Carnival Cruise Lines
4.3
6.0
Overall Score
Author: Kalicia Bateman
LAST UPDATED: January 30th, 2022
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
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
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Elsie Texas City, TX
I have been on 10 Carnival Cruises and have enjoyed them all. The last cruise was alittle disappointing. They have changed some of the small but important things. There was not an ice bucket or ice in our room. We did not get the chocolates in our room, and any extra condiments in the restrooms like we had in the past. When I asked about them, they said they were stopping that as a means to become more Americanish so that people would like that better. I had to ask for a spoon at the dinners so I could stir the tea. They said they were setting the tables now the way the Americans are use to. We use spoons in Texas to stir our tea!! I made a reservation for my 11th cruise but it will be on Royal Caribbean this time.
10 years ago
Kenneth May Atlanta, GA
ive been on a few cruises with carnival and 1 with rci and we are hooked on carnival the best part of going on rci is we had most our kids and 2 of our grand kids with us but now for a real cruise line keep doing what your doing CCL you have us for life great food very well thought out entertainment each night halarious comidy shows if you dont have fun with CCL your most likely a stick in the mud and noting is going to be right for you anyway! Anyway I have a blast each cruise and am booked for another cruise in april now for the only down side we alwas liked to book a balcony for our cruises so we could enjoy the nights under the stars with a glass of wine and a smoke befor bed this cruise i have booked now will be a inside cabin since you are no longer allowed to smoke on the balconys just a thought yes we shouldnt subject others with our smoking any more than nessary but you would think a company that would do so much work to make shure your entertained would have thought out this rule better like give one side of the ships balconys to the none smoker and let us smoke on the other side of the ship im shure everyone would agree its a far better solution carnival already tryed making a ship a smoke free ship and couldnt keep it booked out and ended up loosing a lot of money on that ship that year so being a old country boy that would tell me that there are a lot of people that still smoke and wouldnt even try a ship that is smoke free
10 years ago
Rita Robinson Alsip, IL
My Cruise was October 4, 2015. Boarded Carnival Liberty in Puerto Rico. Everything was just the way I hoped it to be. The employees who were on our cruise were helpful kind and funny. I'm so looking forward to another Cruise. My sister and I sailed together. I was impressed by every aspect of the ship. The food was very good. Especially in the Diamond Steakhouse. I had Shrimp Brule'e with Lobster sauce that was to die for. It was compliments of the Chef and the Rosemary Focachia and the Biroche Rolls were heavenly. The tours we went on Movie night it was all wonderful I would recommend Carnival Liberty to anyone going on their first Cruise.
10 years ago
Elizabeth Tofting Modesto, CA
I have been on 3 Carnival Cruises.. My first cruise was the 3 day to Ensenada on the Carnival Inspiration. The crew was wonderful and very helpful for a 1st time cruiser. The service was superb. They had me hooked on cruising!!! My 2nd cruise was on Carnival Glory 7day Western Caribbean cruise. My daughter and I had so much fun from beginning to end. Again the crew was wonderful and always ready to assist. The ports were AWESOME! The food was EXCELLENT!!! Definitely would cruise with them again... My most recent cruise on the Carnival Miracle 7 day Mexican Riveria was a family trip with 13 of us.. Although I had a great time, the service compared to the other 2 cruises let me down a little bit (not enough to not cruise again). On several occasion even after speaking with the Maître di, we had issues being able to have our large group sit closely together at dinner. This included his suggestion that we make sure to get to dinner early. We were the 2nd group in line and actually ended sitting further apart than when we arrived later. Another down fall was that one of the bartenders on the lido deck appeared to not enjoy her job and if you ordered from her, the attitude she presented could be a spirit dropper. The last issue I had was the last day and all of a sudden our room steward (who had been wonderful) was ready to move on to the next group of people and even informed me of this when I didn't rush to leave my room so he could start preparing for the next day. Now if you love Martinis you have to go the Alchemy Bar and hope that Jason is still there, HE WAS AWESOME ALL THE TIME!!! (and I'm not even a martini drinker..lol. Carnival is kid friendly and guarantee they will want to go on another cruise before you get off your current one. Whatever you do go expect to have a FANTASTIC time and you will.
