Carnival Boat Options: The Best Vessel For Your Voyage

With 27 ships and hundreds of itineraries, there's a Carnival cruise ship for everyone. The best Carnival ship depends on what you're looking for. If you're looking for the newest and biggest ship in the fleet, the best Carnival ship is the Carnival Jubilee. However, if you're looking for a more well-rounded option, the Carnival Breeze is a great choice, offering a variety of dining and drinking options, thrilling water slides, and a friendly crew. If you prefer to spend more time on shore, the Carnival Valor offers itineraries with more time in port. For a ship that caters to everyone in your family, the Carnival Panorama offers a wide range of activities, food options, and live performances. If you're looking for a smaller ship with a more relaxed atmosphere, the Carnival Pride is a great option, although the decor may seem a bit dated. Ultimately, the best Carnival ship for you will depend on your personal preferences and what you're looking for in a cruise vacation.

Best for families

Carnival Cruise Line has been a leader in family-friendly cruises for decades, and its reputation is well-earned. Carnival offers some of the most fun, easygoing voyages for travellers of every age, including children and teenagers.

Carnival Vista

The Carnival Vista is a fun ship for every member of the family. It first set sail in 2016 and has been a popular favourite ever since. The ship has some great restaurants, including Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguanna Cantina. Some unique attractions include the IMAX theatre, the SkyRide, the ropes course and water play areas. The Carnival Vista is also more affordable than newer ships, making it a great option for families on a budget.

Carnival Mardi Gras

The Carnival Mardi Gras is one of the largest and newest ships in the Carnival fleet, with over 5,200 passengers on board. It has 26 dining options, so there is something for everyone. The Mardi Gras also features the Bolt Roller Coaster, the first roller coaster at sea. This does come with an additional cost, but it's a unique experience that you can't get anywhere else.

Carnival Panorama

The Carnival Panorama is the sister ship to the Carnival Vista and Carnival Horizon. It has plenty of attractions, including the SkyRide, Sky Zone (a trampoline park), a ropes course, an enclosed basketball court, mini-golf and an outdoor exercise area. There are also two water slides and a splash park for younger children. The Panorama has plenty of activities for teenagers and is known for its parties in the evening.

Carnival Sunrise

The Carnival Sunrise is a mid-size ship that is known for its shorter sailings (2-5 days). It holds over 2,700 passengers and was recently refurbished in 2019, so it has a modern and new look. The ship has two water slides, a splash park and a ropes course. There is also a giant screen by the pool that plays movies and shows throughout the cruise. The Sunrise is perfect for families looking for a short getaway.

Carnival Horizon

The Carnival Horizon is the sister ship to the Carnival Vista and Carnival Panorama. It has a ropes course, SkyRide and water slides. The Horizon also offers fine dining options, including Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse. Overall, the Horizon is a fun ship for the whole family.

Best for couples

Carnival Cruise Line offers a range of experiences tailored to different preferences and interests. Whether you're looking for a lively atmosphere with plenty of activities or a more serene and intimate setting, there is a ship to suit every couple. Here are some of the best options for couples seeking a romantic getaway:

• Carnival Breeze: This ship offers a touch of elegance with beautifully designed spaces and a sophisticated ambiance. It provides the perfect blend of luxury and comfort for couples seeking a relaxing and romantic cruise. The ship features an adults-only Serenity Retreat, a spa, and gourmet dining options, creating an ideal setting for intimate moments.
• Carnival Vista: This ship combines modern features with romantic experiences, offering the perfect setting for couples in love. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets on the SkyRide, indulge in romantic dinners at specialty restaurants, and unwind in the Cloud 9 Spa. Vista is ideal for couples seeking a blend of excitement and relaxation.
• Carnival Horizon: This ship offers the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation for couples seeking a touch of adventure. It features thrilling activities like the SkyRide, ropes course, and WaterWorks aqua park, as well as serene retreats such as the Cloud 9 Spa and the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. Horizon ensures couples have a unique and unforgettable cruise experience.
• Carnival Miracle: This ship is perfect for couples seeking a mix of fun and relaxation. It offers quieter spaces like the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, providing a peaceful setting away from the hustle and bustle. Couples can relax, enjoy spa treatments, and savour romantic dinners with ocean views.
• Carnival Pride: As one of the older ships in the fleet, Carnival Pride offers a more intimate and laid-back experience. It features adult-only sundecks, bars, lounges, and a variety of dining options. The bold Renaissance-themed decor adds a unique charm to the ship, making it ideal for couples seeking a more relaxed and quaint cruise experience.

When choosing a Carnival cruise for couples, consider factors such as the level of luxury, the range of activities, dining options, and the overall atmosphere. Whether you prefer a lively and modern ship or a more intimate and elegant setting, there is a Carnival cruise ship to suit every couple's preferences.

Best for foodies

When it comes to food, Carnival Cruise Line offers a dizzying array of options, from poolside grills to 24-hour buffets, room service, and upscale specialty restaurants. Here's why it's a great choice for foodies:

Dining Options for All Tastes

Carnival cruises cater to diverse tastes with their wide range of dining options. Whether you're craving a juicy burger from Guy's Burger Joint, the signature seafood dishes at Fahrenheit 555, or the upscale dining experience at Fahrenheit 555, there's something for everyone. For a more casual bite, you can grab a slice of pizza at Pizza Pirate or indulge in a delicious sandwich at Carnival Deli. If you're feeling adventurous, try the unique pharmacy-inspired Alchemy Bar for a cocktail with a twist.

