THE FUN SHIPS

Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Ships Docked in Cozumel, Mexico

I took my first Carnival Cruise in 2012 and I was hooked. There is just something about being out there on the sea in the huge ship. But, when you get out in the open vast waters, it makes you realize how truly small we are! But, its totally wonderful to be able to connect with yourself and the raw beauty and vastness of the Oceans. After having taken so many Carnival Cruises myself I am familiar with their charges and policies. I know where to look for the best deals and am familiar with the Eastern and Western Caribbean destinations. I would love to share my expertise with you. Contact me and I can help you discover the perfect Carnival Ship and Destination for you.

Carnival ships are designed to appeal to the masses, who share one common trait: They all want a super-fun escape without spending a ton of money. While the older ships are smaller and less elaborate, the newest Carnival ships are chock full of amenities. Carnival Cruise Line currently has 26 ships, with the Carnival Mardi Gras coming out in 2020. Carnival offers popular destinations like the Caribbean, Bahamas and Mexico, from many home ports along the east and gulf coasts, they also offer cruises to Europe, Hawaii, Panama Canal and more. Cruises typically start around a reasonable $80 per person, per night, and can be found for even lower prices with promotional fares. Carnival keeps their cabins simple, they are not fancy, but they are comfortable enough. With plenty of standard interior, window and balcony cabins and suites they have got plenty of choices to satisfy everyone. Guest have access to specialty dining venues like Guy's Burger Joint and The Pig and Anchor, Serenity adults-only areas, The Punch-liner Comedy Club and broad-way type shows at no extra costs. Not to mention the sea day activities that go on pool side on the Lido deck. For the best rates, avoid holiday periods, and school holidays.

STATE ROOMS:

ALL THE PERKS. IN EVERY ROOM.

With all this comfort and all these standard features, you've gotta try real hard to get homesick on a Carnival cruise.

• Dedicated room steward

• Soft, cozy linens (Carnival Comfort Collection®)

• Stateroom climate control

• Plenty of closet and drawer space

• Television

• Bathrobes upon request

• In-room safe for valuables

• Hair dryers (on most ships)

Interior

The most affordable way to experience all the Carnival excitement, without cutting corners on comfort. Here’s the perfect spot to curl up after a long day’s fun.

Ocean View

These comfy rooms with a view let you sail along to beautiful destinations while gazing at the sort of vistas you simply won't find anywhere on land.

Balcony

Any time you’re in your room, you’re steps away from your own personal outdoor oasis… designed for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views.

Suite

Get all the comforts of home and then some, with absolutely none of the hassles. Get comfy… stretch out, put your feet up. Or just spend time on your balcony — you’ve got one of our most spacious rooms.

Family-friendly Staterooms

Make the most of your family-style vacation with family-friendly features available throughout our fleet. We’ve got rooms that comfortably accommodate up to five people, plus rooms with an extra bathroom, which makes getting ready in the morning or winding down at night a snap. Plus, you’ll never have to hear “quit hogging the shower!” again. If you’re looking to keep the group together or just need the extra space, book connecting rooms and open the door between you for that instant ‘second bedroom’ feel.

Make the most of your family-style vacation with family-friendly features available throughout our fleet. We’ve got rooms that comfortably accommodate up to five people, plus rooms with an extra bathroom, which makes getting ready in the morning or winding down at night a snap. Plus, you’ll never have to hear “quit hogging the shower!” again. If you’re looking to keep the group together or just need the extra space, book connecting rooms and open the door between you for that instant ‘second bedroom’ feel.

Cloud 9 Spa Staterooms

Cloud 9 Spa staterooms do things a little different than ordinary staterooms. For starters, we dare you to cross the threshold without feeling a little more relaxed. Once you're inside, you'll find pleasing decor and in-room amenities like Elemis toiletries and spa-branded bathrobes and slippers to enhance your stay. What’s more, your excellent stateroom choice gets you priority spa reservations, free fitness classes, unlimited access to the thermal suites, exclusive discounts on treatments during port days... and more. #spa, #relax, #pamperyourself

DINING OPTIONS:

GUY'S BURGER JOINT

Carnival has teamed up with best-selling author, restaurateur and Food Network personality Guy Fieri to bring all the authentic appeal of a roadside burger shack to Guy’s Burger Joint, the cool poolside spot for hot burgers and hand-cut fries. Try a fresh-off-the-grill burger Guy’s way, or take it off-road to our toppings bar and truly make it your own. Delicious! Enjoy Guys Burgers at no extra cost. The best burger I have had in a long time, and I can't wait for my next one. #GuyFieri #Hungry

STEAKHOUSE (additional $)

Turn your special vacation in the direction of delicious — book a table for an unforgettably delectable evening at the on-board Steakhouse. Our menu features gourmet appetizers, mouthwatering premium cuts of beef cooked to your exact specifications, as well as a fantastic selection of seafood entrées and a wine list.

