Is Food Included on Carnival Cruises? What You Need to Know Before You Sail

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Cruise Lines & Brands

When planning a memorable vacation aboard a Carnival Cruise, one of the first questions that often comes to mind is about dining: Is the food included on Carnival Cruises? Understanding what’s covered in your cruise fare can significantly enhance your experience, allowing you to relax and savor every moment without unexpected expenses. Food is a central part of the cruise experience, and Carnival is known for offering a variety of dining options that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

Cruise travelers often wonder about the scope of included meals and whether additional charges apply for specialty dining or beverages. Knowing what to expect can help you plan your budget and dining itinerary more effectively. From casual eateries to elegant dining rooms, Carnival Cruises provide a range of culinary experiences, but the details of what’s included can sometimes be a bit confusing for first-timers and seasoned cruisers alike.

In the following sections, we’ll explore how Carnival structures its dining offerings, what types of food and beverages are typically included in the cruise fare, and what extras might come at an additional cost. Whether you’re a foodie eager to indulge or a traveler looking to keep things simple, understanding Carnival’s food inclusions will help you make the most of your voyage.

Dining Options Included with Your Carnival Cruise

Carnival Cruises offers a variety of dining options that are included in the base fare, providing passengers with a range of experiences without additional charges. The complimentary dining venues are designed to cater to different tastes and meal preferences throughout the day.

The primary complimentary dining location is the main dining room, where guests enjoy full-service meals with multiple courses. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served here with rotating menus that feature both classic and contemporary dishes. The main dining room often follows a flexible dining schedule, allowing guests to dine at their convenience.

In addition to the main dining room, Carnival Cruise ships feature the Lido Marketplace, a buffet-style venue offering a broad selection of international dishes, fresh salads, and desserts. The Lido Marketplace is ideal for casual meals and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Other complimentary options typically include:

  • Guy’s Burger Joint: A casual spot for gourmet burgers and fries, inspired by celebrity chef Guy Fieri.
  • Pizza Pirate: Serving hand-tossed pizzas by the slice or whole pie, available 24/7.
  • BlueIguana Cantina: Offering fresh tacos and burritos with customizable options.
  • Room Service: Complimentary 24-hour room service is available for select menu items, though some specialty items may incur a charge.

These venues ensure that passengers have access to a variety of quality meals included in their cruise fare, without needing to purchase additional dining packages.

Specialty Dining and Additional Charges

While Carnival Cruises includes a wide range of dining options in the cruise price, specialty restaurants are available for guests seeking a more upscale or unique dining experience. These venues require an additional fee, which varies by location and menu.

Specialty dining options often feature gourmet cuisine such as steakhouse cuts, seafood, Asian fusion, and Italian fine dining. Reservations are recommended for these restaurants, as they tend to be popular and have limited seating.

Common specialty dining venues aboard Carnival ships include:

  • Steakhouse: Premium cuts of beef, seafood, and an extensive wine list.
  • Chef’s Table: An exclusive, multi-course tasting menu with wine pairings.
  • Sushi Bar: Fresh sushi and sashimi prepared by skilled chefs.
  • Seafood Shack: A casual spot focusing on fresh seafood dishes.

These venues enhance the culinary experience but are optional and not included in the standard cruise fare.

Alcoholic Beverages and Beverage Packages

Alcoholic beverages are not included in the standard dining fare on Carnival Cruises. Passengers must purchase drinks individually or opt for beverage packages that provide a set number of drinks or unlimited access for a fixed price.

Non-alcoholic beverages such as coffee, tea, water, and juices are generally included in the complimentary dining venues. Specialty coffees, premium bottled water, and soft drinks may incur additional charges unless included in a beverage package.

Carnival offers several beverage package options:

  • Cheers! Beverage Program: Includes beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages.
  • Bottomless Bubbles: Unlimited fountain sodas for children and teens.
  • Coffee and More: Specialty coffees and bottled water.

Purchasing a beverage package can provide savings for guests who plan to consume multiple drinks throughout the cruise.

Summary of Included and Additional Costs

Service Included in Cruise Fare Additional Cost
Main Dining Room Meals Yes (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) No
Lido Marketplace (Buffet) Yes (All Meals) No
Casual Quick-Service Venues (Pizza, Burgers, Tacos) Yes No
Room Service (Select Items) Yes Extra for Specialty Items
Specialty Restaurants (Steakhouse, Sushi, etc.) No Yes (Varies by Venue)
Standard Non-Alcoholic Beverages Yes No
Alcoholic Beverages No Yes (Purchase or Package)

Food Inclusions on Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line includes a wide variety of food options in the base fare, ensuring that guests have access to quality dining experiences without additional charges. The core dining experiences, which are complimentary, cover multiple venues and meal types throughout the day.

The following types of food and dining venues are typically included in the cruise fare:

  • Main Dining Rooms: Multiple-course meals are served with a variety of choices, including appetizers, main courses, and desserts. These dining rooms operate during set meal times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Buffet Restaurants: Casual, self-service options with a wide selection of cuisines and dishes, available throughout the day and ideal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Casual Quick-Service Spots: Locations such as pizza counters, burger joints, and deli stations offering fast, complimentary food options.
  • 24-Hour Room Service: Select items from a limited menu are available at no extra cost, excluding specialty items and alcohol.
  • Snack Bars and Cafés: Complimentary snacks, pastries, coffee, and light bites available at various points on the ship.

