Do Kids Pay on Carnival Cruise Lines Find Out Here

Kids do pay on Carnival Cruise Lines, but the cost varies by age, stateroom type, and sailing duration—infants under 2 often sail free or at a steep discount. While base fares for children start as low as $49 on select sailings, additional taxes, port fees, and optional kids’ programs can increase the total price. Always check Carnival’s official website for current promotions, including Kids Sail Free offers, to maximize savings on family cruises.

Key Takeaways

• Kids under 2 cruise free on most Carnival sailings—check eligibility early.
• Youth discounts apply for ages 2–17; book early for best deals.
• Family suites save with bundled pricing for larger groups.
• Promotions change often—watch for kids-sail-free offers seasonally.
• Third/fourth guests pay reduced rates on many staterooms.
• Verify age cutoffs at booking—policies vary by destination.

Do Kids Pay on Carnival Cruise Lines? Find Out Here

Planning a family vacation can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to budgeting. One of the most common questions families ask when considering a Carnival Cruise Line vacation is: Do kids pay on Carnival Cruise Lines? The answer isn’t always straightforward, but understanding the pricing structure, available discounts, and special promotions can make a significant difference in your travel planning. Carnival Cruise Line, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and “Fun Ships,” offers a variety of options for families, making it one of the most popular cruise lines for children and parents alike.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the pricing policies for kids on Carnival Cruise Lines. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this article will help you understand how Carnival handles child fares, the best ways to save money, and what to expect when booking for your little ones. From age-based pricing to special promotions, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make your family cruise both affordable and unforgettable. So, if you’re wondering whether your kids can sail for free, how to get discounts, or what amenities are included for children, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s set sail on this informative journey!

Understanding Carnival Cruise Line’s Pricing Structure for Kids

When it comes to pricing, Carnival Cruise Line operates on a tiered system that varies depending on the age of the child, the stateroom type, and the length of the cruise. Unlike some luxury cruise lines that offer flat-rate pricing, Carnival’s approach is more flexible, which can benefit families with multiple children or those traveling with infants and toddlers.

Age-Based Pricing Categories

Carnival divides its child pricing into three main categories:

• Infants (under 2 years): Children under the age of 2 at the time of sailing are generally considered “infants” and are subject to a significantly reduced fare. While they don’t occupy a bed, they still require a ticket and must be registered in the cruise booking system. Infant fares typically range from 10% to 25% of the adult fare, depending on the itinerary and stateroom type.
• Children (ages 2–11): Kids in this age group are charged a full fare, but Carnival often includes them in special promotions such as “Kids Sail Free” or “Kids Sail for $99.” These deals can dramatically reduce the cost of bringing your children onboard.
• Teens (ages 12–17): Teenagers are charged the same rate as adults. However, they are still considered “youth” for the purpose of onboard programming and may qualify for youth-specific activities and discounts on certain excursions.

Stateroom Configuration and Occupancy Rules

The cost for kids also depends on the stateroom type and how many people are sharing the room. Carnival allows up to four guests per standard stateroom, and the pricing is based on the number of adults and children in the room. Here are some key points:

• Third and Fourth Passengers: When a stateroom is occupied by three or four people, the third and fourth guests (usually children) are charged at a reduced rate. This is one of the most cost-effective ways to bring kids on a cruise.
• Suite Upgrades: If you’re booking a suite or a larger cabin, the savings on third and fourth passengers can be even more significant. Suites often include perks like priority boarding, concierge service, and extra space—ideal for families.
• Infant Crib Policy: Carnival provides complimentary cribs for infants, but they must be requested in advance. These are available in most stateroom categories, including interior and ocean-view cabins.

Tip: Always confirm the exact pricing for your specific sailing date and cabin type by using Carnival’s online fare calculator or speaking with a travel agent. Prices can fluctuate based on demand, season, and promotions.

How to Get Kids to Sail for Free or at a Discount

One of the biggest attractions of Carnival Cruise Line for families is the frequent availability of promotions that allow children to sail for free or at a deeply discounted rate. These deals are not always advertised prominently, so knowing where and when to look can save you hundreds of dollars.

Kids Sail Free (KSF) Promotions

The Kids Sail Free (KSF) promotion is one of Carnival’s most popular family deals. Under this offer, children ages 2–11 can sail for free when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare adults. Here’s how it works:

• The promotion applies to the third and fourth child in a stateroom.
• It’s typically available on select sailings, especially during off-peak seasons (e.g., January–March, September–November).
• The offer is usually valid for 3- to 7-night cruises.
• Government taxes and fees still apply to the child, but the base fare is waived.

Example: A 5-night Caribbean cruise with two adults and two kids (ages 5 and 8) might cost $1,800 for the adults and $0 for the kids under KSF—saving you over $900 compared to full fare.

