carnival cruise line 2024 schedule

Carnival Cruises 2024

Carnival Cruise Line: 2024 Itinerary and Programs Highlights

• April 1, 2023

With a new ship entering service and several deployment changes, Carnival Cruise Line has big plans for 2024.

As the company announces more details of its itineraries for the upcoming year, Cruise Industry News looks into the highlights the already announced deployment.

Carnival Firenze Debuts on the West Coast

Currently in service for Costa Cruises, the Costa Firenze is set to transfer to Carnival Cruise Line as part of the company’s Carnival Fun Italian Style concept .

Renamed Carnival Firenze, the 2021-built vessel is set to offer a year-round program of Mexican Riviera cruises departing from Long Beach starting in spring 2024.

Carnival Legend to Offer More Itineraries in Europe

Carnival Cruise Line is expanding its presence in Europe in 2024 with a summer program onboard the Carnival Legend.

Sailing in the region between April and October, the 2,200-guest vessel is set to offer a total of 17 cruises to the Mediterranean, the Greek Islands, Western Europe, the British Isles, Iceland and more.

Carnival Glory and Carnival Liberty Shift Homeports

The Carnival Liberty and the Carnival Glory are swapping homeports in May 2024. Sailing from New Orleans since 2019, the Glory is set to take over Liberty’s program of short cruises out of Port Canaveral .

The Carnival Liberty, meanwhile, repositions to the Big Easy to offer seven-night itineraries to the Bahamas, Eastern and Western Caribbean .

Carnival Panorama to Asia

In a unique twist, the Carnival Panorama is set to offer two transpacific itineraries in 2024 . Sailing to and from the ship’s homeport in Long Beach, the month-long cruises link California to Asia via Japan, Southeast Asia, Alaska and Hawaii.

While the U.S. to Asia itinerary sets sail in late August, the Asia to U. S. voyage is set to depart in mid-October.

Fourth Ship to Galveston

Carnival is adding a fourth ship to its Galveston lineup for the 2024-2025 season. Repositioning from the West Coast, the Carnival Miracle is set to offer a series of nine- to 12-night cruises to the Caribbean and Panama Canal.

A total of 19 cruises departing from the Texas homeport are currently opened for booking, including a 12-night Carnival Journey to the Southern Caribbean that visits Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire and more.  

Baltimore and Tampa Get Different Ships

Two of Carnival’s homeports are getting new ships in 2024: Baltimore and Tampa. In April, the Carnival Pride replaces the Legend offering a year-round program of cruises from the Maryland port.

Currently sailing from Baltimore, the Carnival Legend is set to reposition to Tampa in November following its summer program in Europe.

More Carnival Journeys

Carnival is also expanding its destination portfolio in 2024 with more Carnival Journeys . Described by the company as “limited series of special cruises made to amaze,” the sailings feature longer itineraries, usually visiting unusual ports and exotic destinations.

Highlights for the year include a 14-night cruise to Alaska onboard the Carnival Spirit, three cruises to Greenland onboard the Carnival Pride and more sailing to Hawaii with the Carnival Radiance.

Mobile, New York City, Miami, Port Canaveral and Galveston

Several homeports are also seeing continued developments in 2024. Mobile, for instance, will continue to serve as homeport for the Carnival Spirit after the ship’s debut in Alabama in late 2023 .

Two ports are also getting new year-round operations: Miami and New York City. While the first receives an additional ship with the Carnival Magic, the second will see the first full year of the new Carnival Venezia .

With the new Carnival Jubilee in service from Galveston , the Carnival repositions to Port Canaveral in late 2023, kicking off a year-round program from the Central Florida homeport.

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Highlights of Carnival Cruise Line’s Itinerary and Program for 2024

Carnival Cruise Line has big plans for 2024, including a new ship entering service and several deployment changes.

As the line announces more information about its itineraries for the next year, CruiseBooking.com News examines the highlights.

Carnival Firenze debuted on the West Coast

In line with Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Fun Italian Style concept, the Costa Firenze will transfer from Costa Cruises to Carnival Cruise Line .

Starting in spring 2024, the 2021-built vessel will be renamed Carnival Firenze and offer year-round Mexican Riviera cruises from Long Beach.

