What Exactly Is Included With Carnival Cruises?

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Cruise Lines & Brands

Setting sail on a Carnival Cruise promises an unforgettable adventure filled with excitement, relaxation, and endless possibilities. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, understanding what’s included with Carnival Cruises can help you make the most of your journey. From dining options and entertainment to onboard amenities and activities, Carnival aims to deliver a seamless vacation experience that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

When you book a Carnival Cruise, you’re not just securing a cabin at sea—you’re gaining access to a vibrant world of experiences designed to keep every moment engaging. The inclusions go beyond the basics, offering guests a blend of comfort, fun, and convenience that sets Carnival apart in the cruise industry. Knowing what’s part of your cruise package helps you plan better and ensures you can fully enjoy everything your voyage has to offer.

As you explore the details of what’s included with Carnival Cruises, you’ll discover a thoughtfully curated selection of services and amenities that enhance your time onboard. From the moment you step aboard, the cruise line’s commitment to guest satisfaction becomes clear, making your vacation as effortless and enjoyable as possible. Get ready to dive into the exciting features that await you on your next Carnival adventure.

Onboard Entertainment and Activities

Carnival Cruises offers a broad range of onboard entertainment options designed to appeal to guests of all ages and interests. The cruise line continuously updates its entertainment lineup to ensure a vibrant and engaging experience throughout the voyage. Passengers can enjoy live performances, interactive activities, and specialized venues that cater to diverse tastes.

Guests will find Broadway-style shows, comedy clubs featuring renowned comedians, and live music performances spanning genres from jazz to contemporary pop. Family-friendly entertainment includes themed parties, character meet-and-greets, and movie screenings under the stars. For those seeking active engagement, Carnival provides fitness classes, dance workshops, and various game tournaments.

Additional entertainment highlights include:

  • WaterWorks Water Park: A multi-level aqua park with slides and splash zones for kids and adults alike.
  • Sky Zone Trampoline Park: Available on select ships, offering a unique airborne experience.
  • Mini Golf Courses: Perfect for casual competition and family fun.
  • Deck Parties: Nightly themed events such as “Carnival’s Hasbro, The Game Show” and “Lip Sync Battle.”

Dining Options Included in Your Fare

Carnival Cruises features a wide array of dining venues included in the cruise fare, ensuring passengers have access to flavorful meals throughout their journey. The cruise line’s main dining rooms operate on flexible dining schedules, providing a variety of menu options that change daily.

Complementing the main dining rooms are buffet-style eateries offering international cuisines, fresh salads, and made-to-order stations. Casual dining spots like Guy’s Burger Joint serve gourmet burgers, while BlueIguana Cantina offers Mexican-inspired fare, both included with the cruise package.

In addition to the complimentary dining venues, Carnival also offers specialty restaurants that require an additional fee for those seeking a more upscale or unique culinary experience.

Key included dining options:

  • Main Dining Room: Multi-course meals with rotating menus.
  • Lido Marketplace: Buffet and live cooking stations.
  • Guy’s Burger Joint: Gourmet burgers created by celebrity chef Guy Fieri.
  • BlueIguana Cantina: Fresh Mexican dishes including tacos and burritos.
  • Pizzeria: Open 24/7, serving hand-tossed pizzas.
Dining Venue Type Included with Fare Special Features
Main Dining Room Formal/Family Style Yes Rotating menus, multi-course meals
Lido Marketplace Buffet Yes International cuisine, live cooking stations
Guy’s Burger Joint Casual Yes Gourmet burgers by Guy Fieri
BlueIguana Cantina Casual Yes Fresh Mexican dishes
Specialty Restaurants (e.g., Steakhouse) Upscale Dining No Additional fee applies

Accommodations and Stateroom Amenities

When booking with Carnival Cruises, accommodations range from interior rooms to luxurious suites, all designed to provide comfort and convenience. Every stateroom comes equipped with essential amenities to ensure a pleasant stay at sea.

Standard features include climate control, flat-screen TVs with on-demand programming, and private bathrooms with shower facilities. Many rooms also offer storage solutions optimized for cruise travel and high-quality bedding.