10 years ago
Joe Mello New Bedford, MA
We have been on nine Carnival Cruise ships through out the years and we don't have a bad word to say about Carnival Cruise Line. We have been on the Facination, Imagination, Inspiration, Destiny, Triumph, Valor, Legend, Miracle, and the Freedom !! All were good. All were a lot of fun and met some wonderful crew members. Never had a problem with food or anything. Crew were always there to help and be as gracious and helpful as they could be. We done the Royal Enchantment of the Seas, Explore, Adventure of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas .Those were okay..rooms were small. Even the balconies I think are small. Also done the Celebrity Summit, nice ship, but nothing but old timers on there ship was so quite by ten o'clock. The next best class of ships was Princess Caribbean that was a very nice ship. The food was incredible, they even had the lobster claws from up here in New England and they had Alaskan crab legs too. !! Haven't been on a cruise in at least three years but if we do go again it will be Carnival Cruise line for sure !!!
11 years ago
Jewels of da sea Port Orange, FL
I've been crulsing with Carnival since 1989 & always have a great time. I feel more at home when cruising with Carnival. The service is excellent & the fun factor is over the top. Here are the things I would like to see improved: make it all inclusive do not keep adding additional charges, please consider a broadway musical to your show list, pools need to be bigger they're over crowded & too many kids in the hot tubs. Your chair rules are not being enforced and timed by your employees as well as u think they are. Please don't over serve at the bars to the point where a passenger is beyond tipsy, too many kids running around , especially at night. Signs in all cabin hallways that say shhhh! Quiet zone (day and night).
I must say that I have enjoyed all my cruises.
11 years ago
Carol Eisen Saint Louis, MO
Carnival Liberty was my first cruise experience. Traveled last week of September so really good value to the Southern Caribbean. Reserved a balcony state room and would do that again. Loved being a part ot the coming into port and leaving. We spent a lot of time on the balcony with family in the next cabin. Opened the partitian so had double the space. The crew was outstanding. Extreamly helpful in trying to locate my bag that was sent to the wrong airport by the airline. The Steward followed through on every request regardless of how small. The wait staff exceptional in service and making you feel like family. Every one took the time to learn our names. The waiter at the comedy club even remembered what we had been drinking and didn't ever have to give him our information again once he took it for billing. All were warm and welcoming trying without effort to make your stay memorable and comfortable. The food was more than plentiful and delicious. Entertainment was broad based from Casino gambleing to Bingo. Trivia games to game show game such as the Newlywed Game (cruise style). There was always something to do, or you could just relax in your cabin. At each port Carnival had partnered with different excursions with lots of variety and age level. The only thing I would have liked to see was a little less Trivia and more Game show entertainment. The Trivia got a little boaring since it was offered so many times a day. I would go again in a heart beat and the minus doesn't outway what I came away with at the end of the experience.
11 years ago
R Michael Entinger Panama City, FL
4th Cruise, ALL with Carnival. Never had a disappointing cruise experience yet... Most recent was on the Sunshine (AKA Destiny). The Destiny was re-fitted and re-modeled, so they gave it a new name, Sunshine. Other than 6 elevators never working the entire trip, the overall maintenance quality of the ship was great. The layout is kinda funky at times. I say this because you have to travel up and over, then back down to get to one of the dining rooms. Crew was AWESOME! Our director, "C-Luv" was the most outgoing director we have experienced to date! 80's night was incredible! The new, 2.0 shows in the main ballroom were beyond my best expectations! Best shows on ANY ship I have ever been on, and many that I attended in Las Vegas and New York! Food was very good, but a few of the "quickie meals" on lido deck were not very speedy or tasty. They had a habit of taking 9 orders at once, then forgetting 3 of them.. The buffet areas were brightly lit and very nice to eat in. Rooms were WELL kept and had plenty of room. The kids being brought on board need to be BETTER watched. too many times, there were 8-10 in the hot tubs with glass drinks for 30+ min at a time. If you dare say something to them, a parent will be in your face yelling at you. Carnival crew members did not help in this area at all, probably for fear of upsetting a parent? The serenity are was the ONLY retreat from obnoxious and loud children running amok. AND THERE WERE ALOT OF THEM! Overall, I rate this cruise 8 of 10. If the kids were better managed (not always carnivals fault), elevators worked, and the comedy clubs were not maxed out 2 hours prior to each showing, I could have gone 10 of 10....Off shore excursions were plentiful and worth the $$$ THis was a VERY good cruise!!!
