gratuity carnival cruise

Cruise Lines

Carnival gratuities: a guide to costs and how they work.

Key Takeaways

• Gratuities are additional charges added to the cost of a Carnival cruise, also known as service charges.
• Currently, Carnival charges $14.50 per person, per day for most rooms, with suite guests paying $16.50 per person, per day. Prices will increase starting April 1, 2023.
• All guests, except those under the age of two, are charged the daily gratuity amount, regardless of their room type or dining preferences.
• Guests have the option to pre-pay gratuities or have them posted to their Sail & Sign account at the end of the cruise, with the amount automatically charged to the payment method on file.

The Basics of Carnival Gratuities

Understanding the Cost Breakdown

How to pre-pay or pay onboard.

Adjusting Gratuities and Tipping Etiquette

Additional charges and services covered by gratuities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are gratuities included in the price of a carnival cruise ticket, can i choose to remove the gratuities from my bill, are the gratuities distributed equally among all staff members, will i be charged gratuities for any onboard purchases or services, is there a limit to the amount of gratuities i can pre-pay before my cruise.

There is no limit to the amount of gratuities I can pre-pay before my cruise. Pre-paying gratuities offers the benefits of better budgeting and avoiding additional charges during the cruise.

Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team.

From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

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Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team. From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

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Explore the Charming Streets of Charleston

Discover the city’s rich history and architecture, indulge in delicious southern cuisine, visit historic plantations and gardens, experience the vibrant art and music scene, relax on charleston’s beautiful beaches, take a boat tour of charleston harbor, shop for unique antiques and local crafts, attend a festival or event in the city, enjoy the southern hospitality and friendly atmosphere, how can i book a cruise ship tour in charleston, what are the top-rated restaurants in charleston for trying southern cuisine, are there any specific recommendations for visiting historic plantations and gardens in charleston, what are some popular art galleries or music venues in charleston, are there any specific beaches in charleston that are known for their beauty and tranquility, is cabbage beach a popular destination for cruise ship passengers in charleston.

Charleston, you never cease to surprise me with your Southern hospitality and endless charm.

Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform.

With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

What Cruise Ports Are On The East Coast

Did you know that the East Coast of the United States is home to some of the country’s most popular cruise terminals? With a diverse range of destinations and attractions available, it’s no surprise that these ports host millions of travelers embarking on their cruise vacations each year.

From the bustling streets of New York City to the sunny shores of Miami, there is something for every type of traveler along the east coast. In this article, I will take you on a journey to explore the top cruise ports on the east coast, including:

• New York City

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your next unforgettable cruise adventure.

So, grab your sunscreen and get ready to set sail on the east coast!

• New York City, Miami, Charleston, Boston, and Portland are popular cruise ports on the East Coast.
• Some popular activities in New York City include exploring Central Park, visiting the Statue of Liberty, catching a Broadway show, and indulging in delicious steaks at Peter Luger Steak House.
• Cape Hatteras, Hilton Head Island, Assateague Island, Myrtle Beach, and Outer Banks are some of the relaxing beaches on the East Coast.
• Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options on the East Coast include live music, jazz bands, Broadway-style shows, and a variety of delicious cuisine.

New York City, New York

If you’re planning a cruise from New York City, you’ll be thrilled to explore the iconic sights and vibrant energy of the Big Apple before setting sail on your unforgettable adventure.

There are plenty of things to do in New York City, New York during a cruise. Take a stroll through Central Park, visit the Statue of Liberty, or catch a Broadway show. And when it comes to dining, the city offers some of the best restaurants in New York City, New York near the cruise port. Indulge in mouthwatering steaks at Peter Luger Steak House or enjoy a taste of Italy at Carbone.

With so much to see and savor, New York City is the perfect starting point for your cruise.

Now, let’s head south to Miami, Florida.

Miami, Florida

Miami, Florida is a fantastic destination for those seeking a relaxing beach getaway. With its pristine shores and warm, turquoise waters, it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun.

Additionally, Miami offers a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene, with world-class clubs and live music venues that cater to every taste.

Lastly, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the unique Art Deco District, where you can stroll along Ocean Drive and admire the colorful, iconic architecture that makes Miami Beach truly one-of-a-kind.

Relax on Beautiful Beaches and Soak up the Sun

While you’re cruising along the east coast, you’ll definitely want to kick back and enjoy some of the stunning beaches. The east coast is home to a plethora of beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. Here are some hidden gems and secluded beaches that you should check out:

After a day of relaxation, don’t miss out on the vibrant nightlife and entertainment that awaits you along the east coast.

Experience Vibrant Nightlife and Entertainment

Indulge in the electrifying atmosphere and immerse yourself in the pulsating music and vibrant entertainment options that await you as you explore the bustling cities and towns along this captivating coastline.

Experience live music and performances that will leave you in awe as talented artists take the stage to captivate audiences with their melodic tunes and mesmerizing dance routines. Whether it’s a jazz band playing in a trendy nightclub or a Broadway-style show at the local theater, the East Coast offers an abundance of cultural experiences that will leave you wanting more.

And when you’re ready to satisfy your taste buds, indulge in delicious cuisine ranging from fresh seafood to international flavors. From cozy waterfront restaurants to bustling food markets, there’s something to please every palate.

So get ready to explore the unique art deco district and discover the hidden gems that await you in the next chapter of your journey.

Explore the Unique Art Deco District

Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant and unique atmosphere of the Art Deco District. Colorful buildings and retro charm transport you back in time. Explore historic architecture as you stroll through the streets lined with stunning examples of this iconic design style.

From the streamlined curves to the geometric patterns, every building tells a story of the glamorous past. Visit local art galleries and discover the work of talented artists who draw inspiration from the district’s rich history. Marvel at the intricate details and bold colors that adorn each canvas.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful surroundings, the Art Deco District is a must-see destination on your East Coast cruise.

Now, let’s continue our journey to Charleston, South Carolina, where southern charm and historic landmarks await.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina offers you the chance to explore its rich history and vibrant culture. It is home to one of the busiest cruise ports on the east coast, with over 200 cruise ships visiting each year.

As you step off the ship, you’ll find yourself surrounded by Charleston’s historic sites. These include the iconic Rainbow Row and the stunning Magnolia Plantation. Take a leisurely stroll along the charming cobblestone streets and immerse yourself in the city’s colonial past.

And when it comes to food, Charleston’s culinary scene is a true delight. Indulge in mouthwatering Lowcountry cuisine at the many acclaimed restaurants scattered throughout the city. From shrimp and grits to she-crab soup, there is something to satisfy every palate.

Soak in the charm and flavors of Charleston before setting sail to Boston, Massachusetts, where a whole new adventure awaits.

Boston, Massachusetts

As you step foot in Boston, Massachusetts, you’ll be captivated by its rich history and vibrant cityscape, leaving you eager to explore every corner and immerse yourself in its cultural tapestry.

Here are three must-see attractions in this enchanting city:

As we continue our exploration, let’s now venture north to Portland, Maine.

Portland, Maine

Moving north along the East Coast, we arrive at Portland, Maine, another charming cruise port that is worth exploring.

Known for its picturesque lighthouses, Portland offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. As you disembark from the cruise ship, you will be greeted by the sight of the iconic Portland Head Light, a historic lighthouse that stands proudly on the rocky coastline.

For an unforgettable experience, consider taking a lobster tour, where you can learn about the local lobster industry and even have a chance to catch your own lobster. The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and provide fascinating insights into this traditional Maine activity.

As we continue our journey, we set our sights on Halifax, Nova Scotia, a destination that promises to captivate with its rich maritime heritage and vibrant culture.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax, Nova Scotia offers a captivating blend of rich maritime heritage and vibrant culture that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. Here are four must-see attractions in this charming Canadian city:

When visiting Halifax, it’s important to note the weather. Summers are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, while winters can be cold, with temperatures often below freezing. Don’t forget to pack accordingly and enjoy all that Halifax has to offer!

Are there any cruise ports on the east coast of Canada other than Halifax, Nova Scotia?

Yes, there are other cruise ports on the east coast of Canada besides Halifax, Nova Scotia. One interesting statistic is that there are a total of five cruise ports in Eastern Canada. Transportation options to these ports include taxis, shuttles, and public transportation.

How can I travel from Boston, Massachusetts to the cruise port in Portland, Maine?

I can easily travel from Boston, Massachusetts to the cruise port in Portland, Maine. There are various travel options available, including driving, taking a bus or train, or even hiring a private car service.

Are there any popular cruise lines that operate from the cruise port in Charleston, South Carolina?

Yes, there are popular cruise lines that operate from the cruise port in Charleston, South Carolina. However, I am unable to provide specific details on cruises from Boston to Portland.

Are there any specific attractions or landmarks near the cruise port in New York City, New York?

As I step off the ship at the cruise port in New York City, a world of iconic landmarks and captivating attractions awaits. From the towering Empire State Building to the vibrant Times Square, and a plethora of mouthwatering restaurants, it’s a feast for the senses.

Can you recommend any hotels or accommodations near the cruise port in Miami, Florida?

I recommend the Hilton Miami Downtown for its convenient location near the cruise port in Miami, Florida. It offers comfortable rooms, stunning views, and excellent amenities, making it one of the best accommodations near the cruise port.

Well, now you know all about the cruise ports on the East Coast. From the bustling streets of New York City to the sunny shores of Miami, there’s something for everyone.

Charleston’s charm and Boston’s history will surely captivate you, while the picturesque beauty of Portland and Halifax will leave you in awe.

So, pack your bags, hop on a cruise, and get ready for an unforgettable journey along the East Coast. Trust me, it’ll be smooth sailing all the way… or maybe not.

What Cruise Lines Use Uplift

• Uplift is a popular financing option for budget planning on cruises.
• Uplift offers convenient and flexible payment options with low interest rates and no hidden fees.
• Uplift allows for better cabin upgrades, amenities, and a wider range of options.
• Cruise lines that use Uplift are not explicitly mentioned in the content.

Understanding Uplift in the Cruising Industry

Benefits of uplift for travelers, benefits of uplift for cruise companies, how uplift works in the cruise industry, cruise lines that offer uplift, tips for using uplift to book your cruise, compare financing options, consider the terms and conditions, plan your budget, common misconceptions about uplift, how uplift enhances the cruise experience, more travelers can afford a cruise, less financial stress during vacation, access to better cabin upgrades and amenities, alternatives to uplift for financing your cruise, conclusion: making the most of uplift for your cruise vacation, what are the eligibility criteria for using uplift to finance a cruise, are there any additional fees or interest charges associated with using uplift, can i use uplift to finance any type of cruise, including luxury or specialty cruises, how does uplift handle cancellations or changes to the cruise booking, are there any restrictions on using uplift for international cruises or cruises to specific destinations, does uplift offer financing for inspiration cruises.

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What Are the Gratuities on Carnival Cruises?

A quick guide to understanding gratuities on Carnival Cruises. Know the charges, who gets them, and how to pay for a hassle-free cruise.

Book Carnival Cruises

If you're planning a cruise, factoring in gratuities is essential. However, for those new to cruising, the concept of gratuity charges also referred to as service charges, can come as a surprise. Although not initially included in the price of a cruise, these charges are an integral part of your vacation expenses, similar to paying for the cabin itself. As an additional fee that catches many people off guard, it raises questions about the nature of gratuities on a cruise and how they function. To ensure you're well-informed for your upcoming vacation, read on to discover everything you need to know about gratuities on Carnival cruises

What are Gratuities?

Gratuity, though it may sound sophisticated, is essentially another term for tips used by cruise lines. Similar to the practice in hotels and restaurants, it's customary for guests on many cruises to leave tips for specific staff members serving them. Major cruise lines such as Carnival , Norwegian , and Royal Caribbean typically include a daily gratuity fee, which is then distributed among the shipboard staff. The income of service crew members largely relies on the generosity of travelers, as tips constitute a significant portion of their earnings.

How Much Are the Gratuities on Carnival Cruises?

Starting from April 1, 2023, Carnival imposes a daily charge of $16 per person for most rooms, including interior, balcony and Oceanview cabins. For those staying in a suite, the daily charge is slightly higher at $18 per person. As an illustration of how these charges apply, consider a couple in an Oceanview cabin for a week, who would incur a daily charge of $32 for seven days, amounting to a total of $224 . It's worth noting that, like many cruise lines, Carnival periodically increases gratuity amounts, with the most recent adjustment occurring in May 2022, prior to the April 2023 increase.

Who Receives the Gratuities on Carnival Cruises?

The gratuities you provide cover a diverse range of staff positions. While a portion goes to your cabin attendant, who offers personalized services such as daily room preparation, they are not the sole beneficiaries of your generosity. The dining and culinary staff also receive a share, encompassing those serving in the main dining room as well as other shipboard eateries. For example, staff in the buffet, responsible for clearing dishes and assisting guests, are among those who benefit from a portion of the automatic tips. Additionally, behind-the-scenes personnel contributing to the overall cruise experience receive a portion of these gratuities.

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How are Gratuities Divided on Carnival Cruises?

Here is the approximate breakdown of gratuities in Carnival cruises per day :

• Dining Team: $6.89
• Housekeeping Team: $4.35 ($6.35 for suites)
• Alternative Services: $2.75

In addition, when purchasing beverages, an automatic 18% gratuity is added to the bill, while an automatic gratuity of 15% is added to the Chef’s Table’s cover charge.

How to Pay Gratuities on Carnival Cruises?

There are two ways of paying this daily gratuity:

Gratuities can be included during the booking process or at any time leading up to the sailing date. Those who made direct bookings with Carnival can conveniently add their pre-paid gratuities on the cruise line’s website. For guests who booked through a travel agent, reaching out to their travel professional enables them to include pre-paid gratuities in their reservation. The pre-paid gratuities will be visible in the 'Miscellaneous Charge' section in the guest's E-Documents and on the confirmation.

2. Sail & Sign

If you haven't prepaid your gratuities, the recommended gratuity charges per person will be charged to your Sail & Sign account on the penultimate day of the cruise. Should you find the service unsatisfactory, you can approach the Guest Services desk while on board. This ensures that the staff can promptly and appropriately address any concerns you may have.

Who Has to Pay Gratuities on Carnival Cruises?

For those embarking on a Carnival cruise, it's important to anticipate gratuity charges. All guests, excluding those aged two and below, are subject to the daily gratuity fee. Even if you request the room steward to service your room every other day or choose not to dine in the main dining rooms, the charge applies to all guests aged two and above while on the ship. As an example, if a couple is on the cruise, each individual will incur the daily gratuity charge. Similarly, for a family of four, whether they stay in one room or two, all four individuals will be charged the daily gratuity amount.

Are There Other Places to Tip?

As a general recommendation, it is advisable not to modify the gratuity amount set by the cruise line. The cruise ship staff exerts considerable effort to enhance your vacation experience, and these gratuities constitute a significant portion of their compensation. Nevertheless, it is possible that there may be occasions when you are dissatisfied with the service received. In such instances, at the guest's discretion, adjustments to gratuities can be made after the charges have been added to the guest's account during the cruise. It's essential to note that gratuities, as reflected on the Sail & Sign account, are considered final once a guest disembarks, and no alterations can be made post-cruise.

Also Read:   How Much Does a Vacation with Carnival Cruise Cost ?

Understanding and planning for gratuities are crucial aspects of preparing for a Carnival cruise. These charges, integral to the cruise experience, support the hardworking staff. While the suggested amounts may initially surprise, they contribute significantly to the service team's earnings. Whether opting for pre-payment or adjusting gratuities on board, it's vital to be aware of the processes involved. Recognizing who is included in gratuity distribution and the breakdown of charges further enhances your understanding of this customary practice at sea. Ultimately, being informed about gratuities ensures a smoother and more enjoyable cruise experience.

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Everything About Cruise Ship Gratuities for 2024 (Amounts, Etiquette, and More)

If you’re a first-time cruiser, then there’s little doubt that you have questions about gratuities and tipping on your cruise. We’re here to help.

First of all, if you’re feeling a little confused, don’t worry — you aren’t alone. In fact, we can’t think of a place where gratuities are handled the same way as they are on a cruise ship.

Gone are the days of simply slipping a waiter some cash or leaving a couple of bills for the room steward at the end of your trip (although you can still do that if you want).

Instead, gratuities on a cruise ship are highly automated, with most people just electing to prepay or being charged a set amount for each day on the ship.

While this is intended to make things easier, the honest truth is that having automatic gratuities can actually lead to more questions. Who gets the tips? How much is charged? What if service is bad?

If you’ve never cruised, then there is no doubt that these questions and more might be floating through your head. To help explain everything about cruise line gratuities, we’ve answered a number of common questions that will make everything clearer before you set sail.

In This Article...

Explained: What Exactly Are Cruise Ship Gratuities

While the name sounds fancy, gratuities are nothing more than a tip paid to the staff members for service during the cruise. The staff works hard to ensure that your vacation is a great one. As a thanks for their service, it’s customary to provide a tip.

The gratuities go to staff that provide passenger-facing services. That means people like the room steward who cleans your cabin and the dining staff. Some cruise lines distribute them even wider to the staff.

These days, the gratuities are set daily amounts paid by each passenger. Instead of one passenger paying a lot and another paying hardly anything, these set amounts ensure that everyone pays the same. The cruise line then distributes the payment to staff.

My Cruise Line Calls it a Crew Incentive or Service Charge. Is that the Same Thing?

Depending on your cruise line, you might find different language used than the word “gratuities.” We’ve seen these charges called tips, gratuities, crew incentives, or service charges .

No matter the language, they all end up being the same thing — a set daily charge to passengers that’s passed on to the crew.

How Much You’ll Pay in Cruise Gratuities

The amount you pay will vary by cruise line, but they are all in the same ballpark. You can expect to pay about $15-$20 per person, per day. Most lines charge $16 at the moment, but it steadily rises each year.

A couple traveling together will see about $30-$40 per day in gratuities, or about $200+ over the course of a week-long cruise.

Below, we’ve listed the current tip amounts charged by major cruise lines as of the time of this writing:

• Carnival : $16.00 per person, per day. $18.00 per person, per day for guests in suites. Guests under 2 years old don’t pay gratuity. Source .
• Celebrity : $18.00 per person, per day. $18.50 per person, per day for those in Concierge Class and AquaClass cabins. $23.00 per person, per day for guest of The Retreat. Source .
• Disney : $14.50 per person, per day. $15.50 per person, per day for those staying in Concierge Staterooms and Suites. Source .
• Holland America : $16.00 per person, per day. $17.50 per person, per day for guests in suites. Source .
• Norwegian : $20.00 per person, per day. $25.00 per person, per day staying in suites and The Haven. Guests under 3 years old don’t pay gratuity. Source .
• MSC Cruises : $16.00 per person, per day. Guests over 2 years old and under 12 years old pay $8 per day. Passengers under 2 years old don’t pay gratuity. Source .
• Princess : $16.00 per person, per day. $17.00 per person, per day staying in mini-suites. $18.00 per person, per day for guests in suites. Source .
• Royal Caribbean : $16.00 per person, per day. $18.50 per person, per day for guests in suites and higher. Source .

How Are Cruise Line Gratuities Paid?

How do you actually pay tips on the cruise ship? In the past, the process used to be that the cruise line would put envelopes in your room on the last day of the cruise. Passengers would then put cash in the envelope for the crew members. These days, everything is automatic.

When you book the cruise you’ll have the ability to prepay gratuities . You are charged a set amount, per person, per day. You simply pay this extra amount in full for your cruise as part of your cruise fare.

If you don’t decide to prepay the tips, then the amount is automatically charged to your onboard account each day. When it comes time to settle your final bill at the end of the cruise, you’ll have the gratuity charges to pay as well.

