Taking a Carnival cruise is one of the most exciting ways to vacation. With a little planning, you can make the most of your trip! Whether you’re a first-timer or a veteran cruiser, there are always tricks to make your trip smoother, more affordable, and even more fun. Here are 25 essential Carnival Cruise tips to help you get the most out of your Carnival cruise.
Research Your Ship Before Booking
Not all Carnival ships are the same! Carnival offers a wide range of ships: Some are decked out with waterparks and Bolt roller coasters, while others offer a more laid-back vibe. Check out ship reviews, amenities, and itineraries to find the one that fits your vacation style. Pick one that suits your vibe!
Book Early for the Best Deals
Carnival often rewards early birds with lower fares and better cabin choices. Just make sure to read the fine print regarding cancellation policies and payment schedules.
Take Advantage of Carnival’s Best Price Guarantee
If the fare drops within days of your booking, Carnival will honor the lower price. It’s a great way to avoid buyer’s remorse.
Travel During Shoulder Season
Want to save even more? Book during the shoulder season (spring and fall). You’ll save money, can enjoy fewer crowds, plus the weather is usually still great.
Military Discounts and Other Perks
If you’ve served in the military, Carnival offers discounts and onboard perks. Don’t forget to ask! Select Carnival ships also have a Heroes Tribute Lounge, in which all the Active and retired members of the U.S. military personnel can gather.
Use a Travel Rewards Credit Card
Using a travel rewards card that offers miles, points, or cash back on your booking and onboard can help you save on your purchases.
Flexible Payment Plans
Here’s some good news! You don’t have to pay the full amount upfront. Carnival offers flexible installment payment options, making it easier to budget for your trip.
Consider Driving to the Ports
Driving to a nearby cruise port can save you a lot on airfare. Carnival has multiple ports across the U.S., and you might find one within driving distance. It’s especially handy if you live near a port city like Miami or Galveston.
Parking: If you are driving to the Port, pre-book your cruise parking in advance. Several affordable lots are available for parking near Cruise Ports at affordable rates. Reserve a spot to save money and have a stress-free start to your cruise.
Get Travel Insurance
Cruises are a huge investment, and unexpected situations—like cancellations or missed departures due to family emergencies—can arise. Protect yourself by getting travel insurance from a reliable company to cover cancellations, delays, or medical emergencies. If you have a medical history, it’s crucial to secure a plan early in the booking process to ensure proper coverage.
Download the Carnival HUB App
This app is a game-changer. You can check daily schedules, view restaurant menus, make reservations at restaurants and spas, and even chat with fellow cruisers. It’s like having your cruise concierge in your pocket. You can also keep a tab on your onboard bills and order food delivered to you.
Arrive Early at the Port
Choosing an early arrival time gets you on the ship sooner, having your lunch, and giving you more time to explore before it gets crowded and enjoy your first day. You can also have your lunch before it gets crowded.
Arrive a day In Advance
Don’t take the risk of flying on the same day as you’re sailing! What if you get delayed or the flight gets canceled? Be safe by arriving the previous day. Agreed! It’s an extra expense. but you can make the most of it by exploring the city before you set sail.
Faster to the Fun (FTTF) Program
Want priority boarding, early access to your cabin, and shorter lines? Consider purchasing Carnival’s Faster to the Fun pass. It’s like a VIP pass for those who want to maximize their fun and get you to start your vacation ASAP.
Book Your Drink Package Early
Carnival has one of the best beverage packages in the industry. Make the most of it! If you plan on enjoying cocktails or specialty coffees, book your drink package along with your cruise reservation and save at least 10% on the package. It’s cheaper than buying drinks individually.
Book Shore Excursions in Advance
The best shore excursions often sell out fast. Booking in advance ensures that you won’t miss out on that snorkeling tour or any other cultural adventure.
Note: Though you can cancel your bookings, do so 24 hours in advance to get a full refund. You will be subjected to a 25% cancellation fee when you are onboard.
Pre-Book Specialty Dining
Carnival’s specialty restaurants offer amazing food, and reservations fill up quickly. So, I suggest that you book in advance, as soon as you board. You can also reserve your restaurants once you have booked the cruise. The choice is yours!
Reserve the Bolt Roller Coaster Early
If your ship has the Bolt, Carnival’s onboard roller coaster, book your ride as soon as you board. Spots fill up fast! The Bolt is full of fun, but unfortunately, only four people can ride at the same time. Ships with the Bolt Roller Coaster are Carnival Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee.
Pro Tip: The best time to go on the Roller Coaster ride is the first day of the sailing or on a port day.
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Request Dining Preferences Early
For open-seating dining, request table sizes or dining times at least 30 minutes earlier through your HUB App to avoid waiting or being seated apart from your group. Your table may be ready immediately, or you might need to wait. You’ll receive an alert when it’s ready. The restaurants are usually busy from 6 pm to 7:30 pm, so plan your mealtime accordingly.
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Try Breakfast Beyond the Buffet
If you want to skip the crowded buffet, try their specialty restaurants or the main dining room. You can have a quieter, more relaxing breakfast. While the buffet is a quick and easy option, don’t overlook Carnival’s specialty dining options and Sea Day Brunch.
