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• Carnival Dream

Carnival Dream ®

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It's one thing to be fun, but it's another thing to be first. Carnival Dream was at the forefront of a recent wave of amazingly innovative and fun Carnival ships. As the genesis of the Dream class, Carnival Dream set the direction for the ships that followed in her footsteps — first Carnival Magic and then Carnival Breeze. But back to Carnival Dream: the ship itself is a unique experience with the way-fun RedFrog Rum Bar ® and the very cool BlueIguana Tequila Bar ™ . Get your appetite ready, because you're gonna need it. Carnival Dream features two dual-level dining rooms, a gourmet steakhouse and dedicated sushi spot Bonsai Sushi ™ . It's also got a full menu of our latest and greatest casual spots for a bite: BlueIguana Cantina ™ , Pizzeria del Capitano, Guy's Burger Joint ™ and Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse ™ . (That's Guy as in Guy Fieri, by the way — so you know the food's delish.) Carnival Dream also features the borderline-magical Alchemy Bar ® and Ocean Plaza, which combines tasty treats with perhaps even tastier entertainment. Entertainment options are all up and down the ship, and so is soaking-wet fun, from the heart-racing waterslide action at Carnival WaterWorks ™ to the soul-soothing Thalassotherapy pool at the Cloud 9 Spa ™ . Despite its name, Carnival Dream is definitely a reality. Can't believe it? Pinch yourself... and book your dream cruise today.

• 130,000 Gross Tonnage
• 3646 Guest Capacity
• 1004 Length In Feet
• 1367 Onboard Crew

INSIDE THIS SHIP

Just like a delicious cake, your ship is made of layers. Find out which fun ingredients — staterooms, dining, activities — go into each deck.

YOUR STATEROOM

Cloud 9 spa interior.

Amenities exclusive to Cloud 9 Spa ™ staterooms and suites:

• Unique welcome ritual
• Priority spa reservations
• Unlimited use of Thermal Suites, plus scrub kit
• Unlimited use of Hydrotherapy Pool
• Two complimentary fitness classes (per guest)
• Complimentary body composition analysis
• Exclusive discounts on treatments during port days
• Cloud 9 Spa bathrobes and slippers
• Upgraded ELEMIS in-stateroom toiletries

Plus, every room includes:

• Dedicated stateroom attendant
• Soft, cozy linens
• Plenty of closet and drawer space
• In-room safe for valuables
• Stateroom climate control

Interior with Picture Window (Walkway View)

Every room includes:

Interior Upper/Lower (Porthole)

Interior upper/lower, cloud 9 spa ocean view (walkway view).

The best way to enjoy the relaxing, invigorating Cloud 9 Spa while on a cruise is in a spa stateroom, and this one fits the bill, providing comfy accommodations and convenient, priority access to treatments and services at the Cloud 9 Spa. (Note that rooms of this type have obstructed views.)

Deluxe Ocean View

On Carnival Dream, Deluxe Ocean View staterooms are a great choice for families who want to let the sun shine in as they sail. Rooms of this type feature great views, a full bathroom — plus a separate washroom — and while stateroom configurations vary, certain Deluxe Ocean View rooms have space to sleep up to five cruisers.

Deluxe Ocean View (Obstructed View)

On Carnival Dream, Deluxe Ocean View staterooms are great for families. These rooms feature a full bathroom — plus a separate washroom — and while stateroom configurations vary, certain Deluxe Ocean View rooms have space to sleep up to five. (Note that rooms of this type have obstructed views.)

Premium Vista Balcony

Premium Vista Balcony staterooms were designed to wrap around the aft corners of Carnival Dream, giving you a unique vantage point from which to enjoy luxuriously panoramic views of the sky and the sea — and yes, take in even more of that sunshine.

Cloud 9 Spa Balcony

Whether you're warming up for your spa appointment or winding down after your treatment, there's no better place to do it than on your Cloud 9 Spa Balcony. Breathing is important — take the ocean breeze in, then let it out — you're already getting the hang of the whole spa thing!

Aft-View Extended Balcony

Aft-View Extended Balcony staterooms feature a larger balcony for more lounge-around room, more kick-back space; not to even mention some of the best stern-side views you'll find anywhere. Get ready to relax as you gaze upon Carnival Dream's gentle wake from your spacious balcony.

Balcony (Large Balcony)

We designed Carnival Dream Balcony staterooms for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, and this stateroom features a balcony that's even wider than our standard balcony. Enjoy the extra outdoor space, along with all the standard Carnival stateroom amenities.