*Note: Not available on all ships. Reservations are highly recommended, and can be made online after booking your cruise. Price is $38 per adult and kids 11 and under $12. Your meal includes an appetizer, salad, entrée, a side, and dessert. Open for dinner only.

SEAFOOD SHACK

A good seafood dish is quite the catch. However you like yours served — whether it’s on a roll or a platter — Seafood Shack’s the place to cast your net. Imagine a New-England-style seaside spot where you can take it all in, enjoying a great meal complete with a side of ocean view. On a Carnival cruise is where you’ll find this shack by the sea, wherever in the world you happen to be! *Note: Only found on select ships at an additional cost.

DINING ROOM

A Sit down dinner with a full three courses in an experience that’s filling. Dinner ends with dessert and a coffee if you choose all at no extra cost to you . Enjoy a rotating menu of delectable favorites like steak, roasted duck, scallops and prime rib. Oh did I mention the entertainment? You will be delighted with your wait-staffs moves as they sing and dance as you enjoy your dessert.

Note: When you book, choose Early Dining or Late Dining for reserved seating nightly, or go with Your Time Dining to eat whenever you choose from 5:45-9:30.

GUY'S PIG & ANCHOR BAR-B-QUE

When the cool ocean breeze hits your nose with the sweet smell of smoke, you know you better follow it to Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse. At this on-board, open-air spot, Guy's doin’ his authentic, real-deal barbecue, his way. The Barbecue Hall of Famer is bringin’ some big time meats like Championship Pork Butt, Smoked Round of Beef, Smoked Andouille Sausage and his famous Blue Ribbon Chicken as well as rockin’ sides like Mac Daddy Mac n Cheese, Old Skool Potato Salad and Collard Greens. Throw in his signature line of barbecue sauces and you’ve got a rockin’ sea day on deck. *Note: While there is no extra charge Pig and Anchor is Not available on all ships.

BLUE IGUANA CANTINA

BlueIguana Cantina features freshly made tacos and burritos stuffed specially for your enjoyment. Throw our homemade tortillas and salsa into the mix, and you have a casual dining experience that will make you say “mmmm” (which is actually Iguanese for “more, please”). *Note: Included in cruise fare ! The food is Delicious!

PIZZA PRIRATE

Pizzeria Pirate is open to everyone, 24 hours a day! Hand-tossed dough, made from imported Italian flour, plus fresh mozzarella form a solid base, and a choice of toppings put the finishing touches on this piping hot, fresh-from-the-oven mealtime — or anytime — classic. *Note Included in cruise fare

LIDO MARKETPLACE

Featuring an amazing variety of casual dining spots, each just a few flip-flopped steps from the last, Lido Marketplace always has a special something ready to satisfy your latest craving spectacularly. Here we do it with dozens of what-to-eat options... great choices like BBQ, a deli counter, salad bar, an Asian station and a pasta bar... plus one spot where the chef serves up a different surprise daily! At Lido Marketplace, there’s tons of indoor and outdoor seating made for gathering around, so you can enjoy your personal faves in your favorite company for lunch or dinner, or even breakfast! Lido’s also where you can find soft serve, frozen yogurt and fresh pizza 24 hours a day... which so far seems to be enough to satisfy everybody. Open for Breakfast, lunch and dinner and is included in your cruise fare.

MONGOLIAN WOK

Chow down on some delicious Asian goodness. First, select your noodles and veggies. Then tell one of our chefs which sauce and meat you want in the wok. Will it be mussels and Szechuan Beef or Thai barbecue Chicken and black bean? Don’t worry, the decision doesn’t have to be final — you can come back to Mongolian Wok and try all the combos your heart desires! * not available on all ships.

