celebrity cruise vs carnival

Celebrity Cruises Vs Carnival? Everything You Need to Know

Sharing is caring!

Are you planning on booking a cruise and comparing Celebrity Cruises and Carnival, to see which is best for you? Since they are both popular well-loved cruise lines, this is a great question.

While cruise lines all have similarities, Carnival and Celebrity have some big differences. As someone who has cruised with both Celebrity and Carnival, I know first hand that both cruise lines have a lot to offer.

Cruising isn’t a one size fits all experience, so finding the right cruise line that fits your needs, preferences and budget is important.

With that being said, here’s everything you need to know about Celebrity Cruises vs Carnival.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my  disclosure policy  for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Why Cruisers Like Celebrity

Celebrity Cruises is considered to be a premium cruise line. They also refer to themselves as “modern luxury”.

The clientele on Celebrity enjoys good food, service and a relaxing vacation experience. Celebrity cruise ships are known for their beautiful, modern and elegant design.

The food and dining on Celebrity is consistently very good. Whether you’re eating in the main dining room, the buffet or at speciality restaurants, the food is always amazing.

When it comes to mainstream cruise lines, it’s hard to beat the experience that Celebrity offers in the main dining room. The level of service is top notch and every meal is delicious.

Since Celebrity is an upscale cruise line, and the dress code in the main dining room ranges from smart casual to evening chic . Cruise passengers tend to dress nicely, as if they were going to a nice restaurant or elegant evening out.

Related: What to Wear on a Celebrity Cruise (with real passenger photos)

The crew members on Celebrity are there to accommodate all of your needs, which makes for a very pleasant vacation.

From bartenders to waiters, to cabin attendants that will clean your room twice a day, the service on Celebrity is better than many other cruise lines.

We’ve also found that Celebrity have a few extra special touches that are appreciated. These include citrus water being served, along with icy cold towels when guests return back to the ship on ports days.

On the pool deck, towels are often placed on lounge chairs for guests, so you won’t have to find towels and sign them out.

On occasion, sorbet may be served on the lido deck and passed around to passengers, a nice unexpected treat.

Related: The Ultimate Cruise Lingo Glossary – 85 Terms You Need to Know

Entertainment

Overall, the entertainment on Celebrity is very enjoyable and varied. You can expect Las Vegas style production shows with singers and dancers, guest entertainers including comedians and illusionists, and some incredible acrobatic original acts.

There are also live music performances in the different bars and lounges around the cruise ship.

Even though the service and overall experience on Celebrity Cruises is upscale, the cruise ship atmosphere on a Celebrity cruise is fun, laid back and relaxed.

While Celebrity may attract an older clientele, there are a fair share of younger cruisers as well.

During the day, guests may hang out by the pools or in the different lounges throughout the cruise ship. There is live music, trivia, lectures and other activities, so everyone can find something to enjoy.

In the evening time, the martini bar is a big hit, before or after dinner or a show. The casino is a popular venue, and the night club can be “happening”, depending when you cruise. In our experience, holiday sailings, Spring Break and summer holidays attract a younger and more active crowd.

Related: Celebrity Cruises: 7 Reasons You Will LOVE Cafe Al Bacio

Onboard Attractions

When comparing Carnival and Celebrity, Carnival definitely has more “fun” attractions than Celebrity. However, Celebrity does have plenty of enjoyable attractions that are cater towards a different demographic of cruisers.

Some attractions onboard celebrity include resort style pools, adult only solariums, meditation classes, stretching classes and more.

On the Edge class ships, there is the Magic Carpet, which is a floating bar (13 floors above sea level). There is live music, comfortable seating and a full bar. Those who cruise with Celebrity absolutely love the Magic Carpet.

On the Celebrity Silhouette and Reflection you’ll find the lawn club. This is an area with real grass lawns where guests can eat, play games and relax on the grass.

All Inclusive Options

When you book Celebrity, you have a choice between a cruise only rate or an all included cruise fare . The all included cruise fare is a great value and it includes the classic beverage package, basic wifi and daily gratuities .

Itineraries

Celebrity Cruises offers a wide range of Caribbean itineraries ranging from shorter cruises (4-5 days) to longer sailings (10 days and more).

Beyond this, Celebrity has diverse itineraries including Bermuda, the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, the Baltic, Alaska, Galapagos Islands and more.

Celebrity’s focus on travel experiences attracts passengers that tend to be well travelled.

Related: Are Cruises Fun? Why Cruising is a Great Vacation

Considering Celebrity tends to target an older or more mature demographic, they actually have one of the best kid’s clubs at sea. Celebrities’ youth program is called Camp at Sea, and it’s really fun for kids.

Here are the age groups for Camp at Sea:

• Shipmates (3-5)
• Cadets (6-9)
• Captain (10-12)
• Teens (13-17)

Each age group has their own area where the kids can hang out, meet new friends and participate in activities. The youth staff is always super friendly and makes the kid’s club a really fun place to spend time.

Related: 7 Affordable Cruise Lines for Families (Kids Sail Free Deals)

The price of a Celebrity cruise is on the upper end of the major cruise lines. Considering the great experience, high quality food and service, Celebrity is an excellent cruise line for a vacation.

If you have the budget and want to have a more luxurious cruise experience, without the price tag of a luxury cruise line, Celebrity is a great option.

Related: 25+ Fashionable Cruise Outfits for Ladies

Why Cruisers Like Carnival

Carnival Cruise Line refers to themselves as “America’s cruise line”. They are a contemporary cruise line and one of the most popular cruise lines in the world.

Guests like to cruise on Carnival because it’s fun, family friendly and affordable. Carnival cruise ships are known for having incredible onboard attractions, a wide variety of restaurants and a very fun vibe.

When it comes to food options on a cruise ship, it’s hard to beat all the dining options that Carnival has to offer. Carnival ships can have over 20 dining options onboard, so there is always something to eat for everyone.

Those who cruise with Carnival love Guy’s Burger Joint, Big Chicken and BlueIguanna Cantina. These are some included restaurants on Carnival, that have delicious food.

Related: 13 Cruise Main Dining Room Tips All Cruisers Need to Know

For those who prefer a more casual vacation, Carnival has a way more relaxed dress code for their main dining room.

Carnival states that some ships enforce a cruise casual dress code , which includes pants or jeans and a polo style shirt. An “elegant night” is available, for cruise passengers who enjoy dressing up and having a more traditional formal night.

This is great for those who don’t like to dress up while they’re on vacation or families with younger children.

Related: What I Wore on a 7 Day Caribbean Cruise (Cruise Outfits with Photos & Links)

The nice thing about Carnival’s cruise itineraries is the fact that they have so many cruises leaving from cruise ports in the United States. The benefit of this is that there will likely be a cruise port or cruise terminal that you can drive to.

This is great if you are looking to save money on a cruise vacation !

Carnival offers short Bahamas, Mexico and Caribbean cruises as well as popular 6, 7 and 8 day cruises in the Caribbean and Alaska.

The focus of their Itineraries is mostly from the United States, however Carnival will often have one or two cruises that sail in Europe.

Related: 25 Best Things to Do in Cozumel on a Cruise

Carnival has some of the largest cruise ships in the world that are packed with fun things to do onboard. Different attractions will be found on different ships, however you will always find waterslides, mini golf and a sports court.

Here are the attractions on Carnival Ships:

• Bolt Ultimate Sea Coaster (Roller Coaster)
• Sky Ride (Suspended Bike Ride)
• Rock Climbing
• Water Slides
• Video Arcade
• Sports Court
• Sky Zone (Trampoline Park)
• Carnival Sky Course (Ropes Course)

Related: 7 Best Cruises for Teenagers

Carnival has production shows which are very entertaining. Additionally, Carnival is known for having some of the best adult comedy shows at sea.

On a Carnival cruise there will be a lot happening in the evening time. Parties, casino events and shows keep guests entertained throughout the cruise.

Related: 15 Matching Cruise Shirts for Families, Couples & Groups

Interactive Cruise Directors

Those who cruise with Carnival like the way the cruise directors gets involved in day to day activities and with the guests. The cruise director and activities staff on Carnival are energetic, fun and always putting on great events throughout the cruise.

Deck Parties

Carnival is known for having super fun deck parties. The highlight of many Carnival Cruises are the themed deck parties where everyone can let loose, have a drink and dance.

Depending on the cruise you are on there will be a different themed deck party. Some passengers will bring outfits special for the deck party.

If you like to party on a cruise , Carnival is a great option.

Deck Parties on Carnival:

• Sail Away Party
• Mega Deck Party
• 80’s Night Deck Party
• White Hot Night Party
• Northern Lights Glow Party (Alaska Cruises)

The kid’s club on Carnival is a great place to leave your kids during the day. They will be able to meet new friends, play video games and participate in fun activities.

In the evenings there are different events like movie night, dance parties and game night. The youth program is separated by age group.

Here is the Age Groups for the Kids Clubs on Carnival Ships:

• Penguin Colony (2-5)
• Stingrays (6-8)
• Sharks (9-11)
• Circle C (12-14)
• Club O2 (15-17)

There is also a babysitting service for children 6 months to 11 years old, however there is an additional fee.

The bottom line is that Carnival offers a tremendous value for your dollar . If you’re looking to book a family vacation and affordable price, it’s hard to beat what Carnival has to offer.

Cruising with Carnival is a great way to travel, have fun and enjoy a wonderful vacation.

Related: 7 Best Carnival Cruises for Families

So Which Cruise Line is Best for You? Celebrity or Carnival

Celebrity cruise line is best for:.

For those who are looking for a relaxing and luxurious vacation. The amazing food, top notch service and relaxing atmosphere is why passengers love cruising with Celebrity.

Generally, the clientele on Celebrity tends to be older. However, during school breaks and summer vacation the cruise can have a younger and more lively crowd of people.

Carnival Cruises is Best For:

Families who are looking for fun activities, attractions and bells & whistles to keep their kids busy. Carnival is also great for couples, friends and anyone who enjoys a casual good time.

Contrary to what some people might thing, Carnival is not only for young people. Cruisers of any age who like a fun vacation at a great price, will appreciate the value of a Carnival cruise.

Related & Popular Posts:

• What’s Included on a Carnival Cruise
• 12 Reasons You’ll Love Cruising with Celebrity
• What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise
• 50 Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon
• The Ultimate Guide to Tipping and Cruise Gratuities
• 75 Genius Cruise Hacks and Tips: Get Organized, Save Money, Cruise Better

Final Thoughts on Celebrity Cruises Vs Carnival

Well there it is, Celebrity Cruises Vs Carnival.

Comparing Celebrity and Carnival is in some ways like comparing apples to oranges, because they are so different. Both cruise lines have their pros and cons.

When it comes to which cruise line is better it really comes down to preference and what you value in a cruise vacation.

In this post, I shared everything there is to know about Celebrity and Carnival.

Are you planning a cruise? Please let me know which cruise line you’re leaning towards!

Happy Cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer writes about fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com . As a frequent cruiser, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like for teens and young adults.

Follow me on  Facebook at Life Well Cruised Follow me on  YouTube at Life Well Cruised Follow me on  Pinterest at Life Well Cruised Follow me on  Instagram at Life Well Cruised

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

May We Suggest?

Is this it, how about this, search results.

Our reviewers evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.