European Itineraries to be Expanded on Carnival Legend

A summer program on the Carnival Legend will be offered in 2024 as part of Carnival Cruise Line’s expansion into Europe.

This 2,200-guest vessel will sail 17 cruises between April and October in the Mediterranean, the Greek Islands, West Europe, the British Isles, and Iceland.

Ports of call for Carnival Glory and Carnival Liberty

May 2024 will mark the swap of homeports for the Carnival Liberty and Carnival Glory. A short cruise service out of Port Canaveral will be taken over by the Glory since it sails from New Orleans since 2019.

A seven-night itinerary to the Bahamas will be offered by Carnival Liberty from New Orleans.

The Carnival Panorama tour of Asia

Two transpacific itineraries will be offered by Carnival Panorama in 2024. California, Japan, Southeast Asia, Alaska, and Hawaii are all visited during the month-long cruise that leaves from the ship’s homeport in Long Beach.

It will depart in late August for the U.S.-Asia itinerary, and in mid-October for the Asia-US itinerary.

Galveston’s fourth ship

A fourth ship will join Carnival’s Galveston fleet for the 2024-2025 season. Carnival Miracle will sail to the Caribbean and Panama Canal after repositioning from the West Coast.

Carnival currently offers 19 cruises from its Texas homeport, including the 12-night Carnival Journey to the Southern Caribbean, which includes ports in Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire.  

Ships are different in Baltimore and Tampa

Baltimore and Tampa will receive new Carnival ships in 2024. A year-round cruise program will begin from Maryland after Carnival Pride replaces the Legend in April.

After its summer season in Europe, the Carnival Legend will reposition to Tampa in November.

Journeys to the Carnival

The Carnival Journeys program will also be expanded in 2024. The company describes the cruises as limited “special cruises that will amaze” with longer itineraries that typically include unusual ports and exotic destinations.

The Carnival Spirit will sail 14 nights to Alaska this year, the Carnival Pride will cruise three times to Greenland, and the Carnival Radiance will sail to Hawaii again.

Miami, Port Canaveral, Galveston, Mobile and New York City

A number of homeports will also continue to develop in 2024. The Carnival Spirit will remain homeported in Mobile after its debut in Alabama in late 2023, for example.

The city of Miami and the city of New York City are also getting new year-round services. During the first year, Carnival Magic will add an additional ship to the fleet, while Carnival Venezia will debut for the first time in the second year.

Starting in late 2023, the Carnival Jubilee will launch a year-round cruise program from Port Canaveral, replacing the Carnival Conquest in Galveston.

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News Release

Carnival cruise line opens carnival spirit 2024/2025 cruises from mobile.

Ship Also Set for Several Carnival Journeys Cruises – Including Carnival’s First-Ever Voyage from Seattle to Hawaii 

MIAMI, May 2, 2023 – Carnival Cruise Line announced today it is opening for sale its 2024/2025 cruises departing from Mobile, Ala. on Carnival Spirit. The new sailings from Mobile include five-, six- and eight-day Caribbean itineraries, as well as a 12-day Carnival Journeys Southern Caribbean cruise. “The sailings we’re opening today offer some great new choices for our guests and build on our plans for the Mobile community, where we’ve enjoyed a long and successful partnership,” said Fred Stein, Carnival’s vice president of revenue planning and deployment. “When Carnival Spirit arrives for her first season this year and then returns for the cruises we’re announcing today for next year, she won’t just be bringing a newer and larger ship experience to the port, she’ll deliver more opportunities to visit beautiful destinations compared to our past operations there.” In addition, two new Carnival Journeys cruises departing Seattle have been announced for the ship. The additional Carnival Journeys itineraries from Seattle include Carnival’s first-ever voyage from Seattle, Wash. to Hawaii and a spectacular sailing to New Orleans, which includes a transit of the Panama Canal.

