Are Carnival Cruise Lines All Inclusive What You Need to Know

Carnival Cruise Lines is not fully all-inclusive, meaning base fares cover accommodations, standard meals, and entertainment, but extras like drinks, gratuities, and specialty dining cost extra. You’ll need to budget for add-ons such as alcohol, spa services, and shore excursions, though drink packages and inclusive deals can help manage costs.

Key Takeaways

• Carnival is not fully all-inclusive: Base fare covers essentials, but extras cost more.
• Drinks cost extra: Alcohol, soda, and specialty coffee require separate packages.
• Specialty dining incurs fees: Most restaurants are included, but premium venues charge extra.
• Wi-Fi isn’t free: Purchase internet access via daily or per-trip plans.
• Gratuities are added automatically: Expect daily service charges unless adjusted onboard.
• Shore excursions cost extra: Book in advance or pay onboard for curated experiences.

Are Carnival Cruise Lines All Inclusive? What You Need to Know

Carnival Cruise Lines has long been a favorite among vacationers seeking fun, affordability, and a lively onboard atmosphere. With its “Fun Ships” branding, Carnival promises a vacation experience packed with entertainment, dining, and activities. But one of the most common questions travelers ask before booking is: Are Carnival Cruise Lines all inclusive? The answer isn’t as straightforward as a simple “yes” or “no.” While the base fare includes many amenities, there are numerous extras that can significantly increase your final cost. Understanding what’s included—and what’s not—is essential to avoid unexpected expenses and ensure a stress-free vacation.

Unlike some luxury or premium cruise lines (such as Regent Seven Seas or Silversea), Carnival operates on a mostly inclusive but not fully all-inclusive model. This means your ticket covers core essentials like accommodations, most meals, and access to a wide range of entertainment and onboard activities. However, many desirable services—such as premium dining, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, spa treatments, shore excursions, and gratuities—are offered at an additional cost. This hybrid approach allows Carnival to keep base prices competitive while giving passengers the flexibility to customize their experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down exactly what’s included in your Carnival cruise fare, what’s not, and how to maximize value while minimizing surprise expenses.

What’s Included in Your Carnival Cruise Fare

One of the reasons Carnival remains a top choice for first-time cruisers and budget-conscious travelers is the breadth of services and amenities included in the base fare. While not all-inclusive in the traditional sense, the cruise line does offer a surprisingly comprehensive package right from the start. Knowing what’s covered helps set realistic expectations and allows you to plan your spending accordingly.

Accommodations and Staterooms

Your cruise fare includes a private stateroom, which ranges from interior cabins to oceanview rooms, balcony suites, and even premium suite categories like the Havana Cabanas or Cloud 9 Spa Staterooms. All staterooms come equipped with standard amenities: private bathroom, flat-screen TV, climate control, and housekeeping services (including turndown service). While upgrades to higher categories cost more, the base fare ensures you have a clean, comfortable place to sleep and relax after a day of activities.

Main Dining Room and Buffet Meals

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the main dining room and Lido Marketplace buffet are included at no extra charge. The main dining room offers a rotating menu with multiple courses, including vegetarian and dietary-specific options (gluten-free, dairy-free, etc.). The Lido buffet provides a wide variety of international cuisines, including carving stations, salad bars, pasta stations, and dessert corners. Pro tip: The buffet is open for most of the day, so if you miss a scheduled dining time, you can still grab a bite.

Basic Beverages

Included beverages are limited but sufficient for basic hydration: tap water, iced tea, lemonade, coffee, and select fruit juices. These are available in the main dining room, buffet, and some public areas. However, bottled water, soda, specialty coffees (like lattes), and alcoholic drinks are not included and must be purchased separately.

Entertainment and Onboard Activities

Carnival is famous for its vibrant entertainment. Your fare includes access to:

• Live stage shows in the main theater (e.g., Playlist Productions, Hasbro Game Shows)
• Comedy clubs (PG-13 and adults-only sets)
• Live music in lounges (jazz, pop, rock, and more)
• Dance parties and themed deck events (e.g., White Hot Party)
• Casino (though gambling is not free—more on that later)
• Fitness center and sports courts (basketball, volleyball, mini-golf)
• Kids’ and teen clubs (Camp Ocean, Circle C, Club O2)

These activities are designed to keep guests of all ages engaged and entertained throughout the cruise.

