Have You Ever Been on a Carnival Cruise?

Yes, I have, and it wasn’t our worst cruise—namely, it wasn’t on the NCL. That said, I wouldn’t go back. I much prefer Celebrity Cruises. The experience was much more chilled out, with fewer children, and the food was of better quality.

Comparing Carnival with Vegas

When I think of Carnival, it kind of reminds me of what Vegas looked like in the early 1990s, before it got upgraded with new, larger hotels. This isn’t a criticism; on the contrary, the positive side is that Carnival gets out of port earlier on sailing days. However, if you're attracted to the kind of crowd that frequents the Mary Jane Smoke or the rowdy party goers who vomit in your hall at 3 in the morning, then Carnival might be just your cruise line. While it isn’t bad, it can be.

A Family Cruise Experience

Our first cruise was on Carnival, and it was almost our last. We simply don’t party, and we have issues with drunk people in our hall at 3:00 AM. Our next cruises were on Holland America and Celebrity, and it was then that we became fans.

One of our memorable cruises was when we took a large family cruise a couple of years ago, which included grandchildren ranging from 6 months to those in their mid-twenties. We specifically chose Royal Caribbean because it has something for almost everyone, and it was great.

Carnival’s Reputation: Party or Chill?

Carnival is known for being party ships, and we've met many cruise-goers who confirm this reputation. If that's what you are looking for, then enjoy your time on Carnival. However, if you're more of a laid-back type who cringes at the thought of rowdy parties and excess, then you might want to steer clear. Celebrity, on the other hand, might be worth considering for a more tranquil experience.

In conclusion, when choosing a cruise line, it's essential to know your preferences. Carnival is a great choice for those who enjoy a lively and lively atmosphere, but for those seeking a more relaxed and family-friendly environment, Celebrity might be a better fit. Remember that Carnival, NCL, and other cruise lines each have their own unique styles and reputations.

Try to find the cruise that best aligns with your interests and desires. Whether you're looking for a chilled out experience or a party atmosphere, or something in between, there's a cruise out there that suits you perfectly.