Kids Sail for $99 (or Less)

When the Kids Sail Free promotion isn’t available, Carnival often runs a Kids Sail for $99 deal. This is still a significant discount, especially on longer itineraries. Some sailings may even offer kids for $49 or $79, depending on the departure date and destination.

• This deal usually applies to third and fourth guests in a stateroom.
• It’s more common on last-minute bookings or during flash sales.
• Like KSF, taxes and fees are extra.

Military, Senior, and Resident Discounts with Child Inclusions

Carnival offers special rates for military personnel, seniors, and residents of certain states (e.g., Florida, Texas, California). These discounts can be combined with child promotions in some cases. For example:

• A Florida resident booking a cruise might receive a 10% discount on adult fares, and their two kids could sail for $99 each—resulting in a total family savings of over $400.
• Military discounts (up to 20%) can be applied to the first two passengers, and children can still qualify for KSF or $99 fares.

Pro Tip: Always check the “Special Offers” section on Carnival.com and sign up for their email newsletter. Flash sales and limited-time promotions are often announced there first.

What’s Included for Kids on Carnival Cruise Lines

Even if kids don’t sail for free, Carnival ensures that children get a lot of value for their fare—and for their parents’ peace of mind. The onboard experience for kids is one of the strongest selling points of a Carnival cruise.

Camp Ocean Kids Program

Carnival’s Camp Ocean is a fully supervised, age-appropriate kids’ program available from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. It’s included in your cruise fare and offers:

• Penguins (ages 2–5): Storytime, arts and crafts, music, and playtime with trained counselors.
• Sharks (ages 6–8): Science experiments, scavenger hunts, and interactive games.
• Jellyfish (ages 9–11): Team challenges, trivia, and creative workshops.

Camp Ocean is free for all children, regardless of how much they paid to sail. Parents can drop off kids for a few hours or the entire day, making it easy to enjoy adult activities like spa treatments, fine dining, or shore excursions.

Circle “C” and Club O2 for Teens

For older kids, Carnival offers two dedicated teen zones:

• Circle “C” (ages 12–14): A hangout space with video games, movies, karaoke, and social events. Supervised by staff and open until late.
• Club O2 (ages 15–17): A more mature lounge with dance parties, pool tables, and themed nights. Teens can enjoy independence while still being in a safe, monitored environment.

Both programs are included in the cruise fare and do not require additional fees.

Family-Friendly Dining and Activities

Beyond the kids’ clubs, Carnival offers numerous family-friendly amenities:

• Kids Eat Free: Children 11 and under eat free at most onboard restaurants, including the Lido Buffet, Guy’s Burger Joint, and BlueIguana Cantina. Special kids’ menus are available at the main dining rooms.
• Family Game Shows: Interactive games like “Family Feud” and “Deal or No Deal” are held in the main theater and are open to all ages.
• WaterWorks and SplashZone: Water parks with slides, spray zones, and splash pads are free to use and a major hit with kids.
• Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, live music, and deck parties are designed to appeal to all age groups.

Tip: Download the Carnival HUB app before your cruise. It includes daily schedules for kids’ activities, dining reservations, and real-time updates on events.

Booking Strategies to Minimize Costs for Families

Even with promotions and included amenities, cruise prices can add up. Smart booking strategies can help families save significantly—especially when traveling with multiple children.

Book Early for the Best Deals

Carnival releases itineraries up to 18 months in advance, and the best promotions (like Kids Sail Free) are often available during the initial booking window. Here’s why early booking pays off:

• More stateroom options, including family-friendly cabins with extra space.
• Higher chances of qualifying for limited-time promotions.
• Ability to lock in rates before price increases due to demand.

Example: A family booking a 7-night Alaska cruise 12 months in advance might secure a balcony cabin with two adults and two kids for $2,500 total—compared to $3,800 if booked 3 months before departure.

Use a Travel Agent with Carnival Expertise

While booking online is convenient, working with a travel agent who specializes in Carnival cruises can unlock additional savings and perks:

• Agents often have access to exclusive group rates or private promotions.
• They can help you stack discounts (e.g., resident + military + KSF).
• Agents can monitor price drops and re-book your cruise at a lower rate—sometimes even after you’ve paid.

Many Carnival-focused agencies also offer onboard credits, free upgrades, or prepaid gratuities as part of their service.

Consider Off-Peak and Repositioning Cruises

Traveling during shoulder or off-peak seasons (e.g., September, early December, or post-holiday January) can result in lower fares and higher chances of promotions. Additionally, repositioning cruises—where the ship moves between regions (e.g., from Florida to Europe)—often have steep discounts and fewer kids onboard, making them ideal for families seeking a quieter experience.

Bonus Tip: Book a cabin near the Camp Ocean or Circle “C” to minimize walking with kids. Use Carnival’s deck plans to select the most convenient location.