Celebrity Cruises vs Carnival Cruises

Sunday, September 29th

2024 Cruise Line Reviews

• Celebrity Cruises
• Best all-around cruise line: widest variety of destinations, ship sizes, and adventure levels
• 13 ships in the main fleet + 3 smaller ships that visit the Galapagos Islands
• Suitable for guests of all ages
• Choose between Cruise-Only and All-Inclusive fares
• Excellent track record for safety
• Winner of multiple awards

Celebrity Cruises offers a variety of cruise experiences for all ages and to various destinations, with a fleet of over a dozen ships ranging in size from 16 to 3,260 passengers. Celebrity's dining options are renowned for their quality and variety, and the company offers both Cruise-Only and All-Inclusive fares. The cruise line has a strong commitment to safety and has never experienced a major incident, earning recognition as the Best Premium Cruise Line by Travel Weekly's Readers' Choice Awards for 14 consecutive years. Celebrity is an excellent choice for guests of all ages and interests.

• Carnival Cruises
• Best for a party atmosphere and cruising on a budget
• Good for US port departures, with additional destinations in Europe

Carnival Cruise Line is a popular and affordable American cruise line that operates 24 ships sailing to destinations all over the world, catering to families, couples, and groups of friends. The defining characteristic of Carnival is its focus on fun and entertainment, all for less money than its rivals in the industry. However, Carnival cruises have a party atmosphere - great for some adults, not as desirable for cruising with children - and lower safety rankings, with several incidents involving Carnival ships, including fires, power outages, and mechanical failures. You'll get more for your money, and a better overall onboard experience, with a higher-ranked cruise line.

More Cruise Line Reviews

• Royal Caribbean

• Disney Cruise Line

• Virgin Voyages

• Viking Cruises

• Regent Seven Seas

• Norwegian Cruise Line

• Princess Cruises

• Holland America

• MSC Cruises

The 15 Best Cruise Lines

Which cruise line is the best.

Cruising is a popular way of traveling for many people, offering a unique experience that combines the convenience of a floating hotel with the excitement of visiting multiple destinations in one trip. In an average year, over fifteen million people say "all aboard” and set sail on an amazing vacation.

There are many different cruise lines to choose from, and each one offers a different type of experience. Some are geared towards families, while others are more focused on luxury or adventure. What would you like to see and do while you're onboard? Is a casino a must-have or a rather-avoid? Would a Broadway-caliber show tip the scales for you? Do you need a wide range of activities to keep the kiddos happy while the adults live it up or relax? The onboard activities and amenities can really make or break your vacation, so be sure you know what you're getting.

Cruise Line FAQ

Which cruise line is the best, what is included in the cost of a cruise, what is the minimum age to cruise, what are the dining options on a cruise ship, are cruise ships crowded, do i have to dress up, are activities included at destination ports, can i bring my own alcohol onboard.

Continued from above... Continued from above... -->

Another factor that can influence which cruise line you choose is the itinerary. Cruise ships travel all over the world, but some cruise lines may not have destinations available where you're hoping to go. You should also consider the size of the ship: larger ships offer more amenities, but smaller ships can access ports that bigger ships can't.

Speaking of amenities, make sure you understand what you'll get as part of your fare and which extras will come with an additional cost. For example, most cruises offer drink packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but a few have drink stations where you can get complimentary lemonade, coffee and tea. Other amenities that might be important to you are Wi-Fi, spa services, babysitting, fitness classes, and upgraded dining experiences. You can usually get a decent discount if you sign up for an amenities package before you sail, so keep an eye out for promotions in the months leading up to your sailing.

When you take a cruise, it's almost always expected that you'll tip the crew members who have attended to your needs while onboard: your cabin steward ( who probably leaves your towels folded into fun shapes every night ), your servers at your nightly meals, and the head waiter. Cruise lines have a recommended gratuity to cover all three of those staff members, usually $15-$20 per traveler, per day; the total gratuity amount may be charged automatically to your account, or you may be given envelopes to make cash payments.

While it usually isn't mandatory to pay those gratuities - you can ask to have them removed if they're applied automatically, especially if you've received poor service - it's typically considered in poor taste not to tip at the suggested levels (because crew members' salaries, much like servers at your local restaurant, are based on the expectation of tips paid by guests). And, if you receive service that goes above and beyond, adding to the recommended gratuity is always appreciated. Be aware that tips for bartenders, poolside servers, and professional services provided in the spa or elsewhere are not included in the daily suggested gratuity and may be charged automatically at the time of service.

Now that you have a good overview of the cruising experience, which cruise line should you choose? Beyond the points we already covered, here are a few additional criteria that might make it easier to pick:

• Embarkation port. You could get a great deal on a cruise, but what will it cost you to get to the port? That could involve airfare, an overnight stay or two in a nearby hotel (so that you're less likely to be affected by travel delays), and transportation from the airport or hotel to the port. This is especially true if you're taking a cruise that departs from an international destination.
• Perks for repeat cruisers. Like frequent flyer programs on airlines, most cruise lines offer benefits the more you sail. If you find yourself absolutely loving cruise vacations, it can be advantageous to put all of your eggs in one basket, so to speak. Rewards programs can include casino benefits, complimentary meals at the upgraded dining experiences, exclusive sail-away parties with free cocktails and tchotchkes, early-access booking on future cruises, and much more.
• Reputation. It's a really smart idea to see what other travelers have said about their overall experience with a cruise line before booking your trip. The ads on TV may make that private island look amazing, but someone who's been there might point out that you'll pay extra to get on that waterslide. Or, previous cruisers could tell you that despite having several formal nights on the schedule, a particular cruise line has no problem with people showing up to dinner in flip-flops and swimsuit coverups. Find out if the cruise line you're considering lines up in reality with what they advertise.

Here at Top Consumer Reviews, cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel and experience new things. And with so many different cruise lines to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But, don't worry: take a look at our in-depth analysis of today's most popular options, find the one that's the best match for your vacation ideas and your travel party, and book that trip you've been dreaming of. Bon voyage!

Compare Cruise Lines

Select any 2 Cruise Lines to compare them head to head

Trending Cruise Line News

Cruise Hive

Carnival Cruise Line Releases 2024 Holiday Decorating Schedule

Guests sailing on Carnival cruise ships in late November and early December will start to see Christmas decorations onboard.

  Sat, 28 Sep 2024

Disney Cruise Line’s biggest ship has a unique fairy tale feature

Disney Imagination Garden will be the grand, heart of the ship – a pop-up storybook-like garden and gathering space set under Disney Cruise Line’s first castle at sea. The storybook castle art piece ...

  Fri, 27 Sep 2024

An inside look at a Carnival Cruise Line crew cabin

Working on a cruise ship seems like an adventure, and in many ways it is. But there are sacrifices: Crew members work long hours and get little time off. Their ships may take them to exotic locations, ...

Disney Cruise Line keeps ships at sea to avoid storms and unrest

Due to recent riots and rising tension in the French territory of New Caledonia in the South Pacific, Disney Cruise Line has decided that its Disney Wonder ship will skip an upcoming scheduled port ...

Popular cruise line bans item many travelers deem essential: Here’s ...

Several outlets report the reason for adding these items to the list is that older vessels are not equipped to handle multiple outlets to charge more than a few devices at a time.

Carnival Cruise Line Updates on Three Homeports Following Storm

Carnival Cruise Line has provided a post-storm update on three ships sailing from Florida homeports and when to expect further details.

The New York Times

Cruise Lines Change Their Itineraries to Avoid Helene’s Impact

Several cruise lines operating out of Florida’s west coast and the Gulf of Mexico altered their itineraries on Wednesday to avoid Hurricane Helene’s path.

  Thu, 26 Sep 2024

Business Insider

A new residential cruise ship plans to sail around the world every ...

Residential superyacht Ulyssia's 132 condos start at about $11 million. The never-ending cruise is scheduled to launch in 2028.

  Wed, 25 Sep 2024

Related Cruise Line Reviews

Since you're interested in Cruise Lines, here are some other reviews you might find interesting.

Cruise Vacation Sites

What's the best place to book a cruise vacation? You've finally got some time off, and you've decided you want the full-experience: sailing, relaxing, and new and exciting ...

Luggage Stores

Which luggage store is the best? Luggage is something that everyone will need at some point in their life, whether it be a backpack for an overnight trip or school, or a full set of luggage ...

Photo Book Companies

Where is the best place to get photo books out there today? Photo books are a fantastic way to keep our special memories in a tangible, beautiful format instead of just storing pictures on ...

Travel Insurance Plans

Who offers the best travel insurance? With daily news stories of delayed and canceled flights, lost baggage, and travelers stranded overseas in the middle of a natural disaster, it's ...

Travel Visa Services

What's the easiest way to get a travel visa? Online travel visa providers have revolutionized the way individuals apply for visas when planning their international trips.

Vacation Rental Sites

What's the best website to use for booking a vacation rental? Are you tired of the same old hotel experience when you go on vacation?

Newest Reviews

Acid Reflux Products

Where Can You Find the Best Acid Reflux Products? Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid or bile flows back up into the esophagus, irritating the lining and ...

Anti-Aging Creams

What is the Best Anti Aging Cream on the Market? We all know that there are key ways to protect our skin and keep us looking our best, like staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, keeping our skin moisturized, ...

DIY Home Security Companies

Where Can You Find the Best DIY Home Security? With the ongoing expenses of owning your home and the importance of keeping your home safe, many homeowners are looking for security systems.

Lice Products

Where Can You Find the Best Lice Removal Products? Nobody wants to deal with lice.

Refrigerators

Where Can You Find the Best Refrigerator? When purchasing a new refrigerator, choosing your new appliance can be a daunting decision that requires careful research and consideration.

Reverse Mortgage Companies

Where Can You Find the Best Reverse Mortgages? As a senior homeowner, you may have heard the buzz about these types of loans as a way of having more money in your later years.

Carnival Cruise Line vs Celebrity Cruises: A Detailed Comparison for Your Next Voyage

Are you torn between setting sail with Carnival Cruise Line or Celebrity Cruises? Picture this: you’re dreaming of your next vacation, but you’re faced with the dilemma of choosing between two fantastic cruise options. How do you decide which one suits your preferences best?

In this article, we’ll guide you through the key differences between Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises, helping you make an informed choice for your upcoming voyage. Whether you’re seeking non-stop entertainment and family-friendly fun or a more upscale and refined experience, we’ve got you covered. Stay tuned to discover which cruise line aligns perfectly with your travel style and preferences.

Key Takeaways

• Carnival Cruise Line: Vibrant and lively experience, family-friendly fun, water parks, live music, diverse entertainment options.
• Celebrity Cruises: Sophisticated and upscale voyage, elegant ambiance, refined experiences, gourmet dining, upscale entertainment.
• Accommodations: Carnival offers budget-friendly staterooms, while Celebrity focuses on luxurious accommodations.
• Culinary Experience: Carnival provides diverse dining options, Celebrity offers elevated dining experiences and exquisite dishes.
• Service & Hospitality: Carnival exudes casual friendliness, while Celebrity emphasizes refined and professional service.
• Itineraries & Destinations: Carnival offers diverse options like Caribbean and Alaska cruises, while Celebrity stands out with unique destinations like the Galapagos and Antarctica.