Want to tip more? You can still hand out cash to individual members of the staff that you appreciate, although it’s not required.

Is Every Passenger Charged Gratuities? 

The vast majority of passengers are charged these tips, no matter if they are young, old, have special requests, eat in the main dining room, or only hit the buffet.

That said, some cruise lines make exceptions for small kids. For example, Carnival does not charge tips for kids under two years old. Norwegian Cruise Lines doesn’t charge gratuities for kids under three. However, for the most part you can expect that every passenger on your trip will see a charge.

Here are the policies for major cruise lines:

• Carnival : Guests under 2 years old aren’t charged gratuity.
• Disney : All guests pay gratuities at their discretion.
• Holland America : All guests pay gratuities.
• Norwegian : Guests under 3 years old don’t pay gratuity.
• MSC Cruises : Guests under 2 years old don’t pay gratuity. Guests over 2 years old and under 12 years old pay half amounts.
• Princess : All guests pay gratuities.
• Royal Caribbean : All guests pay gratuities.

How Can I Know How Much I Will Be Charged in Tips?

When you book your cruise, the gratuity amount is usually disclosed in full for your trip, with an option to prepay the amount with your cruise fare.

If you’d like to calculate exactly what your gratuity amount will be before you book your trip, then you can use our calculator here . Simply enter the cruise line, length of trip, and the number of passengers and it will show you precisely how much you’ll be charged.

Can I Adjust the Amount of Gratuities?

For most people, the service they receive on a cruise is outstanding. They recognize that the staff goes above and beyond to make their vacation enjoyable. But that’s not always the case. With millions of passengers sailing every year, there’s inevitably going to be someone who feels they received poor service.

If that’s the case — and you decide you want to change the amount you are charged for tips — then you can do that. Gratuity charges are typically not mandatory and can be adjusted. To do so, simply head down to Guest Services on the ship to tell them that you want to change your tip amounts.

That said, it’s unusual to adjust the gratuity amount, and the staff works extremely hard to make your trip enjoyable. If you have a major issue, however, you can change your gratuity amount accordingly.

What If I Don’t Pay Gratuities on my Cruise?

With the introduction of automatic gratuities, it’s much more difficult to avoid paying tips on your cruise. That said, in theory you could request that tips be removed from your account and not tip at all.

So what will happen? As far as your trip, likely very little. The staff isn’t likely to treat you any differently or even know that you aren’t tipping (after all, some people still like to pay cash at the end of the cruise). They will still go out of their way to make your cruise comfortable and enjoyable.

That said, if you don’t pay gratuities, then it’s the staff that will be hurting — not the cruise line. The cruise line collects the tips and then distributes them accordingly. Without your contribution, the compensation for the staff members will decrease. For staff members that rely on these dollars, that can be a major blow.

How to Pay Extra (If You Want)

Want to pay more in gratuity? That’s allowed. In fact, the staff will love that you want to give them more money. If you want to pay extra, we suggest simply handing cash directly to the people you want to recognize for their service. This happens regularly for passengers feeling generous or thankful for the staff’s work during their trip. In fact, your cruise line might leave a few envelopes in your room exactly for this purpose.

Should I Prepay the Gratuity Charges?

When you book your cruise, you’ll be given the opportunity to prepay the gratuities. In this case, you can simply choose to have them lumped in with your cruise fare, paying them all at once.

The advantage is that you get your payment out of the way ahead of time. So when you’re on the ship, it’s one less charge to worry about.

On the other hand, many people choose to instead pay the gratuity charges automatically through their onboard account once on the ship . Each day there will be a gratuity charge — or a lump sum added at the end of the trip.

The advantage here is that you get to hold on to more of your money for longer. Instead of handing over the charges well in advance of your sailing, you can keep it until you’re actually on your cruise.

Bottom line is that it comes down to personal preference. You can get the charge out of the way early, or hold onto your money until you actually sail.

Who Gets the Gratuities That You Pay?

From the passenger perspective, the gratuity amount is simple — pay a set amount per person, per day, and be done.

On the cruise line side, that money gets cut up to be distributed. The tips are spread out between the room steward, dining staff, and others that have customer-facing positions. That said, cruise lines are quiet on exactly how the charges are distributed.

The good thing for passengers about gratuities is that this distribution is done automatically by the cruise line instead of having to give tips to several different staff members at the end of your cruise.

Why Aren’t Gratuities Just Included in the Price of the Cruise?

For some cruise lines (usually luxury lines), gratuities actually are included in the fare — you don’t pay anything extra apart from your cruise fare.

However, for the majority of mass market cruise lines the gratuities are extra charges on the price of your cruise. These can be a surprise to some people, especially first-time passengers.

While the cruise lines might say differently, we think that gratuities aren’t included in the headline price for marketing purposes. There’s little doubt that the extra tips can be expensive. The cost for two people on a week-long cruise can be well above $200.

Meanwhile, cruise fares are often shown as dirt-cheap prices. They are often expressed as the rate for a single person (despite having to pay for double occupancy) and don’t include port fees or taxes. Having to add in gratuity costs to these advertised rates could make them less attractive to potential cruisers.

How Often Do the Gratuity Rates Increase?

The tipping rates charged change from time to time. We’ve seen instances of multiple increases in a year and other times when rates won’t change for a year or two. Just like the price of anything else, you should expect over time for these rates to continue to rise slowly but surely. Typical increases are around $1 per person, per day and seem to happen about once a year. 

One perk of pre-paying gratuities is that if you pre-pay and the rate later increases, you aren’t charged the higher rate.

Who Else to Tip While On the Ship

You would think that paying a hefty daily tip would cover everyone on the ship. In fact, there are a couple of instances where paying additional gratuity is recommended or automatic.

First, any time that you buy a drink from the bar, you will be charged an extra tip, usually 18%-20% of the menu price, depending on the cruise line. This happens automatically and will be tacked on to the price. So a $10 menu price on a cocktail is actually around $12.

Be aware that when you sign the receipt there will be another line for an additional tip. Unless you are feeling generous, there’s no need to tip more .

Second, any time that you purchase anything service related — such as dinner at a specialty restaurant or a service at the spa — expect there to be a tip added on to the cost. Again, this normally runs around 18%, but can range from 15% to 20%, depending on the cruise line.

Finally, if you order anything from room service, then it’s expected that you give a couple of bucks to the staff member that delivers the food.

Other than that, your gratuity charges cover the housekeeping and dining staff. So when you leave the room you don’t have to put down any extra cash (unless you want to). And when you leave the dining room, no need to drop down any money on the table.

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We have just returned from a Cruise on NCL around the Canaries and Med The Crew was 65% Philipino and were on minimum wage. Although I appreciate that NCL is a USA Company that has no respect for its workers it is why they recruit from Asia, instead of paying a decent living wage they charge the passenger’s outrageous gratuities to compensate for their bad business practices. The only reason they will not add the Gratuites to the original brochure price or remove them like P&O has is then they would have to pay their crew a living wage. In the UK we tip for good service not to prop up the wages of poorly paid employees.

The employer has to pay its employees their salaries And we thé customers should not be worried about this. We pay the Cruise and that’s it. This tipping business is getting out of control and is shifting responsibility from the employers to the clients using our guilty conscience from being on a cruise? Also in the restaurants, hair salons, all businesses …this is all wrong

The baggage porters at the port do not work for the cruise line, but for the port itself. You customarily tip $1 – $2 per bag (more if you want) OR you can NOT tip and risk that the one guy you didn’t tip handles your bag with care and the bag actually makes it on the ship and doesn’t “accidently” get left behind. The risk to me isn’t worth the $5 tip we give for 2 bags. On another subject, what makes Miami the worse port? We just booked a cruise out of Miami for the first time in 10 years. What makes it “the worse”, other than your bad experience with the porters dictating what you should tip, which is 199% wrong, in my opinion.

I don’t understand why we are paying the salaries of the teams and not the cruise line. I know Tui and P&O don’t charge gratuities, it’s actually the choice of the person if they wish to give a tip. I have booked with NCL next year because I’m advised taking my money can either be pre paid or can opt out. I so hope that’s true.

I think this was an excellent way of looking. Have a set routine payout and adjust accordingly to the level of service.

This abuse of tipping allows companies to pay their workers a lower wage and pocket the profits. Whatever happened to just doing the job you’re paid for? Housekeeping is supposed to make up rooms, servers are supposed to serve food… But I’m supposed to pay a hundred bucks a day for a family of five, in the same room, and after I’ve already paid five grand for the cruise? Ridiculous.

All of you have great advice. I too pay in cash and at times have given extra. What do you do about the porters at the ports. I gave always given them money to take my bags to the ship. Tipping is out of control everywhere. In Miami the worst place to board the ship. I have stepped out of the shuttle seeing the conveyer a short distance away. The porter stands there counts the luggage and has told the price for a handling fee. Really, do they get an hourly wage that’s so low they need tip to survive? Are tips required? What the real deal? If tips are not required, do their supervisors know about this up charge?

If I travel with my family of 4, and I pay the waiting $20 ($5 per person) staff each time we eat in the dining room, which would be for dinner only, over 7 days, that would $140. Then if I pay another $5 per person each day for room clean-up, that’s another $140, for a total of $280. I think these amounts are reasonable. But RCCL wants to charge $448. That doesn’t seem fair.

Thank you! You were extremely helpful for my upcoming cruise!

When we researched tipping policy on a recent Princess cruise, we found that the cruise line pools that money and uses it for bonuses, etc. over all its ships, not just the cruise we were on. I find this to be an outrageous ploy to hide the true costs of a cruise. We nearly always opt out of tips and tip whom we want directly.

We are cruising with NCL later this year & we have a beverage package included & gratuities included does that mean we will not pay any more gratuities at end of cruise?

Yes, except if you are sailing in the U.S., then NCL tacks on the gratuities on the amount of the beverage package even though the package is free. So the $99 per day package is free, but you are charged about $20 per day still for the drink package gratuities.

I Agree, we always opt out and give tips to our steward and waiter/waitress at the end of the cruise.

We always hand our tips in cash to the person whose service we wish to commend. We never use a credit card for our on ship account. We deposit cash to use for our onboard account. If gratuities show on our account when we settle at cruise end, we ask for them to be removed. We want the people who earned the tip to receive, not the lousy,greedy, uninvolved government! We rarely buy anything on the ship of value. We use prepaid drink cards to purchase beverages.

Great advice. This is my first cruise. I didnt know I could have the tips removed from my room charges. I detest the idea of: A. not knowing who my tip is going to B. Paying a tip twice C. Paying a standardized tip for poor service. I want the employee to know they received a tip from me. Not to split them across all the employees equally. All service isn’t created equally.

What sucks is the workers then have to pay a tax on the “tip” where we would rather give the workers a “gift” of cash.

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Travel Documents & Check–in

What travel documents do i need to bring.

Non-U.S. Citizens - click  here

Canadian Citizens - click  here

U.S. Permanent Residents - click  here

U.S. Citizens 

Proper travel documentation is required at embarkation and throughout the cruise. Even though a guest has completed registration using Online Check-in, it is still the responsibility of the guest to present the required travel documents at the time of embarkation. Guests should check with their travel agent and/or government authority to determine the travel documents necessary for each port of call. Any guest without proper documents will not be allowed to board the vessel and no refund of the cruise fare will be issued. Carnival assumes no responsibility for advising guests of proper travel documentation.

Except where it is a mandatory requirement, Carnival highly recommends that all guests travel with a passport book.  The passport book must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel. This will enhance the debarkation experience as delays may be expected upon return to the United States for those without one. Additionally, this will enable guests to fly from the United States to meet their ship at a foreign port should they miss their scheduled port of embarkation and allow guests who must disembark the ship before their cruise ends, due to an emergency, to fly back to the United States without significant delays and complications.

U.S. Domestic Cruises

For cruises that begin and end in the same U.S port, the following WHTI-compliant documents are acceptable for cruise travel. Please note that if the cruise visits Colombia or Greenland, a passport book  (valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel) is required . A passport card with the same validity is also acceptable for cruises to Colombia.

U.S. Passport Book

• U.S. Passport Card
• State Enhanced Driver's License
• Certificate of U.S. Naturalization
• Native American Indian Card
• US-born citizens may also use a birth certificate (issued by a government agency) and accompanied by government-issued photo ID; a Mobile/Digital version of a photo ID is not an acceptable form of identification.

A passport book (valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel) is required for cruises that visit Greenland.

A passport book or passport card  (valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel)  is required for the following cruises:

• Cruises that begin and end in a different U.S. port
• Cruises that visit Colombia, provided they depart from and return to a U.S. port

Europe and Transatlantic Cruises

U.S citizens are required to carry a passport book, valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel. Guests are not required to have a Schengen Visa or other visas.

Australia, New Zealand, Asia and Transpacific Cruises

U.S citizens are required to carry a passport book, valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel.  Visas and/or specific travel documentation may be required for some destinations.

All persons are required to carry a valid, unexpired U.S. passport for air travel to or from the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. The passport requirement does NOT apply to U.S. citizens traveling to or returning directly from a U.S. territory (Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands: St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix). 

Effective May 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will require every state and territory resident to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport or enhanced driver’s license, to go through airport security and board a flight within the U.S.  If you will be flying to one of our cruise homeports within the U.S. on/after this implementation date, please ensure you have an acceptable document for your air travel. Visit   www.tsa.gov/real-id  for more information.

Note: All guests must still have WHTI-compliant travel documents (proof of citizenship and/or appropriate visas) in order to cruise.  

Names on Travel Documentation

It is important that the guest's full name (first name and last name) on the cruise and airline tickets be the same as the guest's unexpired, government-issued photo ID that will be used for travel identification. In the event of a different name on the cruise/airline ticket and the guest's photo ID because of a marriage, divorce or a legal name change, documentation (original or clear, legible copy) supporting this change is required at embarkation, such as a marriage certificate, marriage license or legal name change court document. Failure to bring documentation bridging the name differences could result in denial of boarding.

Note: For guests about to or recently married, we strongly recommend that, if the unexpired government-issued photo ID is in the maiden name, the cruise booking be made in the maiden name (do not include the married name).  If the reservation was made in the married name, but the unexpired government-issued photo ID is in the maiden name, documentation (original or clear, legible copy) supporting this change is required at embarkation, such as a marriage certificate or marriage license. Failure to bring documentation bridging the name differences could result in denial of boarding. 

Traveling with Minors

When traveling with a minor where one parent or both parents or legal guardians are not cruising, we strongly recommend bringing an original, signed letter from the absent parent(s) or legal guardians authorizing the minor to travel with you. If there is no second parent with legal claims to the minor (due to sole custody, deceased, etc.) other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, death certificate, birth certificate naming only one parent, would be useful to bring in place of a signed letter. This will expedite processing by the Department of Homeland Security. 

Citizens of U.S. Territories and Commonwealth

Guests will follow the same travel documentation requirements. U.S. Territories and Commonwealth include: Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John), America Samoa, Swains Island and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

U.S. citizens may present a valid, unexpired U.S. passport book when traveling via air, land, or sea. The passport book must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel.  

Guests may apply for passports at passport-acceptance facilities nationwide. For information about U.S. Passports, visit  www.travel.state.gov . 

Expedited passport services are also offered by VisaCentral. For more information, visit  www.visacentral.com/carnival  or call 877-559-4875 and identify yourself as a Carnival Cruise Line guest and mention ‘Carnival Account 75020’ for discounted rates on VisaCentral service fees. 

The U.S. Passport Card

The passport card cannot be used to travel by air outside the United States.

U.S. citizens may present a limited-use, wallet-size passport card. The passport card will only be valid for land and sea travel between the United States and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean region, and Bermuda.

State Enhanced Driver's License (EDL)

The State Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) cannot be used to travel by air outside the United States.

Several states are working with the Department of Homeland Security to develop an EDL for U.S. citizens residing in their states. This document will denote both citizenship and identity and will facilitate the entry process at land and seaports of entry. The words ‘Enhanced Driver's License’ as well as the American flag will appear on the license. The following states issue this type of WHTI-compliant document: Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington.  

A driver's license with a gold circle with star cutout in the right upper corner is a Real ID driver's license; it is not an Enhanced Driver's license and cannot be used as proof of citizenship but can be used as picture identification. A Mobile/Digital version of an EDL is not an acceptable form of travel documentation.

Original Certificate of U.S. Naturalization and a Government-Issued Photo ID

The Certificate of U.S. Naturalization (form N-550 or N-570) is a document issued by the U.S. government (USCIS) as proof of a foreign-born person who has obtained U.S. citizenship through naturalization (a legal process of obtaining a new nationality). Photocopies of the original document are unacceptable. A Mobile/Digital version of a photo ID is not an acceptable form of identification.

Native American Indians

These cards cannot be used to travel by air outside the United States.

• Form I-872 American Indian Card
• Enhanced Tribal Card (when available)

Traveling with a Birth Certificate AND Photo Identification

Birth Certificate Information

The following are acceptable:

• An original or copy of a birth certificate issued by a government agency (state/county/city) or the Department of Health and Vital Statistics
• A clear, legible copy (photocopy) of a birth certificate that was originally issued by a government agency (state/county/city) or the Department of Health and Vital Statistics. The copy does not need to be notarized or certified.
• Birth Certificate Card
• A Consular Report of Birth Abroad
• Internationally adopted children (under the age of 18): If the adoptive parent was not issued a birth certificate, we will accept as proof of citizenship, a Certificate of Citizenship by the U.S. and adoption paperwork. A Certificate of Citizenship is issued by the U.S. once the adoption is finalized.
• Guests may obtain a copy of a birth certificate by contacting: The Department of Health and Vital Statistics at:  www.vitalchek.com . If the guest has laminated their birth certificate, it is acceptable.

Birth certificates from Puerto Rico issued prior to July 1, 2010, are not valid forms of proof of citizenship and are not accepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Guests from Puerto Rico either need to present a WHTI-compliant document or a government-issued photo ID with a validated birth certificate issued after July 1, 2010.

Photo Identification

An unexpired government-issued photo ID is required of all guests 16 years of age and older. A Mobile/Digital version of a photo ID is not an acceptable form of identification.

• Driver's License (a temporary Driver's License with photo is acceptable)
• Driver's Permit
• School/Student ID (acceptable for guests 16/17/18 years of age)
• Government-issued identification card including a U.S. Military ID with photo (city/state/federal)
• Government-issued Trusted Traveler Program Membership Card (NEXUS/SENTRI/FAST) - for photo identification use only

Unacceptable Forms of Documentation

• Copies of any WHTI-Compliant document
• Driver's License as the only proof
• A Mobile/Digital version of a photo ID
• A temporary driver's license (paperwork without a photo ID)
• Voter's Registration Card
• Trusted Traveler Program Membership Card (NEXUS/SENTRI/FAST) - may be used for photo identification use only
• Baptismal Papers
• U.S. Military ID as the only proof
• A Dependent Military ID that is issued to the spouse and children of military personnel is not acceptable
• U.S. Military Discharge Papers
• No Record of Birth certificate: a certificate issued by the Department of Health and Vital Statistics showing that they have no records on this person
• Hospital certificate, hospital-issued birth notice, Certificate of Live Birth, live record of birth or announcement of birth

What do I need to do to get on board?

All guests must complete their Online Check-in process no later than midnight (Eastern time) prior to their sailing date. During online check-in, you will be asked to select an arrival appointment. This is the time that everyone in your stateroom should be at the cruise port terminal. Please arrive promptly within your Arrival Appointment to reduce your wait time in line. At check-in, you must present your boarding pass, picture ID and citizenship documents (including any necessary visas).  Due to security protocol, last minute bookings made within 24 hours of sailing will require guests to undergo a secondary screening. 