Port Fees and Taxes

Unlike some cruise lines that list port fees and government taxes as separate line items, Carnival typically bundles these into the advertised price. This makes the total cost more transparent and avoids sticker shock at checkout. However, always confirm during the booking process, as some promotional fares may exclude these charges.

What’s Not Included in the Base Fare

While the included amenities are generous, Carnival’s model relies on ancillary revenue—additional spending on services not covered by the base fare. These extras can quickly add up if you’re not careful. Being aware of what’s not included helps you budget effectively and avoid unpleasant surprises at the end of your trip.

Alcoholic and Premium Beverages

This is one of the biggest sources of extra spending. Cocktails, beer, wine, spirits, bottled water, soda, and specialty coffees (like cappuccinos or mochas) are not included. Carnival offers several beverage packages to help manage costs:

• Cheers! Beverage Package: Unlimited drinks up to $20 per drink, including cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, soda, and specialty coffees. Priced around $59.95 per person per day (plus 18% gratuity).
• Bottomless Bubbles: Unlimited soda and juice for $9.95 per person per day.
• Coffee & Tea Package: Unlimited specialty coffees and teas for $15.95 per day.

Tip: If you plan to drink 3+ cocktails per day, the Cheers! package may save you money. But if you only enjoy an occasional drink, buying à la carte could be cheaper.

Specialty Dining Restaurants

While main dining and the buffet are included, Carnival offers several upscale, reservation-only restaurants that require an additional fee. Popular options include:

• Steakhouse (Bonsai Teppanyaki, Fahrenheit 555): $45–$50 per person
• Seafood Shack: $25–$35 per person
• Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse: $20–$30 per person
• BlueIguana Cantina (for dinner): $15–$20 per person

These venues offer higher-quality ingredients, more personalized service, and unique culinary experiences. Consider trying one during a sea day for a special treat.

Spa and Salon Services

The Cloud 9 Spa offers a full menu of services—massages, facials, acupuncture, teeth whitening, and more—at premium prices. A 50-minute Swedish massage can cost $149+, while a full-day spa pass (including thermal suites and relaxation areas) is around $129. While not mandatory, these services are popular, especially on sea days.

Shore Excursions

While Carnival offers a wide range of port activities—snorkeling in the Caribbean, zip-lining in Cozumel, cultural tours in Europe—these are all extra. Prices vary widely, from $40 for a city walking tour to $300+ for private charters or adventure packages. Pro tip: You can book excursions independently through local providers, often at lower prices, but Carnival excursions include guaranteed ship departure and English-speaking guides.

Gratuities (Service Charges)

Carnival automatically adds daily gratuities to your account, typically $16.00 per person per day for standard staterooms and $18.00 for suites. These cover crew members’ tips. You can adjust or remove them, but most guests choose to pay them as a gesture of appreciation. Note: These are separate from beverage package gratuities and specialty dining tips.

Understanding Carnival’s Beverage Packages: Are They Worth It?

One of the most debated topics among Carnival cruisers is whether the Cheers! Beverage Package is worth the cost. With prices hovering around $60 per person per day (plus 18% gratuity), it’s a significant investment. But for some travelers, it’s a game-changer. Let’s break down the pros, cons, and real-world scenarios to help you decide.

What’s Covered in the Cheers! Package

• Unlimited drinks up to $20 each (e.g., cocktails, wine by the glass, beer, spirits, bottled water, soda, specialty coffees)
• 15% discount on bottles of wine over $20
• 15% discount on wine packages and bottles of spirits
• Available for purchase pre-cruise or onboard (first 3 days only)

Note: The package does not include mini-bar items, room service drinks, or drinks at private island bars (e.g., Half Moon Cay).