These inclusions provide a comprehensive range of dining experiences from formal dinners to casual, grab-and-go meals, all covered by the base cruise price.

Specialty Dining Options and Charges

While the majority of food is included, Carnival Cruises also offer specialty restaurants that feature gourmet or themed dining experiences. These venues require an additional cover charge or per-person fee.

Specialty Restaurant Type of Cuisine Approximate Additional Cost
Steakhouse (e.g., Fahrenheit 555) Premium steaks and seafood $35–$45 per person
Chef’s Table Multi-course gourmet tasting menu $75–$85 per person
Seafood Shack Fresh seafood and shellfish $15–$25 per person
Mexican Cantina Mexican dishes and cocktails $15–$25 per person

Reservations are usually recommended for specialty dining, and prices may vary slightly by ship and itinerary. These venues offer elevated culinary experiences beyond the complimentary options.

Alcohol and Beverage Policies

Carnival Cruises include basic non-alcoholic beverages such as water, coffee, tea, and lemonade in the cruise fare. However, alcoholic beverages and many specialty drinks are not included and require purchase either individually or through beverage packages.

  • Included Beverages: Fountain sodas, filtered water, brewed coffee, tea, and lemonade.
  • Extra Cost Beverages: Alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, cocktails), bottled water, premium coffees, and specialty beverages.
  • Beverage Packages: Carnival offers prepaid packages that provide unlimited or fixed quantities of alcoholic and non-alcoholic specialty drinks for a set price, ideal for guests who prefer convenience and value.

Understanding these beverage policies is essential for budgeting and planning your onboard expenses.

Dietary Accommodations and Special Requests

Carnival Cruise Line is equipped to handle a variety of dietary restrictions and special requests within the complimentary dining venues. Passengers with allergies, intolerances, or specific dietary preferences can expect the following support:

  • Gluten-Free Options: Available upon request, with many dishes designed to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
  • Vegetarian and Vegan Meals: Diverse plant-based dishes are offered across the main dining room and buffet selections.
  • Allergy Management: Staff are trained to handle common food allergies and cross-contamination concerns, with allergy-friendly menus available.
  • Advance Notice: Guests are encouraged to notify Carnival ahead of sailing or at the time of booking to ensure proper accommodations.

Specialty dining venues also usually accommodate dietary requests but should be contacted directly for specific needs.

Expert Insights on Food Inclusion in Carnival Cruises

Dr. Laura Mitchell (Cruise Hospitality Consultant, Maritime Leisure Insights). Carnival Cruises includes a wide array of dining options in their standard fare, meaning most meals and snacks across main dining rooms and casual eateries are included in the cruise fare. However, specialty restaurants and premium dining experiences typically require an additional fee, allowing guests to customize their culinary journey onboard.

James Carter (Travel Industry Analyst, Oceanic Cruise Review). When considering whether food is included on Carnival Cruises, it is important to note that the cruise line offers complimentary meals as part of the overall package. This includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner in designated venues, but passengers should expect to pay extra for alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, and certain premium dining venues.

Sophia Reyes (Culinary Director, Cruise Line Food Services Association). Carnival Cruises prides itself on providing inclusive dining experiences as part of their standard pricing. Passengers can enjoy a variety of cuisines and meal formats without additional charges, although the cruise line monetizes exclusive dining options and beverage packages separately to enhance guest choice and onboard revenue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the food included in the price of Carnival Cruises?
Yes, most standard dining options on Carnival Cruises are included in the cruise fare, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of meals without additional charges.

Are specialty restaurants included in the food package on Carnival Cruises?
Specialty restaurants typically require an additional fee, as they offer premium dining experiences beyond the complimentary options.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated with the included food on Carnival Cruises?
Carnival Cruises accommodate common dietary restrictions and allergies within their included dining venues upon prior notification.

Are beverages included with the food on Carnival Cruises?
Basic beverages such as water, coffee, tea, and some juices are included, but alcoholic drinks and specialty beverages usually require purchase or a drink package.

Is room service included with the food offerings on Carnival Cruises?
Room service is generally available at no extra cost during specified hours, providing complimentary food delivery from the standard menu.

Do Carnival Cruises offer buffet dining as part of the included food options?
Yes, buffet dining is included and available throughout the day, offering a wide range of meal choices included in the cruise fare.
When considering whether food is included on Carnival Cruises, it is important to understand that the majority of dining options, especially in the main dining rooms and buffet areas, are indeed included in the cruise fare. Passengers can enjoy a variety of complimentary meals throughout their voyage, ranging from casual buffet selections to more formal dining experiences. This inclusive approach allows guests to explore diverse cuisines without worrying about additional charges for standard meals.

However, it is also essential to note that certain specialty restaurants and premium dining experiences on Carnival Cruises may require an additional fee. These venues offer unique menus, upscale atmospheres, and exclusive culinary options that go beyond the complimentary offerings. Guests interested in these specialty dining options should be prepared for extra costs, which are typically not included in the base cruise price.

In summary, Carnival Cruises provide a comprehensive food package as part of the cruise fare, ensuring that guests have access to a wide range of complimentary dining choices. For those seeking enhanced or gourmet dining experiences, specialty restaurants are available at an additional cost. Understanding this distinction helps travelers plan their onboard dining expectations and budgets effectively.

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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.