Guests who are scheduled to arrive at the terminal before 1:30 PM, usually check their bags with a porter so they can be free to enjoy lunch on Lido Deck before access to their stateroom is granted. Checked baggage service is only available until 2 hours before the ship's published departure time. Guests arriving after this time will be responsible for taking their bags on board.  Lunch is served on Lido Deck from boarding until the commencement of the safety briefing. Final Boarding :  In preparation for departure, all guests must be on board by the Final Boarding time printed on your boarding pass or you will not be permitted to sail. 

Eating & Drinks

What is carnival's liquor & beverage policy.

The policy below is for cruise departures from the U.S.; for cruises sailing from Australia, click here . 

Drinking Alcohol On Board

The minimum age for the purchase and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages in the bars, lounges and gift shops is 21 years of age. Carnival reserves the right to request ID prior to the purchase of alcohol and refuse the sale of alcohol to anyone. 

Bringing Liquor and Beverages On Board - Embarkation

Guests are prohibited from bringing water, sodas and other non-alcoholic beverages that are packaged in glass or plastic bottles.

On embarkation day, a small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages (i.e., sparkling water, sodas, energy drinks, juice, and milk), packaged in cans or cartons, may be brought on board and must be in the guest's carry-on luggage. A small quantity is considered a maximum of 12 sealed, unopened cans/cartons of 12-ounces/354-ml each or less, per person.

Guests are prohibited from bringing alcoholic beverages on board with the following exception - at the beginning of the cruise during embarkation day only, guests (21 years of age and older) may bring one 750-ml bottle of sealed/unopened wine or champagne, per person, in their carry-on luggage.* Outside this exception, all liquor, beer, other forms of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage and such items will be confiscated and discarded and no compensation will be provided. Guests sailing with us on back-to-back cruises are entitled to bring the same quantity as stated in this policy, per cruise. The additional quantities will be stored for safekeeping at the start of the first cruise and will be given to the guest as each following cruise begins.

* Port, Vermouth, Sherry and other fortified wines, over 15% alcohol by volume (ABV), cannot be brought on board. 

Corkage Fee

Should guests wish to consume their wine or champagne in the main dining room, specialty restaurant or bar, a $15.00 USD corkage fee, per 750-ml bottle, will be charged. A corkage fee is a charge that is assessed, at time of service, for every bottle that is served and not bought on the premises.

Bottled Water

For convenience, guests can purchase bottled water prior to the cruise and it will be delivered to the stateroom on embarkation day. Bottled water may also be purchased on board by contacting room service. Once on board, the purchase is non-refundable and guests may take home any unopened bottles.

To ensure we have an ample supply, please visit The Fun Shops™ at  www.carnival.com/funshops  to place your order before your cruise.

$17.64 USD (includes 18% delivery fee) for a 12-pack of bottled water (16.9-ounce bottle/500-ml bottle)

$5.31 USD (includes 18% delivery fee) for 1 large, bottled water (50.72-ounce bottle/1.5-liter bottle)

$29.44 USD (includes 18% delivery fee) for 8-pack of bottled water (50.72-ounce bottle/1.5-liter bottle) 

Distilled Water for CPAP Machines

Carnival carries distilled water for CPAP machines which can be purchased either pre-cruise or once on board. Guests can purchase pre-cruise online at www.carnival.com/in-room-food-beverages or by contacting  our Fun Shops department at 800-522-7648, Monday through Friday, 9:00am-10:00pm ET and Saturday and Sunday, 9:00am-6:00pm ET.  For purchase on board, please contact room service. Should you wish to bring your own distilled water with you, it must be hand carried along with your CPAP machine.

Guests are prohibited from bringing large coolers since screening and movement of large coolers through embarkation is an impediment to the boarding and security process. However, for the purpose of carrying small quantities of non-alcoholic beverages and/or medications small, personal-sized coolers, no larger than 12” x 12” x 12” are permitted as carry-on luggage.

Purchasing Liquor Pre-Cruise through The Fun Shops

All products sold containing alcohol have a limit of two products per stateroom. On 7 day and longer cruises, there is a limit of one bottle of hard liquor per stateroom and on shorter cruises, pre-cruise purchases are limited to wine, champagne and beer (no hard liquor). A ‘pack’ or ‘package’ is considered one product.

Alcohol purchased pre-cruise through The Fun Shops for on board consumption is designed for in-stateroom entertainment only. Guests cannot take items with them to public areas. Only wine or champagne that is ordered through The Fun Shops can be served in the dining room or Steakhouse. If the item is not consumed on board during the cruise, the guest may take it home provided the bottle has not been opened. 

Our CHEERS! Beverage Program must be purchased for each adult (21 years of age or older) assigned to the same stateroom.

Purchasing Liquor at Ports of Call and On Board at The Fun Shops All alcohol purchased ashore or in The Fun Shops will be stored for safekeeping until the end of the voyage. Items are to be collected in a designated lounge on debarkation morning. Liquor may be subject to Customs duty if it exceeds allowable amount.

While in port, a small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages (i.e., sparkling water, sodas, juice) packaged in cans or cartons may be brought on board. A small quantity is considered a maximum of 12 sealed, unopened cans/cartons of 12-ounces/354-ml each or less per person.

What is the Cheers! Beverage Program?

CHEERS! is an all-inclusive beverage program that allows guests to enjoy a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages by paying a flat daily rate. Guests must be 21 or older to purchase CHEERS! and each adult assigned to the same stateroom must purchase the program.

Our CHEERS! beverage program includes a great variety of non-alcoholic beverages, as well as a wide selection of high quality brand-name spirits and wines by the glass.  

Before your cruise:  CHEERS! can be purchased at  www.carnival.com/funshops  or by contacting The Fun Shops department at 800-522-7648, Monday through Friday, 9:00am-10:00pm ET and Saturday and Sunday, 9:00am-6:00pm ET. Cut-off for pre-purchase online is 11:59pm ET, the evening prior to the cruise departure. Although we are not able to process the Carnival Gift Card for Fun Shop orders by telephone, you may use a Carnival Gift Card when purchasing CHEERS! online.

• Cruise Itineraries (6 days or more):  $70.74 USD, per person, per day including 18% service charge
• Cruise Itineraries (5 days or less):  $82.54 USD per person, per day including 18% service charge

On board your cruise:   Once on board your cruise, CHEERS! can be purchased at bar locations.

• Cruise Itineraries (6 days or more):  $76.64 USD, per person, per day including 18% service charge
• Cruise Itineraries (5 days or less):  $88.45 USD per person, per day including 18% service charge

Included in the price of your cruise, served in the main dining room and available 24/7 in the Lido Restaurant: non-bottled water, lemonade, unsweetened iced tea, hot chocolate and non-specialty coffee and tea.

To view a sample of beverages prices for individual drinks and CHEERS! Q&A's, click here .

CHEERS! includes:

• All spirits, including cocktails, cognacs, whiskies and other spirits, as well as beer (including self-serve beer stations - PYOB) and wine and champagne by the glass, with a $20.00 USD or lower menu price, per serving
• Sodas (including specialty sodas), zero-proof frozen cocktails (including smoothies) and juices
• Specialty coffees and hot tea served in the main dining rooms, specialty restaurants and coffee bars
• Milkshakes, where available
• Energy drinks
• 500-ml bottled water and other non-alcoholic bottled beverages served in bars and lounges
• Packaged water in the dining rooms and specialty restaurants
• 25% discount off the menu price for any spirit, cocktail or wine by the glass, costing above $20.00 USD, per serving
• 25% discount off the menu price for wine and champagne by the bottle
• 25% discount off beverage seminars and classes

CHEERS! excludes:

• Beverages promoted and sold in souvenir glasses
• Bottles of liquor
• Beverages offered at the gangway
• Beverages offered through room service and/or other in-stateroom beverage programs
• Beverages purchased off the ship at any port of call, including Celebration Key, Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays
• Sharing cocktails, floaters, pitchers, tubes and buckets
• Beverages offered through enomatic wine machines
• Freshly squeezed orange juice served in the Havana Bar
• Main Dining Room freshly squeezed juice 
• All other beverage-related programs including merchandise, cigars and cigarettes

Program Restrictions:

• Guests must be 21 years or older to purchase and agree not to give to minors
• Each adult assigned to the same stateroom must purchase the program
• CHEERS! is non-transferable
• Guests must purchase the program for the entire cruise; this program is not offered on a per day basis
• If the program is purchased prior to the cruise, it is refundable up to 10:00pm ET, the evening prior to the cruise departure.  Otherwise, CHEERS! is non-refundable
• Price adjustments (up or down), implemented on the day of sailing, replace any previously advertised price
• Only one drink at a time may be ordered, there is a 5-minute wait time between orders and sharing is not permitted. No double shots as that will be considered ordering two drinks at once
• Guests may purchase a round of drinks for themselves and friends. One drink will count towards the CHEERS! program and the remaining drinks will be charged to a guest’s Sail and Sign® account
• Program allows for up to 15 alcoholic drinks, per 24-hour period (6:00am - 6:00am). Once the limit is reached, the guest will not be served ANY additional alcoholic drinks 
• Program only applies to onboard purchases
• All bottles and cans will be served opened
• Carnival reserves the right to refuse service for any reason
• Program is inclusive of VAT, if and as applicable.
• Applicable state and local taxes will be charged to a guest folio when this program is used within US waters. The tax is based on the state's tax structure and the cost of the individual drink purchased (not the daily program rate). For example: if the drink price is $5.00 USD and the tax is 10%, the guest's Sail & Sign® card will be charged $0.50 USD for tax. This applies to all US ports (embarkation home ports and ports-of-call)
• Due to state laws, we cannot sell CHEERS! until the second day of the cruise (starting at 6:00am) for voyages departing from our Texas, New York, and Virginia home ports. Drinks purchased on the first day of the cruise will be charged to the guest's Sail & Sign® card in the usual manner. When purchased on the second day of the cruise, guests are charged for the remaining days only (cruise duration less one day)
• For guests who pre-purchase CHEERS!, it will be activated upon boarding the ship (except for ships sailing from Texas, New York, and Virginia – activation will occur at 6:00am on the second day of the cruise). Guests are instructed to proceed to the bar, once on board, to receive a sticker which will be placed on their Sail & Sign® cards
• Group bookings (consisting of a minimum of 16 adults) can purchase CHEERS! prior to the cruise by contacting Group Event Planning (all adult guests in the group must purchase the program; all minors in the group must purchase Bottomless Bubbles program)
• For pre-purchase orders, a message card will be placed in guest’s stateroom on embarkation day referring the guests to the Casino Bar to activate the program
• CHEERS! is not offered on 2-day cruises, charter cruises and beverage purchases made at Celebration Key, Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays in The Bahamas.

Is there a beverage package for soft drinks?

Sail refreshed with Carnival's Bottomless Bubbles™ unlimited soda program! Enjoy the ease and convenience of paying one flat price for thirst-quenching fountain soda and juice all cruise long!

Pre-Cruise and Onboard Prices: 

• Kids (17 years of age and younger): $8.20 USD per person, per day including 18% service charge
• Adults (18 years of age and older): $11.21 USD per person, per day including 18% service charge 

Bottomless Bubbles can be purchased online at  www.carnival.com/funshops  or by contacting The Fun Shops™ Department at 800 522-7648, Monday through Friday, 9:00am-10:00pm ET and Saturday and Sunday, 9:00am-6:00pm ET. Cut-off for pre-purchase online is at 11:59pm ET, the evening prior to the cruise departure. Bottomless Bubbles can also be purchased on board at bar locations.

Currently, we are not able to process the Carnival Gift Card for Fun Shop orders by telephone. If you wish to purchase Bottomless Bubbles with a Carnival Gift Card, you may do so online at www.carnival.com/funshops

Upon purchasing Bottomless Bubbles, a sticker will be placed on the guest's Sail & Sign® card. In all areas where beverage service is offered, guests may show the Bottomless Bubbles sticker and receive a glass of the carbonated soft drink of their choice. Juices may also be requested. One 16-ounce glass will be served at a time (10-ounce glass for juice) and only to the guest whose name appears on the Sail & Sign card with the Bottomless Bubbles sticker attached.

The following beverages are offered through Bottomless Bubbles ( flavors may vary ):

• Soft Drinks/Soda
• Juices: Orange Juice, Cranberry Juice, Tomato Juice, Pineapple Juice and Grapefruit Juice

Bottomless Bubbles excludes:

• Non-alcoholic beverages other than soda and juices listed above
• Bottled water
• Specialty coffee
• Beverages offered at gangway while debarking
• Beverages offered through room service or the interactive TV system (where applicable) or other in-stateroom beverage programs

Please note: The following beverages are included in the price of your cruise and are served in the main dining room and 24/7 in the Lido Restaurant: non-bottled water, lemonade, iced tea and non-specialty coffee and tea. The following beverages are available through Room Service (charges may apply after 10:00am): juices (orange, tomato, apple or grapefruit), regular or decaffeinated coffee, hot tea, hot chocolate, chocolate milk, 2% milk and skim milk.

The following restrictions apply:

• Price adjustments (up or down) implemented on the day of sailing will replace any previously advertised price.
• Only one beverage serving, per sticker, will be served at a time. There is a 5-minute wait between ordering drinks.
• Soft drink is served by the glass (16 ounces); juice is served by the glass (10 ounces).
• No sharing is permitted and is non-transferable. Guests or family members who would like to enjoy soft drinks through this program must purchase their own sticker.
• If Bottomless Bubbles is purchased prior to the cruise, it is refundable up to 10:00pm ET, the evening prior to the cruise departure. Otherwise, Bottomless Bubbles is non-refundable. 
• Program is only applicable for onboard purchases; program cannot be used for beverage purchases at Celebration Key, Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays in The Bahamas.
• Applicable state and local sales taxes will be charged to the guest's folio when this program is used within US waters. The tax is based on the state’s tax structure and the cost of the individual drink purchased (not the daily program rate). For example: if the drink price is $2 and the tax is 10%, the guest’s Sail & Sign card will be charged $0.20 for tax. This applies to all US ports (embarkation home ports and ports-of-call).
• Europe and transatlantic cruises: Program is inclusive of VAT, if and as applicable.

What are my dining options?

Guests may choose from three different dinner seating options. By popular request, all dining rooms are smoke-free.

Assigned Seating - Early Dining and Late Dining This dining option offers guests a pre-set dining time for the duration of the cruise as well as the same table assignment each evening in the Main Dining Room. Guests who choose this option will not be able to reserve 'Your Time' open seating once on board.   E arly dining may be scheduled between 5:30pm and 6:00pm and late dining , between 7:45pm and 8:15pm. *

'Your Time Dining' Open Seating 'Your Time  Dining ' is offered fleet wide.  Guests are seated on a first - come, first - served basis , depending on party  size, and  in most cases, are accommodated within 20 minutes. Advance table reservations are not accepted . Guests using Carnival's HUB App can check-in for 'Your Time Dining' ahead of time or check-in when they are ready to go. The App will alert the guests when their table is ready and show the table number. All guests must be present in order for the party to be seated. The table will be held for 10 minutes. Your Time Dining is generally offered between 5:00pm and 9:00pm.* 

Parties greater than 8 guests may need to be accommodated at several tables and the wait can sometimes be more than one hour. We highly suggest that parties of 8 or more guests choose an assigned seating to ensure sitting together at one table or several tables close together

*Actual times will vary based on ship and itinerary, and will be listed in the daily ‘Fun Times’ and Carnival HUB App.

At time of booking, guests will be able to confirm their preferred dining choice. If their preference is not available, they may confirm an alternate time and be waitlisted for their preferred choice ( there is no guarantee a waitlist will clear ) . When possible, waitlists will be cleared prior to the sailing and guests will be notified by email. T raveling parties who are waitlisted together will be cleared on the same dining time. Cross-referencing bookings does  not  guarantee parties will be seated together. They must be confirmed on the same dining time to ensure they will be able to dine together. For those guests who choose e arly or l ate dining, the assigned dining room , time and table number , will be printed on the guests' Sail & Sign® card .  

Additional Dining Options In addition, guests may opt for casual bistro dining in the Lido Deck Restaurant or a more intimate and elegant atmosphere in the Steakhouse and other specialty dining venues. Please note, specialty dining options may have an additional charge. R estaurants and dining options vary by ship. Review dining options here .  

NOTE:   Menu items (excluding Steakhouse Selections) are complimentary in the main dining room.  Guests can order a second entrée, keeping in mind they can also request half portions if something looks too enticing to pass up.  If a third entrée is ordered, a US$5 charge will be assessed.

Getting to and from Port

Does carnival provide transportation from the airport to the cruise port terminal.

Carnival Cruise Line offers ground transportation between select airports and cruise ship terminals. These services are only available on the day of the cruise and immediately after the cruise. We do not offer airport transportation for cruises sailing from the following embarkation ports: Norfolk, Virginia: Baltimore, Maryland; Jacksonville, Florida; Mobile, Alabama; Charleston, South Carolina; Brisbane, Australia and Sydney, Australia.

Purchasing transportation can be done through Manage My Booking  on  carnival.com  or by contacting Carnival Reservations up to 2 days prior to the sail date.  You will need to provide your flight information in Online Check-in at the time of purchase. Your flight details are provided to the transportation company to assist in expediting your transportation to the pier.  It is your responsibility to update Carnival with any changes to your flight schedule to ensure you are met by the transportation company.

Transfers can be purchased in four easy steps:

> Log in to access My Cruise Manager

> Click 'Shop' located at the top of the web page, then select 'Airport Shuttle'.

> Once on the 'Transfers' page, make your selection.

> After you have made your transfer purchase, return to Online Check-In and provide flight itinerary.

For the flight guidelines (latest airport arrivals and earliest return flights) and additional information about airport transportation services, click here . 

How do I get to my cruise port terminal?

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

Cruise Maryland Terminal at South Locust Point 2001 East McComas Street Baltimore, MD 21230

Website: www.cruise.maryland.gov

Parking:   www. cruise.maryland.gov/Pages/content/parking-rates.aspx

Directions:   www.cruise.maryland.gov/Pages/content/directions-location.aspx

Google Maps:   View Map

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA

Port of Charleston Union Pier Terminal 32 Washington Street Charleston, South Carolina 29401

Website:   www.scspa.com/locations/cruise-terminal/

Parking:   www.scspa.com/cruise-parking/

GALVESTON, TEXAS

Port of Galveston Cruise Ship Terminals 2502 Harborside Drive Galveston, Texas 77550

Website:   www.portofgalveston.com

Parking:    www.portofgalveston.com/91/Cruise-Parking--General-Information

Directions:    www.portofgalveston.com/90/From-the-North-West

Google Maps:     View Map

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA

Jaxport Cruise Terminal 9810 August Drive Jacksonville, FL 32226

Website:   www.jaxport.com

Parking:   www.jaxportcruiseparking.com

Directions:   www.jaxportcruiseparking.com-directions/

Google Maps:  View Map

LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA

Long Beach Cruise Terminal at the Queen Mary 231 Windsor Way                        Long Beach, California 90802  

Website: www.visitlongbeach.com/plan-your-trip/cruise-terminal-information/ For guests sailing on Carnival Panorama , Carnival will provide parking information via email communication the week prior to your cruise. 