11 years ago
Mary Hialeah, FL
Carnival Breeze is a beautiful ship, a lot to eat Indian, Italian, burgers, burritos..etc. The aqua park with water slides features lots of things to do. an out side gym, huge adults only serenity area that covers two decks. It's a family cruise great for the hole family & friends. It can be an amazing voyage. The staff was extremely very nice and helpful. We had a balcony stateroom in the 8th floor, which it was beautiful and big for the three of us. We had a wonderful time from start to finish. Loved Jamaica and Conzumel. Grand Cayman I though it was very expensive but the food at the Seafood restaurant was very good. Definitely more Latin clubs late at night would have been a plus.
11 years ago
Chelly Lloyd Wilkes Barre, PA
I will always sail with Carnival Cruise lines. We are set to sail on our forth cruise with them. The pros are always clean and neat spaces. Someone is always cleaning something on that ship and I never got sick even with a crappy immune system. Service is top notch, something happens you don't like they fix it immediately no questions asked. They are friendly and always have a smile. Your room steward remembers your name and gets to know you. Cons the bigger the ship the longer the lines, lunch buffets are a really big pain, and at dinner you wait a while for your dinner. Their seaside bbq was completely unattainable due to a long line. Also bigger boats mean more kids. If your a couple go with the smaller boats its more intimate and less crowed. Other than that it's a must go!!!!
11 years ago
Mike Knowles Tulsa, OK
My wife and I have been on eight cruises, seven of which were on Carnival. And will be on another before the end of the year.
Our second cruise was on another cruise line, and we found that the "fun" or "party" atmosphere was just not there. So we've been back to Carnival ever since.
The experience varies from ship to ship. It seems a lot of the culture on each ship is set by the Cruise Director, or at least at high levels in the staff. One of our more recent cruises was a bit of a letdown, or I would have given Carnival a 10. All of the givens were there - level of service, helpfulness of the staff, quality of food, etc. But the "fun meter" only rated in the high 60 to low 70 percentile (a "C minus" grade, if that makes more sense).
As I have experienced with most other businesses, the "corporate culture" is established at the top and works it's way down. And each ship crew tends to have it's own culture.
I didn't feel my vacation dollars were wasted on that particular cruise - it was still a great experience. But from past experience, it had potential to be much better.
Unless that one experience becomes the norm instead of the exception, I will continue to enjoy vacations with Carnival.
11 years ago
Brian Hinz Perry, GA
My Wife & I just returned from a cruise on the Victory. very nice ship, wish they would have added more outdoor loungeing area than bars but thats ok. a couple other things that Carnival might want to look at are a) carpeting in the dinning rooms and in our room was frayed & worn, the tv's from the 70's need to be upgraded, the channel that shows ships position sunrise sunset etc was not working or just not there, as a musician & a disc jockey i really hate to say it but the shows were not good at all moved to slow dancing was out of sinc with music and to much of it,, other ships have had GREAT shows like the one on the sunshine was FANTASTIC sorry this one was bad. our Room stewert Inna was GREAT nice very cute her whole crew was great, for some reason the menu wasn't that great in the dining rooms food was very good but the selection? PLEASE don't get me wrong we had a GREAT time,, loved the ship the ports just sometimes this aren't in sync , we would sail on her again we love Carnival and have talked a few other couples about going in fact we are on another in 4 weeks and have already booked the new Vista
11 years ago
Eli P. Dawsonville, GA
We have been on 8 Carnival cruises the past 5 years, and enjoyed every one. We are an early retired couple who can cruise on any line, but Carnival always gives the best value. The food, service and ships are fine and casual, which is what we like. We usually ate most meals the past few cruises on the Lido Deck. Our favorite ship is the Sunshine. Been on it twice. Just the right size and has several theme food venues such as Guy's Burgers, JiJi's, Capitano. We recently sailed on the Legend to Alaska, our second time on that ship. The Legend is our favorite of the smaller ships. Before cruising, we compare different cruise lines and always feel is the best bang for the buck.
11 years ago
Rosalinda Astorga Allen, TX
My experience with Carnival was very positive, I have only one complain! My cruise wasn't long enough! lol I schedule a 5 day cruise and never again! I need the 7 days! everything was very nice at the ship but the tour we took to Cozumel wasn't what I expected, very unorganized, we were not able to see the shows that they offered, very very boring, no music, and the restaurant wasn't nothing to be impressed very expensive for what we paid. In the other hand, we took another tour to Progreso, Mx. and that was a huge difference! the resort was beautiful, good service, good atmosphere and very pleasant. Again, Carnival Ship was very nice and clean.