Complimentary and Specialty Dining

Carnival cruises offer a variety of complimentary dining options, ensuring that you can indulge without breaking the bank. At the same time, they also provide specialty restaurants and beverages that come at an additional cost. This gives you the flexibility to customize your dining experience and treat yourself to something extra special.

Seaday Brunch

Seaday Brunch is a signature offering on Carnival cruises, and it's a foodie's dream come true. The menu is modern and trendy, featuring dishes that rival those of your favorite land-based brunch spots. The 12-hour French toast, with its crispy, caramelized edges and roasted peaches, is a highlight not to be missed. The skillet-cake, topped with whipped cream, marshmallow, and ricotta, is another decadent option.

Chef's Table Program

Carnival's Chef's Table program, particularly on the Carnival Vista, is a food lover's paradise. It offers a superb selection of culinary delights for budget-conscious foodies, allowing you to explore new flavors and destinations without compromising on quality.

Family-Style Meals and Specialty Restaurants

Carnival understands that dining is often a family affair. They offer family-style meals that bring everyone together, along with specialty restaurants for those special celebrations. The buffet banquets cater to all palates, from international flavors to fresh seafood and delectable desserts.

Diverse Destinations, Diverse Flavors

Carnival cruises take you to stunning destinations like the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and Mexico, allowing you to explore new cultures and cuisines. Whether you're craving tropical flavors or want to indulge in local specialties, the variety of destinations ensures that your taste buds are always in for a treat.

Dining Packages and Deals

Carnival often offers family-friendly packages and deals, including dining packages and shore excursion credits. Keep an eye out for promotions that align with your budget and interests to enhance your culinary journey while cruising with Carnival.

With its array of dining options, Carnival Cruise Line caters to foodies of all tastes and budgets. From complimentary meals to specialty restaurants, culinary adventures, and diverse destinations, it offers a well-rounded and delicious experience for the discerning palate.

Best for a party atmosphere

If you're looking for a party atmosphere, you'll want a Carnival cruise ship that's packed with exciting things to see and do, as well as great food options and a high standard of service.

The best Carnival ship, according to reviews, is the Carnival Jubilee. As the newest and biggest ship in the fleet, there's plenty to keep guests entertained. However, if you're looking for a more established option, the Carnival Breeze is a long-time favourite that sums up everything great about cruising with Carnival. There are loads of places to eat and drink, thrilling water slides, and a friendly crew that will go out of their way to make your cruise feel special.

If you're looking for a more relaxed party vibe, the Carnival Miracle is a good option. While it has belatedly received its Fun Ship upgrades, it never feels cramped or crowded. It's one of the best Carnival ships if you want a bit of fun, a bit of relaxation, and some decent food.

For a classic cruise experience, the Carnival Liberty offers good value. While it might not have all the exciting features of the more modern ships, it's extremely popular with American families who want a simple cruising experience. There's no rollercoaster or sky ride, but there are plenty of 'classic' cruise activities like poolside movies, karaoke nights, comedy clubs, and nightclubs.

Best for relaxation

If you're looking for the best Carnival boat for relaxation, look no further than the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. This kid-free zone offers the perfect opportunity to unwind with a glass of wine while watching the sunset, finish that book you've been reading, or reconnect with your partner.

For the ultimate relaxation, head to the Cloud 9 Spa, where you can escape to a world of tranquility. Indulge in massages, facial treatments, body wraps, and more to banish stress and fully relax. Certain Carnival ships also offer climate-controlled thermal suites and hydrotherapy pools for the ultimate rejuvenation.

If you're seeking a quiet space to curl up with a book, the library area is the perfect spot. Here, you'll find a peaceful atmosphere to lose yourself in your reading. Alternatively, you can ask the reception desk for recommendations on the best quiet spots on the ship.

When it comes to dining, room service is a great option for a relaxing meal in the comfort of your own balcony. Enjoy the stunning views, delicious food, and peaceful atmosphere.

For a truly tranquil experience, consider booking a Cloud 9 Spa stateroom, which offers perks like priority spa reservations, free fitness classes, and unlimited access to the thermal suites.

Carnival Liberty

The Carnival Liberty offers the perfect balance between fun and relaxation. Enjoy live performances, savour tasty treats like tacos and burgers by the pool, or simply soak up the sun on a lounge chair.

Carnival Panorama

The Carnival Panorama packs a lot of fun into its 15 decks. It features a sprawling water park, the Cloud 9 Spa, and an open-air recreation area. For a quiet escape, the Serenity Deck offers a peaceful oasis for adults only, complete with hot tubs and a bar.

Carnival Sunrise

The Carnival Sunrise (formerly known as Carnival Triumph) boasts a Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, a revamped water park, and a variety of dining options. Unwind in the adult-only spaces or indulge in a spa treatment for the ultimate relaxation.

Carnival Breeze

The Carnival Breeze is ideal for a short cruise out of Galveston, Texas. It offers a variety of activities throughout the day, including bingo, trivia, and live performances in the comedy club. When you need a break, head to the Cloud 9 Spa for some well-deserved relaxation.

Carnival Magic

The Carnival Magic is another excellent option, featuring the Cloud 9 Spa and the Mongolian Wok quick-service restaurant for a relaxing lunch.

With a variety of ships to choose from, you can find the perfect Carnival boat to unwind and rejuvenate.

Frequently asked questions