MIAMI, FLORIDA

PortMiami 1015 North America Way Miami, Florida 33132

Cruise Terminal D - 1435 North Cruise Boulevard Cruise Terminal E - 1265 North Cruise Boulevard Cruise Terminal F - 1103 North Cruise Boulevard

Website:   www.miamidade.gov/portmiami/parking-transportation.asp

Parking:   www.miamidade.gov/portmiami/parking-information.asp

Directions:   www.miamidade.gov/portmiami/directions-transportation.asp#directions

MOBILE, ALABAMA

Mobile Alabama Cruise Terminal 201 South Water Street Mobile, AL 36602

Website:   www.shipmobile.com

Parking:   www.shipmobile.com/parking/

Directions:   www.shipmobile.com/directions/

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

Port NOLA - Port of New Orleans Erato Street Cruise Terminal 1100 Port of New Orleans Place New Orleans, Louisiana 70130

Website:   www.portnola.com

Parking and Directions:   www.portnola.com/cruise/parking-directions

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK

New York Manhattan Cruise Terminal 711 12th Avenue at 55th Street New York City, New York 10019

Website:   www.nycruise.com/manhattan-terminal/

Parking:   www.nycruise.com/manhattan-terminal/parking/

Directions:   www.nycruise.com/manhattan-terminal/directions/

NORFOLK, VIRGINIA

Port of Norfolk Decker Half Moone Cruise Center One Waterside Drive Norfolk, Virginia 23510

Website:  www.nauticus.org

Directions and Parking:  www.nauticus.org/cruise-parking-directions

PORT CANAVERAL, FLORIDA

Port Canaveral Cape Canaveral, FL 32920 A-Side North Cruise Terminal #6 – 9241 Charles Rowland Drive B-Side South Cruise Terminal #3 – 220 Christopher Columbus Drive

Website:   https://www.portcanaveral.com/Cruise/Port

Parking and Directions:   www.portcanaveral.com/Cruise/Cruise-Parking,-Directions-Rates

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA

Port of San Francisco The Embarcadero Pier 27 | Pier 35 San Francisco, CA 94111

Website:   www.sfport.com/

Parking:     https://sfport.com/maritime/cruise#tab-12453-pane-2

Directions:   www.sfport.com/james-r-herman-cruise-terminal-pier-27-0

Google Maps: View Map

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON

Port of Seattle Smith Cove Cruise Terminal 91 2001 West Garfield Street Seattle, WA 98119

Website:   www.portseattle.org/places/smith-cove-cruise-terminal-pier-91

Parking:   www.cruiseseattleparking.com

TAMPA, FLORIDA

Port Tampa Bay Terminal #3 815 Channelside Drive Tampa, Florida 33602

Website:   www.porttb.com/cruise

Parking: https://www.porttb.com/parking

General Questions

What are service gratuities.

It is customary for our guests to extend gratuities to the shipboard staff in appreciation for their hard work and exceptional service. 100% of your gratuities are distributed to the crew who you interact with, such as your stateroom attendants, dining and culinary services staff, as well as other members of the onboard team who work behind the scenes to enhance your overall cruise experience. Applying this charge automatically streamlines the recognition process and ensures our crew will share in your generosity.   

To help you plan, we have provided the recommended onboard gratuities guidelines.

• Standard Staterooms: $16.00 USD per person, per day
• Suite Staterooms: $18.00 USD per person, per day

You may pay this daily gratuity in two different ways:

Gratuities can be added at the time of booking or anytime up to the sail date. Guests who booked directly with Carnival may add their pre-paid gratuities on Carnival.com. If a guest booked with a travel agent, they may contact their travel professional to add pre-paid gratuities to their booking. Prepaid gratuities are reflected in the 'Miscellaneous Charge' field on the confirmation and in the guest's E-Documents. 

Sail & Sign ®

If guests have not pre-paid their gratuities, the recommended, per person, amount will be posted to their Sail & Sign account on the second to last day of the cruise. Should a guest not be satisfied with the service they receive, they can contact the Guest Services desk while on board. This will allow us to address their concerns in a timely and appropriate fashion. At the discretion of the guest, gratuities may be adjusted after they have been posted on the guest's account, while on board. Gratuities, as posted on a guest's Sail & Sign account, will be considered final after a guest disembarks and no changes will be made after the cruise.

Additional Information

• Gratuities are assessed on all guests, with the exception of children under the age of 2.
• Gratuities apply regardless of the dining options selected, such as eating at the casual dining restaurant or open seating dining.
• For beverage purchases, an 18% service charge will be added to the bill.
• An 18% service charge will be added to the reservation fee the Chef’s Table and Bonsai Teppanyaki as well as the nominal à la carte fee at Bonsai Sushi, Emeril’s Bistro, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse and Seafood Shack; additional gratuities can be added at the guest's discretion.
• A gratuity may be extended to room service staff as service is rendered.

Thank you for your generous recognition of our onboard team. Our crew works hard to provide you with a great vacation and takes pride in being part of the best team in the cruise industry.

Can I get WiFi on board?

To keep you connected while at sea, all ships provide satellite internet access from bow-to-stern.

What kind of plans do you have?

Social Wi-Fi Plan :

• This plan provides access to the most popular social websites and apps like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Snapchat, TikTok, Pinterest, X, Reddit, LinkedIn, and major airline sites.
• It excludes access to most other websites, email, video, and music streaming services (e.g., Spotify, Netflix, Hulu), cellular-network-dependent Wi-Fi calling and FaceTime services.

Pricing: * Pre-cruise: $15.30 USD per day Onboard: $18.00 USD per day

Value Wi-Fi Plan:

• Access all sites included in the Social plan with a faster connection speed. Ideal for travelers who want to stay in touch via social media, manage emails, browse, and stay updated on news, sports, and weather.
• It doesn't support video streaming or cellular-network-dependent Wi-Fi calling.

Pricing: * Pre-cruise: $19.55 USD per day Onboard: $23.00 USD per day

Premium Wi-Fi Plan:

• Experience superior internet performance. This plan offers access to all sites from the Social and Value Plans at speeds up to three times faster. You can stream movies, video chat, monitor your home and browse the web seamlessly, including apps like Netflix, Hulu, Spotify, FaceTime, Zoom, and Ring where coverage allows.
• Cellular-network-dependent Wi-Fi calling is not supported.
• Premium Multi-Device Wi-Fi Plan: Experience our fastest possible connection across up to 4 devices. This plan can only be purchased online prior to sailing for $75.00 USD per day and is not available onboard. 

Pricing: * Pre-cruise: $21.25 USD per day Onboard: $25.00 USD per day

*Pricing is based on cruise-long plans and are subject to change without prior notice.

Guests can upgrade from one plan to another and use multiple devices, per plan, including their smart phone or laptop, but only one device can be used at a time.

How to purchase a plan?

Pre-cruise:  Pre-purchase internet plans at a discounted rate online via the 'Manage My Booking' tab on carnival.com or send as a gift to family and friends through The Fun Shops™. Guests must purchase a plan that covers the entire duration of their cruise. Plans may be pre-purchased online up to 11:59pm ET, the day before embarkation. Daily plans are available for purchase on board.

On Board:  Turn on your device's Wi-Fi feature and access the Wi-Fi settings to receive instructions on how to purchase our plans.

What restrictions are there?

Please note that as our services are carried via satellite, there are a few limitations compared to your home network.

• Sites blocked under the Carnival Fair Use Policy (adult content, violent content, etc.) will remain inaccessible under any plan or plan upgrade.
• All plans support for usage on one device at a time.
• Netflix and Hulu are supported, with individual subscriptions required.
• iMessage is included in all plans.
• FaceTime is available with both the Value and Premium plans.
• Satellite internet speed may vary depending on location and time of day.
• VPN connections are not supported. Discuss your VPN limitations with your company’s IT department if you are planning to work while sailing. We are not able to change your settings on board
• Pricing for plans purchased pre-cruise vary from plans purchased at time of sailing.
• There will be no refund after plan is activated on board.

What are some tips to improve the experience?

• Once on board, turn on airplane mode and connect to Carnival Wi-Fi. By using airplane mode in settings, you avoid roaming fees charged by your carrier
• To benefit from faster speeds, turn off background app data services and updates
• Wi-Fi enabled laptop and mobile devices
• Power supply for each of the devices you are bringing with you
• Data cables to transfer pictures

Does Carnival have a mobile app?

To download the Carnival HUB™ App, look for the Carnival HUB App on Google Play and iTunes to download. You can also download the app from Carnival's website by clicking here .

Which ships offer the Carnival HUB App? 

All ships are Carnival HUB App capable.

Where do the features of the app work?

Some features are available before your cruise but more functionalities become available once on board.

What does the Carnival HUB App do?

The following features are available at the touch of your fingertips:

• Share your cruise countdown
• Purchase gifts, WIFI, spa services, shore excursions and more
• Make dinner reservations
• Complete Online Check-In

During Your Cruise

• Onboard Chat (fee applies)
• ‘What's Happening’ Daily Events
• Food and Drinks
• Account Management
• Kids and Teens
• Reserve select shows, spa services, shore excursions and specialty dining
• All your reservations are added to your planner to help you manage your day
• Reserve restaurants ahead of time or check-in if you’re ready to go
• View food and drink menus via QR scans
• Casino features and special events 
• Lounging by the pool? Order food for delivery
• Learn about onboard safety and navigate to your assigned muster station to check-in with a team member upon boarding
• Check into a virtual queue and skip the line! We'll simply notify you when it's your turn

And more...

What is the app name? How can I download it?

To download, look for the Carnival HUB App on Google Play and iTunes. You can also download the app from Carnival's website by clicking here .

Is the Carnival HUB App free?

The app is free to download and use on board. For $5.00 USD per user, for the voyage, the HUB App offers chat.

Do I need internet access to use the app? Do I have to pay roaming?

No internet purchase is required. The app works only with the ship’s free Wi-Fi. To access sites and services outside of the HUB App, guests will need to purchase one of the Wi-Fi plans. To avoid carrier imposed roaming charges, turn on airplane mode while on board.

How do I log into the Carnival HUB App? Where can I find my folio?

You may log in before your cruise using your Carnival.com account or your booking details. To log on, once on board, you will need your folio number (found on your Sail & Sign card) and date of birth.

Can minors use chat?

Chat access is limited to ages 13 years and older. For safety reasons, parents and guardians must give consent within the app for guests 12 years and younger to activate onboard chat.

What devices does the app work on?

IOS/Apple iPhone versions supported: IOS 12.0 and up

Android/Google versions supported: 7.0 (aka Nougat) and up

Can I use my tablet to run the Carnival HUB App?

Although the app is not optimized for tablets, it will function on both Android and Apple tablets.

What is Carnival's Tobacco and Marijuana Smoking Policy?

Smoking is a fire and safety hazard on a ship. Consequently, it is strictly limited to specific exterior deck areas.  All guests are expected to adhere to the following safety guidelines:

• All staterooms and suite accommodations, including outside balconies, are NON-SMOKING. This policy applies to all forms of smoking, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, pipes, vaporizers, electronic cigarettes and marijuana.
• Carnival recognizes that some state and local governments in the U.S., and in the destinations we visit, might allow marijuana use. However, Carnival Cruise Line follows U.S. federal law, which strictly prohibits possession and use of recreational/medicinal marijuana and other illegal controlled substances. 
• Any violation of this policy will result in a $500 charge, per violation, posted on the guest’s Sail & Sign® account and may also result in the disembarkation of all guests in the stateroom. 
• Guests who are disembarked for violating our policy will be responsible for all financial charges and expenses to return home, and no refund of their unused cruise fare will be provided. Additionally, they may be prohibited from sailing with Carnival Cruise Line in the future.

Casino rules: There is no smoking in the casino unless seated and playing. It is not allowed at the casino bar or in the entire area when closed.

Our smoking policy is included in Carnival's  Cruise Ticket Contract .  Follow the link for   ship specific smoking areas .

In keeping with U.S. federal law, the minimum age to purchase tobacco products is 21. This policy is for U.S.-based itineraries/ships only.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if a guest is caught smoking in a stateroom or balcony?

They will be assessed a $500 charge, per violation, on their Sail & Sign® account. Information on this charge is included in Section 8 of Carnival’s Cruise Ticket Contract. The assessment of this charge does not allow a guest to continue smoking in his/her stateroom. If a guest is found to be in violation of our smoking policy, all guests in the stateroom may be disembarked from the vessel and risk not being allowed to sail on Carnival in the future.  Guests will be responsible for all financial charges and expenses to return home, and no refund of unused cruise fare will be provided. 

What should guests do if they smell tobacco in areas where smoking is not allowed, or marijuana in any area?

Guests who are concerned about other guests violating our smoking policy should contact our onboard Guest Services team, so we can address the situation. This will help avoid uncomfortable situations between guests.

What if a guest has a letter from a doctor saying that they are allowed to use marijuana for medicinal and/or therapeutic purposes?  Why is that prohibited?

Illegal narcotics/drugs including synthetic, designer drugs, marijuana, cannabis and cannabis derivatives such as Cannabidiol (CBD) items which may be labeled as medical marijuana are not allowed on board. While certain CBD products used for medicinal purposes may be legal in the U.S. based on state and local laws, they are not legal under U.S. federal law and in all the ports we visit and therefore are also considered prohibited items. 

Can I bring bottled water on board?

Carnival’s  Liquor and Beverage Policy states that guests are prohibited from bringing water, sodas and other non-alcoholic beverages on board that are packaged in bottles.

We know some of our guests are accustomed to bringing on board their own supply of bottled water, so for your convenience, bottled water can be pre-purchased prior to your cruise by visiting  www.carnival.com/funshops .  Water will be delivered to your stateroom on embarkation day. Bottled water may also be purchased on board by contacting Room Service. Once on board, your purchase is non-refundable; you may take home any unopened bottles.

Carnival carries distilled water for CPAP machines which can be purchased either pre-cruise or once on board. For pre-purchase, this can be purchased online at  www.carnival.com/in-room-food-beverages or by contacting our Fun Shops department at 800-522-7648, Monday through Friday, 9:00am-10:00pm ET and Saturday and Sunday, 9:00am-6:00pm ET. For purchase on board, please contact Room Service. Should you wish to bring your own distilled water with you, it must be hand carried along with your CPAP machine.

What items am I not allowed to bring?

Carnival Cruise Line Prohibited Items, Exemptions and Other Considerations

Carnival Cruise Line prohibits  weapons, illegal drugs and certain items that could interfere with the safe operation of its ships or compromise the safety and secure environment of its guests and crew.  Carnival conducts security scanning of all luggage and reserves the right to confiscate any item, which in Carnival’s sole discretion, is deemed dangerous or can pose a risk to the vessel or its guests. Items will be removed and disposed of and no compensation will be provided.   

We suggest all luggage be unlocked before turning it over to the porters in order to avoid any inconvenience or delay in delivering the luggage to your stateroom. For additional information, please refer to the terms and conditions of the  Cruise Ticket Contract . 

Before you pack, please take the time to review the following.

Prohibited Items

• Any illegal narcotics/drugs including synthetic, designer drugs, marijuana, cannabis and cannabis derivatives such as Cannabidiol (CBD) items which may be labeled as medical marijuana. While certain CBD products used for medicinal purposes may be legal in the U.S. based on state and local laws, they are not legal under U.S. federal law and in all the ports we visit and therefore are also considered prohibited items. 
• All weapons and any item made, adapted or intended for use as an offensive weapon: firearms (including replicas, imitations and their components), spears or spear guns, crossbows, crossbow bolts and long bow arrows; blunt weapons, including knuckle dusters, brass knuckles, clubs, coshes, batons, flails or Nunchaku; sharp pointed weapons, including throwing stars; air, BB, pellet pistols or rifles, stun devices and tasers, any projectile-weapon, including paintball guns, etc.
• All items containing incapacitating substances, such as gas guns, tear gas sprays, mace, phosphorus, acid and other dangerous chemicals that could be used to maim or disable
• All ammunition
• All explosives, including imitation explosives and devices
• Fireworks, flares, pyrotechnics
• Flammable substances and hazardous chemicals (e.g., petrol, methylated spirits, paint thinners)
• Compressed gas tanks, bottles, cylinders including dive tanks, propane tanks and aerosol cans (Refer to Exemptions)
• Alcohol (hard liquor) and beer
• Wine or champagne beyond the allowable limit of one 750 ml bottle per adult (21 years of age or older). Port, Vermouth, Sherry and other fortified wines, over 15% alcohol by volume (ABV), cannot be brought on board even in the allowable limit.
• Non-alcoholic beverages in containers other than a can or carton; excessive quantities per person (over 12 cans/cartons per person); excessive size per can/carton (over 12 ounces each)
• Electrical and household appliances containing any kind of heating element, such as irons, clothes steamers, immersion heaters, heating blankets, water heaters, coffee machines, hot plates, toasters, heating pads, humidifier, etc. (All Carnival ships offer valet laundry service for a nominal fee, and most ships (excluding Carnival Firenze, Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Venezia) also provide facilities with ironing boards and irons.)  
• Knives, scissors and open razors. (Recreational dive knives are allowed but must be held in the custody of the Guest Services Manager or Chief Security Officer and must be checked out/in by the owner for dive excursions during the cruise. Large scissors used by scrapbook and quilting enthusiasts are at times permitted with prior notification from the Security Services Department but are held on board in the same manner as dive knives.)
• Handcuffs or other restraining devices
• Self-balancing hover boards and air wheels
• Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB), communication scanners, wideband receivers, satellite phones, transformers, lasers and laser pointers. 
• Satellite disk, routers and other internet related equipment  
• Curtains, drapes or hanging room dividers
• Boom boxes/large radios
• Candles and incense
• Helium filled balloons 
• Inflatable kiddie pool
• Any footwear with wheels, such as, Heely’s type shoes
• Kava  
• Surfboards, boats and canoes 
• Fish of any kind; if fish are caught during an excursion, they must be shipped home

Exemptions and other considerations

• Aerosol cans containing personal grooming products are allowed 
• Personal grooming devices such as hair dryers, flat irons, curling irons, shavers, and other electrical devices, such as fans (no larger than 12" in diameter), power strips, multi plug box outlets/adaptors, and extension cords (without surge protectors) are allowed when used with proper caution.  However, if such devices are determined to pose a hazard, they will be removed and returned on debarkation morning
• Guest must use earphones when listening to music or watching shows/movies on personal devices in public spaces. Bluetooth, portable and wireless speakers are only permitted within your stateroom and must be used respectfully and at reasonable sound levels and times of day. Carnival reserves the right to amend this policy for the comfort and enjoyment of our guests.  Please check your pre-cruise notifications for your specific cruise. Large speakers/radios are always prohibited on board and will be confiscated.
• Medical gas bottles/oxygen cylinders are allowed in connection with a certified medical condition,but cannot be packed in baggage. Oxygen cylinders must be delivered to Guest Services and stored in a designated safe area
• CPAP machine will need to be packed in carry-on luggage. Carnival carries distilled water, which can be purchased either pre-cruise (Carnival’s Fun Shops at 1-800-522-7648) or on board by contacting Room Service.  Guests bringing their own distilled water, must hand carry along with their CPAP machine
• Small, personal-sized coolers no larger than 12” x 12” x 12” for the purpose of housing, small quantities of non-alcoholic beverages and/or medications are permitted as carry-on luggage
• Pets/live animals:  Only qualified service dogs trained to perform a specific task for a guest with a disability are allowed
• Flowers and plants:  Only permitted if ordered through Carnival.  Flowers/plants cannot be taken off the ship at any port
• Musical instruments: Are allowed, however, if a noise complaint is received, the instrument will be confiscated and returned to the guest on debarkation morning
• Ham radios/amateur radio equipment
• Google-type glasses are permitted on board in public areas, but cannot be worn at any gangway operation
• Digital Cameras/Camcorders, DVDs/VCRs, USB sticks, iPods, Nintendo/X-Box Play Units cannot be used with the TV in the guest stateroom or suite as the connection ports are disabled
• Due to concerns for food safety and contamination prevention, any food items brought on board must be pre-packaged and unopened.  Homemade items or pre-cooked foods are not allowed.  We are unable to provide food preparation, refrigeration or storage for personal food or beverage items
• Seashells may be brought on board if they appear to be clean and sanitized and do not have the odor of a living organism

Items  for Port Use Only The following items may be brought on board, but can be used off the ship, while in port only. All items must be stored in the guest’s stateroom.  