11 years ago
John Rafferty Topeka, KS
We have sailed on Carnival 3 times. Two out of three were wonderful.Have not had any trouble with party people as so many thing of there being on their ships.Should say we were in our 60`s when we cruised with them. Found the food to be worth the trip. Nothing fancy. Just good food. Loved the "Did ya" menu on Freedom. Each night there something unusual on it. Gator, frogs legs, escargot etc.Most were tasty. It was fun trying them.
Met some super people we hope to cruise with again.
Service was good. No complaints.
Rooms were some of the biggest we have seen. Comfortable bedding. Had good rest.
Will cruise with them again.
11 years ago
Susan Orange Park, FL
I have been on 8 Carnival Cruises. The only 2 ships I did not enjoy were the Fascination (run down, dirty and not so nice staff), the other one was the Imagination. This ship ruined our vacation - rude staff, room had major issues with filtration and made us sick and they did nothing - not move us, anything - oh wait yes, they gave us 10% off our next cruise. WOW!!!! Being a Gold Carnival member, I would have expected more. The other ships were fine. I love cruising and checking out exciting new destinations. I have gotten spoiled on the ships with the Steakhouse though, now I don't want to eat in the main dining room. The Comedy shows are great entertainment. I also enjoy the ships with the movies on deck...you can chill out and relax. Carnival is an affordable cruise line.
11 years ago
David Coalson Navarre, FL
We have been cruising with Carnival for 5 cruises. We have had nothing but wonderful vacations. Even when we had to turn around due to an injured crew member and missed a port, we were refunded for the port, we had to turn back to San Juan because a passenger was sick and needed more attention then they could get on the ship, we were credited with an onboard credit for the delay. When our cruise was cancelled and we had to rebook they did everything they could to find us a cruise to vacation on, not to mention the discount and extra on board credits.
The food is wonderful, the staff is wonderful, the whole damn experience is awesome. I tell everyone who wonders what to do for their vacation to go on a carnival cruise.
In closing I LOVE CARNIVAL and I can not wait for my next one.
11 years ago
Esperanza Guzman Sunnyside, NY
I have traveled by several companies and one which I have extremely enjoyed chose is Carnival, the staff is extremely friendly cooperative and professional to exception of one or two incidents my stay has always been pleasant, the food is not the best but you can choose, cleanliness is very good and Supreme attention, also can't stop mencional my cruise manager Taj Friar from Miami is the person most professional I have ever met We express only my group and I what we want and we always get the best stay accommodation and price, I sincerely recommend Carnival, will feel at home without much Protocol but with elegance
11 years ago Edited September 14, 2021
Tori Rotschafer Powder Springs, GA
We have traveled Carnival lines yearly, taking family and friends and have always enjoyed the cruise and the staff on board. They by far have the most knowledgeable and friendliest staff of the three cruise lines that we have traveled in the past.
Have an issue the will go over board to solve the problem for you. If you are looking for adventure you can find it on their shore excursions and aboard ship. If you are looking for peace and quite you can also find that on board the ship.
If you are looking to take your first cruise or looking to change cruise lines I would strongly recommend Carnival a try, you will fall in love with them.
11 years ago
Brittney Mac Gregor Louisville, KY
I had a great experience with Carnival. The staff was above and beyond, the food selections were great, there were always things to do, very family friendly, and our particular cruise was not overcrowded like some. The only thing that would have given it 5 stars is if they would have accepted kids younger than 3 in the child care area. This would have given me and my husband alone time. Instead we had our 1 year old with us the entire time.
5 years ago
Darrin Pelham Rincon, GA
I will say that I was not a fan of the thought of a cruise but I did end up enjoying myself. There really is something for everyone on a cruise. The food is amazing with meals from all over the world cooked by chefs from all over the world. Yo can gamble if you want, hand out on deck if you want or go to the endless shows that they provide. The excursions have something for everyone as well, you can do anything from horse back riding to snorkeling to shopping. The opportunities are endless on a cruise.
