Can You Get Married on Carnival Cruise Lines A Complete Guide

Yes, you can get married on Carnival Cruise Lines with their customizable wedding packages, offering ceremonies at sea or on private island destinations like Half Moon Cay. From vow renewals to full weddings, Carnival provides officiant services, floral arrangements, and photography—all while cruising to breathtaking locations, making it a seamless and memorable way to say “I do.”

Key Takeaways

• Carnival offers weddings: Ceremonies available on board or at private island destinations.
• Legal requirements vary: Check marriage laws for your chosen embarkation port and destination.
• Choose a package: Select from intimate to premium options, including vow renewals.
• Book early: Secure your date and preferred wedding time up to 12 months ahead.
• Onboard coordinator: A dedicated planner handles details, from paperwork to photography.
• Guests welcome: Most packages accommodate up to 50 attendees with cruise bookings.

Dreaming of a Seaside Wedding? Here’s How to Tie the Knot on a Carnival Cruise

Imagine exchanging vows with the vast ocean as your backdrop, the gentle sea breeze in your hair, and the sound of waves serenading your union. For couples seeking a unique, romantic, and unforgettable wedding experience, can you get married on Carnival Cruise Lines? The answer is a resounding yes—Carnival Cruise Line offers a full suite of wedding packages designed to make your special day both magical and stress-free. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony on the ship’s deck, a private beachfront celebration, or a grand event with family and friends, Carnival provides flexible options to suit every dream and budget.

Carnival has been a leader in destination weddings at sea for decades, combining the romance of the ocean with the convenience of an all-inclusive cruise. From legal ceremonies to symbolic rituals, Carnival’s wedding coordinators handle every detail, allowing couples to focus on what truly matters: each other. With over 25 ships in their fleet and itineraries spanning the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Europe, and beyond, the possibilities for a cruise wedding are as vast as the sea itself. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting married on a Carnival cruise, from planning and legal requirements to costs, venues, and real-life inspiration.

Why Choose a Carnival Cruise Wedding? The Benefits Explained

A wedding aboard a Carnival cruise is more than just a ceremony—it’s a vacation, a celebration, and a lifelong memory rolled into one. But what makes Carnival stand out from traditional land-based venues or even other cruise lines? Let’s explore the top reasons couples are choosing Carnival for their big day.

All-Inclusive Simplicity and Stress-Free Planning

One of the biggest advantages of a Carnival cruise wedding is the all-inclusive nature of the experience. Instead of juggling multiple vendors—caterers, florists, photographers, and venue managers—Carnival’s wedding team handles everything. From floral arrangements to cake design, music, and décor, their packages are designed to minimize stress and maximize enjoyment. For example, their Classic Wedding Package includes a ceremony officiant, bouquet and boutonniere, wedding cake, champagne toast, and professional photography—all coordinated in advance so you can relax and savor the moment.

Additionally, Carnival’s dedicated wedding coordinators are available pre-cruise to answer questions, customize details, and ensure your vision is brought to life. Many couples report that the planning process is smoother than a traditional wedding, thanks to clear communication and a single point of contact.

Stunning and Unique Venues

Carnival offers a variety of breathtaking venues, each with its own charm:

• Onboard Ceremonies: Exchange vows on the open deck, in a private lounge, or in a beautifully decorated atrium. The Lido Deck, with panoramic ocean views, is a favorite for sunset ceremonies.
• Beachfront Weddings: In destinations like Cozumel, St. Thomas, or Nassau, Carnival partners with private beaches to host ceremonies on powdery sand with turquoise water as the backdrop. These are often followed by a private beach party or reception.
• Port Weddings: For couples who want a local flavor, Carnival can arrange ceremonies in historic chapels, gardens, or cultural landmarks in ports of call (e.g., a cathedral in St. Maarten or a botanical garden in Puerto Rico).

Pro Tip: Book your preferred venue early—popular locations like the Lido Deck or beachfront sites fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Cost-Effective Compared to Traditional Weddings

Weddings can be notoriously expensive, but a Carnival cruise wedding often costs a fraction of a traditional land-based event. According to Carnival’s 2023 data, their wedding packages start at $1,499, while the average U.S. wedding exceeds $30,000. Even with travel costs for guests, the overall expense is typically lower, especially when you consider that the cruise itself doubles as a honeymoon and group vacation. For example:

• A 7-night Caribbean cruise for a couple (including wedding package, cabin, and meals) averages $4,000–$6,000.
• Guests can book their own cabins, often at discounted group rates, making it affordable for families and friends to attend.

Plus, many packages include perks like a free cabin upgrade for the couple or complimentary spa treatments.

Legal vs. Symbolic Ceremonies: What’s the Difference?