THE CARNIVAL DELI

Looking for a little taste from the old neighborhood? Pile 'em high at the Carnival Deli. Enjoy old time favorites like a hot pastrami on rye, grilled Reuben, or roasted turkey breast on a country roll. Our sandwiches and wraps are always hand-carved and served fresh with cole slaw or relish. Come by, satisfy your craving for a great sandwich and make sure you don’t forget the kosher dill.

SWIRLS

Got room for dessert? Sure you do! Swirls ice cream lets you enjoy the sweeter side of brain freeze with a treat that’ll have you smiling from ear to ear. Choose from chocolate, vanilla or strawberry… or make your own mix swirled as high as you can balance it. Open on Lido deck 24/7, our frozen yogurt and soft-serve ice cream is a great way to beat the heat all day, or the perfect nightcap after a long evening of fun.

CHEF'S TABLE The Chef’s Table experience is a dining attraction not to be missed. This program offers a multi-course dinner with the master chef, a private cocktail reception and a tour of the galley. There is an extra fee of $75 per person (adult or child), but it may be worth it to a family of foodies.

Room Service is also available 24/7 and great for families who are too tuckered out from their busy day, or who want to sleep in late and lounge around.

KIDS PROGRAMS:

Camp Carnival is a year-round, fleet-wide program that provides daily fun-filled and age-appropriate activities for children and teenagers between the ages of 2 and 11 years old. In addition, there is supervised "free play" and babysitting service (for a fee). The playroom on each Carnival ship comes completely stocked with toys, games, and puzzles for children of all ages. In addition, each ship has an electronic game room filled with all of the latest video games.

Camp Carnival is much more than just babysitting. The program is designed so that families are able to enjoy quality family time together, and yet kids also have the choice of being with peers of their own age if they wish. Carnival knows every parent wants the best for their children. That's why they've hired youth counselors who are either college-educated in a related field, have professional childcare experience or both. Carnival performs a thorough background check on each and every one of the youth counselors. And every one on the youth staff is fully trained in CPR and basic first aid.

Carnival cruises with kids are completely doable. Unlike other cruises, Carnival offers children’s programs in a variety of age groups, so your child will never feel too young or too old, while at play. Children at Camp Ocean split into three age groups between ages 2 and 11: Toddlers (2 to 5), Juniors (6 to 8) and Intermediates (9 to 11). Certified staff members supervise, while kids do crafts, have story time, play board games and romp around outside. Childcare includes kid-friendly meals, like macaroni and cheese.

Circle C is a program especially for ‘tweens ages 12 to 14 years old. Kids have their own hangout in the Circle C room, usually decorated with an artsy, chic vibe. Here, they can mix and mingle while playing video games or attending dance parties. Pool parties, scavenger hunts and sports events are also arranged in other parts of the ship.

Club 02 is a teens’ center for kids between the ages of 15 to 17. Teens can meet new friends or simply hang out at the Club 02 Lounge, which hosts dance parties, video gaming, sports and karaoke. Teen-only shore excursions also take place when you pull into port.

Infant care is available at and additional charge.

ON-BOARD ACTIVITIES:

SEUSS AT SEA

From the whimsical and always wonderful world of Dr. Seuss comes Cats in Hats, Fish Red and Blue, and both kinds of Things — 1 and 2. And they’re all coming to a Carnival cruise near you as the world of Dr. Seuss leaps off the page and onto Seuss at Sea.

Dr. Seuss’s timeless stories are the kind kids memorize, and this is the kind of cruise you’ll remember for a lifetime. The whole family will still enjoy all the classic Carnival activities, but the littlest ones, and their families, will also enjoy an all-new, extra-special experience as the fantastical world of Dr. Seuss comes to life around them.

Enjoy a special on-board character parade, interactive story time, arts & crafts activities, character breakfast featuring their favorite Dr. Seuss friends and more. Seuss at Sea truly brings your child’s favorite books to life.

WATERWORKS

Wanna splash, the day away? Head on over to Water Works, Carnival's on-board water park. First up, there's the Twister Water slide, hundreds of feet of spiraling awesomeness that starts you off high in the air and gets you down low with one of the fastest, wettest rides you'll find anywhere. Select ships have side-by-side racing slides, which make serious competition seriously fun. Drain Pipe ends with one major swirl of a finish, And this isn't just kids' stuff — the young at heart are encouraged to zoom and splash around too! Water Works configurations vary by ship.

