Ever found yourself aboard a Carnival Cruise, staring at your bill, wondering what’s included and what’s not? You’re not alone! When it comes to Carnival Cruise Line, the question “Are Carnival Cruises All Inclusive?” is one that bobs up and down in many a traveler’s mind. What does that “all-inclusive” really mean? Does it include the exotic shore excursions, or maybe the frozen yogurt at the Lido restaurant? Or are you looking at additional costs for specialty coffee and onboard activities?
Buckle up, dear sea-faring friends, as we set sail on a voyage to explore Carnival Cruise fare, disentangle the alluring allurements of all-inclusive packages, and uncover the mysteries of the main dining room, non-alcoholic beverages, and more. This article promises to be your compass, guiding you through the labyrinthine lanes of cruise fare, ensuring smooth sailing, and perhaps, a few chuckles along the way!
“All-inclusive.” Such an inviting phrase, yet it can be as slippery as a ship’s deck after a rain shower. When it comes to a Carnival Cruise, what does all-inclusive truly entail? Hold on to your captain’s hat, as we embark on an exploration.
In the cruise world, all-inclusive generally refers to your standard cruise fare covering the cost of your room (based on two friendly folks sharing), port fees, taxes, most meals (from hot chocolate in the morning to soft serve ice cream at midnight), gratuities, and yes, even the alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages that make your evenings sparkle. Sound like a dream? It’s not far off!
Seeking something more budget-friendly? You may stumble upon some Carnival Cruise packages that offer a twist on the all-inclusive concept. Opt into an inclusive fare package that includes extras like the Cheers package or Bottomless Bubbles, without sailing into uncharted financial waters.
Even if you’re booking one of the fancy Carnival Excel Suites, the perks might make the fare feel all-inclusive. Or, if it’s the all-you-can-sip experience you’re after, nearly every Carnival Cruise Ship provides an all-inclusive drink package for that open bar experience.
So whether it’s the lure of alcoholic drinks at the pool bar or the family harbor lounge’s comfort, knowing your cruise’s inclusiveness might require some extra reading glasses. But worry not, we’re here to help you navigate those cruise fare waters, ensuring you find the best Carnival Cruise line that fits your sailing shoes just right!
Advantages of Choosing All-Inclusive Packages
Imagine stepping on board, and instead of digging into your pockets for every bottled water or soft drink, you’re free to roam the ship with a gleeful, carefree attitude. That’s the magic of all-inclusive packages. No need to keep tabs on every iced tea or hot tub session, just indulge in the luxury and let the cruise take care of the rest. It’s the epitome of convenience!
Cost-effectiveness, you say? Aye, it’s true. Choosing an all-inclusive package might seem like a king’s ransom upfront, but when you add up the total cruise costs, including those special Enomatic wine machines or souvenir glasses, you might find that it’s a bounty of savings in disguise. No surprise additional fees, no extra money spent at the many dining venues – it’s like finding a treasure chest in your stateroom!
Now, let’s set sail to the island of amenities! With all-inclusive Carnival Cruise fare, you’re not just getting the standard fare. Oh no, it’s a cruise full of specialty restaurants, live entertainment, and perhaps even free fitness classes if you’re feeling the need to burn off those delicious non-alcoholic beverages.
Dreaming of specialty coffee served at your leisure, or maybe a pre-cruise Internet package to make your friends green with envy? These packages are not just about the main dining rooms and frozen yogurt; they often include unique features like exclusive access to the Family Harbor Lounge or bonus onboard activities that’ll make your cruise a remarkable adventure.
Bottom line? Choosing an all-inclusive package with Carnival Cruise Line is like selecting a first-class ticket to a floating paradise, complete with sparkling wine, beer buckets, and all the non-bottled water you can sip. From the convenience of pre-paid options to the splendor of additional amenities like video arcade fun and hot chocolate galore, it’s a one-way ticket to vacation bliss.
Are Carnival Cruises All-Inclusive?
The question has been raised like a grand ship’s sail: Are Carnival Cruises All Inclusive? It’s time to steer this ship into the waters of truth, and let me tell you, the journey is as exciting as a midnight buffet!
So, are Carnival Cruises like a never-ending treasure chest of all things inclusive? Well, that might not be entirely accurate, but don’t jump overboard just yet! The standard cruise fare will welcome you on board with comfy accommodation, most of the leisure facilities like hot tubs and live entertainment, and of course, the all-important access to the main dining rooms and buffets. You can indulge in all the soft-serve ice cream and hot chocolate your heart desires, all under the watchful eye of the onboard interactive TV system.