New Details About 2024/2025 Sailings from Mobile, Ala. New sailings that just opened for Carnival Spirit from Mobile feature a wide selection of itineraries operating from the fall of 2024 through the spring of 2025. The following are examples showcasing some of the cruises now available:

• Eight-Day Exotic Western Caribbean Cruise departs Mobile on Oct. 26, 2024, and visits Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan; Belize; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico.
• Eight-Day Bahamas Cruise departs Mobile on Nov. 9 and Nov. 23, 2024, and visits Key West, Fla.; Freeport, Nassau and Half Moon Cay, Bahamas.
• Eight-Day Western Caribbean cruise departs Mobile on March 15, 2025, and visits Grand Cayman, Cayman Island; Ocho Rios, Jamaica and Cozumel, Mexico.
• Six-Day Western Caribbean Cruise departs Mobile on several dates, including Nov. 11, 2024, Nov. 17, 2024, Dec. 1, 2024, Dec. 15, 2024 and Dec. 29, 2024, as well as Jan. 12, 2025, March 23, 2025 and April 20, 2025, and visits Belize and Cozumel, Mexico.
• Six-Day Western Caribbean Cruise departs Mobile on April 6, 2025, and visits Cozumel, Mexico and Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan.
• Five-Day Western Caribbean Cruise departs Mobile March 10, 2025, and visits Yucatan (Progreso), and Cozumel, Mexico.
• 12-Day Carnival Journeys Cruise departs Mobile Jan. 18, 2025 and visits several spectacular Caribbean destinations, including Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; Aruba; Curacao; Ocho Rios, Jamaica and Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.

Carnival Spirit will begin homeporting in Mobile for the first time this October, with the ship set to operate a series of six- and eight-day sailings from the fall of 2023 through the spring of 2024. The ship is currently deployed to Seattle, Wash., where it is operating a series of Alaskan sailings which will conclude this fall with a Carnival Journeys cruise from Seattle to New Orleans. To see all sailings currently open from Mobile, click here .

New Itineraries for Carnival Journeys Cruises from Seattle In addition to the new sailings from Mobile, two Carnival Journeys cruises also operated by Carnival Spirit are open for sale. Carnival Journeys not only offer longer sailings with visits to more destinations, but they are also enriched with activities tailored to each itinerary in the areas of dining and entertainment. Carnival Spirit’s newly opened Carnival Journeys sailings are planned as follows: 

• 15-Day Carnival Journeys Hawaii Cruise departs Seattle on Sept. 24, 2024, and visits Honolulu, Kauai (Nawiliwili), Maui (Kahului) and Hilo, Hawaii, as well as Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.This cruise marks Carnival’s first-ever sailing from Seattle to the Hawaiian Islands.
• 16-Day Carnival Journeys Panama Canal Cruise departs Seattle on Oct. 9, 2024, and visits Cabo San Lucas, Mexico and Puntarenas, Costa Rica, then transits the Panama Canal and visits Cartagena, Colombia, before arriving in New Orleans.

The 2,124 passenger Carnival Spirit offers a wide variety of amenities and features many guest-favorite Carnival venues, including  Alchemy Bar ,  Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse  and  RedFrog Rum Bar . For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, call 1 - 800 - CARNIVAL , visit www.carnival.com , or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.

# # # ABOUT CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE Carnival Cruise Line, part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), is the first cruise line to sail over 100 million guests and is proud to be known as America's Cruise Line, for carrying more Americans and serving more U.S. homeports than any other. For over 50 years, Carnival has continually revolutionized the cruise industry and popularized the cruise vacation as an affordable and fun travel option. Carnival operates from 14 U.S. and two Australian homeports and employs more than 40,000 team members representing 120 nationalities. Carnival currently operates 25 ships and is in an exciting period of growth with the addition of three ships over the next two years.

MEDIA CONTACT: [email protected]

AIDA Cruises is the market leader in the German-speaking cruise market. Home of the smile, AIDA Cruises is the epitome of a premium-quality, relaxing cruise and operates one of the world’s most state-of-the-art fleets. Visit: www.aida.de

Carnival Cruise Line, also known as America’s Cruise Line, is a leader in contemporary cruising and operates a fleet of ships designed to provide fun and memorable vacation experiences at a great value. Visit: www.carnival.com

Costa Cruises delivers Italy’s finest at sea, bringing modern Italian lifestyle to its ships to provide guests with a true European experience that embodies a unique passion for life through warm hospitality, entertainment and gastronomy. Visit: www.costacruise.com