Real-Life Examples and Cost Breakdowns

To help you visualize the savings, here are three real-life scenarios based on actual Carnival cruise bookings. All prices are approximate and include base fares, taxes, and fees.

Example 1: 5-Night Bahamas Cruise (Peak Season)

• Departure: Miami, July
• Stateroom: Interior, 4 people (2 adults, 2 kids ages 4 and 7)
• Promotion: Kids Sail Free
• Adult Fare: $699 each ($1,398 total)
• Child Fare: $0 (base fare waived)
• Taxes & Fees: $180 per person ($720 total)
• Total Cost: $2,118
• Savings: $900+ vs. full fare for kids

Example 2: 7-Night Caribbean Cruise (Off-Peak)

• Departure: Galveston, October
• Stateroom: Balcony, 4 people (2 adults, 2 teens ages 13 and 16)
• Promotion: Kids Sail for $99 (applies to both teens)
• Adult Fare: $899 each ($1,798 total)
• Teen Fare: $99 each ($198 total)
• Taxes & Fees: $220 per person ($880 total)
• Total Cost: $2,876
• Savings: Over $1,200 vs. adult fares for teens

Example 3: 4-Night Mexico Cruise (Last-Minute Booking)

• Departure: Long Beach, March
• Stateroom: Ocean View, 3 people (2 adults, 1 child age 5)
• Promotion: Third Guest for $99
• Adult Fare: $599 each ($1,198 total)
• Child Fare: $99
• Taxes & Fees: $160 per person ($480 total)
• Total Cost: $1,777
• Savings: Over $500 vs. full fare

Data Table: Average Child Fares by Cruise Length and Promotion

Cruise Length	Promotions Available	Typical Child Fare (Ages 2–11)	Infant Fare (Under 2)
3–4 Nights	Kids Sail Free, Kids Sail $99	$0–$99	$50–$120
5–6 Nights	Kids Sail Free, Kids Sail $99, Third Guest $99	$0–$129	$75–$150
7+ Nights	Kids Sail $99, Third Guest $99, Resident Discounts	$99–$199	$100–$200
Repositioning Cruises	Flash Sales, Group Rates	$49–$149	$75–$175

Note: All fares are approximate and subject to change. Always verify with Carnival or a travel agent for the most accurate pricing.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Carnival Cruise with Kids

So, do kids pay on Carnival Cruise Lines? The short answer is: sometimes, but often at a significant discount—or even for free. Carnival Cruise Line is one of the most family-friendly cruise operators in the world, offering flexible pricing, generous promotions, and an abundance of activities designed to keep children entertained and engaged throughout the journey.

By understanding the age-based pricing structure, taking advantage of Kids Sail Free and Kids Sail for $99 promotions, and booking strategically, families can enjoy a high-value vacation without breaking the bank. Add in free kids’ programs like Camp Ocean and Circle “C,” complimentary dining options, and spacious staterooms designed for families, and it’s easy to see why Carnival is a top choice for multigenerational travel.

Remember: early booking, smart use of promotions, and leveraging travel agents are your best tools for minimizing costs. Whether you’re sailing to the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Alaska, or beyond, Carnival ensures that kids aren’t just accommodated—they’re celebrated. So pack your bags, download the Carnival HUB app, and get ready for a vacation where both parents and children can relax, explore, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do kids pay on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Yes, children are charged based on their age and stateroom occupancy, but Carnival often offers special discounts and promotions for kids. Always check the “Kids Sail Free” or reduced-rate offers during booking.

What is the age range for kids’ pricing on Carnival cruises?

Carnival Cruise Lines defines “kids” as guests aged 2–11, while infants under 2 are charged a reduced fare. Teens (12–17) typically pay adult rates but may qualify for youth discounts on select sailings.

Does Carnival Cruise Lines offer free cruises for kids?

Carnival’s popular “Kids Sail Free” promotion allows children (2–11) to cruise free when occupying the same stateroom as two full-fare adults. This does kids pay on Carnival Cruise Lines deal is seasonal, so verify eligibility during checkout.

Are there extra fees for kids’ activities on Carnival?

No, most kids’ programs (like Camp Ocean) and family activities are included in the cruise fare. Specialty experiences (e.g., arcade games or babysitting) may incur additional costs.

How does Carnival’s kids’ pricing compare to other cruise lines?

Carnival is competitive, often undercutting rivals with frequent promotions like free or $99 kids’ fares. Their does kids pay on Carnival Cruise Lines policy focuses on affordability, especially for families booking multiple cabins.

Do infants have to pay on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Yes, but infants under 2 receive a significantly reduced fare (often 25% of adult pricing). This covers port fees and taxes, as all passengers must be accounted for onboard.