But wait, what about the extra treasures like alcoholic beverages, specialty restaurants, and select drinks? I hear you cry. Alas, dear cruise lover, these do indeed cost extra. But fear not! Carnival Cruises is all about options. With packages like Bottomless Bubbles (unlimited sodas for those non-stop energy drinks enthusiasts), and the Cheers package (covering most alcoholic drinks for the happy-hour heroes), you can make your cruise as ‘inclusive’ as your vacation dreams desire.
Want to enjoy Carnival Cruises without spending more than your original cruise fare? It’s possible! Pay your standard fare, stick to the free options, and you’ll sail smoothly into a great holiday. Just remember, those gratuities will still be waiting at the end of your cruise like seagulls at the harbor, so keep a few doubloons aside.
So, to answer the burning question: No, Carnival Cruises are not completely all-inclusive, but they’re packed with opportunities to tailor your experience. Whether it’s pre-purchasing drink packages or exploring the many dining venues on offer, you can navigate your cruise to fit your budget, all while savoring the Carnival Cruise line’s unique blend of fun and adventure.
Inclusions in Carnival Cruises
Set sail with Carnival Cruises and you’re in for a voyage filled with surprises! But what’s included in your ticket to oceanic adventure? Let’s dive into the waters of Carnival Cruises: Inclusions, navigating through the delightful array of offerings that come standard with your cruise fare. Anchors away!
Food and drinks
While dining in the Main Dining Room/Lido Restaurant is included in your cruise fare, you’ll discover a host of other options that can tantalize your taste buds.
- Bottomless Bubbles Package: Unleash the joy of unlimited juice and soda from any venue on board (except room service, minibar, and interactive television). Designed for one person at a time, this non-alcoholic delight ensures a refreshing cruise journey.
- Cheers Package: A comprehensive alcoholic drink package that encompasses spirits, cocktails under $20, beer, wine, alcohol-free cocktails, energy drinks, hot tea, and even non-alcoholic bottled drinks. Enjoy a discount on premium drinks, too! Note that some exceptions apply, such as beverages in a souvenir glass or bottles of liquor.
Though the Cheers package is tempting, Carnival Cruises charges $59.95 per guest plus an 18% service charge if purchased pre-cruise, or $64.96 per day per guest with the same service fee if bought on board. Some speculate that Carnival may introduce a more premium package with a higher price point in the future.
For those who wish to indulge in specialty dining, Carnival cruise ships offer a wide array of eateries, but not all are free. Complimentary breakfast and lunch might be available at specific specialty restaurants, but an evening meal might cost extra. Free delights like pizza, frozen yogurt, and ice cream are always available, though the 24/7 free ice cream and yogurt offering has been recently limited.
Watch out for special meals that may come with a charge in the Main Dining Room, such as Steakhouse Selections or prime cuts of meat. But fear not, most passengers find the offerings in the Lido Restaurant and Main Dining Room both varied and satisfying, with no need for additional fees.
Accommodations and Services
With Carnival Cruises, you’re not just booking a room; you’re securing a serene haven with a dedicated room attendant catering to your comfort twice a day. Whether you prefer interior cabins or wish to splurge on extravagant suites, the choices are plenty, with each stateroom category offering unique benefits.
Choosing the appropriate cabin affects the overall expenses of your cruise. Some cabin categories provide access to exclusive amenities like free fitness classes for Cloud 9 Spa staterooms or a secluded pool area for Havana staterooms. Families aren’t left behind, as Family Harbor staterooms offer special perks designed with families in mind.
When planning your Carnival cruise, reviewing the benefits of each cabin category ensures you find the perfect fit for your ocean voyage. Along with your accommodation, Carnival provides bundled deals that could include internet and drinks, helping you save money compared to individual purchases.
Flights
Booking a Carnival Cruise offers the possibility to include flights as an additional option, accompanied by transportation services to and from the airport. While booking flights separately might save you some money, it comes with the hassle of handling all the arrangements yourself. What if there’s a delay? If you’ve booked your flights as part of your cruise package, the ship might wait for you, giving you that extra peace of mind. Speak to your travel agent or carefully consider the balance between potential savings and the risk of delays.
Activities
All aboard for non-stop fun! Carnival Cruise Line ensures that boredom is left ashore. Whether you’re splashing around in one of the main pools, enjoying a hot tub session, or relaxing on a lounger, the pool deck is your go-to place for a sea day. Ever watched a movie by the pool? Dive-In Movies add a unique touch to your cruising experience.
Party lovers, rejoice! Carnival deck parties are renowned for their lively atmosphere. And that’s not all. Some ships in the Carnival fleet boast additional pools, Waterworks aquaparks with waterslides, and the adults-only Serenity Retreat. Want to stay active? Take pleasure in free sports deck activities such as basketball, ping pong, mini-golf, and the thrilling SkyRide—a suspended bike track available on Vista Class ships. Plus, modern fitness facilities, an outdoor jogging track, and the 18+ SkyFitness outdoor gym offer magnificent ocean views to accompany your workout.