Balcony staterooms were designed for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, so look to a balcony if you're looking to cruise aboard Carnival Dream. Any time you're in your room, you're just steps away from your own personal outdoor oasis, featuring the sort of sea view you can also feel.

Cove Balcony

Love the sea? Carnival Dream's Cove Balcony staterooms are the best way to see the sea — these rooms get you close to the waterline, and feature balconies that let you make the most of your location. Enjoy things from a whole new perspective: one amazing up-close view of the wake and seafoam as the ship cruises along.

Grand Suite

A Grand Suite aboard Carnival Dream features even more space than the standard suite — plenty of room in your room! This stateroom is loaded for an unparalleled experience: VIP check-in, a huge balcony, and even a convenient dressing area with vanity.

Amenities exclusive to suites:

• Priority check-in and boarding
• Priority Main Dining Room time assignment
• Priority debarkation at homeport, and ports of call requiring a water shuttle or with arrival times later than 9:30 Am
• Two large bottles of water
• Pillow-top mattress

Cloud 9 Spa Suite

A Cloud 9 Spa Suite is the ultimate in both stateroom and spa accommodations. There's room for you and your things — with a large room and balcony — and a walk-in closet. The soothing in-room whirlpool tub will help you stay relaxed after your relaxing spa treatment. And like all suites, a Cloud 9 Spa Suite features VIP check-in, which lets you easily get right up to your amazing stateroom.

Plus, all suites include:

Ocean Suite

A Carnival Dream suite is the ultimate way to cruise. With more space for stretching out indoors, plus a large balcony for kicking back outdoors, try an Ocean Suite to experience private, luxurious relaxation. Ocean Suites also include VIP check-in, walk-in closet and bathroom with whirlpool tub.

Junior Suite (Obstructed View)

As you step into a Junior Suite aboard Carnival Dream, you can't help but feel that you're stepping into full-size luxury in a smaller package. Featuring a standard-size balcony, in a Carnival Dream Junior Suite you'll find everything else there is to love about a suite, including VIP check-in, a walk-in closet; and even a whirlpool tub for relaxing. (Note that rooms of this type have obstructed views.)

ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

Onboard dining, where to for you.

This ship is always visiting great vacation spots. Where will your next vacation take you?

* Taxes and fees are included.

TAG & THEY'RE IT!

If you’re thinking of cruising, there’s a very good chance you’re considering a Carnival cruise. Growing since its founding in 1972, Carnival Cruise Line — “The World’s Most Popular Cruise Line®” — now carries millions of passengers every year. Carnival's newest additions, Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Firenze each bring their own twist to cruising. 

In a nutshell, Carnival is all about fun vacations at sea and ashore! A Carnival cruise features day and nighttime entertainment like stage shows, musical performances, deck parties, casinos and more. (Like what? Like waterslides!) They invite their guests to come as they are, and make everyone feel right at home with comfy staterooms, attentive service, casual and elegant dining, plus a variety of bars and gathering places indoors and out. Guests enjoy this unique experience against the backdrop of some of the world’s most beautiful seaports.

Carnival's 27 ships operate 2- to 29-day voyages, departing from every coast in the U.S. While they’re best known for Caribbean cruises, they sail to other exotic and amazing destinations like Mexico, Alaska, The Bahamas, Europe and Hawaii.  Choose Fun!

Officers: Italian Crew: International

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Breaking news, carnival cruise devolves into mayhem as angry passengers demand refunds over last-second itinerary change.

Mayhem broke out aboard a Carnival cruise when enraged vacationers were told they wouldn’t be voyaging to the expected Caribbean getaway because of an engine problem — while they shouted for their money back and pleaded to get off the ship.

Guests aboard Carnival’s Vista had booked the 8-night Southern Caribbean cruise out of Port Canaveral, Florida on Aug. 10 intending to stop in Aruba, Curacao and Turks and Cacaos.

As the boarding process was ongoing and some passengers were already on board, the cruise line sent a notification detailing the change in plans.

Carnival crew members had discovered a “technical issue affecting the ship’s cruising speed” which forced the cruise line to alter the itinerary, the cruise line told The Post.

The Vista would instead travel to the Bahamas, making stops at Nassau, Princess Cays, Freeport, and Half Moon Cay, according to Inside Edition.

Some passengers were not thrilled with the last-minute change and began chanting for refunds as cruise staff attempted to explain the situation.

“Give us our money,” several guests aboard the ship shouted, according to Instagram user Only In Florida on Aug. 28 .

One man claimed he spent $6,000 just to get on the cruise.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the way you’re going about this with the noise and chaos isn’t going to solve any issues,” one cruise employee explained to the passengers, according to video obtained by Inside Edition.