Understanding the Cruise Experience

Carnival cruise line overview.

When booking a trip with Carnival Cruise Line, you are opting for a vibrant and lively cruise experience. Imagine exciting deck parties, colorful decor, and a laid-back atmosphere that caters to guests of all ages. It’s like stepping into a floating entertainment hub where fun is around every corner. From water parks and thrilling waterslides to family-friendly activities and live music performances, Carnival Cruise Line promises a dynamic vacation for everyone on board.

Celebrity Cruises Overview

On the other hand, if you choose Celebrity Cruises, you’re in for a sophisticated and upscale voyage. Picture an elegant ambiance, modern design, and refined experiences that cater to travelers seeking luxury and relaxation. Celebrity Cruises offer a more upscale setting with gourmet dining options, upscale entertainment, and stylish staterooms. This cruise line is perfect for those looking to unwind in a more upscale environment while enjoying personalized service and upscale amenities.

Accommodations and Amenities

Stateroom quality and options.

When comparing Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises in terms of stateroom quality and options, you’ll find that both offer a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. Carnival Cruise Line typically provides comfortable and budget-friendly staterooms that cater to families and groups with varied needs. On the other hand, Celebrity Cruises focuses on upscale and luxurious staterooms, perfect for travelers looking for a more refined and sophisticated experience. Whether you prefer cozy interiors for a relaxing getaway or opulent suites with premium amenities, both cruise lines have options to meet your specific requirements.

Onboard Entertainment and Activities

As you consider Carnival Cruise Line versus Celebrity Cruises for your vacation, it’s essential to explore the onboard entertainment and activities each cruise line offers. Carnival Cruise Line is renowned for its vibrant and lively atmosphere, providing a diverse range of entertainment options such as Broadway-style shows, comedy acts, live music, and engaging activities like water parks and mini-golf. Conversely, Celebrity Cruises caters to a more refined audience with upscale entertainment choices, including live performances, educational talks, wine tastings, and art auctions. Whether you’re seeking high-energy fun or sophisticated leisure, both cruise lines ensure a memorable experience with a variety of onboard entertainment and activities to enjoy.

Culinary Journey

Dining options on carnival cruise line.

When sailing with Carnival Cruise Line, you’ll discover a plethora of dining options to tantalize your taste buds. From casual eateries to specialty restaurants, Carnival offers a diverse range of cuisines. Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, fresh seafood, or international flavors, there’s something for every palate onboard. Don’t miss out on the iconic Guy’s Burger Joint, known for its mouthwatering burgers crafted by celebrity chef Guy Fieri. For a more upscale experience, opt for the elegant main dining rooms where you can enjoy gourmet dishes in a refined setting.

Dining Experience on Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises prides itself on offering a sophisticated and elevated dining experience. Step into a world of culinary excellence where each meal is a culinary masterpiece. Indulge in delectable dishes prepared with the finest ingredients and exquisite attention to detail. Celebrity’s diverse dining venues span from upscale restaurants to casual bistros, ensuring there’s something to suit every taste. Treat yourself to a luxurious meal at one of the specialty restaurants where top chefs create culinary magic. Whether you prefer classic favorites or innovative creations, Celebrity Cruises promises a dining experience like no other.

Service and Hospitality

When it comes to service and hospitality on cruise ships, both Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises aim to make your experience memorable. Here’s how they differ in this aspect:

Staff Interaction and Guest Services: Carnival

On Carnival Cruise Line, you’ll notice a friendly and energetic atmosphere where the staff goes above and beyond to ensure you have a great time. You can expect a more casual approach from the crew members, with lots of smiles and enthusiasm to make you feel welcomed and relaxed throughout your voyage. Whether you have questions, need assistance, or simply want to chat, the Carnival staff is there to help with a cheerful attitude.

Service Excellence on Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises, on the other hand, prides itself on providing a more refined and sophisticated service experience. The staff on Celebrity Cruises is known for their professionalism, attention to detail, and personalized service. From the moment you step on board, you’ll sense an air of elegance and luxury that extends to every interaction with the crew. Expect warm welcomes, impeccable manners, and a level of service that caters to your every need, ensuring a seamless and indulgent cruising experience.

Itineraries and Destinations

When deciding between Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises, a key factor to consider is the itineraries and destinations each cruise line offers. Here’s a breakdown of the popular routes from Carnival and the unique destinations from Celebrity to help you make an informed choice.

Carnival’s Popular Routes

Carnival Cruise Line is known for its diverse range of itineraries, catering to various preferences. Whether you’re looking for a tropical escape or an adventure-filled voyage, Carnival has something for everyone. Some popular routes include:

• Caribbean Cruises : Experience the turquoise waters and sandy beaches of the Caribbean with Carnival’s extensive selection of Caribbean cruises. From the Eastern to the Western Caribbean, each route offers a unique blend of culture, relaxation, and fun.
• Alaska Cruises : Embark on a journey to the icy wonders of Alaska with Carnival. Witness breathtaking glaciers, majestic wildlife, and stunning landscapes on an Alaskan cruise that promises awe-inspiring experiences.
• Mediterranean Cruises : Explore the enchanting cities and picturesque coastlines of the Mediterranean with Carnival’s Mediterranean cruises. Immerse yourself in history, art, and delectable cuisines as you sail through this captivating region.

Celebrity’s Unique Destinations

Celebrity Cruises prides itself on offering unique and luxurious destinations that provide travelers with remarkable experiences. Here are some of Celebrity’s standout destinations:

• Galapagos Islands : Celebrity Cruises offers immersive journeys to the Galapagos Islands, allowing guests to witness the remarkable biodiversity and natural beauty of this iconic destination. Explore pristine landscapes and encounter incredible wildlife up close.
• Antarctica : For those seeking an unparalleled adventure, Celebrity’s Antarctica cruises are a must-consider option. Sail to the southernmost continent and marvel at the awe-inspiring icebergs, colonies of penguins, and otherworldly landscapes.
• Northern Europe : Delve into the rich history and culture of Northern Europe with Celebrity Cruises. From the vibrant cities of Scandinavia to the charming ports of the Baltic Sea, a Northern Europe cruise with Celebrity promises a blend of luxury and exploration.

Consider the itineraries and destinations offered by Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises to choose the cruise experience that aligns with your travel preferences and aspirations.

Value for Money

Pricing Comparison

When comparing the pricing between Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises, Carnival generally offers more budget-friendly options while Celebrity tends to be more upscale and expensive. Carnival often provides lower base fares, making it attractive for travelers looking for a more affordable cruise experience. On the other hand, Celebrity Cruises may offer higher pricing due to its emphasis on luxury and premium services. Keep in mind that prices can vary based on factors such as cabin category, cruise length, and specific promotions available at the time of booking.

Inclusions and Upgrades

Consider the value you receive in terms of inclusions and upgrades when deciding between Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises. Carnival is known for including a wide variety of entertainment options in their base fares, such as stage shows, comedy acts, and water parks, making it a good choice for those seeking all-inclusive entertainment. In contrast, Celebrity Cruises may focus more on upscale dining experiences, enrichment programs, and premium amenities, which could require additional fees or higher upfront costs. Be sure to compare the inclusions and potential upgrades offered by each cruise line to determine which aligns best with your preferences and budget.

Demographic and Atmosphere

When considering Carnival Cruise Line against Celebrity Cruises, there are distinct demographic differences and atmospheres that cater to varying preferences and expectations.

Family-Friendliness of Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for those traveling with children or looking for a fun-filled vacation for all ages. With a vibrant and energetic ambiance, Carnival offers a plethora of activities and entertainment options suitable for families. From water parks and thrilling waterslides to engaging kids’ clubs and family-friendly dining venues, Carnival ensures that every member of the family has a memorable experience.

For example, the Seuss at Sea program on Carnival cruises brings beloved Dr. Seuss characters to life through interactive activities and character meet-and-greets, creating a whimsical and entertaining environment for children. Additionally, Carnival’s onboard entertainment often includes family-friendly shows, comedy performances, and music events perfect for guests of all ages to enjoy together.

Celebrity Cruises: Targeting Affluent Travelers

On the other hand, Celebrity Cruises caters to a more upscale demographic, appealing to affluent travelers seeking a sophisticated and luxurious cruise experience. With an emphasis on elegance and refined ambiance, Celebrity offers a premium environment suited for those looking for upscale amenities, gourmet dining, and personalized service.

For instance, Celebrity Cruises feature upscale specialty restaurants curated by renowned chefs, providing guests with a fine dining experience that combines exquisite cuisine with impeccable service. The onboard atmosphere on Celebrity Cruises is designed to exude sophistication, offering upscale performances, cultural talks, wine tastings, and other refined entertainment options that cater to a discerning audience.

By understanding the demographic focus and atmosphere of Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises, you can make an informed decision based on your preferences and expectations for an unforgettable cruise vacation that aligns with your desired experience.

Loyalty Programs and Benefits

When it comes to loyalty programs and benefits, both Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises offer rewarding options for their frequent cruisers. Let’s take a closer look at what each cruise line has to offer:

VIFP Club: Carnival’s Perks

Carnival Cruise Line values its repeat guests through its VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club. As a member, you’ll enjoy a variety of benefits designed to enhance your cruise experience. These perks can include priority boarding, special event invitations, discounts on shore excursions, spa treatments, and onboard purchases, as well as complimentary amenities in your stateroom. The VIFP Club rewards your loyalty with exclusive privileges that add an extra layer of enjoyment to your Carnival cruises.

Captain’s Club: Rewards with Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises’ loyalty program, the Captain’s Club, offers a range of perks for its loyal passengers. Whether you’re a new cruiser or a frequent guest, the Captain’s Club provides various tiers – Preview, Classic, Select, Elite, and Elite Plus – each offering its own set of benefits. These benefits may include priority check-in, onboard discounts, complimentary internet minutes, laundry services, exclusive events, and even discounts on future cruises. By joining the Captain’s Club, you can unlock a host of rewards tailored to enhance your Celebrity Cruises experience based on your level of loyalty.

Sustainability and Environmental Practices

Carnival’s Eco-Friendly Initiatives

Carnival Cruise Line demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through various eco-friendly initiatives. One notable effort is the implementation of advanced waste management systems on its ships. These systems efficiently process waste to minimize environmental impact. Carnival also focuses on energy efficiency by employing innovative technologies to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. For example, they utilize LED lighting and optimized heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems onboard to conserve energy.

Additionally, Carnival invests in water conservation programs to ensure responsible water usage throughout its fleet. The cruise line actively promotes recycling practices to decrease waste production and enhance recycling rates. By engaging in these eco-conscious practices, Carnival aims to reduce its ecological footprint and contribute to a more sustainable travel industry.

Celebrity’s Commitment to the Planet

Celebrity Cruises upholds a strong commitment to the planet through various sustainability initiatives. One key focus is on implementing advanced air quality systems to minimize emissions from its ships. By utilizing state-of-the-art environmental technologies, Celebrity reduces its impact on the air quality of the destinations it visits. The cruise line also prioritizes marine conservation efforts by supporting marine wildlife research and preservation programs.

Moreover, Celebrity Cruises emphasizes the importance of responsible sourcing and eco-friendly practices in its supply chain. By partnering with sustainable suppliers and prioritizing environmentally conscious products, Celebrity promotes sustainability across its operations. Through these initiatives, Celebrity demonstrates its dedication to preserving the environment and fostering a more sustainable cruise industry.