5 years ago
Mason Allen Pleasant Grove, UT
The cruise I went on with Carnival was a blast. The food, entertainment, and deck areas were surprisingly good. The back pool and hot tub was closed almost every day because the same kid would throw up in there and the crew took their sweet time to clean it so the front pool got super crowded. That was really annoying. We got stranded outside of port due to fog and the crew did a great job of making sure we were all fed and comfortable.
5 years ago
margo Marietta, GA
I have been on over 20 Carnival cruises and I am close to the big 70 in age. My husband and I have enjoyed each and every cruise, and love all the attention we get aboard ship. The employees are amazing, food delicious, and entertainment beyond compare. If you travel during winter months, you avoid all the small children and teenagers. We look forward to the two cruises with Carnival we have booked for 2016.
10 years ago
Scott & Daisy Lindblad Suffolk, VA
my wife and i celebrated our 40th anniversary with a 5 day Bahama cruise on Carnival Cruises out of Norfolk Va. and had the best vacation in our 40 years of marriage. This was our first cruise and enjoyed it so much that we have put a deposit down for next Oct. to take an 8 day cruise again on Carnival Sunshine out of Norfolk Va. we would recommend a cruise to anyone who is looking for a fun time.
10 years ago
Lyndel Warren Ransom Canyon, TX
PROS- We enjoy cruising with Carnival. So far our rooms have been clean & well maintained. Plenty to do aboard, & most ports-of-call excursions are enjoyable. Ships are beautifully decorated with bright 'party' colors. A big plus is the entire very friendly, helpful, & effecient crews.
CONS- We feel the quality of the food in the buffets need to be improved. Kinda like eating at Golden Corral. Not bad, but not what we think a cruise should offer. However, food in the formal dining rooms is great, as is the whole dining experience.
We can't wait for our next cruise.
10 years ago
james Hunter Lake Worth, FL
Just returned from 8 day eastern Caribbean on the Conquest..Fantastic cruise Great ports of call, The food and service was great. Special thanks to the spa I received the acupuncture treatments for my hands and got great relief. I am a professional drummer so for me this was key to my relaxation. One point the bed was horrible the mattress seemed to be old and lumpy it killed our backs we both needed massages when we got home it was terrible. But the rest of the cruise was great. We cruise often and this was one of the best we have been on. I'll return if they change out the mattresses.
10 years ago
KAYE MCINTOSH Bronx, NY
I have sailed twice with Carnival and I have to say I was hooked from the first time. I love Carnival so much that I wanted to go on another cruise line and I cant because 1: I feel like I am cheating on Carnival 2: I would hate my self if I didn't have as much fun and 3: I cant afford to lose points that would put be closer to being a diamond member which is now my hearts desire. Carnival you rock the food, service, entertainment and just about everything cant wait for my next cruise. Is it November 2016 yet?.
10 years ago
Joseph Guinn San Antonio, TX
Carnival is great for what it is: low cost and fun. I have been on Royal Caribbean and Carnival and while Royal has gorgeous ships I still have a love for Carnival.
The staff is always friendly and polite, the food is always great and I leave feeling my money was well-spent.
I look forward to more cruises!
Cruise History:
Carnival Triumph (5 Nights)
Carnival Magic (7 Nights)
Carnival Magic (7 Nights)
Carnival Triumph (5 Nights)
Royal Caribbean Navigator of the Seas (7 Nights)
Carnival Freedom (7 Nights)
10 years ago
Sandra Curtis Hines, IL
The only thing I dislike about carnival is when they changed the rules on how to reach your next level. I was told that I was grandfathered into the old clause in which 10 cruises gave you platinum level. If I was grandfathered into the old clause then 10 cruises is 10 cruises. However they put a date on when you had to have the 10 cruises done. that is NOT how you grandfather someone in. Otherwise I LOVE Carnival. I will never travel on any other cruise line.
10 years ago
Neal Robins Fort Lauderdale, FL
I have been on many Carnival Cruises and yes, it can be noisy. However, if you plan it right when the kids are in school your can have a very enjoyable trip. The food is very good, the staff is very attentive and if you have a problem, most times, it is corrected immediately. I hope to go on many more cruises with them. I have been on other lines and however I find Carnival for the price cannot be beat.