Cunard is the epitome of British refinement for travelers who relish the line’s impeccable White Star Service, gourmet dining, world-class entertainment, and the legacy of historic voyages and transatlantic travel. Visit: www.cunard.com

Holland America Line's premium fleet of spacious, elegant mid-sized ships feature sophisticated five-star dining, extensive entertainment and activities, innovative culinary enrichment programs and compelling worldwide itineraries. Visit: www.hollandamerica.com

P&O Cruises (UK) is Britain’s favorite cruise line with a fleet of ships combining genuine service and a sense of occasion and attention to detail, ensuring passengers have the holiday of a lifetime, every time. Visit: www.pocruises.co.uk

P&O Cruises (Australia) provides a quintessential holiday experience for Australians and New Zealanders, taking them to some of the world's most idyllic and hard-to-reach places across Asia and the South Pacific. Visit: www.pocruises.co.au

Princess is the world’s leading international cruise line and tour company operating a fleet of modern cruise ships, renowned for the innovative design and wide array of choices in dining, entertainment and amenities. Visit: www.princess.com

Seabourn provides ultraluxury cruising vacations in a unique, small-ship style that focuses on genuine, intuitive service, all-suite accommodations, superb cuisine and unique experiences in destinations worldwide. Visit: www.seabourn.com

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Embark on an extraordinary journey and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Last Frontier with Carnival Cruise Line's Alaskan cruises. Explore pristine glaciers, spot magnificent wildlife, and experience vibrant local cultures, all while enjoying the luxury and convenience of a world-class cruise line. Let Carnival Cruise Line be your gateway to the majestic landscapes and rich history of Alaska. Every breathtaking view will provide a postcard-worthy moment, creating memories that will last a lifetime. So, buckle up for the ultimate Alaskan adventure that you've always dreamed of.

Renowned globally for its high-quality services and unmatched amenities, Carnival Cruise Line is a name that resonates with class and luxury. Offering a wide array of Alaska cruise vacations at affordable prices, the line ensures a balance between elegance and cost-effectiveness. This world-class cruise line is known for its luxurious accommodations, unparalleled customer service, and diverse entertainment options. With Carnival Cruise Line, you get to experience the grandeur of a luxurious voyage without breaking the bank. So, step aboard and let Carnival Cruise Line redefine your perception of a perfect Alaska cruise vacation.

Carnival Cruise Line Alaska Cruises

Carnival's Alaskan cruises typically last between seven to ten days, showcasing the splendor of Alaska's picturesque ports of call such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. Carnival Cruise Line itinerary also includes cruising past the stunning glaciers of Tracy Arm Fjord and Glacier Bay National Park. Besides, Carnival Cruises offer a variety of shore excursions, ranging from whale watching and dog sledding to city tours and cultural immersion experiences. With Carnival Cruise Line, every day in Alaska brings a new adventure and countless opportunities to create unforgettable memories.

Alaska Departure Ports

Carnival's Alaskan voyages depart from conveniently located ports such as Seattle . These departure ports provide easy accessibility to travelers across North America and around the globe. Whether you're coming from the east or the west, beginning your Alaskan cruise adventure has never been more effortless.

Carnival Cruise Line Ships

Carnival Cruise Line offers a treasure trove of amenities and services to enhance your Alaska cruising experience. Indulge in diverse culinary experiences at our international cuisine restaurants, relax at the world-class spa, or make a splash in their fun-filled water parks. Catch a Broadway-style show in Carnival's state-of-the-art theater, enjoy live music at the various lounges, or engage in Carnival's interactive entertainment options. Carnival Cruise Line cater to all ages, with dedicated kids and teens clubs and adults-only retreats. Carnival Cruise Line will stop at nothing to make your Alaska cruise vacation unforgettable. The cruise line operates several ships in Alaska, including the Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Spirit .

To cater to different travel preferences, Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of package options. Choose from Carnival's basic fare package, which includes accommodation and dining, to all-inclusive package, encompassing shore excursions, onboard credits, and beverage packages. Carnival Cruise Line also offer themed packages, like the romance package perfect for couples, and the adventure package ideal for thrill-seekers. Furthermore, Carnival's luxury package elevates your cruising experience with exclusive amenities and services. With Carnival Cruise Line, you're guaranteed to find a package that perfectly suits your travel style and budget.