• Drone(s) are allowed, but must be held in the custody of the Chief Security Officer and must be checked out/in by the owner for PORT USE ONLY.
• Snorkel gear
• Skateboards
• Fishing rods
• Tennis rackets
• Roller blades or skates
• Metal detectors
• Beach chair
• Boogie Boards (maximum 42 inches in length)
• Portable Folding Bicycles (maximum 20 inch tires)
• Floatation devices:  For the comfort of all our guests, rafts, tubes and floatation devices other than those used as life preservers (water wings) cannot be used in the swimming pools on board
• Collapsible wagons - For the safety of our guests, the wagon cannot be rolled onto/off the ship during embarkation and debarkation and cannot be rolled off/onto the ship while in port  

Please Note : It is the responsibility of the guest to check the local laws of each port as Carnival will not be responsible for confiscated items by foreign governments. I tems  that cannot be taken off the ship in the United States The following items cannot be taken off the ship in the U.S. during the cruise or on debarkation day. U.S Customs and Border Protection (CBP) performs agricultural inspections to protect the U.S from potential carriers of animal and plant pests or diseases that could cause serious damage to America's crops, livestock, pets and the environment.

• Animal products 
• Unsealed food items
• Fruits and vegetables
• Agriculture and horticulture products
• Plants/cut flowers
• Ship property

How much luggage can I bring?

Guests who are scheduled to arrive at the terminal before 1:30 PM, usually check their bags with a porter so they can be free to enjoy lunch on Lido Deck before access to their stateroom is granted. Checked baggage service is only available until 2 hours before the ship's published sailing time (printed in the cruise documents).  Guests arriving after this time will be responsible for taking their bags on board.   Each checked suit case and carry-on suit case should not weigh more than 50 pounds, and when lying flat, bags must not exceed 16 inches high by 24 inches wide (the length of the bag is not a factor). For security screening purposes, all luggage should be unlocked. Oversized luggage and locked luggage may cause delivery delays.   Personalized luggage tags are included in the guest’s Electronic Documents (available once online check-in is completed). It is not necessary to print the tags in color. Carnival luggage tags must be affixed to your baggage prior to arriving at the terminal.  Additional tags can be obtained at curbside from the porter. Porters will re-tag any luggage tag with a TBA cabin assignment.    Curbside porters are customarily provided a $1 tip per bag.  They are not employees of Carnival and should a guest experiences any problems, they must report it to porter management on site. Since the screening and movement of large coolers through embarkation is an impediment to the boarding and security screening process, large coolers are not permitted as carry-on or checked luggage. Small, personal-sized coolers, no larger than 12 inches x 12 inches x 12 inches, for the purpose of housing small quantities of non-alcoholic beverages and/or medications are permitted as carry-on luggage. Airline Luggage Restrictions If traveling by air, guests are encouraged to contact the airlines directly to determine luggage restrictions and fees.   

What should I pack?

To help you plan, on cruises of 3-5 days, please limit your luggage to a maximum of one bag, per person. On cruises of 6 days or longer, no more than two bags, per person. Each checked bag and carry-on bag should not weigh more than 50 pounds and, when lying flat, bags must not exceed 16 inches high, by 24 inches wide (the length of the bag is not a factor). For security screening purposes, all luggage should be unlocked. Oversized luggage and locked luggage may cause delivery delays.  

You must personally carry-on any boarding documentation (passports, visas, I.D), valuables, medications and items which require special handling or that you need access to while your checked luggage is being delivered. And don't forget your personal toiletries (travel size or standard container size).

There are a number of must-pack items that we recommend every cruiser consider when preparing for a Carnival cruise.  Before you get started, check out our What to Wear section and research the weather forecast for the ports you’ll be visiting to determine exactly what you will need to bring.  In addition, here are some other recommended items: 

• Collapsible daypack or bag
• Rain jacket or poncho and/or small umbrella
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Translation and guide books
• Books and magazines
• Binoculars (to see the beautiful wildlife in Alaska)
• Phone chargers

Checked baggage service is only available until 2 hours before the ship's published sailing time (printed in the cruise documents). Guests arriving after this time will be responsible for taking their own bags on board.

What Not to Pack

In order to maintain a safe and secure environment, Carnival prohibits certain items on board, such as weapons, candles, irons, alcohol, or other dangerous goods. Carnival conducts security safety scanning of all luggage and if prohibited items are found, they will be removed and disposed of and no compensation will be given. Please review our list of Prohibited Items before shutting your suitcase.

What to wear?

Cruisers love the fact they “only have to unpack once”.  And while your destination, itinerary and personal style will dictate which outfits you bring, we want to share our guidelines and suggestions.  A Carnival ship has it all, from fine dining to casinos and shows to sunbathing, so here are some tips on how to dress to play or party.

Daytime:  Casual and Comfortable

Casual attire is the order of the day when the sun is up, which can include:

• Shorts, capris, khakis and jeans
• T-shirts, polo shirts, blouses and tops
• Summer dresses
• Exercise and athletic gear, lightweight sweater, pull-over or jacket
• Bathing suit, cover-up, hat or visor
• Comfortable rubber-sole flat shoes, sneakers, water shoes or non-slip boat shoes with traction

Please note : Select activities and shore excursions may require closed-toe shoes. Footwear with wheels is prohibited on board our ships.

Evening:  Cruise Casual to Cruise Elegant (Sharp & Chic) 

As we head into the evening, the dress code takes on multiple definitions, depending on your plans, the venue or the event.

Most nights, the dress code in the main dining room(s) for everyone is Cruise Casual:

• Men and boys: sports slacks, khakis, jeans, tailored dress shorts and collared dress, casual or polo shirts
• Women and girls: summer dresses, casual skirts, pants, capris, dress shorts, jeans, blouses and tops
• Kids:  Take a cue from the adult dress code, but at a kid-level
• Not permitted: cut-off jeans, men’s sleeveless shirts, t-shirts, gym or basketball shorts, exercise and athletic gear, baseball hats, flip-flops and bathing suit attire
• For itineraries 6 days or longer, bring your legwarmers, shoulder pads and neon-colored outfits for the ‘80s Rock-N-Glow Deck Party and a white outfit for our epic White Night Party.

On certain special nights, our main dining rooms celebrate our Cruise Elegant festivities and we invite guests to enjoy a special night out in a sharp and chic way.

• 5 days or shorter cruises will have one Cruise Elegant evening
• 6 days or longer cruises will have two Cruise Elegant evenings

On longer cruises, the first Cruise Elegant evening is scheduled for the second or third evening of the cruise.  Depending on itinerary, the next Cruise Elegant evening is the second or third evening prior to the end of the cruise. 

Cruise Elegant attire can include:                                      

• Men and boys: dress slacks, dress shirts, and sport coats (suggested); some men may even choose to wear a suit and tie or tuxedo
• Women and girls: dresses (party or cocktail), pantsuits, elegant skirts and blouses; some women may also wear evening gowns
• Kids: Take a cue from the adult dress code, and think school dance or nice party clothes
• Not permitted: jeans, men’s sleeveless shirts, shorts, t-shirts, sportswear, exercise and athletic wear, shorts, baseball hats, flip-flops and bathing suit attire 

A good rule of thumb is to dress for a special occasion.

The Steakhouse  and Rudi's Seagrill dress requirements follow the dress code specified for the main dining room(s). 

The Lido Restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner and has a more relaxed dress code than the main dining room(s); however, please respect that the Lido Restaurant is not the pool area. Shirts, bathing suit cover-ups and footwear should be worn at all times.  Please dry off completely as wet floors are a safety hazard.

Casinos, bars, retail shops, lounges and theaters are frequented by guests who dress according to daytime to nighttime standards. Basic rules still apply no matter the time of day – no swimsuits, wet clothes, or bare feet.

Please Note :

• All guests are expected to ensure their clothing and accessories are respectful to fellow guests. Specifically, items worn during the cruise should not contain any message that may be considered offensive or contain nudity, profanity, sexual innuendos/suggestions. In addition, clothing and accessories should not promote negative ethnic or racial, commentary, hatred, or violence in any form.  
• In some ports of call, it is against the law for anyone, including children, to wear army-style camouflage clothing or carry items made with camouflage material. Ports include (but not limited to) The Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica and St.Lucia. Before traveling, please check local laws of each port to ensure compliance with regulations.

Carnival Journeys and Holidays

• Carnival Journeys cruises feature a Throwback Sea Day in which we go back in time to relive the ‘80s during the day and the true elegance of formal evening and the original Captain’s Celebration at night. Guidelines for elegant evening apply, and formal gowns and suits/tuxedos are encouraged.
• Carnival knows how to celebrate! Feel free to bring a special outfit for our “Ugly Sweater Contest” in December, “Frightfully Fun” Halloween cruises, or to show your team spirit when there are big sporting events. Please note that costumes with full masks are prohibited, but half masks are allowed.

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Carnival Cruise Tips /Gratuities

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line's gratuities and tipping policy - do you have to and to whom you give your tips. Prepaid gratuities - when and how you can change the number of tips, what goes where and who gets what from the automatic tipping charge. This page is interlinked with our Carnival cruises prices hub. You can compare CCL's "tipping numbers" with those of the main competitor - Royal Caribbean (gratuities/tipping policy) .

Carnival cruise tips - the tipping policy

Tips are charged Per Person Per Day.

• USD 12,95 13,99 14,50 pp (standard staterooms - interior, oceanview, balcony, both adults and kids)
• USD 13,95   15,99 16,50 pp (suites). Suite perks (in addition to priority embarkation/debarkation in all ports, confirmed main dining room preference) also receive priority tender service, free in-cabin bottled water, 1 complimentary bag of laundry (per cruise), enhanced turndown service.
• Carnival cruise gratuities for children - tips don't apply to kids less than two years of age.
• On Carnival cruise ships departing from Australian ports tipping is not compulsory, 
• On Carnival  Cruise-To-Nowhere , the amount of gratuities PP per day is USD  12,95 13,99.
• For Carnival Barbados deals (any  Carnival cruise itinerary  visiting Barbados), all gratuities will be prepaid and added during booking.
• Room Service staff tipping is not compulsory.
• Daily gratuity is an automatic service charge added to the passenger's onboard account each day.
• Passengers can prepay gratuities.
• The amount of gratuities is split between the ship's staff (dining, housekeeping, cabin stewards).

NOTE: Since May 1, 2022, Carnival's onboard gratuity rate is increased. From that date forward, passengers staying in standard staterooms are charged US$14.50 per person/per day, while those in suite accommodations pay daily US$16.50 per person.

Carnival cruise prepaid gratuities - how, to whom, where

Carnival Cruise Lines Service Tips (gratuities) are automatically charged to the guest's onboard "Sail & Sign" (S&S) account. Follows the breakdown of the tips on Carnival cruises (in USD, per day, per person):

• Housekeeping staff - USD 4,05  (standard cabins) USD 5,05 (suites)
• Dining/wait staff - USD 6,40
• Alternative Services (kitchen, entertainment, passenger services, other hotel staff members) - USD 2,50
• For drinks purchases, an automatic 15%  18% gratuity is added to the bill. Charges are applied directly to the onboard account. An automatic 15% 18% gratuity is added to the "Chef’s Table" (dining package) cover charge and applied directly to the onboard account.
• NOTE: Carnival Cruise Line passengers now have to pay an 18% gratuity on alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks, even those who buy the company's CHEERS! beverage package. The cruise line increased the gratuity by 3% overnight on November 27, 2018. Previously, the drink gratuity price was 15%. A change to Carnival Cruise Line’s website gratuity section already states that for beverage purchases, automatic 18% gratuity is added to the bill. In the case of individual purchases, it is simply added to the price charged to the guest's Sail & Sign account. When buying a beverage package, the gratuity is automatically factored into the overall price. The change in gratuity also applies to the Bottomless Bubbles soda package.

When purchasing alcohol and soda drinks on board, 15%  18% of your bill will be automatically added to the S&S charge. You are free to tip the Room Service staff if you wish so. Your specialty restaurant dinner price (the cost of the Carnival Steakhouse dinner is currently around $35) is inclusive of gratuities, but everyone is more than welcome to add more.

If you're not satisfied with the level of service you receive while onboard, you may contact the "Guest Services" desk on your ship. It's up to you to adjust the amount of tipping at any time while onboard and tips will be deemed undisputed.

You should know, that the Carnival service staff on board don't make a salary (their salary per month is around USD 100). This means your gratuities are their salaries. On cruise ships "tipping" doesn't mean "something extra" - it means "salary".

The following table shows the total amount of gratuities (per person) based on itinerary duration:

Carnival cruise tipping tips

• According to the Carnival cruise tipping policy, if you prefer to tip the staff personally, you can go to the guest service desk and ask to have tips removed from your S&S (Sail&Sign) card - they will ask you why and you'll tell them you prefer to tip cash, or you could also just leave the tips to them and tell them who you want to get how much. But know that if you do so, you will be shortchanging a few people - those are the staff who you'll never see behind the scenes areas that will not get their share of your tip.
• If you have a service problem, speak first with your cabin steward, then (if the problem remains) with the hotel manager, and if the problem still remains - then adjust the gratuities.
• (optional) You may also tip in cash your waiter - bar server - room steward if you're satisfied with his/her service.
• You can pay your fixed gratuities in advance (on booking), otherwise, you'll be billed on your S&S card on your first embarkation day.
• (optional) additional cash tips
• Tipping porters (staff members that bring the bags to your cabin) - the standard tip is $2 per bag or $5 for 2-3 bags.
• optional (but highly recommended) is to give $5 per day per child at Camp Carnival.

If you want to show the staff that you appreciate their hard work, you can always pay in cash some extra tips (usually at the end of your sailing, but you can tip them also on a daily basis). The list of staff you can tip directly includes cabin stewards and MDR waiters (during the trip), bar servers and room-service delivery (as you use their services), and a proper tip would be $10 to 20 each. As a "playing safe" policy, some guests tip cabin stewards & MDR waiters the first and the last night of the voyage.

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How Much Is The Gratuity On A Carnival Cruise

Published: January 6, 2024

by Idaline Hammond

• Sustainability
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Introduction

Welcome aboard a Carnival Cruise, where you can embark on a remarkable journey filled with relaxation, adventure, and exceptional service. As you plan your well-deserved vacation at sea, it’s important to consider various aspects of your cruise, including gratuity. While it may seem like a small detail, understanding gratuity on a Carnival Cruise is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Gratuity, also known as tipping, is a way to show appreciation to the hardworking staff who go above and beyond to make your cruise memorable. From the friendly waitstaff at the onboard restaurants to the dedicated cabin stewards who keep your room tidy, these individuals rely on gratuities as a significant portion of their income. By leaving a gratuity, you contribute to their livelihood and acknowledge their exceptional service.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the world of gratuity on Carnival Cruises. We’ll discuss everything from the standard gratuity rate to how to pay gratuities and even alternatives to prepaid gratuities. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned Carnival Cruise enthusiast, this article will provide you with valuable insights to make informed decisions about gratuity on your upcoming voyage.

Overview of Gratuity on Carnival Cruises

Gratuity on Carnival Cruises is a customary practice and an important aspect of the overall cruise experience. It is designed to reward the hardworking staff members who ensure your comfort and satisfaction throughout your journey. These dedicated individuals include the dining room waitstaff, cabin stewards, and other service-oriented crew members.

When you book a Carnival Cruise, you have the option to prepay your gratuities or have them added to your onboard account for settlement at the end of your cruise. Prepaying your gratuities eliminates the need to worry about carrying cash and ensures that the staff members receive their fair share.

While gratuities are typically suggested, they are not mandatory. Carnival Cruise Line allows passengers to adjust the gratuity amount or opt to provide gratuities directly to service staff as per their preference. However, it is important to keep in mind that the hardworking crew members rely on gratuities as a significant part of their income, so it is highly encouraged to express your appreciation through tipping.

The gratuity amount on Carnival Cruises is calculated on a per-person, per-day basis. The specific rates are determined by Carnival Cruise Line and may vary depending on the length of your cruise and the room category you choose. These rates are subject to change, so it’s essential to check the most up-to-date information when planning your cruise.

While gratuities are typically distributed among the crew members who directly provide services to you, such as dining room waitstaff and cabin stewards, there are other crew members who work behind the scenes to ensure a smooth sailing experience. These individuals, including galley staff and technicians, also greatly contribute to your overall experience, and Carnival Cruise Line allocates a portion of the gratuities to these behind-the-scenes staff as well.

It is worth noting that while gratuities cover basic service, additional tips for exceptional service are always appreciated. If a staff member goes above and beyond to make your cruise extra special, feel free to express your gratitude by giving them an extra tip.

Factors to Consider in Calculating Gratuity

Calculating gratuity on a Carnival Cruise involves considering several factors to ensure that you provide an appropriate and fair tip for the exceptional service you receive. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Length of the cruise: The duration of your cruise plays a role in determining the overall gratuity amount. Longer cruises typically have a higher gratuity rate, as the staff works tirelessly to ensure your comfort and satisfaction throughout the extended voyage.
• Room category: The room category you select can also impact the gratuity calculation. Higher-end accommodations often have a higher gratuity rate, as they usually come with additional amenities and personalized services.
• Number of passengers: The number of passengers in your party will also affect the gratuity calculation. Carnival Cruise Line typically calculates gratuities on a per-person basis, so the more individuals in your group, the higher the total gratuity amount.
• Service quality: The level of service you receive will naturally influence the gratuity amount you choose to give. If the staff consistently goes above and beyond to make your cruise enjoyable and memorable, you may consider providing a higher gratuity as a token of your appreciation.
• Additional purchases or services: While gratuities typically cover basic services, additional purchases such as spa treatments or specialty dining experiences may warrant an additional tip. Remember to factor in any extras you enjoy during your cruise when calculating the overall gratuity amount.

It’s important to strike a balance when considering these factors. While you want to ensure that the staff members receive fair compensation for their hard work, you also want to make sure that the gratuity amount remains within your budget.

Carnival Cruise Line sets a recommended gratuity amount, but ultimately, the decision on the final gratuity amount is up to you. Take into account the factors mentioned above, consider the outstanding service you received, and come to a gratuity amount that reflects your satisfaction while showing your appreciation to the hardworking staff.

The Standard Gratuity Rate on Carnival Cruises

When it comes to the standard gratuity rate on Carnival Cruises, it’s important to note that the rates are subject to change and may vary depending on the length of your cruise and the room category you choose. Carnival Cruise Line provides recommended gratuity rates per person, per day, to ensure fair compensation for the dedicated staff members who make your cruise experience exceptional.

As of [current year], the standard gratuity rates on Carnival Cruises are as follows:

• For Main Dining Room Servers: The recommended gratuity rate is $____ per person, per day.
• For Assistant Waiters: The recommended gratuity rate is $____ per person, per day.
• For Headwaiters: The recommended gratuity rate is $____ per person, per day.
• For Cabin Stewards: The recommended gratuity rate is $____ per person, per day.

It’s important to note that these rates are intended as a guideline, and you have the flexibility to adjust the gratuity amount based on your satisfaction and appreciation for the services provided. Carnival Cruise Line recognizes that exceptional service may warrant additional gratuities, and they encourage passengers to express their gratitude accordingly.