ARTS AND CRAFTS

To kids, arts and crafts is a fun way to spend an afternoon. Camp Ocean presents plenty of creative opportunities for budding artist and kids can express themselves with all kinds of crafts from painting to jewelry-making.

BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP AT SEA

A Carnival cruise gives kids plenty of chances to make new friends… but never before quite like this. When kids visit the Build-A-Bear Workshop At Sea, they use their little hands and big creativity to bring a new stuffed friend to life. They can customize their furry friend from head to toe by choosing the bear, clothing and accessories. The cuddly bears are actually just the beginning — these stuffed friends come in all shapes, like a dog, bunny, shark, The Cat in the Hat… even a bear with a special Carnival-exclusive design! There’s all these great choices, and here’s one more: the special St. Jude bear. When you choose this one, the proceeds will benefit the kids of the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital!

CAMP OCEAN

The little ones can enjoy the best parts of summer camp, year-round aboard their Carnival cruise. At Camp Ocean kids will have a blast in supervised, age-based groups and give each a cool marine-life label: Penguins (2 to 5 years), Stingrays (6 to 8 years) and Sharks (9 to 11 years). Together with their group they’ll enjoy tons of fun-filled, age-appropriate activities like arts and crafts, songs, games, toys, dancing, movies and video games. When it’s mealtime, kids eat together and get their own menus with back-on-land faves like mac & cheese, chicken nuggets and more. The whole time, our experienced counselors will be there to make sure everyone in these small groups has an amazing time. Plus, when the sun goes down it’s Night Owls time — fees apply, but kids get to stay up late having fun while their parents also enjoy themselves well into the night.

HASBRO, THE GAME SHOW

You've played Connect 4 and Yahtzee, but have you ever played giant versions of them onstage in a competition that puts your gaming skills to the test? You'll have your chance when you take part in Hasbro, The Game Show. From YAHTZEE BOWLING to CONNECT 4 BASKETBALL, OPERATION SLAM DUNK and SIMON FLASH, you can team up with your friends and family to win great prizes, all in front of a live audience. Be sure to check your Fun Times for show times so you don't miss out on the action… or the prizes.

Drink Packages:

Cheers Package

is an “all-you-can-drink” plan that covers alcoholic and non-alcoholic purchased on board the ship. So instead of having to pay each time you get a beer from the bar, you simply pay one flat rate. As of 2019, the CHEERS! package costs $51.95 per person, per a day, plus there is a 18% automatic gratuity, therefore, the total cost is $61.30 per person, per a day for those who buy the package before boarding the cruise. Should you wait to purchase the beverage package until you board the ship, the price is $56.95 per a day, plus the 18% gratuity, bringing the total price to $67.20 per person per a day. The cost is for the entire cruise weather it is a sea day or a port day. Weather you drink 1 drink a day or 15 drinks a day you still pay the same price. Also keep in mind, that if one person in the cabin buys the package, everyone over the age of 21 must buy the package.

What’s NOT included in the Cheers Package?

While pretty much any drink from a bar is included, there are some exceptions that you will still be charged for, even if you purchase the CHEERS!

Package:

• Drinks in souvenir glasses

• Alcohol by the bottle (except beer)

• Drinks offered at the gangway (welcome beverages)

• Room service alcohol or mini-bar drinks

• Shareable drinks like buckets or pitchers

• Fresh-squeezed orange juice served in the Havana Bar

The Fun Shops (your Carnival shopping experience)

If you catch something sparkling on your cruise, it may be the night sky. It could be the sun on the waves. Or you may just be near The Fun Shops- Fine Jewelry, where you’ll discover a selection of pretty much all that glitters... Like diamonds, tanzanite, gemstones of every hue and gold! Or, if you are looking for just the right accessory — cool sunglasses, elegant bracelet, butter-soft leather handbag — to pull your outfit together, including the latest and hottest trends from some of the top names in fashion. The Fun Shops have you covered. Live the cruise life with exclusive Carnival logo-wear… or the runway life with a great selection of authentic designer fashion, While you’re there, keep an eye out for limited-time-only special events — the perfect deal on that watch gift set or resort fashions may only come along once per sailing. On top of the savings you will find in the shops, remember all of the Fun Shops are duty free and tax free, which means lower prices!

