Whether you’re a frequent voyager or a first timer, the thought of planning a cruise should put a new lilt in your step. When you understand the amazing perks that cruise lines like Carnival have to offer, you’re bound to agree. Our in-depth look at Carnival cruise amenities will put you in the right frame of mind to enjoy your upcoming trip.
Getting Up Close and Personal with Carnival Cruise Amenities
Staterooms
Though most cruisers are too busy enjoying the Carnival cruise amenities to spend much time in their rooms, their accommodations are top of the line. With plush linens, climate control, and a plethora of closet space, you’ll feel right at home in your stateroom.
The interior rooms are serviceable, but if you’d like to splurge a little, the balcony rooms and suites offer breathtaking ocean views. Select ships offer luxurious options like the Cloud 9 Spa and Havana suites—check the Carnival website to see what’s available on your chosen vessel.
Dining Options
Not all cruise lines pay particular attention to the food. That’s a shame because the sea air can really whet the appetite. Fortunately, you won’t have to worry about that here. Carnival cruise amenities include access to restaurants to suit every palate.
Planning an elegant evening out? One of the formal dining rooms is waiting to welcome you. Just hoping to grab a quick slice of pizza? The 24-hour pizzerias have you covered. If you’re in the mood for something exotic, there are a number of specialty dining options available as well.
Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse/Brewhouse is a great place to spend the evening, especially if you’re a beer lover. Wash down your perfectly cooked beef brisket or baby back ribs with a cold craft brew. Any place that carries Guy Fieri’s stamp of approval is designed to impress, and the Pig & Anchor is no exception.
For a sumptuous seafood feast, check out the scene at Rudi’s Seagrill. The atmosphere is upscale without being stuffy, and the menu options are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Start with the seafood bisque, and don’t forget to save room for one of Rudi’s signature desserts.
When you’re feeling peckish around lunchtime, head to the BlueIguana Cantina. This hot spot allows you to build your own tacos or burritos on freshly made tortillas, then customize your selection at the salsa bar. They also offer arepas and huevos rancheros for breakfast.
Casino
One of the best Carnival cruise amenities is the casino, featuring everything from table games to slot machines and high-stakes poker. Why not take this opportunity to try to strike it rich? If you’re lucky, you might be able to spend the rest of your life enjoying luxurious cruises like this one. Just be sure to play responsibly.
Live Entertainment
From live music and comedy shows to Broadway-style musicals and themed parties, Carnival’s entertainment lineup is second to none. Let’s take a closer look at some of their most popular offerings.
Check out a live episode of Family Feud or take in an original show from Playlist Productions. Options for the latter may include Amor Cubano, a Latin-inspired musical; and 88 Keys, which features a lineup of piano-based tracks.
Those of you who enjoy stand-up comedy will get a kick out of the Punchliner Comedy Club. Note that the show is available in both family-friendly and adult-only iterations—you don’t want to accidentally choose the wrong one, especially if you’re planning on taking youngsters along for the fun.
No cruise would be complete without a good old-fashioned karaoke night. Even if you don’t opt to take the mic yourself, it’s worth a visit just to enjoy the spectacle.
Sometimes, all you want to do is relax with a good movie. You can do that at the onboard IMAX theater or take in one of the “Dive-In” shows around the pool. The Thrill Theater offers a more engaging, multi-dimensional experience, with moving seats and other unexpected special effects.
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Lido Deck
Speaking of the pool, don’t forget to visit the Lido Deck while you’re on board. This deck offers multiple opportunities for swimming and splashing, with several pools and spas. There are also water slides available on most vessels. The opportunity to spend the day relaxing at a pool is one of the prime Carnival cruise amenities, so be sure not to miss out.
Spa & Fitness
Amp up the relaxation vibe by indulging in a massage or facial during your Carnival cruise. The hydrotherapy pool allows you to soak in the benefits of the deep blue sea without stepping foot off board. You might also want to check out the Thermal Suite, where you can customize the environment to match your specific comfort zone.
Just because you’re relaxing doesn’t mean you have to neglect your exercise routine. When you get in a workout or two, you’ll have even more of an excuse to treat yourself when mealtimes roll around. Sign up for one of the on-board fitness classes, or just take a spin around the jogging track.
Camp Ocean
Got kids in your party? Let them enjoy the summer-camp vibes with tots their own age at Camp Ocean. They’ll have a blast, and you’ll be able to enjoy whatever adults-only activity you prefer while they’re being entertained.
Outdoor Sports Facilities
You can keep it tame with activities like mini golf and volleyball, but Carnival also offers adrenaline-boosters like the SkyRide and the Bolt Ultimate Sea Coaster.
Kids & Teens
While Camp Ocean is superb for little ones, it’s critical for cruise ships to offer something for the older kids as well. With hot spots like Circle “C” and Club O2, Carnival isn’t neglecting its duty. And for kids who cherish their competitive natures, SportsSquare is the place to be.
Serenity Adult-Only Retreat
That brings us to this peaceful oasis, complete with chairs for lounging and a nearby bar area stocked with your favorite adult libations. Take some time to reconnect with your partner, or simply enjoy an afternoon nap.
Shopping
You probably promised the folks at home that you would bring back a few souvenirs. Here’s the chance to keep your promise. Whether you’re in the market for sweet treats, jewelry, cosmetics, liquor, or apparel, the onboard shops have your back.
Art Gallery
A fine art showcase on board a cruise ship? Why not? With pieces that are designed to appeal to everyone (and not just serious art lovers), Carnival art galleries are not to be missed. You might even be able to join in an art-themed “battle of the sexes.”
Internet Café and Wi-Fi Access
Need to send a few emails or get a little bit of work done on your cruise? There’s Wi-Fi available everywhere you go on the ship. But if you want to sit down at a computer for a while, the Internet Café is the place to be.
Final Thoughts on Carnival Cruise Amenities
Now you have a better idea of how Carnival Cruise Line illustrates the difference between common and extraordinary cruise ship amenities.
Be aware that while many of the ships offer versions of the amenities listed here, not every experience will be available on all cruises. What’s more, they’re subject to change at any time. To be sure you’re getting the most up-to-date information regarding the perks on your cruise, check with Carnival before leaving home.
There’s nothing else you need to do now except finalize your booking so you can start looking forward to the amazing lineup of Carnival cruise amenities.