You’ve now explored the distinctive features of Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises, uncovering their unique atmospheres, accommodations, entertainment, and dining options. Delving into their loyalty programs, Carnival’s VIFP Club and Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club offer exclusive perks tailored to enhance your cruise experience based on your loyalty. Additionally, you’ve gained insights into the sustainability efforts of both cruise lines, with Carnival focusing on eco-friendly initiatives and Celebrity Cruises showcasing its commitment to environmental responsibility. As you consider your next cruise adventure, remember to weigh not only your preferences for a cruise experience but also the cruise lines’ dedication to sustainability and environmental conservation. Happy cruising!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between carnival cruise line and celebrity cruises.

Carnival Cruise Line offers a vibrant and budget-friendly atmosphere with diverse entertainment options and dining choices. In contrast, Celebrity Cruises provide a sophisticated and upscale experience with a focus on quality accommodations and refined dining experiences.

What exclusive benefits does Carnival’s VIFP Club offer?

Carnival’s VIFP Club provides exclusive perks such as priority boarding, discounts on select services, and special event invitations for loyal guests based on their cruise history and loyalty tier.

What perks are available through Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club?

Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club offers onboard discounts, exclusive events, and loyalty rewards tailored to guests’ loyalty tiers, providing added value and special experiences for repeat cruisers.

What sustainability initiatives does Carnival Cruise Line prioritize?

Carnival Cruise Line focuses on sustainability through waste management systems, energy-efficient technologies, and water conservation programs to minimize its environmental impact and promote responsible practices within the cruise industry.

How does Celebrity Cruises demonstrate its commitment to sustainability?

Celebrity Cruises showcases its dedication to sustainability by implementing advanced air quality systems, marine conservation efforts, and responsible sourcing practices to protect the environment and promote eco-friendly operations.

Hi, I'm Richard, a passionate traveler and cruise enthusiast. With over a decade of experience exploring the world's oceans, I've developed a deep love for all things related to cruising. Whether it's luxury liners or intimate river cruises, I enjoy sharing my insights and tips to help others plan their perfect getaway. When I'm not sailing the seas, you can find me writing about my adventures or planning my next voyage

Related Posts

Azamara vs silversea cruises: comparing destinations, onboard experiences & customer reviews, celebrity cruises vs royal caribbean international: the ultimate comparison for your perfect cruise experience, p&o cruises vs virgin voyages: a comprehensive comparison for your next cruise adventure.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Cruise Spotlight

Helping you find cruise ships you'll love

Carnival Celebration vs Celebrity Beyond

The Carnival Celebration is a fairly new ship, being built in 2022. The Celebration is named after the original Celebration that sailed with Carnival from 1987 - 2008. It has two unique zones not found on its sister ships: The Gateway, an area dedicated to travel and Carnival's history, and 820 Biscayne which has a retro-Miami vibe. The Celebrity Beyond was built in 2022. The Celebrity Beyond is a step up from its siblings, with an additional deck and more outdoor space. It still features the "Magic Carpet," a moving platform that makes using water tenders a breeze while in port, or adds outdoor dining space while at sea. This Edge-class of ship is known to feel quite different than the rest of the Celebrity fleet as it's less geared towards traditional cruise passengers.

Comparison Overview

Number of passengers, food and restaurants.

• Bars and Drinks

Pools and Hot Tubs

Ship features and activities, cruise costs, onboard costs.

• See Our Detailed Cruise Blog

The Celebration is considered a large size ship. Coming in at 1,130 feet long and 137 feet wide, it's roughly the length of 3.1 football fields, as wide as 2.6 tractor-trailers and the same height as a 17-story building. Compared to the Celebrity Beyond, the Celebration is 31% larger in terms of overall tons.

Carnival Celebration holds 65% more passengers than the Beyond based on double occupancy (two people per room). When you look at the "Space Ratio," or the total tonnage of a ship compared to the number of passengers, the Celebration has less space per person compared to the Beyond.

The Celebration uses a zone layout to break up large crowds across the ship, often making it feel less crowded.

Food is a big part of any cruise, and the ship you choose can make a huge difference in your food experience.

The Celebration has 27 different dining options like Guys Pig and Anchor Smokehouse (Excel-ship) , Emeril's Bistro 1397 , and Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse . Of those options, 19 are complementary, or included with your cruise fare. The other 8 options have an additional fee.

The Beyond has 8 fewer dining venues. Some of its popular venues are Tuscan Restaurant , Dinner on the Edge , and Luminae . 8 of these restaurants are complementary and the other 11 have an additional fee.

If you like having a variety of places to eat, the Celebration might be a better choice. It has 42% more dining options than the Beyond.

If you're looking to avoid extra money while on board, the Celebration might be a better choice then the Beyond. More of the dining options are included in the base cruise fare, potentially saving you money.

In terms of drinks and cocktails, you have a variety of choices. The Celebration serves the Pepsi family of products. That means Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Starry, Mug Root Beer, and Mountain Dew, although the selection can vary by ship. The Beyond serves Coca Cola branded products. That includes drinks like Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and Barqs Root Beer, although the selection can vary by ship.

There are also plenty of bars available on these ships. You can check out recent the bar menus for the Celebration and the Beyond below.

Nothing beats relaxing by a pool with a nice drink in hand as you feel the fresh sea breeze pass by you. The problem is that with thousands of people on a ship, there's not always room. If you want to spend all day for 7 days in a pool, a cruise isn't for you. You would have a much better bet choosing a resort with a huge pool complex. That being said, a quick dip in the pool can be nice on a hot day.

The Carnival Celebration has a total of 6 pools and 7 hot tubs. Tired of loud kids and splashing? 1 of the pools and 2 of the hot tubs are adults only. 2 of the pools are exclusive access, which means there's either an extra charge to access them or you need to book a certain class of cabin to have access to them.

Celebrity Beyond has fewer pools than the Celebration and fewer hot tubs. There are more exclusive pools and hot tubs on the Beyond. If you don't mind paying for exclusive access to areas in order to have less crowds, this might be a better choice.

Both ships have lots of activities to keep you busy throughout your cruise. Below you'll see a list of some of the major features on these ships. You might up paying more while on board the Celebration. Only 61% of the activities below are included in your cruise fare. On the Beyond, 67% of the activities are included at no additional cost.

Carnival is considered a mainstream cruise line. Mainstream cruise lines cater to a variety of guests, hoping to provide something for everyone. These typically cost about $100 - $350 per person per day.

Celebrity, on the other hand, is a premium cruise line. Premium cruise lines typically offer upscale food, accommodations, and service. These typically cost about $150 - $400 per person per day.

Cruise pricing is dynamic and varies for each specific sailing based on factors such as departure point, ports of call, and time of year. To get a good idea of how the pricing compares, visit the cruise line's website to price out the separate cruises or consult a travel professional.

Another way to gauge the cost of a cruise is to consider how much you'll spend on board. Even though a lot is included in the base cruise fare, you may still spend money on things like spa treatments, specialty dining, drinks, and excursions. In addition, guests can also have to pay for things like gratuities and tips.

Typically guests can expect to spend about 25 - 40% of the cost of the cruise on onboard expenses. In other words, if the cruise fare is $1,000 per person, you might spend between $250 and $400 on extra expenses.

The table below will help you compare onboard prices to see if you might spend more on a specific ship.

Celebrity Cruise Lines offers an "All Included" program. Guests who book a cruise using this promotion will have wifi and alcohol included. Some sailings are available without this program so pay attention when booking. Typically prices are lower if they don't include "Always Included." The wifi and alcohol package are the base levels and can be upgraded for an additional cost.

We sailed aboard the Carnival Celebration

Follow along on our sailing on the Carnival Celebration. We take you through every aspect of our sailing, from getting to the port to debarking the ship. See the schedule of events, menus, what excursions we did, and what we really thought about the ship.

Carnival Celebration - Cruise Blog - Day 1 - Miami

Carnival Celebration - Cruise Blog - Day 2 - Sea Day

Carnival Celebration - Cruise Blog - Day 3 - Cozumel

Carnival Celebration - Cruise Blog - Day 4 - Costa Maya

Carnival Celebration - Cruise Blog - Day 5 - Roatan

Carnival Celebration - Cruise Blog - Day 6 - Sea Day

Carnival Celebration - Cruise Blog - Day 7 - Sea Day

5 Hits and Misses on Carnival Celebration

Want to Stay Up-To-Date on All Things Cruising?

Follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Threads , or subscribe to our monthly newsletter .

Articles Related the These Ships

How to Make the Sakura Cocktail from Carnival's Latitudes Bar

What Theme Parties Will Be On Your Carnival Cruise?

Carnival to Introduce a New Class of Ship With Three on Order

Carnival Adding 5th Excel-Class Ship in 2028

How To Enjoy Dive-in Movies on Carnival Cruise Ships

What is Carnival’s “Behind the Fun” Like?

About Cruise Spotlight Founded in 2020, Cruise Spotlight's goal is to help people understand every aspect of cruising. Plenty of sites focus on the perfect Instagram pictures and marketing fluff. We focus on what really matters: onboard expenses, tips for cruise ships, detailed cruise reviews, and more. Our goal is to provide helpful, unbiased information to new and established cruisers. Over the years, we've helped millions of people get the most from their cruise vacation. Learn more about Cruise Spotlight.

Travel Blogger & Agent

• 12 min read

Carnival Cruise vs Celebrity Cruise: Which is Best!

Choosing the perfect cruise vacation can feel like navigating a sea of options. With so many choices, it's essential to weigh all the factors to ensure you book the trip that best suits your needs and desires. Two of the most popular cruise lines are Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruise Line. But which one is right for you? Let's break it down.

When I look for cruises to take, I base it on a few things. Price, departure point, and Itinerary are the main things I look into. With 15 cruises under my belt, I have to cruise on a budget, so price is my most important factor. But I also enjoy visiting places I have never been to before, so differences in itineraries are important to me.

Many of you will feel the same way but want to factor in many more things when taking a cruise. Like activities, entertainment, size of ship, and food. These are all legitimate points to review when picking a cruise.

This blog will help you learn which cruise line is best for you. I will discuss the pros and cons of Carnival Cruise Line vs Celebrity Cruise Line, so you can make the most informed decision. That way you can set back and relax knowing you picked the right cruise for your personality. Anchors Away! 

Carnival vs Celebrity Cruises Pros and Cons.

Basic info about carnival cruise line.

Founded in 1972, Carnival Cruise Line is known for its fun and affordable cruises. With a fleet of over 27 ships, they offer itineraries to the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, and beyond. Their ships are packed with entertainment options, including water parks, casinos, and live shows, making them a favorite for families and groups looking for a lively vacation.

Best Things about Carnival Cruise Line

Affordability : Great value for money, especially for families.

Entertainment  options abound, from water slides to comedy shows. 

Convenient Departure Ports  across the U.S.

  Worst Things about Carnival Cruise Line

Crowded  Ships during peak seasons. Summer and spring break are the worst times to cruise.

Less Luxurious  compared to premium lines.

Average Dining  experience for food connoisseurs. My rating is a 7 out of 10, although the specialty restaurants are much better.

