Planning a vacation can be overwhelming, especially when choosing the perfect cruise. You want fun, relaxation, and value for your money. This is where researching the 15 best Carnival cruises, as rated by reputable sources like US News & World Report, comes in. This post will guide you through the top Carnival cruise options, helping you choose the best fit for your next unforgettable getaway. You’ll learn about different ship features, itineraries, and find answers to common questions about 15 best Carnival cruises U.S. News best cruises U.S. news.
Top Carnival Cruise Ships Based on US News Rankings
This section details the highest-ranking Carnival ships based on factors like passenger reviews, onboard amenities, and itinerary variety. We’ll break down what makes each ship unique and highlight their strengths.
Carnival Vista
Known for its SkyRide, a suspended cycling experience, and its impressive WaterWorks aqua park. Its itineraries often include the Caribbean.
- SkyRide: A unique suspended bike ride offering panoramic ocean views. Passengers can enjoy a leisurely ride or a more challenging cycling experience.
- WaterWorks: A family-friendly water park featuring slides, a splash zone, and a lazy river. It’s a perfect way to spend a hot afternoon at sea.
- Spacious Staterooms: Carnival Vista offers various stateroom options, catering to couples, families, and solo travelers. Many staterooms feature balconies.
Carnival Horizon
Boasting a large number of restaurants and bars, it caters to diverse tastes and preferences. This ship features a vibrant nightlife scene.
- Diverse Dining Options: From casual buffets to fine dining, there’s a restaurant for every palate. Specialty restaurants offer premium experiences.
- Active Lifestyle: The ship offers multiple fitness activities, from gyms to jogging tracks and sports courts. This caters to passengers seeking to remain active.
- Family-Friendly Entertainment: With a dedicated kids’ club and a wide variety of evening shows, Carnival Horizon provides entertainment for all ages.
Carnival Breeze
This ship provides excellent service and comfortable staterooms. It’s known for its relaxed atmosphere and attention to guest experience.
- Exceptional Service: Carnival Breeze prioritizes a personalized guest experience with friendly and responsive staff.
- Relaxing Atmosphere: The ship offers quiet areas and lounges perfect for relaxation and unwinding during your cruise.
- Variety of Itineraries: With a range of Caribbean and Mexican Riviera itineraries, there’s an option for every traveler’s preference.
Choosing the Right Carnival Cruise for You
This section will guide you through the process of selecting a Carnival cruise that aligns with your travel style, budget, and preferences. We will explore factors such as itinerary, ship size, and amenities.
Caribbean Cruises
Explore various Caribbean islands offering stunning beaches, vibrant cultures, and diverse activities. Consider factors like the length of your desired cruise, specific island destinations, and the time of year to optimize your experience.
- Eastern Caribbean: Typically includes ports in Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten, offering a blend of history and beach relaxation.
- Western Caribbean: Features destinations like Cozumel, Belize, and Honduras, with opportunities for snorkeling, Mayan ruins exploration, and jungle adventures.
- Southern Caribbean: Includes islands like Aruba, Curacao, and Barbados, renowned for their beautiful beaches, diverse cultures, and water sports activities.
Mexican Riviera Cruises
Discover the beauty of the Mexican Pacific Coast with excursions to charming towns like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. These cruises offer a relaxed pace with opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
- Cabo San Lucas: A vibrant town known for its luxury resorts, stunning beaches, and opportunities for water sports such as whale watching (seasonal).
- Puerto Vallarta: A charming coastal city with a rich history, colorful architecture, and delicious cuisine. It offers opportunities for exploring the town, shopping, and enjoying the local culture.
- Ensenada: A smaller port offering a more laid-back atmosphere. Passengers can enjoy the local markets, sample regional food and drinks, and explore the area’s natural beauty.
Understanding Carnival Cruise Amenities and Services
This section dives into the various amenities and services offered by Carnival cruises, helping you understand what to expect during your voyage. We’ll cover dining options, entertainment, and onboard activities.