When planning a cruise wedding, one of the first decisions couples face is whether to have a legal (legally binding) or symbolic (non-legal) ceremony. Carnival offers both, but the choice depends on your priorities, timeline, and destination. Here’s how they compare:

Legal Ceremonies: Requirements and Process

A legal wedding on a Carnival cruise is recognized in the U.S. and many other countries, but it requires careful planning due to jurisdictional rules. Carnival’s legal ceremonies are typically held onboard and officiated by a licensed shipboard official (e.g., a captain or notary). Key considerations:

• Documentation: You’ll need valid government-issued IDs, proof of citizenship, and sometimes a marriage license. Carnival provides a checklist and helps you obtain the license in the ship’s home port (e.g., Miami, Port Canaveral).
• Timing: Legal ceremonies can only be held in international waters or at specific ports where Carnival has legal authority. For example, a cruise departing from Florida can perform a legal ceremony once it’s 3+ nautical miles offshore.
• Fees: Legal ceremonies incur additional costs for paperwork, notarization, and sometimes translation (e.g., if marrying in a foreign port).

Example: A couple from California booked a 7-night Bahamas cruise with a legal ceremony. They submitted their documents 60 days in advance, and Carnival’s coordinator arranged for a notary to witness the signing of the marriage license onboard.

Symbolic Ceremonies: Romance Without the Paperwork

If you’re already legally married or want to focus purely on the celebration, a symbolic ceremony is a popular choice. These are held on deck, at a beach, or in a port and include all the trappings of a traditional wedding—vows, rings, music, and décor—but without legal paperwork. Benefits include:

• Flexibility: No need for advance documentation or waiting periods. You can plan the ceremony on short notice.
• Personalization: Write your own vows, include cultural rituals (e.g., a unity sand ceremony), or invite a friend to officiate.
• Cost: Symbolic packages start at $799, making them ideal for budget-conscious couples.

Pro Tip: Many couples choose a symbolic cruise wedding and a small legal ceremony at home. This lets them celebrate with loved ones on the cruise while handling paperwork locally.

Which Should You Choose?

Ask yourself:

• Do you need a legally recognized marriage for visa, insurance, or name-change purposes?
• Are you comfortable navigating international marriage laws?
• Is the ceremony about romance, tradition, or both?

If legal status is essential, opt for a legal onboard ceremony. If it’s about the experience, a symbolic wedding offers more freedom.

Wedding Packages and Costs: What’s Included?

Carnival offers tiered wedding packages to suit every budget and vision. Below is a breakdown of their 2024 offerings, along with real-world examples and money-saving tips.

Package Options and Pricing

Package Name	Price (USD)	What’s Included	Best For
Classic	$1,499	Officiant, bouquet & boutonniere, cake, champagne toast, 30-min photography, décor	Intimate ceremonies (2–20 guests)
Elegance	$2,499	Everything in Classic + upgraded cake, 60-min photography, live music, floral centerpieces	Medium-sized weddings (20–50 guests)
Luxury	$3,999	Everything in Elegance + private cocktail hour, 90-min photography, premium décor, videography	Large weddings (50+ guests)
Destination Beach	$2,999+	Beachfront ceremony, officiant, bouquet, cake, champagne, photography, beach party setup	Beach lovers (e.g., Cozumel, Nassau)
Custom	$4,500+	Tailored to your needs (e.g., cultural rituals, unique venues, extended photography)	Couples with specific visions

Note: Prices vary by ship, itinerary, and season. Legal ceremonies add $200–$500 for paperwork and licensing.

What’s Not Included (and How to Save)

While Carnival’s packages are comprehensive, some extras require additional fees:

• Guest Accommodations: Each guest must book their own cabin. Carnival offers group discounts (e.g., 10% off for 8+ cabins).
• Flowers and Décor: Upgrading bouquets or adding specialty décor (e.g., arches, lanterns) costs $100–$500.
• Photography/Videography: Extra photo sessions or extended video coverage can add $300–$1,000.
• Transportation: For beach or port weddings, shuttles for guests cost $20–$50/person.

Money-Saving Tip: Skip the videography if you’re on a budget—Carnival’s photographers capture stunning moments, and guests can take photos on their phones. Also, book during Carnival’s “Wedding Wednesdays” (mid-week cruises) for package discounts.

Real-World Example: A Budget-Friendly Beach Wedding

A couple from Texas chose a 5-night Western Caribbean cruise with a Destination Beach package in Cozumel. They invited 30 guests, booked group cabins at $150/night, and added a private beach party for $500. Total cost: $8,000 (vs. $25,000 for a traditional Texas wedding). They saved by:

• Using Carnival’s standard bouquet (no upgrades).
• Skipping the videographer.
• Booking their cruise 10 months in advance for early-bird rates.

Planning Your Carnival Cruise Wedding: Step-by-Step

Planning a cruise wedding might seem daunting, but Carnival’s team and clear guidelines make it manageable. Follow these steps to ensure a seamless experience.

Step 1: Choose Your Itinerary and Date

Your cruise’s destination and duration will shape your wedding options. Consider:

• Caribbean: Ideal for beach weddings (e.g., Cozumel, Grand Cayman).
• Alaska: Perfect for nature-inspired ceremonies (e.g., Juneau, Skagway).
• Europe: Romantic port weddings (e.g., Santorini, Barcelona).

Tip: Avoid hurricane season (June–November) for Caribbean cruises. Peak wedding months are May–August and December (holidays).