Basic Info about Celebrity Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruises, founded in 1988, is known for its luxurious ships and exceptional service. With a fleet of 16 ships, they offer destinations worldwide, including Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Celebrity focuses on providing a sophisticated experience with gourmet dining, modern staterooms, and enriching activities. By being part of the Royal Caribbean Family, this cruise line benefits from their example 

Best Things about Celebrity Cruise Line

Luxurious Accommodations  with stylish decor and comfortable amenities.

Gourmet Dining  experiences crafted by renowned chefs. Even the main dining room and buffets were a 9 out of 10.

Enriching Activities  that focus on culture and relaxation. Amazing spa services

Best App for cellphone, easy to use, and full of all the information you will need.

Worst Things about Celebrity Cruise Line

Higher Cost  compared to other cruise lines, unless you find a deal.

Limited Departure Ports , sometimes requiring additional travel.

Less Family-Oriented , focusing more on adult travelers. Still things for kids to do, but not as young of a crowd

Confusion on Room Class, do I need concierge class or veranda class, or does it really matter? It may not, but you will need to be familiar with what the classes on the ship are to help choose the best for you.

Price is a huge factor that can be affected by many things. For example, if you book an interior room or balcony room. Or do you get the alcohol package or not. Prices will also be different if you are taking the cruise during peak season or hurricane season. Also, the newest ship like the Carnival Jubilee will be more expensive than older ships in the fleet. Something to think about if you don't need all the bells and whistles and want a cheaper cruise.

Did you know that the Carnival Corporation and Celebrity (Royal Caribbean) gives you onboard credit if you have 100 shares of carnival stock. It does not help the price of your room, but could help cover specialty dining, gratuities or shopping while on board.

Carnival Cruise

Carnival Cruise Line is renowned for its affordability, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. They offer various packages, often with lower starting prices, which can be a significant draw for family vacations and groups.

I have taken many Carnival cruises on many carnival ships, from 4 days to 9 days, and each cost under $800 per person or less. In fact, I purchased a 4-day cruise for around $400 after taxes and fees a couple years back.  In my opinion the smaller ships are more affordable, and obviously less crowded. Larger ships are typically newer, more crowded and more expensive.

Celebrity Cruise

Celebrity Cruise Line, on the other hand, positions itself as a more premium cruise line option. While the initial cost may be higher, the line often includes more in the base fare, such as gratuities and dining options, potentially balancing the overall expense.

As for the price of the cruise, I just traveled on the Celebrity Reflection for a 4-day cruise. Balcony room in concierge class (an upgrade) costing $610 per person after taxes and port fees. This was a very good deal for Celebrity Cruise ships. The upgrades included a special delivery every day to our room of a cute little snack, from chocolate covered strawberries to a cheese tray on another day, every day we received a special gift. On embarkation day we had a special lunch in the dining room, where everyone else was sent to buffet after they checked in, to board the ship. Plus, the Concierge Class Balcony is large.

Click here to see video of the balcony. on the Celebrity Reflection

Food is a major factor when traveling. And all cruise lines have some restaurants included in the cruise like the main dining room and buffets, but some even have a few more that are included in your cruise. They also have specialty dining restaurants that are an extra cost. If you like specialty restaurants that will affect the price of the cruise, but you can get discounts if you buy the specialty dining package offered by the cruise line, before you board the ship. Sometimes these packages are included in your cruise due to the promotion the cruise line has at the moment. I will say that Specialty restaurants are wonderful basically on any cruise line. Some stand out more than others throughout the cruise industry. 

Both cruise lines have a dress code for specialty restaurants, but I feel that Celebrity was fancier. But you will see people dressed up on carnival for their formal nights and heading to the main dining rooms or specialty restaurants. For the most part, do not wear swimwear to any restaurant on either cruise line except the lido deck buffet or outdoor dining areas.

Most cruise ships have other food options that might not be covered, for example a coffee bar or special pastry place that will charge extra. Typically, an older ship for either cruise line will have less room onboard for a larger variety of restaurants.

Carnival Cruise ships pride themselves on offering diverse dining options, from casual buffets to specialty restaurants. The cuisine is designed to cater to a wide range of tastes and is generally considered good value for money. 

Along with the basics of the main dining room and buffet, depending on which ship you are on you can visit Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Swirls, Mongolian Wok, Bug Chicken and a few others that are included in the price of the cruise, depend on which ship you are on.

Java Blue Cafe and the Coffee bar are not included in the carnival cruise. One of the good things to purchase is the cakes, they have great slices of cake at the Java Blue Cafe. Along with specialty dining options like the steakhouse, sushi, and a great option of the Japanese restaurant, there are plenty more on the cruise ships. Each ship is different with the types of specialty restaurants available. The specialty restaurants are considered fine dining. Room service is free for the first half of the day, but the last half of the day there is a small charge for room service.

Celebrity Cruise is known for its upscale dining experience. With menus crafted by Michelin-starred chefs and a focus on gourmet cuisine, foodies will delight in the diverse and high-quality culinary offerings. Being associated with Royal Caribbean, means great food quality. The Royal Caribbean cruise line has set the standard for great food, and other cruise lines are just trying to catch up. This places Celebrity in a great position being affiliated with them, they have great food.

Some examples of the specialty dining on Celebrity ships are Murano, Tuscan Grill, Blu and a couple more. These are great options, but for a unique experience try Le Petit Chef, it is like you are dining in an art installation. Some ships also have less expensive options for dining, but they are not included in the price of your cruise. For example, the Lawn Club Grill, these are great options for a dinner or lunch and not as fancy as specialty restaurants. Room service can be placed 24 hours a day, but there will be a 9.95 surcharge for your meal plus gratuity.

My experience with the buffet on the Celebrity Reflection was amazing. Out of 15 cruises, Celebrity buffet had the best food, plus the largest variety I have ever seen. Plus, I enjoyed the layout, several different buffet stations spread out, so you were on in 1 long continuous line.

From studios to suites, cruise lines have every option you will need. If you are a solo cruiser and don't need a lot of space or you are a family of 5, there are options on all cruise lines, including Carnival and Celebrity. The price changes on rooms due to size/style, cruise season, and by how many people it needs to hold. For example, balcony rooms tend to cost more than interior rooms, unless you get a deal where a cruise is not selling as they would like, and they reduce the price of rooms.

I have spent many cruises in an interior room, and do not mind it at all. Honestly, I get the best sleep in an interior room because there is no light coming in from a window or balcony. I always suggest looking at the website to make sure you get the room you want. Also, you can find videos of your specific room on YouTube. This can help you determine if the room is good for you.

If you pick the “sail away” package, the cruise line picks the room for you. This happens on both the cruise lines in this blog, but Celebrity call is it the "Guaranteed Stateroom". You can save some money this way, but you could end up in an area of the ship you do not like. For example, it is best to stay midship if you worry about sea sickness. If you let them pick the room you might be near the front or aft, and you can feel the ship move more there.

Carnival's cabins are comfortable and functional, with various classes to suit different budgets. However, they are generally more straightforward and less luxurious compared to those found on Celebrity Cruise.

There are suites, balconies, ocean view, and interior cabins on a carnival cruise ship. So there are plenty of styles to choose from. Even the set ups in the room with the beds are different, so always double check how the room looks. Some interior rooms may have 1 pull down bed and some will have 2. 

The carnival interior and balcony rooms are what I have taken in the past, and both were great options. Although 3 people in an interior room is a little crowded and one person will have to sleep on an upper-level bunk. 

Cabins on Celebrity Cruises are often more spacious and luxurious. With modern amenities, stylish decor, and superior comfort, your stateroom experience is elevated to a new level of relaxation and sophistication.

Celebrity offers different levels for their rooms. For example, the concierge class on a balcony cabin will give you more room than a Veranda Class Cabin, plus you will get more perks onboard. Veranda Class has some cabins with portholes, but then there is an Oceanview room too that is one step below that. Aquaclass is more of a wellness class for the ship with a balcony and other perks for those seeking spa services and more. There are also interior rooms, studios for those solo cruisers and then suites are the perfect place for the larger families.

Video for Concierge balcony room #9245

Video for Concierge balcony room #9271

Itinerary and Activities

Each cruise line has different itineraries, with stops at certain places that the other ship will not stop at. For example, both cruise lines have private islands in the Bahamas. Carnival is Half Moon Cay, and Celebrity is CocoCay. So, if you have your heart set on one or the other, you need to pick the right cruise line. You will notice differences like this for all cruise lines and certain ports some cruise ships do not dock at. CocoCay is by far the best cruise port private island of any cruise ship island out there.

As for onboard activities, most cruise lines have similar things to do. From Bingo, mini golf, to broadway music, to deck parties with live music and more. All cruise lines seem to have a library for those who would like to get a book to read or some quiet time, and they all have many bars and lounges to drink or dance the night away if you like. The difference may be the people you find on the ship. Musical performances in the theater or by the piano bar are great on both cruise lines. The pool deck on both Carnival and Celebrity are usually extremely busy in the Caribbean or in peak summer season, with music, DJ’s and of course alcoholic drinks.

Both cruise ships have high speed connectivity, and an internet cafe onboard, but with the updates over the past couple years, both do well to offer internet services to everyone on board for a fee. They both have spas, fitness centers, shore excursion desks, and photo pick up area.

Both cruise lines offer shore excursions purchased through the cruise line. There is a better way to get excursions more budget friendly, and that is with a a 3rd party vendor like Viator to take tours and excursions in the cruise port. Just make sure you are back on the ship in time, as a cruise ship will not wait on you if you did not purchase the excursion through them.

Carnival's itineraries are designed for fun and adventure. They offer a wide range of activities, including waterslides, game shows, and themed parties, making them a hit with families and younger crowds. Making this a better on-board experience all around.

This may be shocking to you but the average age on a carnival cruise ship is 45. People tend to think that the ship is just for young people who party all night, but that is not always the case. If you cruise the Caribbean you do tend to find a younger crowd, whereas if you are taking an Alaskan cruise, it will be more laidback. Still there will be plenty of people on the dance floor in a lounge for you in Alaska.

Celebrity Cruises tend to offer more refined and culturally enriching itineraries. Think wine tastings, cooking classes, and art exhibitions. The atmosphere is generally more relaxed, appealing to adult travelers seeking a more sophisticated experience.

It is true from my experience that celebrity cruise lines are more sophisticated, but the average age is 50. So younger people do tend to cruise on other cruise lines. I still saw plenty of cruisers under that age, in fact I'm not 50 yet, and 2 people I am traveling with are not 50 either. You will still have a great time in the lounges young or old on a Celebrity cruise. Plus, the Adults only Solarium is amazing.

Speaking of Solarium, they do have family time from 5 to 7PM. And 16 and up is consider adult enough to be in the pool at all times of the day. Bit it is so much more relaxing than the outside pool area.

Check out the video of Solarium.

Departure Port

Carnival operates out of numerous ports across the U.S., providing easy access for most American travelers. This makes it convenient for those who prefer not to fly or travel far to begin their cruise.

Carnival has more cruise ships with more departure points all around the world. Although most are in the United States. With a 27-ship fleet, including a brand-new cruise ship released recently, no wonder you are the leader in departure points around the world. 

Celebrity also offers a variety of departure ports but tends to focus on fewer, more strategically chosen locations. While this might mean a bit more travel to the port, the destinations and itineraries often make it worthwhile.