An 8-day cruise aboard the Vista averages $779 per person.

The passengers were given several choices once the cruise line determined the need for an itinerary change.

“We communicated directly with guests on board regarding their options for the sailing,” Carnival said.

“Those that sailed were given an onboard credit as well as a future cruise credit toward another cruise to make up for the unexpected change, and those who preferred not to sail were offered a 100 percent refund.”

Even with the choice of not cruising to the Bahamas, passengers were still frustrated with Carnival for the last-minute announcement.

“They knew about the problem prior to us getting onto the ship,” Ashley Ball told the outlet. “They just didn’t say that until we were already on the ship, and, you know, went through customs and the lines and securities and all that, and then decided to display that information.”

The Vista which has since been on several voyages since the Aug. 10 departure has reportedly had its Sept. 7 departure from Port Canaveral canceled, Inside Edition reported.

In June, a Brooklyn family was left watching their cruise sail off as they stood on the docks of Port Canaveral because of a delayed flight out of John F. Kennedy Airport.

Tisha LaSaine says she had been working hard at her post office job to save up the $8,500 needed to take her mother, twins and oldest son on an eight-day cruise on June 30.

The trip was meant to serve as a celebration for LaSaine’s 50th birthday and for her son who would be starting his junior year in college, but after a “crew issue” caused their Delta flight to be delayed for nearly two hours, they missed boarding their cruise.

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4-Day Bahamas

Fun with a capital F is what you can expect on a Carnival Cruise. With the largest fleet at sea Carnival offers sailings perfect for the whole family.

Bring the whole family for a sunny Bahamas cruise full of smiles, sandy beaches, and maybe a snorkel or two.

The seafood is fresh, the sun is shining and there’s a whole lot to do, so get out there and explore the city before, during and after your cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida.

• Carnival Glory - Passenger Capacity:  2,980 (double occupancy) Year Built: 2003 Last Refurbished: 2024

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Carnival Glory

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Port Canaveral, Florida , Bimini, Bahamas , Nassau, Bahamas

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• Itinerary & Pricing

4-Day Bahamas sailing on the Carnival Glory

Departure dates: sep 2024 - apr 2026, stateroom prices for sep. 9, 2024.

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Taxes & Fees Included

Based on Oceanview cabin prices

Based on Balcony cabin prices

Based on Suite cabin prices

Sailing Map

*** All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Please confirm your itinerary on the Review page before purchasing your cruise.

Cruise rates are in US Dollars, average per person and based on double occupancy. Rates may vary by ship, stateroom type and sail date. Offer is for the cruise fare and includes required Cruise Fees & Expenses and Government Taxes & Fees and are assessed on a per guest basis for all guests according to the itinerary. All rates & offers are capacity controlled, are subject to availability & confirmation, & may change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed -- please confirm details at time of booking. Stateroom photos are for sample purposes only -- actual design and layout may vary. Ships' Registry: The Bahamas and Panama. 

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Carnival Cruise Line makes huge changes for 2026 and 2027 with exciting destination

The announcement also featured plans to stop at the half moon cay, one of the line's private island destinations..

The Carnival Cruise Line, which recently  debuted its first "solar eclipe" cruise, has just announced new itineraries for the 2026 and 2027 slate, with stops at Miami, Port Canaveral, Galveston, and Baltimore.

The various itineraries will travel all over the Caribbean, with more exclusive offerings and additional perks for those seeking a more private experience. 

The Carnival Cruise line has been in hot water, causing a stir among customers after the cruise line removed a loyalty perk . Carnival also recently banned a customer for doing a viral water bottle hack.  

• Inside the eerie graveyards where hundreds of huge cruise ships are left to die
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The announcement also featured plans to stop at the Half Moon Cay, one of the line's private island destinations. 

The Half Moon Cay will be updated with a newly expanded beach, additional dining and beverages, and a pier to allow other ships to dock. 

The pier will allow excellent-class ships to visit the island as well. 

The Carnival Celebration package includes a seven-day Eastern or Western cruise from Miami and running from the Spring of 2024.

The itinerary includes exciting destinations such as Grand Turk and Mahogany Bay.

The Mardi Gras ship departing from Port Canaveral follows a similar route to the Carnival Celebration.

Additionally, the Carnival Venezia offers seven and 14-day cruises featuring three Southern Caribbean Carnival trips.

The Carnival Jubilee is set to launch new six and eight-day itineraries to the Western Caribbean and the Bahamas from September 2026.