Step 2: Book Your Cruise and Wedding Package

Contact Carnival’s Wedding Department (1-800-241-8875) or book online. You’ll need:

• Cruise reservation number.
• Preferred ceremony date/time.
• Number of guests.

Pay a $250 deposit to secure your package; the remainder is due 60 days pre-cruise.

Step 3: Customize Your Ceremony

Work with your wedding coordinator to:

• Select a venue (deck, beach, port).
• Choose décor (colors, floral themes).
• Plan the ceremony script (vows, readings).
• Arrange music (live band, DJ, or playlist).

Example: A couple added a “unity sand” ceremony to symbolize blending their lives, using sand from their home states.

Step 4: Prepare Legal Documentation (If Applicable)

For legal ceremonies, submit required documents (e.g., birth certificates, divorce decrees) 60–90 days pre-cruise. Carnival will guide you through the process.

Step 5: Coordinate with Guests

Create a wedding website (e.g., TheKnot, Zola) with:

• Cruise details (itinerary, cabin booking links).
• Wedding schedule (ceremony time, reception).
• Travel tips (packing, excursions).

Send save-the-dates 12+ months in advance.

Step 6: Pack Smart

Bring:

• Wedding attire (light fabrics for tropical climates).
• Rings, vows, and any personal décor.
• Legal documents (for legal ceremonies).

Pro Tip: Ship your gown to the cruise line ahead of time to avoid wrinkles.

Real Stories: Couples Who Got Married on Carnival

Nothing inspires like real-life examples. Here are three couples who transformed their cruise wedding dreams into reality.

Case Study 1: The Surprise Deck Wedding

Couple: Sarah and James, from Ohio.
Itinerary: 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise.
Package: Classic onboard ceremony.
Story: James proposed during a sunset sail, then surprised Sarah with a wedding on the Lido Deck two days later. They invited 25 guests, who thought they were just on a regular cruise. “The ocean view, the music, and our guests’ reactions made it magical,” Sarah said. They saved $12,000 vs. a local wedding.

Case Study 2: A Beachfront Family Celebration

Couple: Maria and Carlos, from Florida.
Itinerary: 5-night Cozumel cruise.
Package: Destination Beach with 60 guests.
Story: They wanted a Mexican-themed wedding and chose a private beach in Cozumel. Carnival arranged a mariachi band, taco bar, and piñata for kids. “Our families loved combining the wedding with a vacation,” Carlos said. They booked group cabins and saved on airfare by driving to Miami.

Case Study 3: The Second Marriage at Sea

Couple: Linda and Tom, from California.
Itinerary: 14-night Alaska cruise.
Package: Elegance onboard ceremony.
Story: After marrying legally in a courthouse, they celebrated with a symbolic ceremony in Juneau. They invited 10 close friends and incorporated a “ring warming” ritual. “The glaciers and whales made it feel spiritual,” Linda said. They used Carnival’s free photography for their wedding album.

Final Thoughts: Is a Carnival Cruise Wedding Right for You?

So, can you get married on Carnival Cruise Lines? Absolutely—and for many couples, it’s the perfect blend of romance, adventure, and convenience. Whether you crave the intimacy of a deck ceremony, the vibrancy of a beachfront party, or the grandeur of a port wedding, Carnival delivers a customizable, stress-free experience. The all-inclusive packages, stunning venues, and expert coordination make it a standout choice, especially for couples who want to celebrate their love while exploring the world.

Before booking, ask yourself: Do you value shared experiences with guests? Are you comfortable with a semi-structured timeline? If yes, a Carnival cruise wedding could be your ideal solution. Start planning early, communicate your vision clearly, and trust the process. As one couple put it, “We didn’t just get married—we created a week-long celebration that our guests still talk about.” So, set sail, say “I do,” and let the ocean carry your love into forever.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get married on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Yes, Carnival Cruise Lines offers wedding packages for both ceremonies and vow renewals at sea or on private islands like Half Moon Cay. Packages include an officiant, cake, photography, and more, tailored to your preferences.

What wedding packages does Carnival Cruise offer?

Carnival provides several customizable wedding packages, including “Classic,” “Elegant,” and “Premier,” with options for floral arrangements, music, and private receptions. All packages include a dedicated wedding planner to ensure a seamless experience.

Can you have a legal wedding on a Carnival cruise?

Yes, Carnival can arrange legally binding ceremonies performed by a licensed officiant, but requirements vary by departure port and destination. Couples must provide necessary documents (e.g., marriage license, ID) in advance.

How much does it cost to get married on a Carnival cruise?

Wedding packages start around $1,500, but prices vary based on inclusions like guest count, location (at sea or on land), and upgrades. Additional costs may apply for travel, attire, and extra services.

Can you bring guests to a Carnival cruise wedding?

Yes, you can include family and friends in your celebration, though Carnival requires all guests to book cruise cabins. Group rates and special arrangements may be available for large parties.

What destinations are best for a Carnival cruise wedding?

Popular options include Caribbean ports and Carnival’s private island, Half Moon Cay, which offers pristine beaches and scenic backdrops. The line also offers weddings in Alaska, Europe, and other itineraries.