Celebrity only has 16 ships, not near as many as Carnival. So, there are many port cities in the United State that don't have access to the Celebrity cruise line as Carnival. Baltimore, Jacksonville, Galveston and a few more come to mind that Celebrity does not use as a departure port.

Both Carnival and Celebrity Cruises offer unique travel experiences tailored to different types of travelers. If you are a first-time cruiser or experienced, research has to be done. If you're looking for a budget-friendly, fun-filled vacation with plenty of activities, Carnival Cruise Line is a fantastic choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more luxurious, gourmet, and culturally enriching experience, Celebrity Cruise Line may be the better option.

Ultimately, the best cruise line for you will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and what you value most in a vacation. Ready to set sail? [Learn more] and start planning your dream cruise today!

Additional Tips for Choosing the Perfect Cruise

Research Destinations  to find the best fit for your interests and preferred activities.

Consider Travel Time and Budget  when choosing between a short or long cruise.

Read Reviews  from previous travelers to get an idea of what to expect.

Find Deals and Discounts  by booking in advance or with a travel agent.

This blog contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, I might receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

• Cruise info
• Tips and Tricks

Recent Posts

The Best Things to do in Grand Cayman on a Cruise!

Montego Bay Jamaica Cruise Port: What to Expect!

Crown Bay Cruise Port in St Thomas, Area Guide!

4 comentarios

I love that you went into the details of the ship and not just the age range. We went on a celebrity and were not their target population and had a fantastic time! There's so much more to consider and you went through it all!

Thanks for the comment. Those comments people say that Celebrity is only an old person ship, need to change their minds. I was highly impressed. Thanks for the comment, I am not sure why my reply to you says I am a guest, since its my website and blog. Thanks again for reaching out.

What a thorough post! Both Celebrity and Carnival are cruise lines that depart from the city where I live so it is helpful to know how to compare the different lines. You really shared a lot of details to help make a very informed decision.

Thanks I am glad you liked it.

Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity Cruises: Which sister cruise line should you choose?

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises, which are sister cruise lines operated by Royal Caribbean Group, are both known for offering abundant dining options and engaging nightlife. But they have different onboard vibes and target different types of cruise travelers.

Royal Caribbean's fleet of more than two dozen ships includes some of the largest vessels at sea and features groundbreaking innovations and family-friendly attractions. Celebrity's 15 not-quite-as-large vessels are more upscale, adult-focused and design-centric.

Which cruise line should you choose? Read on for a head-to-head comparison of Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises, covering each brand's onboard experience, itineraries and passenger profile to help you decide.

Size of ships

Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity operate multiple classes of ships, most categorized as large. The older ships in both fleets are smaller than the newest vessels but are not intimate by any means.

Royal Caribbean 's older ships carry 2,000 to 3,900 guests, and its newest more than 5,000, putting it at the forefront of the megaship trend.

Its fleet boasts five of the world's largest ships, led by Wonder of the Seas . This Oasis Class ship and its four siblings are so massive they carry up to 5,700 guests at double occupancy and are divided into themed neighborhoods to help guests find their way around.

Royal Caribbean's modern Quantum Class ships accommodate 4,180 guests and stand out due to each ship's North Star sightseeing capsule, which rises 300 feet above the sea.

Icon of the Seas, the first in an entirely new class for Royal Caribbean, will be the line's largest ship when it debuts in early 2024. It will only hold 5,600 passengers at double occupancy because the ship will feature more cabins and suites that accommodate four or more passengers than found on any other Royal Caribbean ship.

Related: The 6 classes of Royal Caribbean cruise ships, explained

Celebrity Cruises ' newest and largest ships are its 3,260-guest Edge series: Celebrity Edge , Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond , with Celebrity Ascent launching in December. Its five Solstice Class ships each carry around 2,800 passengers, and its four Millennium Class vessels accommodate around 2,200 a piece.

Celebrity also offers expedition-style cruising on three 16- to 100-passenger ships in the Galapagos Islands (but we won't address them in this article).

Both cruise lines offer all the amenities of a floating resort at sea: pools, spas, bars and multiple dining venues. In terms of sheer wow factor, though, Royal Caribbean's activity-packed Icon Class, Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships are hard to beat, especially for family cruising.

On the other hand, Celebrity's vessels are spacious and designed to dazzle with contemporary decor and premium amenities.

On both lines, the smallest, oldest ships can have a different vibe from the newest, largest vessels, so keep that in mind as you're researching trips.

Related: The 4 types of Celebrity Cruises ships, explained

Who is on board?

With Royal Caribbean, a better question might be, "Who isn't on board?" As a mainstream cruise line, it appeals to a wide range of passengers, mostly Americans (at least on North American itineraries) and many of them families.

It's also popular with friends celebrating birthdays or bachelor/bachelorette getaways and couples of all ages seeking a lively shipboard ambience at an affordable price. That said, Royal Suite Class passengers definitely have money, so there's a more upscale demographic, often multigenerational.

Passengers also differ by itinerary, with three- to five-night Bahamas and seven-night Caribbean sailings attracting families and groups of friends. The line's eight- to 12-night Mediterranean itineraries draw more couples and retirees and fewer families, as well as more Europeans. (About half of passengers on Royal Caribbean's European itineraries are Europeans and travelers from outside the United States.) Alaska sailings lure multigenerational families and older cruisers.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean cruise ships and itineraries

Celebrity's ships attract a narrower, more upscale demographic, mostly Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s and retirement-age baby boomers, with some childless millennials, too.

There will be kids on board, but not in the numbers that Royal Caribbean attracts. As a premium cruise brand, Celebrity typically has higher fares, especially on its Edge-series ships, but sailings are not as expensive as on luxury cruise ships.

Related: The ultimate guide to Celebrity Cruises ships and itineraries

Cabins and suites

Royal Caribbean offers a dizzying array of cabin and suite options, especially on its newest and largest ships. Celebrity features fewer overall cabin categories but offers non-suite rooms with extra perks.

Both cruise lines offer a variety of cabin styles and price points. You'll find windowless inside cabins , ocean-view rooms with picture windows or portholes, accommodations with private balconies and a range of suites. There are also connecting rooms for families and groups, as well as accessible cabins for passengers using wheelchairs or other assistive devices.

It's not surprising that Royal Caribbean's large Icon Class, Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships feature the most accommodation types within the fleet — up to three dozen cabin and suite categories designed for both families and couples with a wide range of budgets.

On the affordable end, some of the windowless inside cabins come with a "virtual balcony," a window-mimicking screen that displays real-time video of the view outside. These are available on all five Quantum Class ships, plus Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas.

Oasis Class ships also feature inside and balcony cabins that overlook the Promenade, Boardwalk and Central Park neighborhoods.

Six vessels (Brilliance of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas) offer a limited number of studio cabins designed for solo travelers .

The cruise line's top accommodations are suites, varying in size and some with loft configurations. Its most lavish digs are the two-story Ultimate Family Suites (found on Wonder, Symphony and Spectrum of the Seas) and the three-story Ultimate Family Townhouse on Icon of the Seas. They sleep up to eight guests and boast kid-friendly amenities, including a slide, air hockey table and other games.

All suites offer exclusive amenities. However, Royal Caribbean's largest, most expensive suites come with exclusive perks, such as Royal Genie butler service and complimentary specialty dining and beverage packages.

Related: Royal Caribbean cruise ship cabin and suite guide: Everything you want to know

Celebrity's newest Edge Class ships replace the standard balcony cabin with Infinite Veranda Staterooms, in which a floor-to-ceiling window lowers halfway to create an open-air veranda within the room. This design allows for more usable space within the cabin, regardless of whether the window is open or shut.

AquaClass cabins include in-cabin wellness amenities and access to an exclusive restaurant and the spa's thermal suite (with saunas and heated loungers). Concierge Class rooms come with a dedicated concierge, a pillow menu and an exclusive welcome-aboard lunch in the dining room with complimentary wine.

Solstice Class ships offer single inside cabins, while Edge-series ships include some Infinite Veranda Staterooms designed for solo travelers.

Suite configurations and decor vary by ship class. On Edge-series ships, seven suite categories include the two-story Edge Villas and the Iconic Suite, the largest in the fleet at 1,892 square feet (plus a 689-square-foot terrace). Solstice Class ships feature six suite categories, and Millennium Class ships have five.

All suites come with dedicated attendants and a concierge, as well as included perks: a premium drink package, premium Wi-Fi, prepaid tips and an onboard credit. Celebrity's suite guests can also access exclusive amenities as part of The Retreat, including a private sun deck, lounge and restaurant.

Related: Everything you need to know about Celebrity Cruises cabins and suites

The upside: Royal Caribbean and Celebrity ships offer a dozen or more onboard dining venues, so there are culinary options to suit every palate.

The downside: Both cruise lines offer just a handful of complimentary restaurants — a buffet, banquet-style dining rooms, a poolside grill and a few casual eateries — meaning passengers must pay extra for steakhouses , Italian or French restaurants, and sushi bars.

Royal Caribbean's complimentary offerings include casual options such as the Dog House for a global hot dog menu, El Loco Fresh for burritos and quesadillas, Sorrento's Pizza for grab-and-go slices, and Park Cafe for deli-style sandwiches — although options do vary slightly by ship.

Extra-fee dining on Royal Caribbean covers most of the bases — Chops Grille and Samba Grill for steak, Izumi for sushi, Teppanyaki and Sichuan Red for Asian, Giovanni's Table and Jamie's Italian for Mediterranean classics, and Hooked Seafood for fish and shellfish.

Wonderland mixes creative flavors and unique presentations, and 150 Central Park is ideal for a special celebration; the latter two are available solely on Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships. Themed 1950s diner Johnny Rockets (on more than a dozen ships) is an affordable, kid-friendly favorite.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity offers a formal main dining room on Solstice Class and Millennium Class ships. However, on Edge-series ships, four smaller themed restaurants replace the one banquet-style dining hall.

Each features a selection of exclusive menu items — new American in Cosmopolitan, Mediterranean in Cyprus, French in Normandie and Italian in Tuscan — along with selections from the Celebrity Signature menu.

Each venue's distinctive ambience and unique menus serve a variety of tastes on a complimentary basis — but solely for dinner. In addition, guests who book suites in The Retreat can dine at Luminae, while those in AquaClass have access to health-focused Blu, free of charge.

Additional fleetwide complimentary dining includes the buffet-style Oceanview Cafe; the Mast Grill, a casual poolside eatery serving burgers and wraps; and Spa Cafe, offering healthier, lighter options for breakfast and lunch.

Celebrity's extra-fee dining also varies by ship class. On Edge-series ships, guests can enjoy Fine Cut Steakhouse for prime cuts and seafood, Eden Restaurant for modern global cuisine, Le Grand Bistro for classic French, Rooftop Garden Grill for backyard favorites, Raw on 5 for sushi and Japanese specialties, and Magic Carpet for small bites and cocktails.

Celebrity's most elevated dining experience is Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud, the acclaimed French chef's first restaurant at sea, available aboard Celebrity Beyond and Ascent.

Celebrity's Solstice Class and Millennium Class ships feature Tuscan Grille for steak and Italian specialties, Le Petit Chef for classic French with enchanting tabletop entertainment and Sushi on Five for Japanese. The line's Solstice Class ships have an additional restaurant, Murano, for elevated French tasting menus.