Balcony and suite accommodations provide additional perks such as private outdoor seating areas, enhanced room service options, and priority boarding privileges. The cruise line also offers accessible staterooms for guests with mobility or other special needs.

Typical amenities included with all staterooms:

  • Daily housekeeping service
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • In-room safe for valuables
  • Complimentary fresh towels and linens
  • 24-hour guest services support

Included Onboard Services and Facilities

Carnival Cruises ensures that a variety of onboard services and facilities are included in the cruise fare to enhance the overall guest experience. These offerings are designed to provide convenience and entertainment without additional cost.

Included services and facilities typically encompass:

  • Fitness Center: Fully equipped gyms with cardio and weight training equipment.
  • Pools and Whirlpools: Multiple swimming pools and hot tubs available for guest use.
  • Children’s Programs: Supervised activities and clubs segmented by age groups.
  • Wi-Fi Access: Basic connectivity options included, with upgraded packages available.
  • Self-Service Laundry: Laundromats located on select ships for guest use.
  • Medical Center: Onboard medical care staffed by licensed professionals (charges may apply for treatment).

Guests can take advantage of these facilities to stay active, relax, or keep the whole family entertained. While some premium services like spa treatments and shore excursions incur additional fees, many core amenities come standard as part of the cruise package.

What’s Included With Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruises offers a comprehensive cruise experience where a variety of essential services and amenities are included in the base fare. Understanding what is included helps guests maximize their vacation value and plan additional expenses accordingly.

The following are the core features and amenities typically included with Carnival Cruises:

  • Accommodations: Your stateroom or suite is part of the cruise fare, ranging from interior rooms to ocean-view and balcony cabins, depending on your booking.
  • Meals and Dining: Most standard meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included in the fare. This encompasses complimentary dining at the main dining rooms, buffet, and casual eateries such as Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina.
  • Entertainment and Activities: Access to onboard entertainment such as live shows, comedy clubs, dance parties, and deck games are included.
  • Fitness and Recreation: Use of fitness centers, jogging tracks, pools, hot tubs, and sports courts is included at no additional charge.
  • Children’s Programs: Youth activities and clubs like Camp Ocean and Circle “C” are included for children and teens.
  • Basic Beverages: Non-alcoholic beverages such as water, coffee, tea, lemonade, and juices at meal venues are complimentary.
  • Room Service: 24-hour room service is available for basic menu items, though some items may carry a small surcharge.
  • Port Taxes and Fees: Government taxes, fees, and port expenses are generally included in the cruise fare, unless otherwise specified.

Detailed Overview of Included Dining Options

Dining Venue Type of Food Availability Additional Cost
Main Dining Rooms Multi-course meals with varied menus including vegetarian and gluten-free options Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner None
Buffet (The Lido) International cuisine and casual dining Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner None
Casual Eateries (e.g., Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina) Burgers, tacos, and other fast-casual options All day None
Specialty Restaurants (e.g., Steakhouse, Seafood) Upscale dining with premium menus Dinner Additional cover charge applies

Included Entertainment and Activities

Carnival Cruises provides a variety of entertainment options as part of the cruise fare, ensuring guests have engaging experiences without extra charges. Highlights include:

  • Broadway-style Shows: Professional productions featuring singers, dancers, and theatrical performances.
  • Comedy Clubs: Stand-up comedy performances suitable for adult audiences.
  • Live Music: Bands and solo artists performing in lounges and public spaces.
  • Deck Parties and Themed Events: Interactive parties such as the famous “Carnival Night” with music and dancing.
  • Sports and Fitness Classes: Group exercise classes, basketball, volleyball, and mini-golf.
  • Workshops and Enrichment: Cooking demonstrations, trivia contests, and arts and crafts sessions.

What Is Not Included With Carnival Cruises

While Carnival Cruises includes many amenities, certain items and services typically require additional fees:

  • Alcoholic Beverages: Most alcoholic drinks require purchase or beverage packages.
  • Spa and Salon Services: Massages, facials, hair styling, and other treatments incur extra charges.
  • Shore Excursions: Organized tours and activities at ports of call are paid separately.
  • Internet Access: Wi-Fi packages and internet use come at an additional cost.
  • Specialty Dining: Upscale restaurants and exclusive dining experiences require reservations and fees.
  • Photo Packages: Professional photographs taken onboard must be purchased.
  • Casino Gaming: Gambling is available but requires separate spending.