To simplify the gratuity process, Carnival Cruise Line also offers the option for passengers to prepay their gratuities. This allows you to conveniently settle the gratuity amount in advance and eliminates the need to carry cash or worry about tipping at the end of your cruise. Prepaying your gratuities ensures that the staff members receive their fair share and allows you to focus on enjoying your vacation.

It’s important to reiterate that while gratuities are suggested, they are not mandatory. You have the flexibility to adjust or opt out of the suggested gratuity amount if you prefer to provide gratuities directly to the service staff. However, it is highly encouraged to show your appreciation through tipping, as it greatly contributes to the livelihood of the hardworking crew members.

Remember, the standard gratuity rate is a starting point, and you have the freedom to customize the gratuity amount based on your personal satisfaction and the level of service you receive throughout your Carnival Cruise.

Understanding the Gratuities Policy on Carnival Cruises

As you prepare for a memorable vacation on a Carnival Cruise, it’s important to understand the gratuities policy to ensure a seamless and rewarding experience. Carnival Cruise Line has established a transparent and straightforward policy regarding gratuities to provide clarity to passengers.

Gratuities on Carnival Cruises are typically added to your onboard account either through prepayment or as a daily charge. Prepayment allows you to conveniently settle the gratuity amount in advance, ensuring that the staff members receive their fair share. On the other hand, if you choose not to prepay, gratuities will be automatically added to your onboard account on a daily basis.

The gratuity charges are automatically added to your account to ensure that the hardworking staff members receive appropriate compensation for their services. This practice also eliminates the need to carry cash and simplifies the tipping process, allowing you to focus on enjoying your cruise.

It’s important to note that the gratuity charges on Carnival Cruises may vary based on the length of your cruise and the room category you choose. The specific rates are provided by Carnival Cruise Line and are subject to change. It’s recommended to refer to the most up-to-date information on the Carnival Cruise Line website or contact their customer service for accurate details regarding the gratuity charges for your specific cruise.

While the gratuity charges are automatically added to your account, Carnival Cruise Line recognizes that exceptional service may warrant additional gratuities. If a staff member goes above and beyond to make your experience unforgettable, you have the option to provide additional tips directly to them. This allows you to personally express your appreciation for their outstanding service.

If you have any questions or concerns about the gratuity charges or policy on your Carnival Cruise, the Guest Services desk onboard is available to assist you. They can provide clarification, adjust gratuity amounts, or address any other issues related to gratuities.

Understanding and adhering to the gratuities policy on Carnival Cruises ensures that the staff members receive the recognition and compensation they deserve for their hard work. It also allows you to play a part in supporting their livelihood while enjoying a stress-free cruise experience.

Additional Services and Gratuities

While gratuities on Carnival Cruises typically cover basic services provided by the dining room waitstaff and cabin stewards, there are additional services and amenities that may warrant an extra tip. It’s important to consider these situations to ensure that you appropriately express your appreciation for exceptional service throughout your cruise.

One area where additional gratuities are often given is for bartenders and beverage servers. If you frequent the onboard bars or enjoy the convenience of beverage service throughout the ship, tipping the bartenders and servers is a gesture that is greatly appreciated. Many passengers choose to provide an extra dollar or two per drink as a token of gratitude.

If you indulge in specialty dining experiences offered on Carnival Cruises, such as a steakhouse or seafood restaurant, it’s customary to provide an additional tip to the waitstaff providing exceptional service in these establishments. The recommended gratuity amount for specialty dining experiences may vary, but a general guideline is around 15-20% of the total cost of the meal.

Another service that often goes above and beyond to enhance your cruise experience is the spa and salon. If you take advantage of rejuvenating spa treatments, haircuts, manicures, or any other salon services, it’s customary to provide an additional tip to the service providers. The recommended gratuity amount is usually around 15-20% of the service cost.

Additionally, if you participate in shore excursions organized by Carnival Cruise Line, it’s common to tip the tour guides or drivers as a token of appreciation for their knowledgeable guidance and safe transportation. The amount may vary depending on the length and type of the excursion, but a general guideline is around $5-$10 per person.

Remember, these additional services and amenities are not included in the standard gratuities charged by Carnival Cruise Line. Providing separate gratuities for these services ensures that the staff members who go the extra mile to make your experience exceptional receive the recognition and compensation they deserve.

While giving extra gratuities for additional services is customary, it is important to be mindful of your budget and give what you are comfortable with. Gratuities should always be given willingly and reflect your satisfaction with the service provided.

By considering these additional services and providing appropriate gratuities, you help create a positive and rewarding environment for the hardworking staff members who make your Carnival Cruise extraordinary.

How to Pay Gratuities on a Carnival Cruise

Paying gratuities on a Carnival Cruise is a simple and convenient process that ensures the hardworking staff members receive the recognition and compensation they deserve. Carnival Cruise Line provides a few options for paying gratuities, allowing you to choose the method that best suits your preferences.

Prepaid Gratuities: One option is to prepay your gratuities when you book your cruise. This option allows you to settle the gratuity amount in advance, providing you with peace of mind knowing that the staff members will receive their fair share. Prepaid gratuities also eliminate the need to carry cash or worry about tipping at the end of your cruise, allowing you to truly relax and enjoy your vacation.

Automatic Daily Charge: If you choose not to prepay your gratuities, Carnival Cruise Line automatically adds the gratuity charges to your onboard account as a daily charge. This provides a convenient and hassle-free way to ensure that the staff members receive their gratuities. The charges will be settled at the end of your cruise, either through your chosen payment method or by using the credit card associated with your onboard account.

Direct Tipping: While prepaid gratuities or automatic daily charges are the commonly preferred methods, Carnival Cruise Line also allows passengers to provide gratuities directly to the service staff. If you prefer this option, you can personally hand cash gratuities to the staff members who have provided exceptional service. It’s important to note that cash is the preferred method for direct tipping, as not all staff members may have access to credit card processing facilities.

Regardless of the method you choose, it’s important to consider the recommended gratuity rate per person, per day provided by Carnival Cruise Line. These rates are designed to ensure fair compensation for the hardworking staff members who contribute to your enjoyable cruise experience. However, you have the flexibility to adjust the gratuity amount based on your satisfaction and appreciation for the services provided.

If you have any questions or concerns about the gratuity payment process on your Carnival Cruise, the Guest Services desk onboard is available to assist you. They can provide guidance, address any issues, or help adjust gratuity amounts if needed.

No matter which method you choose to pay gratuities on a Carnival Cruise, your recognition and contribution play a significant role in supporting the livelihood of the dedicated staff members who work tirelessly to ensure your vacation is unforgettable.

Alternatives to Prepaid Gratuities on Carnival Cruises

While prepaid gratuities are a popular and convenient option for paying gratuities on a Carnival Cruise, there are alternative methods available if you prefer more flexibility or prefer to handle gratuities differently. Carnival Cruise Line understands that each passenger has unique preferences and provides options to accommodate those differences.

Adjusting the Gratuities: If you chose to prepay your gratuities but feel that an adjustment is necessary based on your experience during the cruise, it is possible to make changes to the gratuity amount. The Guest Services desk onboard can assist you with adjusting the gratuity charge, either increasing or decreasing it, to better reflect your level of satisfaction. This allows you to have more control over the gratuity amount and ensures that you contribute based on the service you receive.

Direct Tipping: If you prefer to directly tip the staff members who have provided exceptional service to you, Carnival Cruise Line allows for this method as well. You can personally give cash gratuities to the service staff, such as the dining room servers, cabin stewards, or bartenders, as a direct acknowledgement of their outstanding service. This method provides a more personal and immediate way to show your appreciation.

Gratuities Adjustment Request: In some circumstances, passengers may feel the need to make a gratuity adjustment request due to unsatisfactory service. If you encounter any issues during your cruise, such as consistent poor service or unresolved problems, you can request a gratuity adjustment through the Guest Services desk. Carnival Cruise Line takes guest feedback seriously, and they will assess the situation and make any necessary adjustments to the gratuity charges.

It’s important to note that whether you choose prepaid gratuities, direct tipping, or gratuity adjustment requests, the goal is to ensure that the staff members receive appropriate recognition and compensation for their hard work. Tipping is a way to appreciate and acknowledge their service, and the alternative options allow you to tailor your gratuity contributions based on your specific preferences and experiences.

Regardless of the method you choose, it’s essential to consider the dedication and efforts of the staff members who work tirelessly to make your cruise memorable. Treating them with kindness, respect, and providing gratuities is a way to show your gratitude and support.

Ultimately, the choice of how to handle gratuities on a Carnival Cruise is up to you. It’s about finding a method that aligns with your values and ensures that both you and the staff members benefit from a fair and rewarding experience.

Gratuity Adjustment Requests on Carnival Cruises

While Carnival Cruise Line strives to provide exceptional service to all passengers, there may be instances where you feel the need to make a gratuity adjustment request. Whether it’s due to unsatisfactory service or unresolved issues during your cruise, Carnival Cruise Line understands the importance of guest feedback and provides a process for gratuity adjustment requests.

If you encounter any issues or have concerns about the service you received during your cruise, it’s important to address them promptly. The first step is to communicate your concerns to the appropriate staff members. This could be the dining room manager, guest services, or any other relevant department. They will make every effort to rectify the situation and ensure your satisfaction.

If your concerns are not adequately addressed or resolved, you can proceed with a gratuity adjustment request through the Guest Services desk onboard. The staff at the Guest Services desk will carefully listen to your feedback, assess the situation, and work towards a resolution. They understand the importance of guest satisfaction and strive to make your cruise experience as enjoyable as possible.

It’s essential to provide specific details about the issue or concern you encountered. This includes any dates, times, and names of the staff members involved. Being as detailed as possible helps the cruise line better assess the situation and respond appropriately.

Gratuity adjustment requests on Carnival Cruises are taken seriously, and the cruise line aims to address any legitimate concerns to ensure that your experience meets your expectations. The process may involve a review of the situation, discussing the matter with the relevant staff members, and making any necessary adjustments to the gratuity charges.

It’s important to note that while gratuity adjustment requests are valid in certain circumstances, they should be made for genuine reasons and not as a means to avoid tipping altogether. The purpose of tipping is to appreciate the hardworking staff who make your cruise enjoyable, and it is expected that gratuities will be provided for exceptional service.

By following the appropriate channels and communicating your concerns in a respectful manner, gratuity adjustment requests can lead to a resolution that benefits both you and the cruise line. Carnival Cruise Line values guest feedback and strives to continuously improve their services based on the experiences shared by passengers.

Remember, the vast majority of staff members on Carnival Cruises work diligently to ensure an outstanding experience for all passengers. Gratuity adjustment requests should be made in exceptional circumstances where there is a legitimate concern that impacts your overall satisfaction with the service provided.

Maintaining open communication and working together with Carnival Cruise Line allows for the opportunity to address any issues and make necessary adjustments to ensure a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience for all passengers.

Gratuity on a Carnival Cruise is more than just a customary practice – it’s an important way to show appreciation for the hardworking staff who make your cruise experience exceptional. By considering factors such as the length of the cruise, room category, and service quality, you can calculate an appropriate gratuity amount that reflects your satisfaction and gratitude.

Carnival Cruise Line offers various options for paying gratuities, including prepaying, automatic daily charges, and direct tipping. Each method allows you to contribute to the livelihood of the staff members who work tirelessly to ensure your comfort and satisfaction throughout your cruise.

In addition to the standard gratuity rates, it’s important to recognize the exceptional service provided by bartenders, specialty dining staff, spa personnel, and tour guides. Expressing your appreciation through additional tips for these services further strengthens the relationship between guest and staff.

While prepaid gratuities are recommended, it is possible to adjust the gratuity amount or make requests for gratuity adjustments in exceptional circumstances. Carnival Cruise Line understands the importance of guest feedback and strives to address any issues that may arise during your cruise.

Ultimately, the goal is to create an environment of mutual respect and appreciation, where the staff members feel valued for their hard work and guests enjoy a memorable and rewarding experience. By offering gratuities and providing feedback when necessary, you actively contribute to this positive atmosphere on your Carnival Cruise.

As you embark on your next Carnival Cruise, take a moment to reflect on the exceptional service you receive and the joy it brings to your vacation. Consider the gratuity options available to you and choose the method that aligns with your preferences and values.

Remember, tipping is not just an act of financial contribution, but a way to acknowledge and appreciate the dedicated individuals who go above and beyond to ensure your cruise is nothing short of extraordinary. Your gratuities play a vital role in supporting the livelihood of the staff members and ensuring that the outstanding service continues for future passengers.

So, embrace the spirit of gratitude, generosity, and exceptional service as you set sail on your Carnival Cruise, knowing that your gratuities contribute to the happiness and well-being of the hardworking crew members who make your cruise experience truly unforgettable.

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Carnival Cruise Line increases gratuity, Wi-Fi charges (and it's not the only one)

Travelers sailing with Carnival Cruise Line can expect to pay steeper fees in the coming months. The cruise line is increasing charges for both gratuities and Wi-Fi, a spokesperson told USA TODAY on Wednesday.

Onboard gratuities will increase from $14.50 per person, per day to $16 for guests in standard accommodations, beginning April 1. For those in suites, the price will increase from $16.50 per day for each guest to $18.

"Our shipboard team members work hard to provide exceptional service and the friendly, welcoming, and outstanding work of Carnival crew is widely recognized across the industry and amongst cruise fans," Carnival Cruise spokesperson Matt Lupoli said in an emailed statement. "We believe our guests will agree this slight increase is well-deserved."

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He noted that although gratuities are automatically added to travelers' onboard accounts, they can adjust the amount as they wish. Once a passenger disembarks, the charges are considered final, according to Carnival's website .

Guests who are booked to sail with the line can prepay their gratuities online before April 1 at the current price, Lupoli said.

Carnival will also increase the cost of Wi-Fi on its ships beginning Friday. The line's Social internet plan will increase from $10.20 to $12.75, while its Value plan will jump from $14.45 to $17. The Premium plan will also increase from $17 to $22.

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Have other cruise lines increased their gratuity prices?

Yes. Carnival's fee hikes follow similar moves from lines such as Princess Cruises and Holland America Line, which said they would increase their gratuity prices  (all three lines are part of Carnival Corp.).

The changes come as a number of lines, including Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Line, have also increased fees for amenities such as beverage packages and signature restaurants in the wake of high inflation  during the industry's continued recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic .

How To Prepay Gratuities On Carnival Cruise

Are you planning to embark on a Carnival Cruise and want to ensure your gratuities are taken care of in advance? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the simple steps of prepaying your gratuities on a Carnival Cruise. By prepaying, you can relax and enjoy your vacation without any worry about tipping, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the incredible experiences and activities that await you on board. So let’s get started and discover how you can make your cruise experience even more hassle-free by taking care of your gratuities ahead of time.

Table of Contents

What are gratuities?

Gratuities, also known as tips, are a way to show appreciation for the exceptional service provided by the staff during your Carnival cruise . These tips are typically given to the cabin stewards, dining room waiters, and other crew members who contribute to making your vacation experience memorable. While gratuities are not mandatory, they are an important aspect of cruise etiquette and play a significant role in the livelihood of the hardworking crew members.

Importance of prepaying gratuities on a Carnival cruise

Prepaying gratuities on a Carnival cruise offers several benefits that enhance your overall vacation experience. By taking care of this ahead of time, you can ensure guaranteed service, ease of budgeting, and reduced wait times on the ship. Prepaying gratuities not only simplifies the logistics of your cruise but also allows you to show your appreciation to the crew members who go above and beyond to make your vacation special.

Benefits of Prepaying Gratuities

Guaranteed service.

When you prepay your gratuities, you are effectively securing excellent service throughout your Carnival cruise. By taking care of the tips ahead of time, you establish a positive rapport with the crew members who will be catering to your needs. They are more likely to go the extra mile to ensure your satisfaction and provide personalized service. Prepaying gratuities ensures that you will be treated like a VIP from the moment you step on board the ship.

Ease of budgeting

One of the most significant advantages of prepaying gratuities is the ease of budgeting. By including the gratuities in your overall cruise costs, you have a clear understanding of your expenses before embarking on your vacation. This allows you to plan and allocate your funds accordingly, ensuring that you have a worry-free and financially organized cruise experience. Prepaying gratuities eliminates any last-minute surprises, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy your time on the ship.

Reduced wait times on the ship

Prepaid gratuities can also save you valuable time during your Carnival cruise. On a cruise, many passengers prefer to settle their gratuities onboard, leading to long lines at the guest services desk. However, by prepaying your gratuities, you can bypass these long wait times and head straight into your vacation. This gives you more time to explore the ship, enjoy the amenities, and participate in various activities without any unnecessary delays.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. check the cruise reservation details.

Before you begin the process of prepaying gratuities on your Carnival cruise, ensure that you have all the necessary information on hand. This includes your cruise reservation number, the date and duration of your cruise, as well as the number of guests in your party.

2. Log in to your Carnival Cruise account

Access your Carnival Cruise account by visiting the official Carnival website and logging in with your username and password. If you do not have an account, you can easily create one by following the prompts provided.

3. Navigate to the ‘Manage My Booking’ section

Once you have logged in, locate the ‘Manage My Booking’ section on the Carnival website. This is where you can access and modify various aspects of your cruise reservation, including prepaying gratuities.

4. Select ‘Prepay Gratuities’

Within the ‘Manage My Booking’ section, look for the option to ‘Prepay Gratuities’ and click on it. This will take you to the specific page where you can review and select the gratuity options for your Carnival cruise.

5. Review the gratuities policy

Before proceeding with prepaying your gratuities, it is important to familiarize yourself with the gratuities policy outlined by Carnival. This will ensure that you understand the recommended tipping amounts and any additional charges for specialty dining and bar service.

6. Choose the number of guests and cabin type

On the prepay gratuities page, you will be prompted to select the number of guests in your party and the type of cabin you have booked. This information helps determine the appropriate gratuity amounts for your specific circumstances.

7. Add the gratuities to your cart

Once you have provided the necessary details, click on the option to add the gratuities to your cart. This will ensure that the selected gratuity amounts are included in your overall cruise costs.

8. Review and confirm your order

Before finalizing the prepayment of your gratuities, carefully review the details of your order. Make sure that the selected gratuity amounts and guest information are accurate. Once you are satisfied, proceed to confirm your order.

9. Provide payment information

To complete the prepayment of your gratuities, you will need to provide your payment information. Carnival accepts various methods of payment, including credit cards and other approved forms of electronic payment. Ensure that you enter your payment details accurately to avoid any processing issues.

10. Receive a confirmation

Once you have submitted your payment information, you will receive a confirmation of your prepayment. This confirmation serves as proof that you have successfully prepaid your gratuities and allows you to have peace of mind knowing that this aspect of your cruise has been taken care of.

Gratuities Pricing

Tips per person, per day.

The gratuity amounts recommended by Carnival for various crew members are typically calculated per person, per day. These amounts can vary based on the duration of your cruise and the type of cabin you have booked. It is advisable to refer to Carnival’s gratuities policy or consult with a Carnival representative to determine the specific tipping amounts applicable to your cruise.

Additional gratuities for specialty dining and bar service

While prepaying gratuities covers the majority of crew members on your Carnival cruise, it is important to note that additional gratuities may be required for specialty dining and bar service. These extra gratuities should be given directly to the individual staff members who cater to your needs in these specialized areas. Consult the gratuities policy or check with the relevant Carnival personnel for guidance on the appropriate amounts to tip for these additional services.