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Don’t Miss the Sea Day Brunch
Sea day brunches are legendary! Carnival offers everything from pancakes to filet mignon. Brunch is included in the cruise package and available on sailing days. Definitely worth waking up for!
Enjoy a Dr. Seuss Breakfast with Kids
Families will love the whimsical Dr. Seuss-themed breakfast, complete with green eggs and ham (cost extra). Kids can enjoy the music and can take photos with their favorite Seuss characters. Make your reservations in advance, as this is available only once per cruise.
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Attend the Dinner Show
Carnival offers dinner shows in its main restaurants. These shows blend great food with top-notch entertainment. Many cruisers join in to dance with the performers. Feel free to join the fun! They’re as entertaining as they are delicious! A must-see!
Don’t Overpack
Carnival cruises are casual. A few versatile outfits and comfy shoes will do the trick. Leave room for souvenirs, as it will save you time and energy carrying all the luggage around.
Pack Smart in Your Carry-On
Include essentials like a swimsuit, sunscreen, closed-toe shoes, and a pair of clothes in your carry-on. You’ll be ready to hit the pool or engage in other activities while waiting for your luggage, which will reach you only later.
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Bring Your Own Toiletries
While Carnival provides basics like soap, body wash, and shampoo, you’ll want your own favorite brand for added comfort. Also, pack your emergency medicines, bandages, and sunscreen. Though you will get all these onboard, please note that it will be pricey. Save money by bringing your own!
Other Essentials to Pack
Small things matter! These may seem irrelevant, but they will be very useful. You can purchase them from a dollar shop.
- Pack Magnetic Hooks and Clips: Carnival cabin walls are magnetic, which means you can use magnetic clips or hooks to hang hats, lanyards, wet swimsuits, or even daily schedules. It’s a space-saver and keeps your cabin organized.
- Lanyards for Kids and Adults: Lanyards help keep your cruise card handy for opening doors and making purchases.
- Towel Clips: Towel Clips will keep your pool towel in place on your lounge chair without blowing away.
- Tip: Do not hog the Lounge chair. If it is not used for a long time, the staff will remove the towel.
- Pop-Up Laundry Hamper: This would come in handy, as they are easy to pack and easy to store in your cabin closet. You can keep all your dirty clothes inside, which helps to keep the room organized and makes it easy to pack after your cruise.
BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverages)
Carnival allows you to bring a limited number of nonalcoholic beverages and even a bottle of wine per person. You are allowed to bring 12 cans or cartons of nonalcoholic drinks, like soda, juice, or seltzer, and a bottle of wine. The bottles must be sealed, unopened, and only 354 ml each. It will save you some serious cash on sodas or that pre-dinner glass of vino. Take advantage! However, if you have an onboard drinks package, forget it!
Note: Port and ship security do not take kindly to smuggling alcoholic beverages onboard.
Bring a Refillable Water Bottle
Bring your own refillable water bottles to stay hydrated without paying extra. You can fill them up at the ship’s water stations, which is an eco-friendly option and also save money.
Bring a travel mug so that you can take your complimentary tea/coffee to go. (only the coffee you purchase comes in a to-go cup)
Purchase an Internet Package
Purchase an internet plan to connect with your family and friends. You will also need the internet to use the HUB app, book reservations, and scan QR codes.
Keep Your Phone in Airplane Mode
Avoid costly roaming charges by switching your phone to airplane mode and using the ship’s Wi-Fi if needed.
Catch Live Music and Evening Shows
Carnival’s fantastic live shows and music acts are not to be missed. Arrive early for the best seats, especially if you’re traveling with a group.
Pro tip: Some venues fill up fast, so plan your evenings accordingly.
Carry some cash with you
Most cruises are cashless, and your tabs, including drinks, souvenirs, optional dining, and gratuity, are put into the credit card. However, you will find cash handy when you visit the casino and while you are on shore excursions. So, bring some cash.
Tipping
You don’t have to tip for the services. Carnival automatically charges $18% when you order a drink at a bar, eat at specialty restaurants, or any other service, including a spa. If you still want to tip, you are free to do so!
Cruising with Carnival is all about maximizing fun and relaxation. I hope these tips will help you make the most of your vacation, from saving money. Bon voyage, and happy cruising!
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Commonly Asked Questions
How much are Carnival Cruise tips per day?
Carnival charges $17 per person per day in a Standard Stateroom and $18 per day per person for Suite Staterooms.
What are tips on a cruise?
Most cruise lines automatically collect gratuity charges on bills for extra-fee drinks, restaurant meals, and spa treatments. This tip depends on the cruise lines but usually charges between 15% to 20%.
Is bottled water free on Carnival cruises?
Carnival charges $4.99 (plus gratuities) for 12 bottles (500 ml). To save money, bring a refill bottle and fill it up at the water station.
How to prepare for a Carnival?
Be ready for long days and plenty of people. Drink plenty of water, check with the cruise line, and pack suitable clothes. Do not forget your swimwear, wide-brim hat, comfortable shoes, and sunscreen.
Do I need cash on a Carnival cruise?
Carnival is a cashless cruise line. All your purchases and services will be charged to your credit card. However, a few extra bucks in your wallet would be a good idea. You can use it at the port.