Liquor:

Stock up on spirits at the on-board liquor store! Here, the savings start with prices that are up to 50% off the prices on land, but the savings really add up when you subtract the taxes — remember all Fun Shop items are tax-free and duty-free. Even the liquor.

Spa and Fitness:

Cloud 9 Spa (additional charges apply)

Are you looking to pamper yourself on your vacation? When it comes to complete 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 even beautified. Lie back, close your eyes, and feel the stress sail away as your body and mind experience total tranquility. The Cloud 9 Spa staff are masters (or, maybe more like artists) trained in the craft of simply helping you chill. What’s their secret? Massages, facials, body wraps, thermal suites and more — plus, on certain ships, the amazing Thalassotherapy Pool — these are the tools of the trade. And the trade is ultimate relaxation. There are also Hair Salons for those who want to prepare themselves for a special night on board. Treat yourself to a fresh new hair style or a mani/pedi. Oh yeah these treatments aren't just for the ladies, guys there are plenty of options for you too.

For the Fitness Buff:

JOGGING TRACK (included)

Jogging may not immediately come to mind when you think of things to do at sea, but it probably should. You don’t have to walk on water, you just have to get on a Carnival cruise. After all, if you’re going to jog, you’d be hard-pressed to find a place to do it with a more scenic view, or a more refreshing breeze — both of these are available in abundance when you go for an open-air jog on the upper-deck. Jogging tracks are available on almost all Carnival ships, and are even padded for long-distance comfort.

FITNESS CENTER (included-must be 18 or older)

We have some bad news for you — your ship has a gym. In other words, there’s no excuse for leaving your fitness routine back on land. That’s great news, however, for your body, which will definitely benefit from all the extra energy that vacationing pumps directly into you. And let’s not forget the extra time you’ll have, since you won’t be waking up and spending most of the day at the office or anything like that. If those were some of your go-to excuses, we’re sorry, but we all know this is important.

FITNESS CLASSES (additional charge-must be 18 or older)

You can have all the will in the world, a great attitude that keeps you working hard at the gym, but still not see the results you’re hoping for. If that’s the case — or you’re just looking to shake things up with a little extra fun or challenge in your workout — check out Carnival’s selection of on-board fitness classes. Whether it’s yoga, pilates, indoor cycling or boot camp, there’s a fitness class that’ll get you the workout you need, and the instruction you need to do it right. Looking for a little extra attention? Look to personal trainer.

Entertainment:

PLAYLIST PRODUCTIONS

Your favorites become full-blown musical productions featuring singers and dancers bringing down the house. Shows vary by ship, but there’s a playlist for every music lover. Need a few examples? How about the spicy sounds of Amor Cubano, the movie-magic soundtrack of FLICK, or Vintage Pop with its 20s-jazz-meets-modern-hits? Release your inner rock-n-roll patriot during America Rocks! Enter the center of groove with the passionate Heart of Soul. Feel the arena-shaking sounds of Epic Rock, the piano-pounding sounds of 88 Keys, the totally bad-meaning-good 80s Pop to the Max, plus the funky, sophisticated... and not-at-all exclusive Studio VIP, where everyone’s welcome to come and get down!

THE PUNCHLINER COMEDY CLUB

Nobody likes paying cover charges, and you know that two-drink minimum? They’ve gotta be joking! You won’t find either of these at The Punchliner Comedy Club aboard your Carnival cruise. Up on stage you will find some real pros who know how to wedge a little laughter into anyone’s evening. You can count on these comedians to not hold back either. There are generally 2 family friendly shows during the earlier evening hours, and then during late hours, beginning around 10:30 the comedians take the stage for their adults only shows.

STAGE SHOWS

Our stage shows are designed to razzle and dazzle. Illusionists and Magicians will thrill and confound you with their mysterious feats. With shows featuring talented singers, musicians and dancers performing crowd-thrilling numbers in extravagant costumes with awesome sets and scenery, it's like catching one of the best shows on land. All performances are created to ensure that every night feels like opening night. And best of all, since shows are included in your fare, it's like having top-dollar tickets to the hottest show in town, absolutely free.

I would like to close in saying that after 13 cruises with Carnival, I know enough to know I love them, they are called THE FUN SHIPS for a reason. With every cruise I take I come home with some wonderful memories.

If you are looking to book a cruise please contact me and I can help you discover the world of cruising.