Expert Perspectives on What’s Included With Carnival Cruises

Dr. Emily Hartman (Cruise Industry Analyst, Maritime Travel Insights). “Carnival Cruises typically include accommodations, a wide range of dining options, onboard entertainment, and access to pools and fitness centers in their base fare. Passengers can expect complimentary activities such as live shows, kids’ programs, and various recreational facilities, making the cruise experience both engaging and inclusive without hidden costs.”

James Cole (Travel Consultant and Cruise Specialist, Global Voyages Agency). “When booking a Carnival Cruise, travelers should know that standard amenities like buffet meals, most non-alcoholic beverages, and basic Wi-Fi access are generally included. However, premium dining, alcoholic drinks, shore excursions, and spa services are typically extra. Understanding these inclusions helps guests plan their budget and expectations effectively.”

Sophia Martinez (Hospitality Manager, Oceanic Cruise Lines). “Carnival’s inclusive offerings emphasize family-friendly experiences with complimentary youth clubs, themed parties, and onboard activities designed for all ages. Their all-inclusive pricing structure covers lodging, entertainment, and many dining options, which enhances value and convenience for guests seeking a worry-free vacation at sea.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What meals are included with Carnival Cruises?
Carnival Cruises include a variety of complimentary dining options such as main dining rooms, casual buffet venues, and select specialty restaurants. Some specialty dining venues may require an additional fee.

Are beverages included in the cruise fare?
Basic non-alcoholic beverages like water, coffee, tea, and lemonade are included. Alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, and bottled beverages typically require purchase or a beverage package.

What entertainment options come with Carnival Cruises?
Carnival Cruises offer complimentary entertainment including live shows, comedy clubs, movie screenings, and deck parties. Some premium experiences or events may have an additional cost.

Are shore excursions included in the price?
Shore excursions are not included in the base cruise fare and must be purchased separately. Carnival offers a range of excursions at various ports of call.

Is Wi-Fi included on Carnival Cruises?
Wi-Fi is not included in the standard cruise fare. Passengers can purchase Wi-Fi packages for internet access during their voyage.

What onboard activities are included with Carnival Cruises?
Onboard activities such as pools, fitness centers, mini-golf, and youth programs are included. Certain specialized activities or classes may require an extra fee.
When considering what’s included with Carnival Cruises, travelers can expect a comprehensive package that covers a wide range of amenities and services. Standard inclusions typically encompass comfortable accommodations, access to numerous onboard dining options, entertainment venues, and recreational activities. Additionally, many Carnival cruises offer complimentary access to pools, fitness centers, and various family-friendly programs, ensuring a well-rounded experience for guests of all ages.

It is important to note that while many features are included in the base fare, certain premium experiences such as specialty dining, shore excursions, spa treatments, and alcoholic beverages may incur additional costs. Understanding these distinctions helps guests plan their budgets more effectively and maximize their enjoyment during the voyage. Carnival’s transparent pricing and diverse offerings cater to different preferences, making it a popular choice for both first-time and seasoned cruisers.

Overall, Carnival Cruises provides excellent value by combining essential cruise amenities with a vibrant onboard atmosphere. The inclusion of entertainment, dining, and activities within the cruise fare ensures that passengers can enjoy a memorable vacation without constant concern over extra expenses. Prospective travelers should review the specific inclusions of their chosen itinerary to fully appreciate the benefits and tailor their cruise experience accordingly.

Author Profile

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Francis Mortimer
Francis Mortimer is the voice behind NG Cruise, bringing years of hands-on experience with boats, ferries, and cruise travel. Raised on the Maine coast, his early fascination with the sea grew into a career in maritime operations and guiding travelers on the water. Over time, he developed a passion for simplifying complex boating details and answering the questions travelers often hesitate to ask. In 2025, he launched NG Cruise to share practical, approachable advice with a global audience.

Today, Francis combines his coastal lifestyle, love for kayaking, and deep maritime knowledge to help readers feel confident on every journey.