11 years ago
Debbie Gosport, IN
We have went on several cruises and only 1 time was our experience not awesome. That ship was taken out for a upgrade the very next year. With the negative experience we went on our next cruise with another line but after that cruise we went right back to Carnival. We always travel with another couple and they had the same feelings as my husband and I
11 years ago
Liane Neathery Baytown, TX
We have only been on 3 cruises and have enjoyed each of them. We will continue to cruise with Carnival. There are plenty of things to do and the food is fabulous. So many choices it just depends on what you're hungry for. The entertainment is amazing as well. Each and every person that we have had contact with including planning, sailing or whatever our need was has been a pleasant experience. We just returned on September 6th and already looking for where to go next.
11 years ago
Glenda Thompson Dallas, TX
I typed out a long review, then I lost it when it made me re-log into FB even though I was already logged in. Not rewriting it. We had a great time on Carnival Conquest in Feb 2010 and going on Freedom in Feb 2016. Dining room food & staff GREAT. Lido buffet, is a buffet. Pizza good. Very clean ship. Behind to Fun Tour highly recommended. Bingo a waste of time and $. Enjoyed the few shows we managed to see. Never met or saw a cruise director.
11 years ago
Barney Fergus Elizabethtown, NC
Carnival really needs to look at the help for special needs folks. My wife being in a wheelchair, it was impossible for me to push her up the steep boarding ramp in order to board the Conquest in Feb. Several young men (passengers) helped us. Disembarking after the cruise, we ran into problems getting Carnival staff members to assist us. The cruise itself was great though.
11 years ago
Susan George Brown Burleson, TX
We just returned from a Cruise on the Freedom to Key West and the Bahamas. The ship was awesome, the food was great and the passengers were well behaved. I liked the smaller size of the ship. We enjoyed the steakhouse and most of the shows were very entertaining. Although the ports were not our favorites, they were still good and we had fun. This was my 9th Carnival Cruise. I highly recommend Carnival!
11 years ago
Alinda Green Saint Albans, WV
My family and I have been on 2 Carnival
Cruises and would go again. The first was a 3 day for a family reunion leaving from \Jacksonville,fl.The cruise served the purpose for food, entertainment and was affordable. The next one left from Miami and it was for 5 days. Food was great, entertainment was okay but all in all for the money we enjoyed it. Would recommend it.
11 years ago
Rick Fort Smith, AR
Carnival is MY cruise line. I have been on one Royal Caribbean and 10 on Carnival. I will cruise again in the Fall on Carnival and become a Platinum level cruise. Though I am just a year from 70, I like a vacation with plenty of action, adventure, music, dancing and drinking. I do not want to travel on the Nursing Home of the Seas. To each his own, but for me, it is Carnival's brand of FUN!
11 years ago
Buddy N Barbara Whitecotton Luray, VA
We have been on Carnival, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean and Viking and always go back to Carnival. Been sailing with Carnival since 1982 on the Festivale. This is truly a fun ship, not necessarily for alcohol because we are not drinkers but because of the people. Where can you get the most for your dollars and still enjoy a wonderful cruise. A cruise is what you make it. BTW, we are Platinum with Carnival and will continue to sail with her even though we are in our 70's. LOVE CARNIVAL!!!!!!!
11 years ago
Steven Cloud Greenwood, IN
My wife and I took our first cruise on the Dream this past February. Overall experience was good. Crew was friendly, and constantly cleaning! I'd always heard that the food on cruises was amazing, couldn't call it amazing, not bad but not amazing! Our room was comfortable but we were a deck below the spa and we would hear something rolling back and forth most of the night. There was quite a bit to do on board, they had some good shows, comics and the movies on deck by the pool were neat! As a whole it was a good experience but not quit what I expected.
11 years ago
Patti George Paso Robles, CA
We had previously cruised Princess and was very disappointed in the rude staff, the bad food and the lack of ability to handle billing and excursions. So, we tried Carnival, even tho' we had heard it was a party boat and were pleasantly surprised at what a great cruise they have! The staff can't do enough for you, the food was great, the boat was spotless and I've never had a problem with the billing or such. Carnival, we're here to stay!
11 years ago
Robbie Woodstock, GA
I picked 9 as I love Carnival Cruises. I would just like to see some longer cruises. For example, from Chile around the south of South America to Rio de Janeiro. That would be awesome. My favorite was the trip my daughter and I took from Florida to Aruba, Columbia, Curacao, St Marteen/Martin, St Thomas. It was a blast, and was 12 nights. Need more of these.
