauty and wellness therapies, like hot stone massages, aromatherapy or full-body wraps. This is your time to be spoiled, indulged and beautified. Lay back, close your eyes, and feel the stress sail away as your body and mind experience total tranquility. (Oh yeah, and this feel-good stuff isn’t just for the ladies — there are plenty of treatments on the menu for men too.)
- Serenity Adult Retreat: It wouldn’t be a dream vacation without a little "me time," right? That’s what Carnival had in mind when they created Serenity. It’s an adult only area available to guests 21 and older and features everything necessary to create the perfect tranquil "getaway within your getaway." Take advantage of complete bar service provided by attentive waiters. Chill in the sun, under one of the colorful, oversized umbrellas or in the separate shaded area. Enjoy a dip in one of the whirlpools looking out over the great blue sea. All while listening to mellow music to keep the vibe sweet and serene. (Serenity configurations vary by ship.)
- Cloud 9 Spa: This two-deck spa features both exclusive spa staterooms and an extensive range of top-quality facilities and treatments in an elegant, tranquil setting. You will love the massages, and enjoy being soothed with emollients, renewed with defoliants, and even relaxed with hot stones or aromatherapy. And yes... men love being pampered too.
View Less