Meanwhile, the Carnival Dream will provide a 14-day Carnival Journey to the Eastern and Southern Caribbean, and the Carnival Breeze will concentrate on Western Caribbean itineraries.

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Carnival Pride, departing from Baltimore, will feature week-long cruises to the Bahamas and Bermuda voyages, including overnight stays.

Additionally, the ship will offer three 14-day Carnival Journeys cruises, one heading to Greenland and Canada and two to the Southern Caribbean.

Carnival is set to offer plans for anyone, with various options and outlooks for anyone interested in sailing the seas while touching down at different places. 

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Mayhem Erupts on Carnival Cruise After Passengers Learn Ship Rerouting Entire Trip

Cruise passengers angry after last-minute itinerary changes, taylor swift rocks red thigh-high leather boots at kansas city chiefs nfl game, jaleel white hosts new game show 'the flip side', woman shocked to see her dad's hoarder home, never-before-seen video shows karen read preparing for trial, trump goes to court to appeal e. jean carroll verdict, 14-year-old colt gray charged in deadly school shooting, defendant who attacked judge in court claims mental illness, mom gets tummy tuck after dropping 90 pounds on mounjaro, new york bystanders help rescue motorist trapped inside minivan, inside deals on nonstick cookware set, electric toothbrush, wireless headphones — up to 81% off, man dies after surgeon allegedly took his liver by accident, students send parents panicked texts during school shooting, 'dwts' gets backlash for casting fake heiress anna delvey, mosquito interrupts donald trump's rant during town hall, new hampshire 911 call center hires comfort dog to join the team, students describe what happened when 14-year-old opened fire at school, check out these moms' chic outfits for school drop-off, mom gets backlash for going to disney without her kids, former college wrestler accused of fatally shooting gymnast kara welsh, "they knew about the problem prior to us getting onto the ship," ashley ball tells inside edition. "they just didn't say that until we were already on the ship, and, you know, went through customs and the lines and securities and all that.".

A mutiny nearly broke out on a recent Carnival Cruise in Florida when passengers learned their planned vacation had been scraped in favor of an entirely new itinerary,

Guests on the Vista only learned on the day of departure that instead of heading to Aruba, Curacao and Turks and Caicos, the ship would be stopping in the ports of Nassau, Princess Cays, Freeport and Half Moon Cay.

Carnival told passengers that the change of course was due to engine troubles that prohibited the ship from moving at full speed once it left Port Canaveral in Florida.

"Our engineers have been working to address an issue that is limiting Carnival Vista’s cruising speed," the cruise line said in a statement. "We apologize for this unanticipated disruption to your vacation plans and are disappointed that we will not be able to deliver the cruise we had planned."

The cruise line did offer a full refund for any guests who wished to cancel their trip or a $400 voucher that could be used onboard if they opted to travel on the ship despite the revised itinerary.

Despite those offerings, passengers were less than thrilled when they learned the news.

Ashley Ball was on the cruise ship with her mother and sister.

"They knew about the problem prior to us getting onto the ship," Ashley tells Inside Edition. "They just didn't say that until we were already on the ship, and, you know, went through customs and the lines and securities and all that, and then decided to display that information."

It is even worse news for those travelling on the Vista's next trip, with Carnival announcing the trip set to sail this Saturday has been canceled.

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Disney Cruise Line vs. Carnival: Which family-friendly cruise line should you choose?

If you're looking for a family-friendly cruise that everyone in your group will enjoy, you might be comparing Disney Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line . Both popular cruise companies offer a variety of onboard experiences, top-notch service and lively entertainment that will keep everyone in your family having fun every day.

The two lines offer tricked-out play areas for kids and adults-only sun decks and fun bars for mom and dad. Couples looking for rest and relaxation and seniors wishing to play bingo or sip martinis can find their happy place on either Carnival or Disney.

Both lines have sun-drenched itineraries that take passengers to the Bahamas and Caribbean , with seasonal sailings to the Mediterranean and Alaska .

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Still, there are lots of differences between the lines, starting with price. Here, we compare Disney Cruise Line and Carnival to see what they have in common and what they don't, so you can figure out the best cruise for you.

Size of ships

Disney Cruise Line has three classes of ships while Carnival Cruise Line has eight.

The smaller ships on both cruise lines (Disney Cruise Line's Magic class and Carnival Cruise Line's Fantasy and Spirit classes) carry between 2,000 and 3,000 guests.

Carnival's midsize ships include the Conquest, Splendor, Vista and Dream classes that can carry upward of 4,900 guests at full capacity. The midsize ships carry more passengers than Disney Cruise Line's largest ships (the Triton and Dream class), which have a maximum cruise capacity of 4,000 passengers.