When the Cheers! Package Makes Financial Sense

Consider the package if:

• You plan to drink 3–4 cocktails per day (average price: $12–$18)
• You enjoy wine with dinner (a glass of wine averages $10–$15)
• You’re a soda or specialty coffee drinker (latte: $5.50, soda: $3.50)
• You’re traveling with others who also drink frequently (group savings add up)

Example: On a 7-day cruise, a guest who drinks 3 cocktails, 2 glasses of wine, and 1 soda per day would spend approximately $490 à la carte. With the Cheers! package ($413 for 7 days at $59/day), they save over $75—plus the convenience of not worrying about the bill.

When It’s Not Worth It

The package may not be cost-effective if:

• You’re a light drinker (1–2 drinks per day)
• You prefer bottled water or tap water
• You’re traveling with kids (the package is for adults 21+)
• You’re on a short cruise (3–4 days)

Tip: Use Carnival’s Beverage Cost Calculator on their website to estimate your potential savings based on your drinking habits.

Alternative: The “Pay-As-You-Go” Strategy

If you’re unsure, start by purchasing drinks à la carte. Monitor your spending for the first 2–3 days. If you’re approaching or exceeding the package cost, switch to Cheers! (available for purchase onboard). However, you can’t retroactively apply the package to past days.

Maximizing Value: Tips to Make Your Carnival Cruise Feel All Inclusive

While Carnival isn’t truly all-inclusive, smart planning and savvy choices can make your cruise feel much closer to it. Here are practical tips to stretch your budget and enjoy a more inclusive experience.

Book Early and Look for Promotions

Carnival frequently offers early booking discounts, such as “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” or “Free Upgrades.” These deals often include perks like:

• Free beverage package (limited-time offers)
• Free specialty dining (e.g., one free steakhouse dinner)
• Onboard credit ($100–$200 per cabin)
• Free gratuities

Subscribe to Carnival’s email newsletter and check third-party sites like Cruise Critic or Vacations To Go for the latest promotions.

Use Onboard Credit Wisely

If you receive onboard credit (OBC), use it for:

• Specialty dining (apply OBC to reduce out-of-pocket cost)
• Beverage package (if not already included)
• Spa treatments (e.g., a massage or facial)
• Shore excursions (especially pricier ones)

Note: OBC is non-refundable and expires at the end of the cruise, so use it before disembarking.

Take Advantage of Free Activities

Instead of spending on extras, enjoy the many free activities:

• Attend live shows and comedy clubs
• Join deck games (e.g., trivia, dance-offs)
• Use the fitness center or jogging track
• Explore the ship (e.g., art auctions, library, observation deck)
• Relax by the pool or hot tubs

Sea days are perfect for this—no need to spend extra to have fun.

Bring Your Own Water and Snacks

While you can’t bring alcohol onboard (due to Carnival’s policy), you can bring:

• One bottle of water per person (12 oz or less)
• Non-perishable snacks (granola bars, chips, cookies)
• Reusable water bottles (fill up at hydration stations)

This helps reduce beverage package dependency and snack purchases.

Book Shore Excursions Independently

Local tour operators in ports often offer the same experiences as Carnival at 20–50% lower prices. For example:

• Carnival’s “Catamaran Snorkel” in Nassau: $119
• Local operator (e.g., Nassau Snorkel Tours): $65

Just ensure the tour ends early enough to return to the ship on time.

Comparing Carnival to Other Cruise Lines: How Does It Stack Up?

To fully understand Carnival’s value proposition, it helps to compare it to other major cruise lines, especially in the context of all-inclusive offerings.

Premium & Luxury All-Inclusive Lines

• Regent Seven Seas: Truly all-inclusive—covers airfare, unlimited premium drinks, specialty dining, shore excursions, and gratuities. Prices start at $5,000+ per person.
• Silversea: Includes butler service, premium wines and spirits, gratuities, and some excursions. Fares from $4,000+.
• Oceania Cruises: Covers gratuities, specialty dining, and some excursions. Beverages are à la carte.

