Does Carnival Cruise Line Serve Guinness Find Out Here

Yes, Carnival Cruise Line serves Guinness on select ships, especially in their Irish-themed bars like the RedFrog Pub and Alchemy Bar. Availability may vary by ship and itinerary, so it’s best to check with guest services once onboard to confirm where you can enjoy a pint of the iconic stout.

Key Takeaways

• Guinness is available on most Carnival ships at select bars and pubs.
• Check your ship’s deck plan to locate bars serving Guinness before boarding.
• Drink packages may cover Guinness—review inclusions to save on costs.
• Seasonal or limited availability means it’s not guaranteed on every voyage.
• Request Guinness in advance via Carnival’s pre-cruise guest services.
• Alternative Irish beers are offered if Guinness is temporarily unavailable.

Does Carnival Cruise Line Serve Guinness? Find Out Here

Imagine this: you’re lounging on the sun-kissed deck of a Carnival Cruise Line ship, the ocean breeze in your hair, the sound of laughter filling the air, and you’re craving a rich, velvety Guinness. Whether it’s a post-deck party treat or a quiet moment to enjoy the sunset, the thought of sipping a pint of Ireland’s most iconic stout while at sea is undeniably appealing. But does Carnival Cruise Line serve Guinness? The answer isn’t as simple as a yes or no — it’s a nuanced journey through the cruise line’s beverage offerings, bar policies, ship-specific menus, and even seasonal promotions.

As one of the world’s most popular cruise lines, Carnival prides itself on offering a diverse and inclusive beverage experience, from craft cocktails to international beers. But when it comes to specific brands like Guinness, the availability can vary depending on the ship, itinerary, and even the time of year. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of Carnival’s drink menus, exploring whether your favorite Irish stout is on board, where to find it, how to order it, and what alternatives exist if it’s not. Whether you’re a lifelong Guinness lover, a curious beer enthusiast, or a first-time cruiser with a taste for the dark stuff, this article has the answers you need.

Understanding Carnival Cruise Line’s Beverage Program

Overview of the Drink Menu Structure

Carnival Cruise Line operates a vast and dynamic beverage program designed to cater to a wide range of tastes, from casual beer drinkers to connoisseurs of fine spirits. Their drink menus are typically categorized into several key sections:

• Beer & Cider: Includes domestic, imported, craft, and specialty brews.
• Wine & Champagne: Ranging from house selections to premium bottles.
• Cocktails & Mixed Drinks: From classic martinis to tropical tiki creations.
• Non-Alcoholic Options: Mocktails, sodas, juices, and specialty coffees.
• Specialty & Premium Selections: Often featured in specialty bars or during promotions.

Beer, in particular, plays a significant role in Carnival’s onboard offerings. With themed bars like the RedFrog Pub (a Caribbean-inspired hangout) and the Alchemy Bar (a craft cocktail lounge), the cruise line emphasizes both variety and regional authenticity. However, the inclusion of specific international brands like Guinness depends on supply chain logistics, regional demand, and corporate partnerships.

How Carnival Sources and Distributes Alcohol

Carnival’s beverage supply chain is a global operation. Ships are restocked at various ports during itineraries, and alcohol is sourced from regional distributors, often in collaboration with major beverage companies like Anheuser-Busch, Heineken, and Diageo — the parent company of Guinness. While Diageo is a major player in the alcohol industry, not all of its brands are automatically available on every Carnival ship.

For example, Guinness Draught and Guinness Extra Stout require specific handling — especially the draught version, which needs a pressurized keg system and trained staff to pour correctly. Not every Carnival bar is equipped with the Guinness Perfect Pour system, which is essential for serving the beer as it’s meant to be enjoyed (with that iconic two-part pour and creamy head). This logistical hurdle means that while the beer can be served, it’s not always available on every vessel or in every bar.

Seasonal and Themed Promotions

Carnival frequently runs themed events and seasonal promotions that can affect beer availability. For instance:

• St. Patrick’s Day Cruises: These are prime opportunities to find Guinness on the menu, often with special pricing, themed cocktails (like a “Guinness Martini”), and even live Irish music.
• International Beer Festivals: Some Carnival ships host onboard beer festivals featuring global brews, including Irish stouts.
• Caribbean & European Itineraries: Ships sailing in regions with high demand for European imports (e.g., Mediterranean cruises) are more likely to stock Guinness than those on short Bahamas trips.

Tip: If you’re planning a cruise around St. Patrick’s Day or during a beer festival, contact Carnival Guest Services in advance to inquire about Guinness availability on your specific sailing.

Guinness on Carnival: Ship-Specific Availability

Which Carnival Ships Serve Guinness?

Availability of Guinness varies significantly by ship. While newer, larger vessels like the Carnival Celebration, Mardi Gras, and Excel-class ships are more likely to feature international beers due to expanded bar spaces and upgraded beverage systems, older or smaller ships may not carry it regularly.