Another difference in these two ship sizes is tonnage (essentially, how big the ships are). Carnival's midsize ships range from 110,000 to 130,000 gross registered tonnage. Disney's Dream-class ships are equal to Carnival's larger midsize ships at 130,000 gross tons, while the Triton class is larger at 144,000 gross tons.

Even though Disney's Triton-class ships are bigger than Carnival's Dream-class ships, Disney's ships carry fewer people, even at full capacity. That makes for a higher space-to-guest ratio and a less crowded feeling on board.

Related: Best Carnival cruise ships: Here's which ship you should sail, based on your travel style

Carnival's largest ships can accommodate over 6,400 people at full capacity.

On Carnival's larger Excel-class ships, such as Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration , guests will find an abundance of amenities that aren't available on the smaller and older ships like Carnival Elation. The Excel-class ships have a roller coaster , ropes course and a flex-space theater in the middle of the ship with panoramic views of the ocean. While the party vibe is high on Carnival Elation, Carnival's smallest and oldest ship, the over-the-top amenities just aren't available.

What guests sailing on Carnival will find on every ship in the fleet is restaurants from celebrity chefs like Guy Fieri, fun waterslides, vibrant kids clubs and an adults-only pool area known as Serenity.

Disney Wish , the first ship in Disney Cruise Line's Triton class of ships, feels different from the other four ships in the Disney fleet. While the ship does have a lot of the same amenities, including Disney-themed bars, exciting kids clubs, a slew of restaurants and movie theaters showing first-run movies, Disney Wish has a more upscale vibe than the ships in the Dream or Magic classes.

On the flip side, Disney Wish doesn't have the adults-only district that the other four ships have. On those ships, lounges and bars are clustered together to create a true retreat with nighttime entertainment for adults.

The three ships in Disney's larger Dream- and Triton-class ships feature raft rides, including the AquaMouse on Disney Wish and the AquaDuck on Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. The smaller Disney Magic has a drop slide, called the AquaDunk, that plunges guests down multiple decks. Its sister ship Disney Wonder does not have a major water ride, though it does have a twisting waterslide as part of its kids splash area.

Every ship in the Carnival fleet is a floating resort with outdoor pools, casinos, spas, bars and live entertainment taking place day and night. Disney ships also have that resort feel but without the casino and with more dedicated kids spaces.

Related: The 8 classes of Carnival Cruise Line ships, explained | The 3 types of Disney Cruise Line ships, explained

One of the biggest differences between Carnival Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line is the price of a sailing. Carnival is known for its affordable prices and many drive-to departure ports around the U.S. (eliminating the need for the added expense of airfare). Disney's prices are more akin to a luxury vacation.

For example, a weeklong sailing to the Eastern Caribbean in July 2024 starts at $909 for two people in an inside cabin or $1,249 for two people in a balcony cabin on Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras, one of its newest and biggest ships. The same itinerary on Disney Fantasy starts at $5,171 for an inside cabin or $6,445 for a verandah cabin for two people.

In 2024, the starting rate for a three-night Bahamas cruise is $189 per person on Carnival or $618 per person on Disney, both based on double occupancy.

If the price is the determining factor of your vacation, then Carnival is easily the best value for the price. Its ropes course, adults-only sun deck and many of its dining options (including venues linked with celebrity chef Guy Fieri) are included in the fare. Just be sure to watch for added fees that can increase the cost of your cruise, such as drinks packages, specialty dining, shore excursions and roller coaster rides.

Related: 6 ways to get a deal on a cruise

For those who have a larger budget, Disney Cruise Line may be a better fit with more-spacious ships, standard cabins created for families and a more upscale feel. Cruise fares include access to first-run Disney, Marvel, Pixar and "Star Wars" movies at the onboard theater, meals in multiple venues (often with dinnertime entertainment), nonalcoholic drinks (including soda) and Disney's high-quality entertainment, from original musicals to deck parties with character performances and fireworks.

Added costs on Disney include tours, alcoholic beverages (Disney doesn't have onboard drinks packages to potentially save you money) and specialty dining in the adults-only restaurants.

Cabins and suites

Both cruise lines offer a wide range of cabin styles in various price ranges for all types of families, including windowless inside, ocean view, verandah (with a private balcony) and suite. Carnival and Disney offer connecting rooms and cabins that can sleep four or more. However, they vary in design and layout, with different specialty cabins and perks for the top categories of accommodations.