Flexibility and Adjustments

Changing gratuities allocation.

In some cases, you may wish to adjust the allocation of your prepay gratuities. Carnival understands that circumstances can change, and they provide options for making adjustments. By contacting the Carnival customer service team, you can request modifications to the distribution of your prepay gratuities, ensuring that they are allocated appropriately to the crew members who have provided exceptional service.

Cancellation and refund options

If, for any reason, you need to cancel your Carnival cruise reservation, the prepay gratuities can be refunded within the stipulated cancellation policy timeframe. It is important to review the terms and conditions related to cancellations to understand any applicable fees or deadlines for refund eligibility. Carnival’s customer service team can provide further assistance and guidance regarding cancellations and refund options for prepay gratuities.

Group Bookings

Managing gratuities for large groups.

If you are traveling with a large group on a Carnival cruise, managing the gratuities can be simplified through coordination and prepayment. By ensuring that all members of the group prepay their gratuities individually, you can avoid any confusion or discrepancies when it comes to distributing tips. This allows each member of the group to show their appreciation for the exceptional service received.

Coordination with the Carnival Group Event Planner

For groups booking a Carnival cruise as part of a special event or celebration, it is beneficial to coordinate with the Carnival Group Event Planner. The Group Event Planner can assist in ensuring that the gratuities for the entire group are appropriately allocated and prepaying gratuities can be seamlessly integrated with the overall event planning process.

Prepaying Gratuities Tips and Etiquette

Considerations for tipping amount.

When prepaying gratuities on a Carnival cruise, it is important to consider the recommended tipping amounts. These recommended amounts are a reflection of the excellent service provided by the crew members and are a way to acknowledge their hard work and dedication. While the recommended amounts are the standard, it is always appreciated to provide additional gratuities for exceptional service.

Showing appreciation through personal gestures

In addition to prepaying gratuities, it is important to remember the personal gestures that can enhance the gratitude you express towards the crew members. Verbal appreciation, handwritten thank-you notes, and acknowledging outstanding service to the ship’s management are simple yet meaningful ways to show your gratitude. These personal gestures go a long way in fostering a positive relationship with the crew and creating a memorable experience for all.

Common FAQs

What is the deadline for prepaying gratuities.

The deadline for prepaying gratuities on a Carnival cruise can vary depending on the specific cruise itinerary and duration. It is advisable to review the cruise details and check the Carnival website or consult with a Carnival representative for the precise deadline for prepaying gratuities. It is recommended to prepay gratuities as early as possible to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Can gratuities be adjusted onboard?

Yes, gratuities can be adjusted onboard a Carnival cruise. If you wish to modify the gratuity amounts during your cruise, you can do so by visiting the guest services desk on the ship. However, it is important to note that prepaying gratuities offers the convenience of avoiding potential wait times and ensures a seamless experience, making it an ideal option for most passengers.

What if I forget to prepay gratuities?

If you forget to prepay gratuities before your Carnival cruise, there is no need to worry. You can still settle the gratuities onboard the ship. When you embark on your cruise, a gratuities envelope will be provided in your stateroom, allowing you to personally distribute the tips to the respective crew members. While prepaying gratuities is recommended for convenience, this alternative option ensures that you can still express your gratitude during your cruise.

How do I remove prepaid gratuities?

If you wish to remove prepaid gratuities from your Carnival cruise, it is essential to contact the Carnival customer service team before the stipulated deadline. They will provide guidance and assist you in making the necessary adjustments. It is important to review the terms and conditions related to changes and cancellations to understand any potential fees or constraints regarding the removal of prepaid gratuities.

Prepaying gratuities on a Carnival cruise simplifies your vacation experience by ensuring guaranteed service, ease of budgeting, and reduced wait times on the ship. By following the step-by-step guide provided, you can easily navigate the process of prepaying gratuities and show your appreciation to the hardworking crew members who make your cruise enjoyable. With flexible options available and the ability to adjust gratuities allocation, you have the opportunity to tailor your gratuities experience according to your specific needs. So, embark on your Carnival cruise with the knowledge of how to prepay gratuities and enjoy an extraordinary vacation knowing that your appreciation for exceptional service has been expressed.

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Carnival Freedom cruise ship review: Old-school glam meets celebratory good times

Editor's Note

If you appreciate a side of old-school glam with your pool time and parties, a sailing on Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Freedom might be your ideal cruise vacation.

At first glance, the ship's gilded-age-meets-Vegas decor can be overwhelming. Snakeskin-lined dining room banquettes, speakeasy-style red lighting in the atrium and carpets sporting giant roses and huge swirls create a dizzying effect that you immediately love or hate.

If you don't love the look, don't let first impressions fool you. Carnival Freedom's interiors are bold but unpretentious, which aligns well with a Carnival cruise experience.

The ship's atmosphere is thick with celebration, from organized onboard parties to cruisers gathering to mark special occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries and family reunions. Crew members go above and beyond to provide an amazing time, the meals are delicious and you'll find a slew of activities to suit everyone in your group. It won't take long to see past the visual mishmash into what makes Carnival Freedom so special.

Like all Carnival ships, Carnival Freedom attracts travelers looking for an affordable, fun and lively cruise vacation. The ship's demographics span from families with young kids and multigenerational family groups to squads of friends and couples. No matter where you sail, one thing is consistent on every Carnival ship, including Carnival Freedom: Passengers are fully engaged and having a blast.

Want to learn more about what to expect during a sailing on one of Carnival's older vessels? Here's my review of Carnival Freedom, with everything you need to know.

Overview of Carnival Freedom

The 110,000-ton Carnival Freedom is 12 decks high and carries 3,754 passengers at double occupancy in 1,487 cabins.

Launched in 2007, Freedom underwent an extensive "Fun Ship 2.0" makeover in 2019 to bring it in line with newer Carnival ships. Improvements included the addition of the line's WaterWorks water park with a splash zone and the 203-foot AquaTunnel and 212-foot Twister slides. More shops, a designated group fitness studio in the ship's gym and a Bonsai Sushi Express venue were also added along with other ship enhancements.

During a short drydock in late 2023, a Heroes Tribute Bar was added, and a new funnel tail replaced the one damaged during a fire in 2022. Sadly, in March 2024, the funnel was damaged again due to another Carnival Freedom fire likely caused by lightning. The funnel is still missing its iconic whale tail.

Carnival Freedom currently sails four- and five-day itineraries to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral, Florida. Budget-minded travelers can score a short cruise vacation without breaking the bank. This particular four-night Bahamas sailing starts from $364 per person.

What I loved about Carnival Freedom

The food is consistently good

I've sailed with numerous mainstream cruise lines over the past 28 years as a travel editor, including eight Carnival sailings. Among them all, my meals on Carnival ships consistently rank at the top of my list of favorite dining experiences. The line offers an impressive variety of free-fare dining options like Guy's Burger Joint by Guy Fieri, BlueIguana Cantina for Mexican food and Pizza Pirate.

Every meal I had on Carnival Freedom was wonderful — from the ship's onboard buffet and included-in-your-fare venues to added-fee meals at Sun King Steakhouse and the Seafood Shack. I was sad to find the selection of specialty restaurants on Carnival Freedom was slim; Jiji Asian Kitchen and Cucina del Capitano are a couple of my favorite Carnival venues, but they weren't offered on this ship.

Unfettered access to some great spa features

While the Carnival Spa on Freedom is somewhat small and not quite as robust as Carnival's Cloud 9 Spas on other vessels, passengers have free use of a sauna, a steam room and huge showers in the locker room.

You don't need to book a time or check in — just show up and enjoy a free mini-spa experience. Separate men's and women's saunas and steam rooms are located across from each gender's locker room. (If you reach the door to the fitness center, you've gone too far.)

This free DIY cruise spa hack is the way to go. You won't get the heated chaise lounges, aromatic steam grottos and thalassotherapy pool you get with a thermal suite pass at a Cloud 9 Spa, but you also won't pay $40 per person, per day, for the extra pampering.

It's an easy way to level up your cruise experience. Also, if you don't like knocking your elbows against the shower wall and fighting the flimsy shower curtain in your own cabin, head to the locker rooms in the spa area for a spacious shower with a lockable shower door.

Towel animal takeover

Carnival leans into towel animal culture, and I love it. Towel animals are a long-standing cruise ship tradition: Room stewards fold hand and bath towels into animal shapes and leave them in your cabin during housekeeping service.

Some favorite animal shapes include a stingray, romantic swans, a monkey and an elephant. Often, your cabin steward will add some of your personal items to the display for a little flair (like a hat or sunglasses).

On Carnival Freedom (and on all Carnival ships), the towel animal fun extended beyond our cabin. The morning of one of our port calls, we discovered much of the pool decks were taken over by towel animals and other characters. Fluffy friends lined the edge of the pool and sat on many of the loungers. A couple of towel "crew members" even took a rest on the Lido Deck. It was fun to walk around the decks and see the variety of characters. The spectacle was a draw for lots of other passengers, too, especially the kids.

If you also fall in love with the adorable towel critters, you can learn to make your own towel animals at home during the Towel-Folding Fun activity held in the Victoriana Theater. Look for the activity on your daily schedule.

What I didn't love about Carnival Freedom

Lack of in-cabin electrical outlets.

I chided myself as soon as I entered my cabin and saw the sad, single outlet at the desk — because I knew better. I learned from my recent sailing on another older ship, Carnival Sunshine , that I should always bring a power strip when I sail because one outlet is not enough. (Shopper beware: You cannot bring a power strip with a surge protector, as they're banned on ships .)

The desk area only included one U.S.-style 110V plug and one European-style 220V plug, and the nightstands on each side of the bed did not include them at all. Also, our chargers did not want to stay connected to the outlets and kept falling out and disconnecting the charge. We solved the problem by slipping the TV remote control under the charger to keep it in place. It wasn't ideal, but it worked.

Photography sets were obtrusive

I understand cruise-ship photography is a necessary money-maker for cruise lines, and passengers will often shell out the extra cash for these visual mementos of their cruise vacation. However, the set-up of the photo backdrops, equipment and props oftentimes created a traffic jam along the Promenade thoroughfare from the Alchemy Bar to the casino on Deck 5.

Throughout the day and into the evening, a handful of photography stations took up about half of the width of the walkway, leaving little room for passengers trying to get from point A to point B. It didn't help that the popular JavaBlue Cafe was situated along that corridor. Passengers didn't seem to understand the concept of lining up along the side and not across the main walkway, adding to the congestion.

I do appreciate that Carnival seems to have moved away from roving photographers disrupting your evening meal, as is still the case with other cruise lines. We enjoyed a peaceful main dining experience on both nights of our Carnival Freedom sailing.

Carnival Freedom cabins and suites

Carnival Freedom offers a variety of cabins and suites to suit any price point, from windowless inside cabins to ocean-facing balcony rooms and suites. I stayed in a balcony cabin located near the back of the ship.

Overall, my cabin was fine, even though it sported Carnival's older decor and furnishings. The standard cabins on board do not continue the bold design choices throughout the ship. Instead, my minimalist room had beige walls and navy patterned carpeting.

I noticed a few nicks in the furniture and cabinets, and the finish had worn off a couple of drawer knobs. A permanent indention in the love seat cushion reflected its consistent use over the years, and the two storage drawers at the seat's base were tricky to open. (The drawers were a good size, though, and I appreciated the extra storage.)

Additionally, the lamp on the back of the love seat was broken — the shade was off the frame, and it was missing the lamp cap to hold the shade in place.

These minor niggles didn't bother me too much. More importantly, my room was cozy and clean, thanks to Wayan, our amiable and efficient room steward. Carnival reduced cabin cleaning service to just once a day from twice a day in 2022. However, Wayan was always close by for anything we needed.

My room, like all standard cabins on board, had a queen-size bed (that could be separated into two twins, if preferred). It was super comfortable, and I slept incredibly well every night. The bed was flanked by two one-drawer, one-shelf nightstands with a lamp on each. Beside the bed, the sitting area had a love seat, which you could pull out into a sofa bed. A small coffee table provided a good spot for a room service tray or my coffee cup.

Opposite the seating areas was a large wall unit with multiple drawers, cabinets and shelves. We had ample storage for all our belongings, including our extra electronics, cameras, cords and accessories.

The middle of the unit included a large desk and vanity with a lighted mirror and a small TV. The desk featured four drawers (one containing a small hair dryer for in-cabin use), a cabinet with a small safe and a minifridge. To lock or unlock the safe, you had to swipe a credit card or driver's license, which meant I had to keep one card outside the safe.

Three side-by-side closets were situated to the right of the desk, and one held extra bedding for the sofa bed. A motion-sensor light at the base of the closet made going to the bathroom in the middle of the night less of a tripping hazard.

Our small balcony held two chairs and a little table. It was nice, though we didn't spend much time there, as we spent the majority of our time exploring the ship.

The bathroom was basic but satisfactory. Three glass shelves on both sides of the mirror gave us plenty of toiletry storage, and an indentation on the vanity held a bar of soap. The shower was equipped with wall dispensers of shampoo and shower gel, as well as a retractable clothesline for drying swimwear. Plenty of towel racks held bath towels, hand towels and washcloths. Two hooks on the back of the door could hold wet bathing suits or towels you wish to reuse.

Most of Carnival Freedom's accommodations fall into one of three categories: windowless inside cabins, ocean-view cabins with a window that doesn't open and balcony cabins. The ship also offers around 194 connecting cabins for big families or groups who want to stay close during their cruise.

If you want extra space and more perks, book a suite on Carnival Freedom. You have 42 options across four categories — Junior Suites, Grand Suites, Captain's Suites and Ocean Suites — ranging from 275 square feet to 548 square feet. They come with full-size bathtubs and include other features like separate living spaces, bathrobes, walk-in closets, bathrooms with double sinks and private balconies (depending on which suite you choose).

Suite guests can enjoy varied perks, such as priority check-in and boarding and priority disembarkation on the final morning of their trip.

Carnival Freedom has 29 accessible cabins for guests using wheelchairs or with limited mobility. These cabins include features such as an accessible route from the door to the bed and clear floor space, as well as grab bars and shower seats in the bathrooms.

Related: The best cruise lines for wheelchair users and passengers with limited mobility

Carnival Freedom restaurants and bars

As mentioned above, Carnival consistently provides value to its customers through its quality food offerings. Complimentary dining abounds on Carnival Freedom, with a variety of cuisines. It's entirely possible to eat only food that's included in your cruise fare and not feel like you're missing out.

Restaurants

Carnival Freedom offers a solid selection of restaurants ranging from the included-in-your-fare Lido Marketplace buffet to the $90-per-person Chef's Table dining experience. I'm consistently impressed with the quality of food I've had on Carnival cruises, and this sailing was no exception. I did my best to sample as much as possible within my short four-night cruise.

Carnival Freedom has two sit-down main dining rooms: Posh Restaurant (on decks 3 and 4 at the back of the ship) and Chic Restaurant (on decks 3 and 4 midship). Posh is where those with fixed-time dining time will eat their meals, while Chic hosts passengers who've chosen Your Time Dining. Fixed-time seating options are 5:30 p.m. (early dining) or 7:45 p.m. (late dining).

We selected Your Time Dining, so we could dine any time between 5:15 and 9 p.m. When we were ready to eat, we checked in through Carnival's mobile app and received an alert when our table was ready. From check-in to being seated, we never waited more than 10 minutes on both evenings.

The menu featured a variety of international dishes like Asian chopped salad with chicken, enchiladas and frog legs Provencal. Carnival Freedom doesn't have a stand-alone Emeril's Bistro, the line's New Orleans-style restaurant spearheaded by famed chef Emeril Lagasse (currently on Carnival Celebration, Jubilee and Mardi Gras ). However, you can get a taste of Emeril's Bistro thanks to a couple of Emeril Selects items offered each night, including a fried tomatoes appetizer and coffee-glazed roast duck.

For an extra $30, you can also order a Bonsai Sushi ship and receive a large wooden boat topped with enough sushi to feed two people.

Both our main dining experiences were fantastic. One night, we kicked off dinner with bowls of Parched Pig Ale cheddar soup and minestrone. The cheddar soup was delicious. But then, I tasted the minestrone. Remember that scene in "Ratatouille" when the food critic takes a bite of the dish and is instantly transported back to his childhood? That's what it was like. I didn't have a nonna serving me a hot bowl of minestrone to cure my scraped knee, but that soup hit my soul.

We also noshed on expertly prepared herb-crusted salmon, pan-seared barramundi, prime rib and jerk spiced pork chops.

Whatever you order, make room for Carnival's signature warm chocolate melting cake . This chocolaty, gooey lava cake-type of dessert is a must-order. It's so good that the galley churns out around 1,400 of them a day per cruise.

Hot take: Our cruise director shared a popular Carnival passenger hack of ordering your chocolate lava cake with a side of peanut butter to mix in. Of course, I had to try it in the name of research. It was quite good, though I remain a lava cake purist and prefer it the original way.

In addition to top-notch meals, you can expect to be entertained. At some point during your meal, dining staff will trade in their trays for microphones and serenade the passengers. It's a Carnival cruise tradition. While the entertainers aren't professionals, you might be surprised by the hidden talents of your wait staff. We enjoyed an impressive version of "Sweet Caroline," and our maitre d' even took the lead the last evening with a heartfelt rendition of "Leaving on a Jet Plane."

A word of advice — do not miss a Sea Day Brunch on a Carnival cruise. This included-in-your-fare meal is served in the main dining room on sea days only (hence, the name). It's served from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Enjoy brunch dishes like eggs Benedict, huevos rancheros, made-to-order omelets, chicken and waffles, French toast and hamburgers. For an additional cost, order a fresh pressed juice ($5) or one of the specialty dishes like lobster Benedict ($19) or Emeril's Bistro 1396 shrimp and grits ($6). The main dining room is also open from 7:30 to 9 a.m. for breakfast on port days. It was not open for lunch during our cruise.

Guy's Burger Joint doesn't hold the same appeal for me as it does my husband, as I don't eat beef and the veggie patty here isn't great. However, without fail, it's his first meal on every Carnival sailing, and it always hits the spot for him. You'll find it on Deck 9 by the pool.

Guy's Burger Joint offers a set menu of burgers, as well as build-your-own options and fries. My husband ordered his burger "Straight Up" style — American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion and pickles —and he rated it favorably.

BlueIguana is my go-to embarkation day meal. This walk-up venue is situated opposite Guy's Burger. Passengers can order burritos, tacos and burrito bowls with a choice of protein (chicken, beef, shrimp) and various toppings. I opted for a grilled shrimp burrito bowl, with cilantro rice, fajita-style peppers, cheese, guacamole and pico de gallo. It hit the spot. If you can't wait until lunch to get your burrito fix, BlueIguana is open for breakfast, too.

The Lido Buffet (also called Freedom Restaurant) on Deck 9 is the ship's popular buffet restaurant, offering a good selection of dishes from early morning through late night. Breakfast offerings included scrambled or boiled eggs, beans, potatoes, varied pastries, fresh fruit and hot or cold cereal. For lunch, you'll find made-to-order deli sandwiches, international dishes, hot sides and a salad station.

Passengers often lined up at Mongolian Wok for freshly made Asian stir-fry dishes and Pizza Pirate , with a good selection of pies. Specialty pizzas like teriyaki chicken and Korean barbecue pizzas are offered daily for $6. (On other Carnival ships, the pizza joint might be Pizzeria del Capitano, Miami Slice or Coastal Slice, but the menus and recipes are all similar.)