Based on passenger reports, social media reviews, and Carnival’s public bar menus, here are some insights:

• Carnival Mardi Gras & Celebration: Both feature the RedFrog Tiki Bar and The Brass Magnolia, which often list Guinness Draught on tap or in bottles. The RedFrog Pub on these ships is known for its international beer selection.
• Carnival Horizon & Vista: These ships include the RedFrog Pub and Alchemy Bar, where Guinness has been spotted during themed events or on special request.
• Carnival Breeze & Magic: Reports are mixed — some cruises have had bottled Guinness in the main dining room or pool bars, while others did not.
• Older Ships (e.g., Carnival Fantasy, Imagination): Less likely to carry Guinness due to limited bar space and fewer specialty beer offerings.

Pro Tip: Use the Carnival Hub App before and during your cruise. The app often lists real-time drink menus for each bar. Search for “Guinness” or check the beer section to see if it’s available on your ship.

Where to Find Guinness Onboard

If Guinness is available, here are the most common places to find it:

• RedFrog Pub: This is your best bet. Themed around Caribbean vibes with a nod to international brews, it often features Guinness Draught on tap during special events or as a seasonal offering.
• Pool Bars (e.g., BlueIguana Tequila Bar, Alchemy Bar): Some poolside bars carry bottled Guinness, especially on longer cruises or in regions with European clientele.
• Main Dining Room: On select nights (especially during themed dinners), the dining room may offer a limited beer menu that includes Guinness.
• Specialty Restaurants (e.g., Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse): Upscale venues sometimes feature premium beer pairings, and Guinness has been listed as a recommended pairing for steaks and desserts.
• Room Service: Unlikely, but not impossible. If the ship has Guinness in stock, you can call Guest Services to request a bottle — though availability isn’t guaranteed.

Note: Guinness is rarely available in the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat or spa areas, as these zones focus on non-alcoholic and light beverage options.

How to Ask for Guinness (Without Getting a Confused Look)

If you’re not seeing Guinness on the menu, don’t assume it’s unavailable. Here’s how to politely inquire:

• Be Specific: Say, “Do you carry Guinness Draught or Guinness Extra Stout?” (They may not have both.)
• Ask About Kegs: “Do you serve Guinness on tap, or only in bottles?” (Draught is more authentic but less common.)
• Request a Special Order: “I’d love to have a Guinness — is it possible to get one from another bar or from your stock room?”
• Talk to the Beverage Manager: If you’re a frequent cruiser or part of a group, the beverage manager may be able to arrange a special order for the duration of your trip.

Many crew members are trained to accommodate guest requests, especially for well-known brands. A polite, friendly inquiry can go a long way!

Alternatives to Guinness on Carnival Cruises

Other Irish Stouts and Dark Beers

If Guinness isn’t available, don’t despair — Carnival offers several excellent alternatives:

• Murphy’s Irish Stout: A slightly sweeter, less bitter cousin to Guinness. Often available in bottles and occasionally on tap.
• Beamish Irish Stout: Another Diageo-owned stout, known for its creamy texture and roasted flavor. Less common but sometimes featured.
• Left Hand Milk Stout Nitro: An American craft stout with a smooth, chocolatey profile. Served on nitrogen, it mimics the Guinness mouthfeel.
• Guinness Blonde: A lighter, lager-style beer from the Guinness brand — not a stout, but a good option if you’re open to something different.

These beers are often part of Carnival’s rotating craft beer program, especially in bars like the Alchemy Bar or RedFrog Pub.

Craft and Imported Beers with Similar Profiles

If you’re craving the rich, roasted, slightly bitter taste of Guinness, consider these alternatives:

• Founders Breakfast Stout: A full-bodied American stout with notes of coffee and chocolate. Available on some Carnival ships during craft beer events.
• Samuel Adams Black Lager: A dark, smooth lager with a clean finish — lighter than a stout but still satisfying.
• Newcastle Brown Ale: Not a stout, but a dark, malty beer with a similar depth. Widely available on Carnival.
• Hoegaarden Dark (if available): A Belgian dark wheat beer with subtle sweetness and spice.

Tip: Ask the bartender for a “dark, malty beer” or “something with a roasted flavor” — they may recommend a local craft brew or a seasonal import that fits your taste.

Guinness-Themed Cocktails (When the Real Thing Isn’t Available)

Some Carnival bars create Guinness-inspired cocktails when the beer isn’t on tap. These include:

• Black Velvet: A mix of Guinness and Champagne (or sparkling wine). If Guinness is available, this is a must-try.
• Guinness Martini: A creative blend of Guinness, espresso liqueur, and vodka — served in a martini glass with a chocolate rim.
• Stout Float: Guinness poured over vanilla ice cream. A dessert-like treat often featured in specialty bars.
• Guinness Punch: A tropical twist with Guinness, rum, pineapple juice, and lime — popular at pool bars.

Even if Guinness isn’t on the menu, these cocktails may still be available — especially during themed events or at the Alchemy Bar.

Cost and Value: How Much Does Guinness Cost on Carnival?