Disney Cruise Line is better if you want a cabin with virtually everything your family needs on a cruise. Most of Disney's standard cabins have the cruise line's signature split bathroom (toilet and sink in one room, sink and shower in another), which is helpful for larger families looking to get ready for the day with ease. The cabins also have a large curtain dividing mom and dad's bed from the upper bunk and sleeper sofa the kids are sleeping on. Parents can get a bit more privacy and can keep the lights on after kid bedtime without bothering sleeping children.

Another fun touch: The smaller inside rooms on Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy feature a "magical porthole," a window-shaped LED screen with real-time views of the outside world, along with appearances by Disney characters.

Carnival's standard cabins are more casual, with plenty of storage and colorful decor. The line does offer some of the largest standard cabins in the cruise industry.

Related: Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Carnival Cruise Line ships

Carnival offers more specialty cabins and suites than Disney, if you're interested in a unique or themed room. Some of the specialty cabins include Havana suites that have access to a private pool and lounge deck, the Cloud 9 Spa rooms that have exclusive perks like unlimited use of the spa's thermal suite, and Family Harbor cabins and suites that come with access to a family-friendly lounge packed with snacks, board games and TVs.

Both cruise lines have larger suites with extra amenities, but Disney gets the nod in this category.

Disney Cruise Line's larger concierge suites range in style from family ocean-view cabins to lavish two-story suites, one of which is located inside the forward funnel on Disney Wish. Perks of booking a concierge suite include access to the concierge lounge, where snacks and drinks are available all day. Attentive hosts can book specialty dining reservations, excursions and more for your family. Concierge guests also get priority access to embark and disembark the ship and the first pick of seats inside the Walt Disney Theatre for shows.

Newer Carnival ships have more suites than older ships in the fleet, where the nicest rooms are bigger but not always fancy. On Carnival's Excel-class ships, the Havana cabins and suites have access to a private pool deck, and Cloud 9 Spa cabins come with unlimited access to the ship's thermal suite in the spa. Travelers who pick a standard suite can enjoy access to Loft 19, a private pool deck with loungers and cabanas, concierge service and an infinity whirlpool.

Related: Why it pays to upgrade your cruise ship cabin

Food and drink

Dining on both Carnival and Disney is abundant, but Carnival leads the pack with its plentiful and tasty free options, plus a variety of extra-fee specialty restaurants. Disney is known for its unique rotational dining plan and entertaining dinner shows.

Carnival cruisers have their favorite food destinations on board each ship. For some, the celebrity chef-led restaurants pique their interest. They might go for complimentary burgers or barbecue at Guy's Burger Joint or Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse, respectively, both of which are collaborations with celebrity chef Guy Fieri, or extra-fee New Orleans fare from Emeril Lagasse. Other cruisers enjoy the extra-cost classic steakhouses or Italian favorites at Cucina del Capitano.

Complimentary restaurants are mostly found on the pool decks and include a make-your-own taco and burrito bar, Italian-style pizza and a deli dishing out sky-high sandwiches. The main dining room gets high marks, especially for its outstanding Indian cuisine and iconic melting chocolate cake .

On Disney cruise ships, passengers aren't assigned to one main dining room, as they are on Carnival, but rotate through three themed dining rooms with their waiters in tow. Each included restaurant has its own set of menus and theme.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Among the three, you're likely to find one more elegant dining space, a dining room with character interactions (like the "Frozen" or "Tangled"-themed dining rooms on Disney Wish and Disney Magic, respectively) and a restaurant with interactive elements – such as creating animations or taking down a Marvel villain – to keep everyone occupied during mealtime.

Guests can also indulge in complimentary fast-food fare (burgers, chicken strips, etc.) at the buffet and casual pool deck venues.

Disney ships offer minimal extra-fee restaurants, with Disney Magic and Disney Wonder offering just one and Disney Wish, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy featuring two. All are adults-only. The highlight of all five ships is Palo (Palo Steakhouse on Disney Wish), which features elevated Italian cuisine with sweeping ocean views. On Disney's larger ships, Remy and Enchante are French fine dining restaurants ideal for date night or celebrating one of life's many milestones.

Kids activities

No matter what age your kids are, they will find plenty of fun inside the kids clubs on board both lines' cruise ships. Both lines have impeccable programs that keep kids entertained throughout the day with age-appropriate activities and different spaces for kids of all ages. For younger kids, you just can't beat the size and innovation of Disney's Oceaneer Club.

On Carnival, Camp Ocean divides junior cruisers ages 2 to 11 into three age-based groups and offers activities like games, movies and crafts. Carnival also has a Suess at Sea program, and kids can participate in activities inspired by Dr. Suess books and meet favorite characters like the Cat in the Hat.