While Freedom lacks a Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse outpost, you can still get your 'cue on at Ol' Fashioned BBQ, offering pork, beef and chicken barbecue and sides like mac-n-cheese, homemade cole slaw and molasses baked beans. Ol' Fashioned BBQ is found at the back of the buffet restaurant one floor up (on Deck 10). Look for the Statue of Liberty on the back wall and follow the steps on either side.

Additionally, soft-serve ice cream is available from 11 a.m. to midnight at self-serve Swirls on Lido Deck 9.

One of my "treat yourself" cruise rituals is taking advantage of room service one morning during every sailing. I can savor a cup of coffee at a leisurely pace while I nibble through fresh fruit and flaky croissants and pastries. On Carnival Freedom, continental breakfast delivery from 6 to 10 a.m. is included in your fare.

The ship's all-day menu features a la carte dishes like salads, sandwiches, chicken tenders and wings and a handful of desserts. Prices range from $3 (for a giant cookie) to $9 (Caesar salad topped with pan-seared salmon).

Carnival Freedom lacks the variety of specialty dining options you'll find on other ships (such as Cucina del Capitano , JiJi Asian Kitchen and a sit-down Bonsai Sushi restaurant). Your choices on this ship are limited to Sun King Steakhouse, the Chef's Table and two casual walk-up venues, Bonsai Sushi Express and Seafood Shack.

We dined at Sun King Steakhouse on our first night. I loved the restaurant's decor. It gave an almost regal vibe with glittering chandeliers, ornate gold trim, rich woods, deep red carpet and blue ceilings with a fleur de lis pattern. I particularly loved the oversize three-candled sconces mounted on red velvet within a gilded frame. Even before I tasted my first bite, the elevated atmosphere made me feel like I was in for a truly special dining experience.

Both the food and service at Sun King Steakhouse were outstanding. Our servers were attentive and friendly without being intrusive. My Caesar salad was delicious. The dressing had a hint of anchovy flavor, which is something I look for as the hallmark of an authentic Caesar salad. My lobster tail was broiled to perfection, accompanied by steamed broccoli and Yukon gold mashed potatoes. My husband ordered the beef carpaccio, filet mignon and a young lettuce salad. I snagged a taste of his salad, and the shipmade ranch dressing was quite possibly the best I've ever had.

We concluded our meal with the decadent chocolate sphere dessert, with an entertaining presentation. The cocoa cream custard was deconstructed before our eyes when our server poured warm chocolate sauce over a hollow chocolate globe to reveal the custard.

Sun King Steakhouse costs $49 per person for adults. Kids ages 11 and younger eat for $15 per person.

We hit the Seafood Shack for dinner one night and ordered the fish and chips ($8). The fish was flaky, and the breading was light and crispy. I regret not ordering the crab legs, though. I saw several people enjoying them, and hard to argue with the $22 price tag for a pound of crab legs.

Other added-fee dining options I did not try include a Bonsai Sushi Express outpost (near the back of the Lido Buffet), serving a limited menu of sushi, sashimi and rolls like California or tempura rolls. Prices range from $1.50 (per piece of sushi or sashimi) to $7.50 (per roll).

The Chef's Table tasting experience takes place in a small dining room to the right as you enter the Chic Restaurant. It's an intimate multicourse meal hosted by the executive chef. Diners also enjoy a predinner galley tour and tasting. The cost is $90 per person.

Carnival Freedom is home to nine bars and lounges, from sunny poolside watering holes to cozy lounges. Drinks are priced individually unless you have a Cheers drink package that includes alcohol.

The Alchemy Bar is my favorite Carnival cruise ship bar. On Deck 5, this creative cocktail bar is designed to resemble an apothecary, offering botanical-forward "elixirs" and "remedies" like the Cucumber Sunrise, the Purple Sunset and Hearts of Fire.

Alchemy Bar mixologists are worth their weight in margarita salt, too. Want to go off-menu but not sure what you want? Tell the bartender which spirits and flavors you like, and they'll make you something special. When I asked about the vat of strawberry-infused vodka at the back of the bar, our bartender whipped me up a cocktail with it, adding a couple of my favorite cocktail elements, lavender and gin. It did not disappoint.

Across from the Alchemy Bar, RedFrog Pub was a chill spot to enjoy various rum drinks, beer and other beverages. On embarkation day, it was fairly empty, making it an ideal place to escape the Lido Deck frenzy. However, during the rest of the sailing, it came to life with live bands each night.

I'm a music nerd who's also a sucker for audience participation, and Scott's Piano Bar checked both boxes for me. Our singer/pianist was talented and hilarious, performing in a packed lounge every night. Zero-proof cocktails are also available here. I tried The Entertainer, and it was refreshing — I didn't miss the alcohol. (Alcohol-free cocktails weren't always listed separately on Freedom's bar menus. However, your bartender will always make you a zero-proof option if you ask.)

Other spots on Carnival Freedom to chill out with an adult beverage include Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, Centuries Bar (in the Babylon Casino), the Habana Bar and the Atrium Bar. On the Lido Deck, both the RedFrog Rum Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar also saw a lot of action during our four-night sailing. Additionally, a convenient pour-your-own-beer station is in the Lido buffet area. Use your Sail & Sign card to purchase a glass of the line's Parched Pig IPA.

If free standard coffee from the buffet isn't your jam, get your caffeine fix at JavaBlue Cafe. You'll find it on Deck 5 between RedFrog Pub and the casino. Choose among boozy coffee, lattes, cappuccinos, tea, blended frappes and milkshakes. Prices range from $1.95 (for brewed coffee) to $6.50 (for spiked options). If the line is too long at JavaBlue (which was often the case during our cruise), you can order the same coffee drinks at the casino bar (just a few steps away).

Carnival Freedom activities

Fun in the sun is a priority on Caribbean cruises, and Carnival Freedom's upper decks are the spot for that. Each sunny day lured loads of passengers to the Lido Deck pool and two hot tubs. It was a buzzy area but never seemed uncomfortably crowded with passengers. There was ample seating around the pool, above the two hot tubs, and beside the waterslide area. Loungers filled up pretty early in the morning, but I didn't notice many chair hogs holding a spot with a beach towel until they returned an hour later. You could find a bit of shade on either side of the main pool, but most people seemed to prefer the sunshine.

Passengers can splash and slide until their heart's content at the ship's WaterWorks water park, with two waterslides and a kiddie splash zone. The ship's poolside Dive-in Movies were popular during our sailing, too. Passengers often filled loungers to watch "Mean Girls," "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom," "Wish" and other films.

Other outdoor activities can be found at the SportSquare area on Deck 11, which features basketball and pickleball courts, minigolf, ping-pong and foosball.

On decks 11 and 12, the ship's adults-only Serenity Deck area provided a quiet spot where passengers 21-plus could enjoy a plunge pool, hot tub, bar, loungers and cabanas. The pool was a popular spot during our sailing, but even with a fair amount of people there, it was a pretty chill atmosphere. Loungers were always available.

Active cruisers who need a break from the sun will find almost limitless indoor activities to occupy time on board Carnival Freedom. Free events like towel animal folding demonstrations, spa pampering parties and karaoke drew consistent crowds. Additionally, the Atrium constantly buzzed with trivia competitions and "guess the song" games.

I jumped into a Creativity at Sea craft session held in the Atrium. We received blank note cards with envelopes, Carnival-themed sticker sheets and stick-on gems. The activity came in clutch for me. I forgot to pack a thank you note for our cabin steward, so I made one for him. I included an additional gratuity and gave it to him on our last day.

For-fee activities like Build-A-Bear Workshop and $5,000 Jackpot Bingo are available. You can also test Lady Luck at the Babylon Casino (Deck 5), with table games like roulette, craps, poker and blackjack, as well as a good selection of slot machines. While I'm not a casino girl, I didn't mind walking through and checking it out. Unlike previous ship casinos, Carnival Freedom's casino wasn't overly smoke-filled. I couldn't determine if it was because fewer people were smoking or the ventilation was just especially effective. Either way, it was a nice change.

Additionally, the Behind the Fun Tour offers cruisers a guided tour of the kitchen galley, the ship's bridge, the backstage of Victoriana Theater, and crew areas like the mess hall and laundry. The cost is $130 per person. You can book it at the Shore Excursions desk. We got to experience a portion of the tour with a galley tasting and bridge tour, and both were fun. I'd be tempted to shell out the $130 for a full tour.

The '80s Rock-n-Glow Party is one of my favorite activities on board any Carnival cruise (and based on attendance, it's a favorite for many cruisers). This lively top-deck celebration features the best '80s tunes, costumed crew members (and passengers), glow sticks and lots of dancing. If you want to go all in, plan to pack your best neon duds and join the fun.

It's easy to make new friends at one of the ship's mixers, offered at various times throughout the cruise. Scheduled get-togethers for singles, LGBTQ+ cruisers, 18- to 20-year-olds and 40-plus passengers were well attended.

Karaoke took place in the Habana Bar (Deck 4) and drew a packed crowd each time. Other places to spend time on board include an arcade called The Warehouse (Deck 5), offering video games for a fee.

While shopping options aren't extensive on Carnival Freedom, you'll find a handful of places to spend your money. Among them are the Fun Shops for Carnival-branded souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, liquor and fragrances, and Cherry On Top, offering a solid range of sweet treats. The ship's art gallery is on Deck 3, but special art auctions were held in the '70s Nightclub (Deck 5),

Families can take advantage of included-in-your-fare childcare in Carnival's Camp Ocean program on Deck 12. Here, the youngest cruisers can participate in supervised activities, divided into age-based groups: Penguins (2 to 5 years), Stingrays (6 to 8 years) and Sharks (9 to 11 years). Engaging activities range from free Zumbini classes (for Penguins) to lively scavenger hunts (Sharks). The ship also features Bookville, a reading room and play space that hosts story hours and Seuss-themed crafts.

Added-fee drop-off programming is available for the youngest cruisers (Turtles, up to 1 year). It costs $7.50 per child, per hour, plus an 18% service charge. Parents can also make use of the onboard Night Owls childcare for children 6 months to 11 years. It's available each evening from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. and costs $8.85 per hour, per child, including an 18% service charge.

On Deck 4, tweens and teens have their own hangouts and designated activities. Circle C is for the 12-14 set, with events like group games, dance parties and outdoor movies. The Circle C space has a futuristic feel, with metal walls and a minimalist design.

Club O2 is for cruisers ages 15 to 17 and offers a chance for older teens to chill out together, play sports and games, and make new friends during group activities. The ship's modern atmosphere extends to Club 02 with its bold red tiled floor, sleek red chairs and metal accents.

Families sailing with younger kids shouldn't miss the Seuss-A-Palooza Parade and Story Time. On Carnival Freedom it kicked off at the International Lounge (Deck 5) with a lively parade led by the cruise director (Lizzie), Cat in the Hat, Sam I Am, Thing 1 and Thing 2. Parade-goers chanted and marched through the ship's main thoroughfare, eventually making their way to Victoriana Theater for the storytime. (Note that the parade route takes you down two staircases by the Atrium. If you have strollers, plan to pick them up or take an alternate route to the theater.)

Add to your Seuss experience at sea with the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast ($15 per adult and $10 per child aged 14 and under), held in one of the main dining rooms. You get to chow down on "green eggs and ham," pancakes, French toast, "Moose Juice" and other whimsical dishes inspired by Seuss' books. The characters hang out for meet-and-greets and photo ops.

Spa Carnival on Deck 11 is the place to go for vacation pampering. Here, passengers will find ample therapies and treatments — from stone and deep tissue massages to acupuncture and other traditional Chinese techniques. Additionally, the spa offers hair and nail services, facials and medispa treatments. On embarkation day, I booked a 75-minute deep tissue Swedish massage for one of the port days and received an extra 25 minutes for booking the first day.

I've enjoyed a good number of massages throughout the years, and this treatment landed firmly in my top five. As with all cruise ship spa treatments, you'll endure a post-massage sales pitch on products you need to buy to continue your health regimen. A firm but polite "no thank you" usually does the trick.

The cost for a 75-minute deep tissue massage is $229. It's $299 for 100 minutes unless you score the free extra minutes on embarkation day.

The fitness center had a variety of just about any exercise equipment you need to keep your workout routine while you cruise. It's free to use, but you can pay extra for instructor-led classes like Pilates, yoga or indoor cycling. If you're the outdoorsy fitness type, the jogging track is on the top deck (nine laps equals about one mile).

Accessibility considerations on board include accessible elevators at each elevator bank and a chair lift at the main pool. Carnival Freedom is also a certified "sensory inclusive" ship, with trained crew to assist passengers who have sensory and cognitive needs. Guests can obtain sensory bags from the guest services desk or at one of the youth program venues. Each bag contains items to help calm, relax and manage sensory overload — noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, a lanyard that helps the staff easily identify a guest and other items.

Carnival Freedom shows

The Victoriana Theater (decks 3, 4 and 5) was home to stage productions, comedy performances and game shows during our sailing. I'm a real show nerd and attending Carnival's Playlist Productions shows is always one of my top priorities when I cruise with the line. I'm consistently impressed with the level of talent the cast members possess, and Freedom's '80s Pop to the Max show was no exception.

The show featured a variety of popular tunes from the 1980s, with colorful lights and digital elements like a giant Max Headroom-type character filling the screen behind the performers. It was a fun, high-energy show, and the talented performers did an amazing job.

Married couples are the focus of the ship's "Love and Marriage" show, which is also held in Victoriana Theater. The contestants are three couples in various stages of wedded bliss. During our show, one couple had gotten married the day before, while another couple was celebrating 49 years together. The cruise director asked them a series of questions, and the goal of each couple was to match answers.

A note of warning: The couples' answers are impromptu and not always PG, so leave the kids in Club Ocean unless you want to have the "birds and bees" conversation during your cruise vacation.

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention how gorgeous the Victoriana Theater is. It had such a historic theater vibe, with deep red and gold decor, a grand chandelier and late-Renaissance style artwork. Small tables that lined the theater seating were painted with artwork that matched the art on the walls. It was lovely.

We took in a Punchliner Comedy show in the International Lounge on Deck 5 (additional comedy shows took place in the ship's main Victoriana Theater). The featured comedienne was an absolute hoot, and almost every seat in the lounge was filled. A couple of shows were offered each night — a 7:30 or 8:30 p.m. (PG) set for families and a 10 or 10:30 p.m. (R, 18-plus) show for adults.

Carnival Freedom also hosted a good amount of live music throughout various venues on the ship, including RedFrog Pub, the Atrium and the casino.

Carnival Freedom itineraries and pricing

Carnival Freedom sails four- and five-night voyages from Port Canaveral, Florida (near Orlando), to the Bahamas and the Eastern Caribbean. Itineraries include such ports as Nassau and Bimini in the Bahamas; and Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos. The ship also visits exclusive destinations, including Princess Cays, sister line Princess Cruises' 40-acre private beach area on Eleuthera in the Bahamas, and Celebration Key, Carnival's 65-acre private destination on the south side of Grand Bahama (opening in July 2025).

At the time of publication, the least expensive price for a sailing was $369 per person for a four-night Bahamas cruise departing in either January or February 2025.

What to know before you go

Required documents.

If you're a U.S. citizen on a cruise that begins and ends in a U.S. port, you must have a current passport or an official copy of your birth certificate and a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification to sail. A passport card is also acceptable.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the last day of your cruise.

Important note: The name on your reservation must be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality. We recommend you check Carnival's website before you sail for the most recent updates on requirements.

Carnival adds an automatic service gratuity of $14.50 to $16.50 per person, per day to final bills, depending on the cabin category. Children under the age of 2 are exempt.

If you are not satisfied with the service you received, you can adjust the amount at the Guest Services desk before disembarking. Additionally, an 18% gratuity is added to bar bills and the cover charge of the Chef's Table.

Related: 7 people you should always tip on a cruise

The Wi-Fi on Carnival Freedom worked well. I had no issues connecting from my laptop, FaceTiming my family or accessing social media. Pricing changes over time, but the fastest "premium" service on Carnival Freedom was recently priced at $21.25 per person, per day.

Other packages available for a Freedom sailing include the less expensive "social" plan that only allows access to key social networking sites (Facebook, X, Instagram, etc.) and messaging services such as WhatsApp for $15.30 a day. A slightly more expensive "value" plan, at $19.55 per day, adds access to email and most websites. If you pay for a plan prior to sailing, you'll receive a discount.

Related: Do cruise ships have Wi-Fi? A line-by-line guide to internet access at sea

Carry-on drinks policy

You can bring one bottle of wine or Champagne (per person) onto the ship at boarding and up to a dozen standard cans or cartons of nonalcoholic drinks such as sodas.

Nonalcoholic drinks in glass or plastic bottles are not permitted. If you want to bring the wine or Champagne to an onboard restaurant or bar to drink, you'll incur a $15 corkage fee. Drinks brought on board must be carried in your carry-on luggage.

Smoking policy

On Carnival Freedom, smoking (including electronic cigarettes) is only allowed in designated outdoor areas and in the casino. Smoking is forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies.

While cigarette smoking is allowed in the casino, according to Carnival's website, you must be seated and playing to smoke in the casino. Smoking is not permitted there when the casino is closed. Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 3 (forward) and Deck 10 (starboard side, midship). Cigars and pipes are only permitted on Deck 10 (starboard side, midship).

Self-service launderettes are on three decks aboard Carnival Freedom: Deck 1 (across from cabin 1359), Deck 6 (across from cabin 6387) and Deck 8 (across from cabin 8351). Each launderette has washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. There's a $3.25-per-load charge to use a washer or dryer. The launderettes also have vending machines stocked with small boxes of detergent and fabric softener at $1.50 per box. If you just need a quick press, smaller ironing rooms are on Deck 2 (across from 2367), Deck 7 (across from 7339) and Deck 9 (across from 9270).

You can also opt for extra-charge valet laundry and dry-cleaning service, which your cabin steward will handle for you. Expect to pay per piece, with prices running from $2 (for an undergarment or pair of socks) to $15 (for a two-piece suit).

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry services

Electrical outlets

As I already mentioned, Carnival Freedom cabins have one standard North American-style 110-volt outlet and one European-style 220-volt outlet. Bring a power strip if you need more than that.

The currency used on Carnival Freedom is the U.S. dollar. However, the ship operates on a "cashless system," so any onboard purchases you make will automatically post to your onboard account. You'll receive a Sail & Sign card that you can use to make charges. (This same card also functions as your ship I.D. and a keycard to get you into your cabin.) You'll need to provide a credit card (or put cash down) to cover your final charges.

Drinking age

Passengers must be 21 to drink alcohol on Carnival Freedom.

There is no specific dress code during the day on Freedom, so people dress casually. Beach attire is the norm for sea days, and if you plan to spend your day on the top deck, plan to dress in T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to go inside).

Although there's an official dress code for the evenings, it's pretty laid-back. Most nights are designated "cruise casual," which includes khakis or jeans, polo shirts and sundresses. Super casual clothing like cutoff jeans, men's sleeveless shirts, T-shirts and gym shorts aren't permitted.

On a four-night Bahamas itinerary on Carnival Freedom, you'll have one "cruise elegant" night where the suggested attire for men is dress slacks and a dress shirt; sports coats and suits are optional. The suggested attire for women on such nights is cocktail dresses, pantsuits, elegant skirts and blouses. If you don't want to dress up, you can choose a more casual dinner venue, but dress code enforcement in Carnival dining rooms tends to be lax.

Bottom line

The food was excellent, the activities and shows were fun, and the crew worked hard to ensure everyone on board was having the best time possible. The decor might have been over-the-top and moody, but it somehow still offered a budget-style opulence that was fun and interesting.

For those seeking a warm-weather cruise getaway that doesn't bust your budget on a fun and lively ship, Carnival Freedom should be on your list.

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