11 years ago
Kathy Floyd Chatsworth, GA
I have cruised with Carnival 4 times and have enjoyed them all. I will go back as soon as I can. I cannot wait to travel again. My best experience was with the Half Moon Cay day. Carnival owns this island. It was absolutely beautiful. I think Carnival should just go to Half Moon Cay as the destination. Stay on ship at night and the island during the day. Awesome.
11 years ago
Clarence Mouton Broussard, LA
My wife and I have been on 8 cruises with Carnival and 1 with Disney. In my opinion, Carnival, by far, has the most fun and entertainment for grown-ups and a great deal for kids of all ages as well. Disney caters mainly to kids who love the Disney characters. The layout of Carnival ships is more appealing to us. The room on the Disney cruise was much larger, but, who stays in their room if they are looking for fun and entertainment.......We surely don't. To us, Carnival is the best.
11 years ago
Mlawson Kernersville, NC
My husband and I celebrated our 44th anniversary on the Carnival Sunshine this year and this was our first cruise. We did NOT know exactly what to expect but we had a wonderful time. I think *EVERYONE* should take at least ONE cruise in their lifetime. We stopped at Nassau, St. Thomas, San Juan and Grand Turk. We are planning to travel more and plan other cruises in the future.
11 years ago
Stan Shyer Windermere, FL
It was outstanding except for the fact that as hard as I tried to hide our whiskey, you found it and confiscated it. What a bummer that was. Seriously though, I REALLY was upset at that and as a result, I will NEVER CRUISE ON CARNIVAL AGAIN. As a matter of fact, we HAVE cruised recently on another line and are planning on another cruise soon. Perhaps if Carnival reduced costs of mixed drinks on board I and my clan might reconsider. When I say clan, I am referring to myself, my wife and family members that totaled nine of us. THATS WHAT YOU MISSED OUT ON THIS LAST CRUISE.
11 years ago
Michael McNamara Orlando, FL
Each cruise on Carnival has been better than the previous. We have been on short cruises on the Ecstacy and the Sensation, which were very good, but the cruise on the Sunshine was fantastic. What a great ship; Carnival did a great job retrofitting the Destiny and creating the Sunshine. On all the cruises, the staff has been excellent, the ships were clean and the rooms quite adequate. We definitely will be cruising on Carnival again; this January we are taking the Valor to the Eastern Caribbean. We are really looking forward to it.
11 years ago
Christopher Gill Washington, DC
been on Carnival for 8 cruses. Have already booked number 9. Pro's always had a good cruse, For the most part great hard working crews.Good food. (Yes some better than others) Loved the red frog pub. Cons some ships need bigger and hotter hottubs. Some of the ports remind me more of a slum. Eastern Caribbean stops need more shops port-side. Western are far better and bigger. High expense for what is often a way slower than dial up internet speeds. Spend more time for down loads and emails. 5 mins to bring up a email web page for example. (Never mind the email itself)
11 years ago
Teri Elmer New Haven, IN
LOVE Carnival! Went on a 9 day re positioning cruise in November. I was a little disappointed with the ship. We were on the Splendor, a newer ship. It "rocked" the entire time, yet the waters were calm. Plus, only one of the laundry facilities were working, for the entire ship! We had one incident during our dining which was quickly addressed by the lead staff. Otherwise we had great staff, our "runner" on deck for drinks and such was AMAZING!!!!!
11 years ago
Julie Cain Newman Bremen, GA
We love Carnival. We have always been able to have quiet and relaxing times when we wanted them. And as far as there being extra costs, you will have those anywhere you go. You don't have to spend any extra money if you don't want to. We just sailed on the Sunshine in May, and I have to say that I didn't really like that ship, but the food, service, cruise director, etc. were just as great. I just know not to go on that particular ship again. We've been on 6 Carnival cruises and had a great time on all of them.
11 years ago
Denise Reinert Roxboro, NC
I have cruised with Carnival Cruise lines many times over the last 8 years and I have never been disappointed! The staff is always incredibly attentive and try their hardest to make our vacation the best ever. The Spa is excellent on every ship. The food is good considering the cost to sail with Carnival is so incredibly "fair". I do not hesitate to book a Carnival cruise. I love to have fun and there is fun around every corner! I will be back soon!
11 years ago