Kids ages 2 to 11 interested in space can also join the Space Cruisers program, where youngsters learn about space exploration and participate in activities developed in partnership with NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

Over at Circle "C," teens ages 12 to 14 have a hangout spot that's all their own with counselor-led activities like dance parties, games and outdoor movies. Older teens ages 15 to 17 head to Club O2 to enjoy karaoke sessions, movies and video games with their peers.

Carnival does not have a nursery for kids under age 2, but at night, parents can drop their youngsters off at Night Owls, where kids ages 6 months to 11 years can enjoy games, activities and parties or get some rest until 1 a.m.

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

Disney Cruise Line has some of the most impressive kids clubs at sea. Kids ages 3 to 12 can enjoy Disney's Oceaneer Club on all five ships, though the themed spaces are different from ship to ship. Inside this space, kids can enjoy learning how to fly the Millennium Falcon in a "Star Wars"-themed area or building roller coasters at the Walt Disney Imagineering Lab. Kids can also see and play with their favorite Disney characters like Mickey Mouse and Thor.

Tweens and teens also have their own spaces on the Disney fleet with Edge and Vibe, respectively. As on Carnival, teens can enjoy counselor-led activities like trivia contests, shipwide scavenger hunts and even a movie-making course.

Unlike Carnival, Disney does have a nursery for kids ages 6 months to 3 years. Parents can reserve times to drop their kids off at the nursery online or once on board the ship, and the minimum reservation time is one hour. There is a small fee to use the nursery, but it can be helpful for parents who want to enjoy specialty dining or the spa. The nursery is also open while in port, so parents can drop their kids off if they have a planned excursion or want to explore on their own.

Onboard attractions

Carnival is known for its over-the-top upper decks where families can have thrilling adventures throughout the sailing. Its WaterWorks water parks feature waterslides and splash pads for every thrill level on most ships. Most also have sports courts and minigolf.

Starting with the Dream class of ships, the outdoor decks feature an added ropes course; on the Vista-class ships, the upper decks include a suspended bicycle that goes around the perimeter of a deck. Carnival's newest ships – Mardi Gras, Celebration and the upcoming Jubilee – all feature a roller coaster, water park and ropes course.

Related: The 10 wildest attractions you'll find on a cruise ship

On Disney Cruise Line, the activities are much more subdued but still exciting. Each ship has large outdoor pools, and most have a raft ride or slide.

On Disney Magic, the water ride is a drop-floor body slide called the AquaDunk, while Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy feature a family-friendly raft ride around the top deck of the ships called the AquaDuck. On Disney Wish, the family raft ride is the AquaMouse, which also goes around the edge of the ship but includes snippets of cute Mickey Mouse cartoons. The Disney Wonder doesn't have one of the big slides, but does have a bright yellow double-looping waterslide called the Twist 'n' Spout slide.

Other onboard attractions include interactive games featuring Disney characters and a salon where kids can get made up as princesses and pirates. Disney also has movie theaters showing Disney classics and first-run movies.

Carnival and Disney Cruise Line both offer pool decks open to everyone, as well as adults-only sun decks. (Carnival's have hot tubs, while Disney's also have a pool.)

Entertainment

Disney Cruise Line and Carnival have different entertainment styles, but you'll never be bored with so much happening around any of the ships.

Disney excels with its Broadway-caliber live shows, which are either virtual retellings of Disney movies such as "Beauty and the Beast," "Tangled" or "Frozen," or original productions featuring characters from multiple movies and themes around the power of wishing and magic.

Adults will also find entertainment just for them at the various adults-only clubs and bars on board, with comedians and variety acts performing throughout the sailing. (Note that unlike Carnival, Disney Cruise Line does not offer a flat-fee all-you-can-drink package.)

Guests on board Disney's ships are also privy to seeing Disney characters around the decks, whether it's at scheduled meet-and-greets or surprise times when families unexpectedly run into the likes of Captain Minnie Mouse or Spider-Man. One of the most popular meet-and-greet times is the Princess Gathering, an opportunity to meet multiple Disney princesses at the same time.

Disney Cruise Line is also known for its Pirate Night deck party on all five ships. The swashbuckling fun includes scheduled character meet-and-greets with Disney pirates such as Captain Hook and Captain Jack Sparrow, and themed menus and waiter attire at dinner. The culmination of the event is a massive deck party with singing, dancing and appearances by Disney characters followed by a fireworks display.