Dining Options
Carnival offers a wide range of dining options, from casual buffets to specialty restaurants. These cater to a variety of tastes and budgets, ensuring there is something for everyone.
- Main Dining Rooms: Traditional dining rooms offer a more formal setting with a varied menu.
- Buffets: Casual dining options offering a wide selection of dishes throughout the day.
- Specialty Restaurants: Premium dining experiences offering unique menus and a more upscale atmosphere. These often require reservations and additional fees.
Onboard Entertainment
Carnival ships offer a variety of entertainment options, catering to a wide range of ages and interests. Expect nightly shows, live music, and family-friendly activities.
- Theater Shows: Grand-scale productions featuring Broadway-style performances.
- Live Music Venues: Offering diverse musical genres from jazz to rock, catering to different musical tastes.
- Comedy Clubs: Featuring stand-up comedians performing throughout the cruise.
Factors to Consider When Booking Your Carnival Cruise
This section provides practical advice and considerations for booking your Carnival cruise, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. We’ll cover the best time to book, choosing your cabin, and budgeting for extras.
Booking Timing and Prices
Booking your cruise well in advance can often secure lower fares and a wider selection of cabins. However, last-minute deals can sometimes be available, so it’s worth monitoring prices if you are flexible.
- Early Bird Discounts: Booking several months in advance often qualifies you for significant discounts.
- Last Minute Deals: Cruises nearing departure sometimes offer discounted rates to fill cabins.
- Shoulder Season Travel: Traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) can offer better value and fewer crowds than peak summer months.
Choosing the Right Cabin
Carnival offers a wide variety of cabins, ranging from basic inside staterooms to luxurious suites. Your choice will depend on your budget and preferences.
- Inside Staterooms: The most affordable option, offering comfortable accommodation without an ocean view.
- Ocean View Staterooms: Offer a window to the ocean, providing a better view than inside staterooms.
- Balcony Staterooms: Feature a private balcony, allowing you to enjoy fresh air and stunning ocean views.
Debunking Common Myths about Carnival Cruises
Myth 1: Carnival Cruises are only for families.
While Carnival caters well to families, their cruises offer diverse experiences appealing to couples, solo travelers, and groups of friends. Many ships offer adult-only areas and activities.
Myth 2: All Carnival ships are the same.
Carnival’s fleet boasts diverse ships, each with unique features, sizes, and itineraries. Some offer more family-friendly activities while others cater more to adults.
Myth 3: Carnival cruises are always crowded.
While some ships and itineraries may be busier than others, particularly during peak season, careful planning and choosing less popular itineraries can help alleviate this.
FAQ
What is the best time to book a Carnival cruise?
Generally, booking 6-9 months in advance is recommended to secure the best rates and cabin selection, but last-minute deals sometimes appear.
Are drinks included in the price of a Carnival cruise?
No, drinks are generally not included, unless you opt for a beverage package. You can purchase individual drinks or a package for cost savings.
What is the average cost of a Carnival cruise?
The cost varies significantly depending on the itinerary, length of the cruise, cabin type, and time of year. Prices can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per person.
Can I bring my own alcohol onboard?
Carnival has specific policies regarding bringing alcohol onboard. Generally, only a limited amount of sealed alcohol is allowed. Check their website for the most updated information.
What is included in the price of a Carnival cruise?
The price usually covers your accommodation, most meals, onboard entertainment, and activities. Excursions and specialty dining are generally extra.
Are there single supplement options on Carnival cruises?
Yes, Carnival offers single supplement options, which means you don’t have to pay for two people if you’re traveling alone, though the cost will be higher than sharing a cabin.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the perfect Carnival cruise requires considering your preferences, budget, and travel style. This guide, reviewing 15 best Carnival cruises based on US News rankings, has provided valuable insights. Remember to weigh the pros and cons of different ships and itineraries before making your choice. Start planning your dream getaway today and prepare for an unforgettable cruise experience!