Are kids on board? Fear not, young sailors aged 2-17 will find a sea of excitement with the Carnival Cruise Line’s youth programs, all included in the cruise fare.
- Camp Ocean: Little pirates aged 2-11 will set sail on a creative adventure with arts and crafts, games, movies, and more. From Penguins (2-5 years old) to Sharks (9-11 years old), there’s a fleet of fun waiting.
- Circle C & Club O2: Teens have their territory too! Dance parties, video games, and movies create a hangout for 12-14 years old at Circle C and a lively scene for those 15-17 at Club O2.
And the adventure doesn’t stop there! Carnival Cruise ships also sail with Dr. Seuss at Sea, a whimsical world of parades, interactive storytime, and character-filled Bookville. Immerse yourself in the excitement of Dive-In movie nights, engage in the Hasbro game show, and partake in SportSquare’s amicable contests during an unforgettable family holiday.
Entertainment
When the sun dips into the ocean, your Carnival cruise ship transforms into an entertainment oasis. Forget the pirate tales; the real treasures are the Playlist Productions, signature shows featuring a dazzling cast of singers and dancers, all ready to serenade you in the ship’s main theater. And the best part? No treasure map or advanced reservations are needed!
Looking for unique, family-friendly fun? Carnival Cruise Line has an anchor-full! Battle it out in Lip Sync Battle, solve a murder mystery with Clue, or laugh out loud with Family Feud Live. The ship’s afloat with interactive shows and thrilling games that make the Carnival Cruise Line stand out like a lighthouse on a stormy night.
For those who prefer a softer serenade, select ships that offer venues dedicated to piano music, comedy shows, sporting events, and live music that dances through the night, led by a DJ spinning tunes until the seagulls’ early call.
What Are the Exclusions in Carnival Cruise Packages?
Now that we’ve explored the rich tapestry of inclusions on a Carnival cruise, you might be thinking, “What’s the catch?” Like a skilled sailor navigating the waters, it’s essential to know the lay of the land—or, in this case, what doesn’t come with the standard cruise fare. So hoist the sails, and let’s navigate through the finer details of What Are the Exclusions in Carnival Cruise Packages? It’s time to chart these lesser-known territories!
Specialty Meals
If you want to indulge in a culinary adventure beyond the main dining room, Carnival cruise ships offer specialty dining restaurants with tailored menus. These delightful spots promise a taste of something extraordinary, but unlike the waves outside, these dishes aren’t free-flowing. Expect to pay a price akin to a restaurant on land for dinner, while some breakfast and lunch items might be complimentary. Got kids and a Family Haven suite? They’ll eat free in specialty dining restaurants, a perk to consider when you’re balancing your cruise fare.
Excursions on Shore
Ahoy, adventure seekers! When your Carnival cruise ship docks at thrilling ports of call, the urge to explore may beckon you. However, keep in mind that shore excursions are an add-on to your standard cruise fare. You can book various tours and experiences through the cruise line or third-party retailers, but they come at additional costs.
Whether you’re seeking an inexpensive walking tour or craving a unique experience worth hundreds of dollars, shore excursions are as varied as the fish in the sea. The price tags will depend on the destination, with Caribbean and Bahamas tours typically being more budget-friendly. So pack your spirit of adventure but don’t forget your wallet; exploring new lands might cost you some extra doubloons! 🏖️🌎
Alcoholic and Selected Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Ready to wet your whistle on the high seas with Carnival Cruise Line? You might need to take a second glance at your wallet. While you’re navigating the endless ocean waves, your favorite alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails, are not included in the standard cruise fare. It’s the same story for soda, specialty coffee, tea, and bottled water; these will all come with additional fees.
Fear not, for there’s a treasure to be found in the Cheers beverage package! For the thirsty sailors among us, this package offers a buffet of delights, including various non-alcoholic beverages, a selection of beers, wines by the glass, and top-quality spirits priced up to $20. While the alcoholic delights are limited to 15 a day, non-alcoholic drinks like energy drinks flow like the ocean’s tide.
Prefer something lighter? Carnival’s Bottomless Bubbles package is your port of call, covering only soft drinks and juices. Perfect for the little buccaneers and those who want to keep a steady hand at the helm!
Internet Connectivity (WiFi)
Let’s face it, in this connected age, going off the grid might seem like sailing into uncharted waters. If staying in touch with your landlubber friends or streaming your favorite pirate movie is crucial, you’ll have to buy an internet package. Neither WiFi nor the Carnival HUB app chat feature is included in the cruise fare.