Related: Best Disney cruise ships for everyone — even Disney adults

Carnival is known for its onboard versions of TV shows like "Deal or No Deal" and "Family Feud," and its comedy shows at The Punchliner Comedy Club. Multiple guest comedians come aboard every sailing to perform family-friendly shows during the day and spicy adults-only shows after the sun goes down.

The line's high-tech musical shows, called Playlist Productions, are worth checking out, too. Each show is under an hour and features popular tunes performed by live singers backed up by energetic dancers.

Both cruise lines also have a roster of small-group musical acts that entertain guests in lounges and bars around the ship, though Carnival's live music options are more varied than Disney's. They feature everything from tribute bands to tropical steel drum sounds. If you're feeling like becoming the entertainment, Carnival offers karaoke almost every night around the ship.

Disney's live music is generally regulated to the atrium of the ship during mealtimes, when the space is packed with people coming and going from the nearby restaurant, or in the adults-only spaces after dark. If you want to sing your heart out to your favorite Disney song, the D Lounge is the spot to be on the Magic- and Dream-class ships.

Both cruise lines have classic cruise entertainment like bingo, trivia and games for the family.

Who is on board?

Carnival is known for its affordable cruises with departures from numerous U.S. homeports, attracting travelers who prefer to drive rather than fly to their departure port. The casual cruise line's "Fun Ship" fleet sees a mostly American crowd, including plenty of young adults, multigenerational families and large groups traveling together. Many people book Carnival for its low cruise fares, lively and casual atmosphere, tasty free food and ease of travel.

Disney Cruise Line's passenger base is a mix of American and international travelers. While the cruise line mainly welcomes families with younger kids on board, you'll also see couples without kids and adult travelers who have fond memories of Disney from their childhood. The crowd on Disney is a bit more upscale than Carnival, partly because of the higher fares (even for the most basic cabins) and the fancy suites with concierge service and perks on Disney.

Itineraries

Carnival sails from 14 different ports around the United States, so there's likely a ship setting sail within driving distance of your family if you live near the coast. Cruises take passengers to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska, Canada and New England, Bermuda and Mexico. The cruise line does offer some European sailings, limited cruises around Australia and two 2024 Asia sailings.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Carnival Cruise Line ship

Disney focuses its attention on North America, with ships making their way to the Caribbean, Bahamas (home to the line's exciting private island, Castaway Cay, and upcoming private destination Lighthouse Point), Mexican Riviera, Pacific Coast and Alaska. Disney Dream sets sail in Europe over the summer months. Disney also takes guests to international destinations like the South Pacific, New Zealand and Australia.

Bottom line

First-time cruisers will find that both lines have an abundance of activities and top-notch service. Pick Disney Cruise Line if you're looking for a more upscale atmosphere and plenty of kid-friendly activities, and don't mind Disney theming and characters everywhere. Choose Carnival if you're on a budget but still want to maximize the amount of fun you have onboard.

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

• Court Tells Carnival To Pay Cruise Passenger $12M in Damages for Assault 

Andrea Santillan

• September 6, 2024

A Florida federal judge ruled in favor of a female passenger who was sexually assaulted during a 2018 cruise onboard Carnival Miracle. 

She was already awarded $10.2 million in damages in 2022. Still, she will receive another $2 million because Carnival Cruise Line appealed the verdict multiple times and unnecessarily extended the process by another two years. The company was also ordered to pay her $243,000 for psychological and medical expenses.

On August 30, the cruise operator owes the unidentified victim over $12 million.

After the incident, the plaintiff ran to her room with Anggara in pursuit. She locked herself inside, refusing to let her assailant enter. 

“I have depressive episodes,” The Washington Post quoted Doe in the court files. “I suffer from anxiety especially in public. It has affected how intimate I am with a person.”

The victim, who was 21 years old when the incident occurred, also admitted to entertaining suicidal thoughts before being hospitalized.

Anggara was eventually fired for having relations with a guest but was never arrested or charged. Carnival contested that the encounter was consensual, referencing an FBI report. 

She filed a lawsuit in 2019, accusing Carnival of being negligent in its hiring and staffing, not following protocols, subjecting her to false imprisonment, sexual assault, and inflicting emotional distress.

After the jury’s $10.2 million verdict, her lawyer, Daniel Courtney, described the sum as the largest compensation against a cruise line for a crime of its nature.

A recent report revealed that the number of cruise ship assaults has grown . From 87 incidents in 2019 to 97 during the first nine months of 2023, the number of official allegations climbed 11%. 

Last February, two women from Kentucky told police they were assaulted while their ship was docked in the Bahamas. In another case, a Margaritaville at Sea passenger sued its parent company for booking her in the hotel where she was victimized.

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