Carnival Cruise Line Alaska Cruise Ship Schedule 2024

Embrace the grandeur of Alaska with Carnival Cruise Line, a trusted name in the industry that ensures a luxurious yet cost-effective cruising experience. From Carnival's wide range of amenities and services to diverse package options and exciting Alaskan destinations, we're committed to creating the vacation of your dreams. Your enchanting journey through Alaska's breathtaking landscapes begins at Carnival Cruise Line convenient departure ports. Choose Carnival Cruise Line for your Alaskan adventure, and they promise you an experience filled with delightful surprises and unforgettable memories. Find and plan your next 2024 Alaska cruise out of Los Angeles, California , San Francisco, California , and Seattle, Washington . with Carnival Cruise Line.

14-day Alaska cruise from Seattle

Carnival spirit, carnival cruise line.

Date: September 10, 2024

Ports of Call: Seattle, Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau, Icy Strait, Hubbard Glacier, Seward, Valdez, Sitka, Ketchikan, Victoria, Seattle; View Itinerary

7-day Alaska cruise from Seattle

Carnival luminosa, carnival cruise line.

Date: September 12, 2024

Ports of Call: Seattle, Juneau, Skagway, Tracy Arm, Ketchikan, Victoria, Seattle; View Itinerary

Please note that port orders, dates, and itinerary details, including content, are subject to change. Verify specific details for your chosen sailing date on the website.

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Carnival Cruise Line has released a schedule of Cruise Directors from 2024 to 2025, which specifies the name of the cruise director assigned at a particular time. This schedule is accessible to the public, and Carnival ensures it is frequently updated to reflect changes.

Carnival Cruise Director Schedule

Carnival’s Brand Ambassador and Senior Cruise Director, John Heald , recently posted and announced that the latest cruise director assignments had been updated across the Carnival fleet, covering some ships well into 2025.

Here is the cruise director’s schedule for the carnival. This is a complete assignment listing for Carnival Cruise Director Schedule 2024-2025 for all active Carnival ships as follows:

Carnival Breeze Cruise Directors

Carnival Celebration Cruise Directors

Carnival conquest cruise directors.

Carnival Dream Cruise Directors

Carnival Elation Cruise Directors

Carnival Firenze Cruise Directors

Carnival Freedom Cruise Directors

Carnival Glory Cruise Directors

Carnival Horizon Cruise Directors

Carnival Jubilee Cruise Directors

Carnival legend cruise directors.

Carnival Liberty Cruise Directors

Carnival Luminosa Cruise Directors

Carnival Magic Cruise Directors

Carnival Mardi Gras Cruise Directors

Carnival Miracle Cruise Directors

Carnival panorama cruise directors.

Carnival Paradise Cruise Directors

Carnival Pride Cruise Directors

Carnival radiance cruise directors.

Carnival Spirit Cruise Directors

Carnival Splendor Cruise Directors

Carnival Sunrise Cruise Directors

Carnival Sunshine Cruise Directors

Carnival Valor Cruise Directors

Carnival Venezia Cruise Directors

Carnival vista cruise directors.

PLEASE NOTE: ALL SCHEDULES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

The Cruise Director assignments and schedule is subject to change as the needs aboard different ships change. Schedules often overlap with another Cruise Director at the beginning and end assignments. This allows the new Cruise Directors to become accustomed to a new ship, and learn what activities and entertainment the ship offers.

The schedules are fluid and may also have gaps that will be filled closer to the actual calendar date in the future. Many famous cruise directors are not currently on the assignment schedule. This often only means they may be on vacation leave or haven’t finalized a contract commitment yet.

This schedule can change frequently, and if you want to sail with a particular cruise director, you should  check the schedule regularly  to learn where your favorite cruise director may be assigned.

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FAQs About Carnival Cruise Directors?

What does a carnival cruise director do.

On a Carnival Cruise , the Cruise Director is the most visible and also “the voice” of the ship, making many of the public announcements. The Cruise Directors often host events like deck parties, gameshows, and more. They also help keep guests informed about what’s happening on the ship during the cruise.