Pricing Structure for Beer Onboard

Beer prices on Carnival vary by type, bar, and time of day. Here’s a general breakdown:

Beer Type	Price Range (per 12-16 oz)	Where Typically Found
Domestic (e.g., Budweiser, Coors)	$6.50 – $7.50	Pool Bars, Lido Deck
Imported (e.g., Heineken, Corona)	$7.00 – $8.50	RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar
Craft Beer (e.g., Sierra Nevada, Lagunitas)	$8.00 – $9.50	Alchemy Bar, Specialty Restaurants
Guinness Draught (if available)	$8.50 – $10.00	RedFrog Pub, Specialty Bars
Bottled Guinness	$7.50 – $9.00	Dining Room, Pool Bars
Guinness-Themed Cocktails	$10.00 – $14.00	Alchemy Bar, Fahrenheit 555

As you can see, Guinness is priced at a premium, reflecting its international brand status and the complexity of serving it properly (especially draught).

Is the Drink Package Worth It for Guinness Lovers?

Carnival offers several drink packages, including the Cheers! Beverage Package, which covers beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks. But is it worth it for Guinness fans?

• Cheers! Package: Costs $59.95/day (plus 18% gratuity). If you plan to drink 6+ beers per day (including Guinness), it breaks even.
• Premium Package: Covers top-shelf liquors and premium wines — not necessary for beer drinkers.
• Beer-Only Options: Carnival doesn’t offer a standalone beer package, but the Cheers! package includes all beer.

Tip: If you’re only drinking Guinness a few times, paying per drink may be cheaper. But if you’re a heavy drinker or enjoy variety, the package offers value — especially during happy hours or themed events with discounted pours.

Tips for Maximizing Your Guinness Experience on Carnival

Pre-Cruise Research and Communication

• Check the Carnival Hub App: Before boarding, use the app to review your ship’s bar menus.
• Contact Guest Services: Email or call Carnival to ask about Guinness availability on your specific sailing.
• Join Cruise Forums: Sites like Cruise Critic often have threads like “Does [Ship Name] have Guinness?”

Onboard Strategies

• Visit the RedFrog Pub Early: Ask the bartender about Guinness — they may not list it on the menu but can serve it if available.
• Attend Themed Events: St. Patrick’s Day, Oktoberfest, and beer festivals are your best chances.
• Try the Perfect Pour: If Guinness Draught is on tap, ask for the traditional two-part pour and wait 119 seconds for the “surge and settle” — it’s part of the experience!

Bringing Your Own (With Caution)

Carnival allows guests to bring a limited amount of alcohol onboard (typically 1-2 bottles of wine or 6 beers per person). However:

• Guinness in Cans: Allowed, but you’ll need to store it yourself (no fridge in standard cabins).
• Guinness in Bottles: Permitted, but corkage fees may apply if consumed in dining areas.
• Check Current Policy: Carnival updates its alcohol policy annually — verify before packing.

While bringing your own Guinness ensures you’ll have it, it’s not as convenient as enjoying it in a bar with the full ambiance.

Conclusion: So, Does Carnival Serve Guinness?

The answer to “Does Carnival Cruise Line serve Guinness?” is a resounding maybe — but with a strong possibility if you know where and when to look. While Guinness is not guaranteed on every ship or in every bar, it is available on many Carnival vessels, especially newer, larger ships, during themed events, and in specialty bars like the RedFrog Pub and Alchemy Bar. The key is preparation: research your ship, time your cruise around festivals like St. Patrick’s Day, and don’t hesitate to ask crew members for help.

Even if Guinness isn’t on the menu, Carnival offers a wealth of alternatives — from other Irish stouts to craft dark beers and Guinness-inspired cocktails. With the right strategy, you can enjoy that rich, creamy flavor you love, whether it’s in a pint glass at sunset or a creative cocktail under the stars.

So pack your bags, raise a glass (or two), and set sail with confidence. Your Guinness moment at sea is closer than you think. And remember: on a Carnival cruise, the journey is just as important as the destination — especially when the destination includes a perfectly poured pint of dark, delicious perfection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Carnival Cruise Line serve Guinness on all its ships?

Yes, most Carnival Cruise Line ships offer Guinness on tap or in bottles at bars and pubs onboard, including the popular RedFrog Pub. Availability may vary slightly depending on the ship and itinerary.

Where can I find Guinness on a Carnival cruise?

Guinness is typically served at themed bars like the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar, or main pool bars. Check your ship’s daily schedule or Carnival Hub app for exact locations and happy hour specials.

Is Guinness included in Carnival’s drink packages?

Yes, Guinness is covered under Carnival’s Cheers! drink package, which includes draft and bottled beer. Without the package, it’s available for individual purchase at standard bar prices.

Does Carnival Cruise Line serve Guinness during international itineraries?

Guinness is generally available on all Carnival ships, but international sailings might feature local brews as well. The cruise line prioritizes offering familiar favorites like Guinness alongside regional options.

What other Irish beers does Carnival serve besides Guinness?

In addition to Guinness, Carnival often stocks Irish favorites like Harp Lager and Smithwick’s Ale, especially at RedFrog Pub. Ask your bartender about rotating seasonal or regional selections.

Can I request Guinness if it’s not on the initial menu?

Absolutely! Carnival’s guest services can often accommodate special requests. Contact them before your cruise or speak with bar staff onboard—they aim to please!