Two Celebrity ships, Reflection and Silhouette, also offer two alfresco eateries: Lawn Club Grill and The Porch Seafood Restaurant.

Related: Dining mistakes you must fix on your next cruise

If you're looking for culinary variety without paying extra, Royal Caribbean's multiple complimentary casual dining venues, namely on its newest and biggest ships, give it an edge for families.

Celebrity's Edge Class ships' quartet of complimentary restaurants offers a nightly change of scenery and menus, ideal for couples and groups of adult friends.

If you don't mind paying extra for a few dinners, Celebrity's roster of specialty restaurants is also a notch above Royal Caribbean's in terms of quality and ambience.

Onboard attractions

Royal Caribbean's focus on adrenaline-rush activities makes it the clear choice for family fun, while Celebrity's chicer vibe is a draw for couples seeking to relax.

Royal Caribbean is a leader in offering amusement park-style attractions such as waterslides, zip lines, surfing and sky-diving simulators, and escape rooms. Celebrity doesn't go there at all. Rather, its onboard attractions are designed for grown-ups, with pools, hot tubs and stylish top-deck relaxation areas, such as The Lawn Club on Solstice Class ships and The Rooftop Garden on Edge-series ships.

All Royal Caribbean ships feature rock climbing walls, outdoor movie screens and arcades. All but Radiance Class and Vision Class ships have FlowRider surf simulators, and all but Radiance Class, Vision Class and Quantum Class ships have minigolf courses.

Royal Caribbean's Icon Class, Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships feature the most thrills in the fleet — perhaps even at sea. Oasis Class vessels are known for their collection of waterslides and the Ultimate Abyss dry slide that drops riders 10 decks through a spiral tube pulsing with light. These ships also have an ice skating rink, zip line, escape room, pop-up laser tag and a carousel.

When Icon of the Seas debuts, it will have the largest water park at sea, with six slides and a thrilling ropes course along the side of the ship.

Related: The best cruise ship waterslides and watery fun zones

Royal Caribbean's Quantum Class ships don't feature waterslides but are distinguished by their North Star sightseeing capsule, which lifts guests high above the ship for 360-degree views. Other thrills include RipCord by iFly (a sky-diving simulator) and the multipurpose indoor SeaPlex offering bumper cars, basketball and Xbox gaming consoles.

Freedom Class and Voyager Class ships offer some thrill activities, but not as many as the newer ships. These can include various waterslides, laser tag and escape rooms, so check each ship's offerings. Older and smaller Radiance Class and Vision Class ships feature pools but no waterslides or other kid-friendly attractions.

What Celebrity's ships lack in thrills, they make up for with eye-catching contemporary design and cool places to hang out. Solstice Class ships feature a half-acre Lawn Club with real grass; it's the setting for jazz concerts and outdoor games. Edge-series vessels have a Rooftop Garden with live plants, modern sculptures, cozy seating nooks and a grill restaurant. Cabana-lined pool decks feature elevated hot tubs shaped like martini glasses.

Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity feature adults-only, glass-enclosed Solarium pools. They also offer relaxing spas with salons, thermal suites and fitness centers for all your self-care and wellness needs.

Related: The wildest attractions you'll find on a cruise ship

Kids activities

Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity welcome families and have complimentary kids clubs, but only Royal Caribbean has the onboard attractions and thrills that appeal to active younger children and teens.

Royal Caribbean's Adventure Ocean youth program has spaces and activities (science and art projects, games and parties) designed for kids ages 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12. The program is free during the day and early evening; an hourly rate applies after 10 p.m.

The Royal Babies & Tots nursery accommodates children ages 6 to 36 months for drop-off babysitting (for an hourly fee). Teens can hang out in The Living Room, dance or chill with new friends at the Fuel teen club or try to get a high score at the arcade.

Related: Best cruise lines for families

Celebrity's Camp at Sea kids program also caters to children in three age groups (3-5, 6-9 and 10-12). Programming focuses on recreation, hobbies and learning-based activities in arts and science. Its Teen Club keeps 13- to 17-year-olds entertained with sports competitions, silent discos and video game parties.

Royal Caribbean is the hands-down winner here, a cruise line designed with family fun in mind. Some older teens might enjoy a transition from Royal Caribbean to Celebrity. However, families with active tweens and younger kids seeking onboard thrills are better off with Royal Caribbean.

Entertainment

Royal Caribbean pulls out all the stops in terms of entertainment, so if lively, in-your-face nightlife is key to your vacation bliss, opt for one of its newer, larger ships.

Celebrity's entertainment lineup pushes boundaries in more unexpected ways but mainly on its newer Edge Class ships; its Solstice Class and Millennium Class ships offer more traditional entertainment.

Both cruise lines feature inviting bars and lounges. Celebrity's nightlife scene is decidedly more upscale and chic, while Royal Caribbean's is livelier and more casual.

Love a Broadway show? Royal Caribbean stages versions of award-winning musicals such as "Grease," "Cats," "Hairspray" and "Mamma Mia!" on select ships, as well as original productions on all vessels. The line's biggest and newest ships also offer dazzling ice skating shows, daring high-dive AquaTheater performances and/or fantastic high-tech multimedia dance shows.

The two dozen bars and lounges on Royal Caribbean's ships range from the panoramic Viking Crown Lounge to the gimmicky Bionic Bar featuring robot bartenders. A sports bar (Playmakers Bar & Arcade), piano bar (Schooner Bar) and Latin-style lounge (Boleros) are other popular options.

Related: Cruise ship drink packages: A line-by-line guide

Passengers can also sing karaoke, watch a poolside movie under the stars and hit the dance floor to the tunes of a live band or DJ. The bigger the ship, the greater the entertainment options.

Celebrity's entertainment philosophy overall is more traditional, with nightlife centered around drinking, hanging out in lounges and enjoying original shows in the ship's theater. Bars and lounges also feature live music, and there's a silent disco party at least once per cruise.

If you're looking for something a little different, the Edge-series ships offer creative and interactive performances in Eden and The Club, a multipurpose space featuring DJs and themed late-night performances.

All Celebrity ships are known for the Martini Bar, where flamboyant bartenders create a spectacle with shaker tosses and colorful cocktail towers, and the Sunset Bar, located aft and offering terrific sailaway views. Only Celebrity Beyond and Ascent feature a chicly reimagined, two-level Sunset Bar by designer Nate Berkus. Craft Social is the place to grab a craft beer and bar bites, while World Class Bar is the go-to for curated cocktails.

Both cruise lines' ships feature large casinos and offer participatory game shows ("Love & Marriage" and "Battle of the Sexes" on Royal Caribbean and "Deal or No Deal" on Celebrity).

Itineraries

Royal Caribbean's ships cruise to more than 300 destinations worldwide, but the heart of its business is the Caribbean and the Bahamas .

Most of its vessels spend the months from November to March in the islands, sailing three- to 12-night cruises from ports in Florida and Galveston, Texas. However, you can find several ships cruising the Caribbean year-round. Many itineraries call on Royal Caribbean's activity-packed private Bahamian island, Perfect Day at CocoCay .

Seasonal itineraries in Europe, including the Mediterranean , Greek islands and the British Isles, are also popular, as are cruises to Alaska . Royal Caribbean also offers sailings to Bermuda, Hawaii, Canada and New England, Mexico, Latin America, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, the Panama Canal and the South Pacific. Transatlantic and transpacific cruises are available seasonally as well.

Celebrity ships call on more than 300 global cruise ports. Most ships spend November to March cruising the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale and Miami on four- to 11-night sailings and April to October in Europe on 6- to 14-night itineraries in the Mediterranean, Greek islands, Adriatic, British Isles, Iceland and Northern Europe.

Seasonal cruises are also available to Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, Bermuda, New England and Canada, South America, Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific, South America and Asia. Celebrity also offers itineraries to Antarctica (scenic cruising only) from Buenos Aires.

Both cruise lines offer many global options, but neither has itineraries longer than 18 nights. For a summer cruise in the Caribbean, Royal Caribbean has far more options, while Celebrity is the better choice for a summer sailing in Europe. Either line is a good choice for Alaska in summer or the Caribbean in winter, depending on whether you're traveling as a couple or a family and the ship class you book.

Bottom line

Royal Caribbean is the obvious choice if you crave a lively and stimulating cruise experience with 24/7 entertainment and activities that wow both adults and kids. It's also generally the more affordable option.

Celebrity is the cruise line for you if you want a more upscale large-ship experience with a grown-up vibe (but still suitable for kids and teens). What Celebrity's ships lack in adrenaline-rush thrills, they make up in terrific dining and drinking venues.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

• Celebrity Cruises

Why Celebrity (vs. Carnival)

By calicostorms , April 25, 2016 in Celebrity Cruises

Recommended Posts

calicostorms

Considering booking a Celebrity cruise (would be in 2018) on Equinox.

So far we have only enjoyed Carnival cruises and I do enjoy myself (overall I think a vacation is what you make of it and a day at sea is better than the best day of work; unless boss decides to give me a massive raise :p )

I do want to experience a different cruise line and was hoping someone who has been on Carnival can give me some comparisons. What is similar and what is different? (Carnival Dream is my favorite ship and I love the spa cabin perks).

Looking at a motorcycle cruise so anyone that has done this, I would love to know more about how it works and what you liked or did not like about it. (can you book with your own TA or do you have to go with the group that is sponsoring the motorcycle cruise?)

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

cruisestitch

I'm pretty sure you have to book with the group. For a couple of years now I've been on Eclipse while the groups were there and it's amazing all the special arrangements the shop has to accomplish.

Can't help you with the motorcycle cruise but have sailed on Carnival, including the Dream & have 13 cruises on Celebrity. The differences: no belly flop contest, no hairy chest contest, no bingo announcements, no water slide or mini-golf, no smoking anywhere inside the ship or on the balconies.

Why we prefer Celebrity more upscale, food IMHO is better, lots of little touches that make you feel special( cold towels as you go thru security in a hot port, sparkling wine as you board) 1 announcement a day, not many kids, officers visible and interacting with passengers, beautiful ships, the Martini Bar.

The one area where we think Carnival beats Celebrity is their lunch options. When we take our grandkids we sail Carnival ( they love the watersides) otherwise it is Celebrity.

I have not seen a motorcycle rental available through Celebrity. However I have seen mobility scooters available for rent. I hope that helps. :D

Host Jazzbeau

Do you mean you want to bring your own motorcycle on the cruise?--then you definitely have to book with the group. They make all the arrangements with Celebrity to house the bikes and get them off and on in every port. We were on such a cruise on Eclipse last year and it was great watching them come out through the cargo hatch! But we are not bikers and this was a small group on an otherwise "civilian" cruise. We saw Harley dealerships at some of the port stops, so it might have been possible for someone to rent a bike and join the day's activities -- but I don't know. [The bikers were really nice folks, and with the new dress requirements they won't have the issue of how much embroidery is required to make a leather or denim jacket into "formal wear"!]

neverbeenhere

Carnival - Suzuki Enduro 750

Celebrity - Ducati 900

Both will get you there. Each has a different style rider.

Any specialty cruise generally has to be booked through the group to participate in the activities.