How many cruise directors does Carnival have?

Carnival has around 30 to 40 cruise directors. Its fleet consists of 25 ships, each with a Cruise Director onboard. The schedule often shows two Cruise Directors onboard at times. This is often for training and orientation purposes as well as transitional periods at the beginning and end of contract periods. Cruise directors’ contract periods can often last four months, with time off in between.

How long do Carnival cruise directors stay?

Carnival cruise directors typically have contractual assignments that last for a certain period. The duration of their stay can vary depending on the specific assignment and ship. Cruise directors may stay on a ship for several months before being reassigned to another ship or taking a break. The schedules are subject to change as the needs aboard different ships change. It’s important to note that schedules often overlap with another cruise director at the beginning and end of assignments to allow for transition and familiarization with the ship’s activities and entertainment. If you have a specific cruise director in mind, checking the schedule regularly for any updates or changes is recommended.

How much do cruise directors make on Carnival?

Cruise directors’ salaries at Carnival Cruise Line can vary based on experience, qualifications, and specific contract terms. A new cruise director’s salary ranges from $45K to over $100K annually. Additionally, cruise directors receive complimentary travel, accommodations, meals, and more benefits.

Is the Carnival Cruise director schedule final?

The Carnival Cruise Director’s schedule is subject to change. While the schedule provided may be accurate at the time of publishing, it is always a good idea to check the schedule for any updates or changes. The needs aboard different ships can change, and schedules often overlap with another Cruise Director at the beginning and end of assignments to allow for transition and familiarization with the ship’s activities and entertainment

Carnival Cruise Directors On Social Media

Stay connected with your favorite Carnival Cruise Director through social media.

• Adam Gilbert  – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Alex Siegler  – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Andrew (Andy) Mercer  – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Cam Chavis – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Christian De La Rosa – Instagram Page:  Click Here
• Chris (Donkey) Salazar – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Christian Deon Williams – Public Instagram Page:  Click Here
• Chris Williams (The Flying Scotsman)  – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Georgia Craig – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Erin Weigand  – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here ​
• Jacky Tang – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• James Love – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Jasper Wade – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Jonathan Adams (Cruise Director Cookie)  – Public Facebook Page:   Click Here
• Lawrence West – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Lee Mason (Lee Your Cruise Director)  – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Leon Smith – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Marq Anthony  – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Melessa Durrant – Public Instagram Page:  Click Here
• Ryan Rose – Public Instagram Page: ​ Click Here
• Savannah Mitchell – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Simon London – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• TJ Partida – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here
• Kyndall Fire – Public Facebook Page:  Click Here

Carnival Cruise Director Interviews & Insight

I had the opportunity to cruise aboard the Carnival Celebration, and we sat down with Cruise Director Lee Mason . Watch as we learn how Lee started in the cruise business and came to work for Carnival Cruise Line. We talk about his assignment aboard the Carnival Celebration, his favorite places onboard, cruise tips, and much more.

You can also listen to this interview via our Cruise Addicts Talk Show podcast – Click Here to listen.

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VP, Building Facilities & Project Management

Company overview.

As the parent company overseeing our nine distinctive brands worldwide, Carnival Corporation plays a vital role in providing integral support and strategic direction to each brand across various departments. We strive to deliver unforgettable happiness to our guests by providing extraordinary cruise vacations, while honoring the integrity of every ocean we sail, place we visit and life we touch. As a member of our team, you will help lead the way in innovative and sustainable cruising, delivering memorable vacations and building borderless connections.

Our Culture Essentials

Joining the Carnival team means embracing our six Culture Essentials, which are the cornerstone values shaping our identity, principles, and actions. These beliefs and behaviors not only define who we are but also unite us as a team, guiding us in decision-making, fostering relationships, tackling challenges, and reaching milestones. These culture essentials propel us toward a shared vision of success, ensuring a collective effort in shaping our future.

• Respect & Protect
• Listen & Learn
• Communicate

Responsibilities

Job description.