These lines offer a more refined, less crowded experience but at a significantly higher price point.

Mainstream Competitors

• Royal Caribbean: Similar to Carnival—base fare includes dining, entertainment, and basic drinks. Offers a “Deluxe Beverage Package” (~$60/day) and specialty dining. More family-oriented with attractions like FlowRider and ice skating.
• NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line): “Free at Sea” promotion includes a beverage package, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and shore excursion credits—but only on select sailings. Base fares often include fewer extras than Carnival’s standard offerings.
• MSC Cruises: Offers “All-In” packages (drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi) for an added fee. Base fare is very low, but extras are costly.

Data Table: Carnival vs. Competitors (7-Day Caribbean Cruise, Double Occupancy)

Cruise Line	Base Fare (per person)	Beverage Package (per day)	Specialty Dining (per meal)	Gratuities (per day)	Onboard Credit (typical)
Carnival	$799	$59.95	$20–$50	$16.00	$50–$150
Royal Caribbean	$849	$63.00	$25–$55	$14.50	$100–$200
NCL	$699	$68.00 (Deluxe)	$20–$45	$14.99	$100–$300 (with promo)
MSC	$599	$79.00 (All-In)	$25–$40	$13.00	$50–$100

Insight: Carnival strikes a balance—competitive base fares, transparent pricing, and a wide range of free entertainment. While not fully inclusive, its value is strong for families, first-time cruisers, and those who want a lively, affordable vacation.

Final Thoughts: Is Carnival All Inclusive? The Verdict

So, are Carnival Cruise Lines all inclusive? The short answer is no—but with a nuanced explanation. Carnival offers a highly inclusive base experience that covers accommodations, most meals, entertainment, and essential amenities. However, key extras like alcohol, specialty dining, spa services, and shore excursions are not included and can add hundreds—or even thousands—to your final bill if not managed carefully.

The beauty of Carnival’s model is flexibility. You can keep costs low by sticking to included activities and à la carte dining, or you can upgrade selectively to enjoy premium experiences. By leveraging promotions, using onboard credit wisely, and choosing beverage packages strategically, you can make your Carnival cruise feel much closer to all-inclusive without overspending.

Ultimately, Carnival delivers exceptional value for its price point. It’s ideal for travelers who want a fun, vibrant, and affordable vacation with the option to splurge on luxuries when desired. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned veteran, understanding what’s included—and what’s not—empowers you to make informed decisions and enjoy a truly memorable voyage. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for a Carnival cruise that’s as inclusive as you want it to be.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Carnival Cruise Lines all inclusive?

Carnival Cruise Lines offers a semi-inclusive experience, with the base fare covering accommodations, standard dining, entertainment, and onboard activities. However, extras like alcoholic beverages, specialty dining, spa treatments, and gratuities are not included and require additional payment.

What does the all-inclusive package on Carnival Cruise include?

Carnival doesn’t offer a traditional all-inclusive package, but their base fare includes meals at main dining rooms, buffet access, basic beverages (like water, tea, and coffee), and most onboard entertainment. For a more inclusive experience, you can purchase add-ons like drink packages or Wi-Fi plans.

Are drinks included in Carnival Cruise Lines all-inclusive pricing?

No, drinks are not included in the base fare. Alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, bottled water, and soda require an additional purchase. You can buy a Cheers! Beverage Package for unlimited drinks or pay per item.

Do I have to pay extra for dining on a Carnival Cruise?

Most dining options, including the main dining rooms and buffet, are included in your fare. However, specialty restaurants like Steakhouse or Bonsai Sushi incur an extra cover charge for a premium experience.

Are gratuities included in Carnival Cruise Lines all-inclusive costs?

No, gratuities (or “service charges”) are not included in the base fare. They’re automatically added daily to your onboard account, but you can adjust the amount at guest services if needed.

Is Wi-Fi included in an all-inclusive Carnival Cruise?

Wi-Fi is not included in the base fare and requires a separate purchase. Carnival offers tiered internet packages, from social media-only plans to premium streaming options, based on your needs.