Carnival offers various WiFi packages tailored to your cyber-seafaring needs. From basic social media connections to full-blown streaming capabilities, they’ve got you covered. Make sure to check your cruise planner for current rates, and remember, it’s usually cheaper to pre-purchase these plans before you set sail. Now, raise the Jolly Roger and surf the web like a true sea-faring digital pirate!
Tips and Gratuities
Setting sail with Carnival Cruise Line is like embarking on a journey filled with pleasure and fun. But hey, let’s not forget the hardworking crew behind the magic. Gratuities are an essential part of the cruise experience, paying homage to the tireless staff ensuring your comfort. These charges are obligatory for every passenger above the age of 2. For standard staterooms, the cost is $16 per individual per day, and for suites, it’s $18. Consider a family of four staying in a standard stateroom for 7 days; the total fee would be $448. Be mindful, as this amount will be appended to your account on the second-to-last night of the cruise. To avoid any last-minute surprises, you can choose to pre-pay your gratuities before sailing. That way, you can just relax and enjoy the sea breeze without any financial waves crashing your party.
Entertainment
While Carnival Cruise Line is known for its high-spirited entertainment, some extra thrills may cost a bit more. Ever wanted to watch a movie at an IMAX cinema on the sea or jump around in the Sky Zone trampoline park? How about experiencing the excitement of the Bolt roller coaster at sea? These unique features, though available on select ships, require a small additional fee. But wait, there’s more! Other paid entertainment includes gambling, video arcade games, and interactive favorites like Bingo and Deal or No Deal. So, if you’re up for an extra dose of fun, don’t forget to carry a little extra cash. Trust us, it’s worth every penny!
Spa Treatments
For those looking to indulge in ultimate relaxation, the Cloud 9 spa awaits you onboard. However, keep in mind that your standard cruise fare doesn’t cover this piece of heaven. From soothing massages, elegant nail services, teeth whitening, and hair treatments, to rejuvenating facials, Cloud 9 has it all. But that’s not it! The thermal suite with its heated chaise lounges, steam and sauna grottos, and a therapeutic Thalassotherapy Pool is an oasis you might want to plunge into. Access to this divine area requires the purchase of passes, ensuring an exclusive and tranquil experience. So, if you wish to feel like a celestial being floating on Cloud 9, remember, these ethereal treatments are extra—but oh, so worth it!
Conclusion
Embarking on a Carnival Cruise offers a vibrant and exciting voyage filled with an array of choices and opportunities. From the intriguing options of all-inclusive packages to the diverse entertainment and relaxation amenities, a Carnival Cruise vacation is a sea of possibilities.
However, it’s crucial to navigate wisely and understand what’s included and excluded in your package. With offerings like exclusive spa treatments, thrilling entertainment, and sumptuous dining, Carnival Cruises allows you to tailor your experience to your preferences and budget. While not entirely all-inclusive, the flexible fare packages and add-ons offer a personalized cruising experience that can be as luxurious or as budget-conscious as you wish.
So, weigh anchor and set sail on a Carnival Cruise, where you can explore endless horizons and create unforgettable memories. Let the winds of adventure guide you, knowing that with careful planning and an adventurous spirit, your cruise can be a tailor-made journey of a lifetime. Explore, enjoy, and embrace the unique offerings of Carnival Cruises, for a holiday where the sea meets the sky in a dance of endless possibilities!
FAQs
Is alcohol included in Carnival’s all-inclusive cruises?
Alcohol is not included in Carnival’s standard cruise fares. Nevertheless, Carnival offers the opportunity to enhance your cruise experience with various drink packages. You can choose options such as the Bottomless Bubbles package for unlimited access to soft drinks or the Cheers package, which includes a wide selection of alcoholic beverages.
Can I upgrade to an all-inclusive package after booking with Carnival Cruises?
While Carnival Cruises doesn’t offer completely all-inclusive packages, you can upgrade certain aspects of your cruise, such as drink packages or special dining options, after booking. You can tailor your cruise journey according to your likes and requirements.
Does Carnival include port fees?
No, the fare you are quoted for a Carnival Cruise doesn’t include port fees and taxes. It provides transparency about the overall cost of the cruise, although certain additional amenities and services may come at an extra charge.
How much does a 7-day Carnival cruise cost?
The cost of a 7-day Carnival Cruise can vary widely depending on factors like the destination, time of year, stateroom type, and availability of promotions or discounts. Prices may range from around $450 per person for inside cabins to several thousand dollars for suites or exclusive packages. It’s recommended to consult the Carnival Cruises website or speak with a travel agent for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information for the specific cruise you’re interested in.