The Vice President of Building Facilities and Project Management is responsible for overseeing the strategic planning, development, and management of the company's workplace strategy around its physical facilities and related infrastructure.  This role requires a seasoned professional with extensive experience in facilities management, project management, architecture leadership and influence. The Sr. Director/VP will play a dual role in supporting Corporate and North America Brands to serve as a key point of contact for team members, executive staff and our facility/site services supply base. This position will ensure that all facilities are operated efficiently, safely, and in compliance with all regulations, while also driving continuous improvement and innovation in facility operations and project delivery. This leadership role will be responsible to manage all outsourced suppliers responsible for key touch points for our team members daily Carnival experience.

The VP will set the strategy and full cycle planning around current facilities and the transition to a new workspace. The leader will need to ensure current office space needs are being met while also managing the purchase, design and setup of the new space. This will require a strong change management approach, partnership with multiple internal and external stakeholders while ensuring appropriate communication with the executive leadership team including status updates, potential risks and recommendations to obtain consensus for a successful transition.

Essential Functions: 

• Facilities Management: Oversee the operation and maintenance of all company facilities, ensuring they are safe, efficient, and meet regulatory requirements. Implement best practices in facilities management to enhance operational efficiency and cost effectiveness. Sets a plan of action around current space planning, facility update and maintenance needs that supports employee satisfaction while balancing cost management as the focus of our investments shifts to the transition to new facilities.   Partners with multiple departments to support on site events.
• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement strategic plans for facilities management and capital projects including setting the strategy and full cycle planning around current facilities and the transition to a new workplace involving the purchase, design and setup of the new space. Partner with government officials, external and internal stakeholders to ensure effective communication around zoning and land use, building codes and regulations, emergency response efforts, infrastructure improvements, required permit or licensing needs and others to ensure successful facility operations and development. Align facilities strategies with the company's overall business goals and objectives. Create and implement effective change management strategies and plans to ensure successful and lasting change.
• Project Management: Lead the planning, design, and execution of capital projects, including new construction, renovations, and major repairs. Ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. Manage project teams, contractors, and consultants, ensuring effective collaboration and communication. Oversees team that conducts research, data gathering and analysis on operations, catering, facility needs, customer feedback, and concerns. Synthesize outputs gained from various qualitative and quantitative sources into opportunities and recommendations for people, place, technology and space metrics. Act as the liaison for all property discussions regarding leasing, subleasing, maintenance, repairs, etc. for all properties in South Florida and collaborate with real estate service firms. 
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure all facilities comply with relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations. Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate potential issues related to facility operations and projects. Conduct regular audits and inspections to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement. 
• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Drive continuous improvement initiatives in facilities management and project delivery processes. For example, Carnival Fitness Center, Cafe, etc. Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices to enhance the company's facilities and project management capabilities. - Foster a culture of innovation and excellence within the facilities and project management teams. Meet to review current enrollment for Camp Carnival, center needs, parent/child concerns, teacher training, upcoming events, strategize on ways to market the center and offer new services to families. Ensure services are being communicated to team member population on a regular basis: special rates, winter/spring/summer camps, etc.
• Budgeting and Vendor Management: Develop and implement the annual budget for facility operations, maintenance and capital projects, aligning financial planning with the company’s strategic objectives. Collaborate with finance department and senior management to establish budget forecasts, ensuring adequate funding for facilities operations and workspace initiatives. Negotiate contracts with external vendors and service providers, manage vendor relationships including approach as we transition to a new location which may require re-negotiations and/or contract reviews. 
• Space Management: Oversee the efficient use of office and commercial spaces within the organization using Serraview as your primary tool and system of record. This includes planning and allocating space to meet current and future needs, coordinating with various departments to understand their space requirements, and ensuring optimal utilization of available space. The task also involves managing the design and setup of new spaces, conducting regular audits to ensure compliance with space standards, maintaining accurate floor plans and seat assignments, and addressing any space-related issues that may arise.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Architecture, Business Administration, or a related field required
• Master's Degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Architecture, Business Administration, or a related field preferred
• 15+ years of experience in facilities management and project management
• At least 5 years in a senior leadership role

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of facilities management principles, practices, and regulations. Proven experience in managing large-scale capital projects from inception to completion. Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Professional certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional), FMP (Facilities Management Professional), or similar are highly desirable.     