As someone who has an equal number of both, there are things to be said for both. The food is better on Celebrity. Period. The service and and perks in the higher level cabins is better on Celebrity. Period. We love Celebrity when we want to be pampered.

The atmosphere on Carnival is looser and more light-hearted. I'm not referring to hairy chest contests. The comedy clubs on Carnival have no equivalent on Celebrity. If you like a good piano bar, Celebrity doesn't do that. Conga lines CAN be infectious! If we do Carnival, we prepare to be laid back and mellow.

And Carnival costs less and has lots of convienient itineraries from lots of ports including 60 miles from our home!

[quote=hughdm;49811086

Interesting you should say that. We have to be in Houston for a graduation so DH said maybe we can take a cruise out of Galveston. Checked both Carnival & Royal for 7 day Caribbean cruise in a decent veranda it was between $2800-3100. The other option was a Med cruise on Celebrity. 11 nights in a unobstructed veranda for $3400 including a beverage package and Prepaid gratuties. Yes there is airfare to add but we can use miles for DH and the $900 R/T air fare for me is less than our bar bill and gratuties would be for 7 nights and it is 4 more nights.

We will be in the Med 😊

Cruising Is Bliss

Considering booking a Celebrity cruise (would be in 2018) on Equinox. So far we have only enjoyed Carnival cruises and I do enjoy myself (overall I think a vacation is what you make of it and a day at sea is better than the best day of work; unless boss decides to give me a massive raise :p ) I do want to experience a different cruise line and was hoping someone who has been on Carnival can give me some comparisons. What is similar and what is different? (Carnival Dream is my favorite ship and I love the spa cabin perks). Looking at a motorcycle cruise so anyone that has done this, I would love to know more about how it works and what you liked or did not like about it. (can you book with your own TA or do you have to go with the group that is sponsoring the motorcycle cruise?) thanks

On a theme cruise that's not filling the whole ship, you can book that week thorough any travel agent but that just gets you the regular cruise.

You would have to book through the group to gain access to the theme group activities and events. Typically costs more than the same cruise would be for people outside the group.

If they are a whole ship charter then you have to book it through the group.

Celebrity does NOT rent mobility scooters. You rent them from a third party.

The motorcycle groups are usually a HOG group or are sponsored by a travel agency. You cannot just join the group as they pay a premium for the cruise and have group only tours. Celebrity charges $750 to keep your bike in a safe place. We've been on three Celebrity cruises where there was a bike group on board. They do limit the number in the group because of storage issues.

Can't help you with the motorcycle cruise but have sailed on Carnival, including the Dream & have 13 cruises on Celebrity. The differences: no belly flop contest, no hairy chest contest, no bingo announcements, no water slide or mini-golf, no smoking anywhere inside the ship or on the balconies.   Why we prefer Celebrity more upscale, food IMHO is better, lots of little touches that make you feel special( cold towels as you go thru security in a hot port, sparkling wine as you board) 1 announcement a day, not many kids, officers visible and interacting with passengers, beautiful ships, the Martini Bar.   The one area where we think Carnival beats Celebrity is their lunch options. When we take our grandkids we sail Carnival ( they love the watersides) otherwise it is Celebrity.

I mostly agree. I feel the food is pretty much the same overall, but I like Celebrity's specialty restaurants far more.

crazycatlady82

It really depends on the environment you're wanting...We do love each cruise line, and right now, X is our favorite. But-carnival does offer more for entertainment, IMO-especially during the sea days. If you're looking to relax, I would say celebrity. If you need more entertainment, I would go carnival.

We've had great staff on both, great food. They don't have a warm chocolate melting cake (sigh), but the speciality restaurants on X totally beat out Carnivals. Guys burgers on carnival are great, but the buffet is better on Celebrity.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums mobile app

As someone who has an equal number of both, there are things to be said for both. The food is better on Celebrity. Period. The service and and perks in the higher level cabins is better on Celebrity. Period. We love Celebrity when we want to be pampered.   The atmosphere on Carnival is looser and more light-hearted. I'm not referring to hairy chest contests. The comedy clubs on Carnival have no equivalent on Celebrity. If you like a good piano bar, Celebrity doesn't do that. Conga lines CAN be infectious! If we do Carnival, we prepare to be laid back and mellow.   And Carnival costs less and has lots of convienient itineraries from lots of ports including 60 miles from our home!

Not always. We recently sailed the Reflection on an eastern Caribbean spring break itinerary (7days) and sailed the Carnival Breeze (6 days) last June. The Celebrity cruise ended up being less expensive and we got a drink package. We loved the Reflection and my husband refuses to sail Carnival again. Celebrity is just a better fit FOR US.

sound_guy0918

#1 reason that we prefer X is that we prefer peace & quiet for our vacations. If you prefer noise and commotion, Carnival is a fine product.

I also will argue that you can get more value by booking a $799 fare on X than a $599 on CCL. The "free" drink package and OBC we got adds up to more than the price differential.

Wow, thank you everyone for your insights! I truly appreciate it. It is a HOG motorcycle group that we are considering as hubby has a Harley that he enjoys very much and we know we would have fun with something like this.

Of the things mentioned that Carnival has and Celebrity does not, none of them would be important to us (only went to one comedy show on our last cruise with Carnival and did not think the guy was funny at all; last 2 cruises the piano player was not very good). Fewer kids would be a good thing in my opinion for what we are looking for and I would certainly love a better quality of food.

I do have a few follow up questions. If you book the Spa Cabins on Carnival you get access to quiet areas of the spa including the TPool. Does Celebrity have something similar?

Are there other areas of the ship that allows access to only those that book certain cabins (it seems like the answer is yes but I can't really find on their website where it would specify this). If so, is it worth it?

How much on average are the 'pay as you go' restaurants such as Blu?

Thanks again for all of the wonderful comments.

We also have cruised with Carnival many times. Our last CCL cruise was on The Breeze, and we were very impressed with the huge decor change, the cove balcony, and the well run ship. However, our main reason for probably not cruising with CCL any more is the drastic change in their evening shows from what used to be to what is being offered now. We don't consider "The Newly Wed Game" to be an evening show! I'm sure many others could care less but we like the shows that are still being offered on Celebrity, Princess, Holland America and even Norwegian.

Our very first Celebrity cruise was on The Equinox and we immediately felt that X was going to be our first choice from then on. We still cruise based on itinerary and cost but have nothing negative to say about Celebrity and enjoy the little upscale feel that they offer us.

Enjoy your next cruise. :)

If "Night Life" is of importance to you, you'd be best to stay with Carnival. ;)

Aqua Class cabins have special access to the spa and their quiet area. Blu is the restaurant for Aqua Class, you don't dine in the MDR, and unless you're in a suite, you cannot use Blu. The other specialty restaurants charge different prices and may have specials. You have to book a suite to get the suite perks like access to Michael's Club and the suite-only restaurant, Luminae.

We also have cruised with Carnival many times. Our last CCL cruise was on The Breeze, and we were very impressed with the huge decor change, the cove balcony

That's actually a big reason we prefer X. I know Carnival has toned things down since Joe Farcas defected to Costa, but it's still a bit much for me. The OTT stuff is fun for a day or two, but eventually you get really tired of all the neon.

#1 reason that we prefer X is that we prefer peace & quiet for our vacations. If you prefer noise and commotion, Carnival is a fine product.   I also will argue that you can get more value by booking a $799 fare on X than a $599 on CCL. The "free" drink package and OBC we got adds up to more than the price differential.

Irony: Member named "sound guy" prefers peace and quiet. :D

Anyway, I'll say this much, on my last Celebrity cruise on Silhouette, it was quite noisy with the music by the pool. Not a lot of commotion, but definitely loud. Thankfully, they toned it down after a few of complained about it. They still had the music playing, but it was down to a "5" from "11".

BourbonNBluesLuvr

Considering booking a Celebrity cruise (would be in 2018) on Equinox.   Looking at a motorcycle cruise so anyone that has done this, I would love to know more about how it works and what you liked or did not like about it. (can you book with your own TA or do you have to go with the group that is sponsoring the motorcycle cruise?) thanks

For more info on motorcycle cruises...check out this website:

http://www.cruise-eta.com

If I am not allowed to post that site, then just google "motorcycle cruises" and it will be the first hit...My friends and members of their HOG Club have done 3 already, and are about to go on their first on a Celebrity ship (Summit to Bermuda this coming Sunday)...They rave about these cruises !! And looking at that website, it looks like Celebrity ships have the market for motorcycle cruises for the next couple years.

• 9 months later...

If you want to bring your bike, you have to to book through that company only. Lots of papers involved but way worth it!! We've done 6 already!!!!! What do you ride? Me a dresser and the Mrs a sportster. Join one cause you'll never regret it. Keep the rubber down

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Here is a link to a video of Rosie n Bills cruise on the Equinox last Dec that had a Harley group on board.

Irony: Member named "sound guy" prefers peace and quiet. :D     Anyway, I'll say this much, on my last Celebrity cruise on Silhouette, it was quite noisy with the music by the pool. Not a lot of commotion, but definitely loud. Thankfully, they toned it down after a few of complained about it. They still had the music playing, but it was down to a "5" from "11".

dammit, YOU were the one that got the music turned down. You do know there are like 20 acres of quiet space on the deck above the pool, or the solarium. Most people out at the pool want some music.:D

[quote name=calicostorms;49818504I do have a few follow up questions. If you book the Spa Cabins on Carnival you get access to quiet areas of the spa including the TPool. Does Celebrity have something similar?

Are there other areas of the ship that allows access to only those that book certain cabins (it seems like the answer is yes but I can't really find on their website where it would specify this). If so' date=' is it worth it?

Thanks again for all of the wonderful comments.[/quote]

The only cabin class celebrity has that is like carnival's spa class is called aqua class. It get you some upgraded room amenities (bath products and what not) and access to the spa. It will also change your dining room assignment from the MDR to Blu. Blu and luminae are not specialty restaurants. Blu is the assigned dining room for aqua class and luminae is the assigned dining room for suites.

The pay as you go restaurants are pricey on celebrity. Think most at $45-$50 pp. only downside of aqua is that they only have balconies and they get expensive quickly. On my upcoming Hawaii cruise, aqua is around $1,000 pp more than a balcony. I think $500 is closer to average. You can also just buy a spa pass if you prefer the MDR or a different room.

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!
• How To: Follow Topics & Forums (Get Notifications)

1320 What Kind of Cruise Ship Decor Do You Like Best?

1. what kind of cruise ship decor do you like best.

• Colorful and wacky! It sets the vibe for fun.
• Serene and soothing! Greige helps me relax.
• Arty and sophisticated! Whimsical pieces make me smile.
• Nautical and classic! I want to feel like I'm on a ship.
• Mod and shiny! Give me all the glass and chrome.
• Please sign in or register to vote in this poll.

Write An Amazing Review !

Click this photo by member XFrancophileX to share your review w/ photos too!

Parliament, Budapest

Features & News

LauraS · Started Friday at 10:51 PM

LauraS · Started Friday at 10:07 PM

LauraS · Started Friday at 08:03 PM

LauraS · Started Friday at 05:58 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 06:47 PM

Cruise Planning

Find a cruise, popular ports, member reviews.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

If you are already a Cruise Critic member, please log in with your existing account information or your email address and password.