Physical Demands : Must be able to remain in a stationary position at a desk and/or computer for extended periods of time. Requires regular movement throughout CCL facilities.

Travel : Less than 25% shore-based travel

Work Conditions : Work primarily in a climate-controlled environment with minimal safety/health hazard potential. Work may require employee to work inside and outside with exposure to changing climate and/or operate machinery.

This position is classified as "in-office." As an in-office role, it requires employees to work from a designated Carnival office in South Florida from Tuesday through Thursday.  Employees may work from home on Mondays and Fridays. Some positions may require additional in-office time each week and final schedule is determined by your leader.  Candidates must be located in (or willing to relocate to) the Miami/Ft. Lauderdale area.

Offers to selected candidates will be made on a fair and equitable basis, taking into account specific job-related skills and experience.  

At Carnival, your total rewards package is much more than your base salary. All non-sales roles participate in an annual cash bonus program, while sales roles have an incentive plan. Director and above roles may also be eligible to participate in Carnival’s discretionary equity incentive plan. Plus, Carnival provides comprehensive and innovative benefits to meet your needs, including:

• Cost-effective medical, dental and vision plans
• Employee Assistance Program and other mental health resources
• Additional programs include company paid term life insurance and disability coverage 
• 401(k) plan that includes a company match
• Employee Stock Purchase plan
• Holidays – All full-time and part-time with benefits employees receive days off for 7 company-wide holidays, plus an additional floating holiday to be taken at the employee’s discretion. 
• Vacation Time – All full-time employees at the manager and below level start with 14 days/year; director and above level start with 19 days/year.  Part-time with benefits employees receive time off based on the number of hours they work, with a minimum of 84 hours/year.  All employees gain additional vacation time with further tenure.
• Sick Time – All full-time employees receive 80 hours of sick time each year.  Part-time with benefits employees receive time off based on the number of hours they work, with a minimum of 60 hours each year.  
• Complementary stand-by cruises, employee discounts on confirmed cruises, plus special rates for family and friends
• Personal and professional learning and development resources including tuition reimbursement 
• On-site preschool program and wellness center at our Miami campus
• A comprehensive benefit program which includes medical, dental and vision plans
• Additional programs include company paid term life insurance and disability coverage and a 401(k) plan that includes a company match
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Cruise benefits
• An on-site fully accredited preschool educational program located at our Doral campus
• An on-site Wellness Center and Health clinic at our Doral campus

Employee Benefits

Hybrid work environment.

Empowering work-life integration and flexible opportunities for your personal and career success

Wellness Programs

Comprehensive employer wellness programs featuring mental health support and fitness options, including an on-site gym

Cruise Benefits

An array of qualified complimentary and heavily discounted cruise options for the ultimate dream getaway

Parental Programs

Generous parental leave time and adoption assistance programs

Retirement Plan

Secure your future with our exceptional Traditional and Roth 401(k) options complemented by valuable company contributions

Employee Stock Purchase

Invest in tomorrow with the opportunity to purchase Carnival shares at a discounted rate from their fair market value

In addition to the above, we offer PTO and company holidays as well as a variety of medical, dental, and voluntary plans

We celebrate our diverse team of over 160,000 team members representing 150 countries and are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment where people from different backgrounds, experiences, and walks of life can succeed. We know our team members are at the heart of inspiring unforgettable happiness, so we strive to be the world’s number-one choice for hospitality, travel and leisure careers.

I think one of the great things about Carnival is that you have a leadership team that is down to earth and truly cares about its employees. Balancing their respect for the company’s workforce (ship and shore) with their steep industry and business operations knowledge, and you’ve got a team that can take the company to new heights.

Victoria Director of Global Financial Planning and Analysis Coffee Connoisseur

Carnival Corporation invests in its people. I started my career here nearly 20 years ago as a deck cadet. Carnival has supported my professional development and provided many career growth opportunities.

Andrew Vice President of Global Maritime Technology Systems History Buff

I love working at Carnival because its ethos perfectly aligns with my own. The company’s personable leadership, cultural integrity, and sustainability initiatives creates a vibrant environment where you constantly feel motivated and find opportunities to improve.

Kaleigh HESS and Sustainability Quality Assurance Manager Paddle Board Pro

I am valued as my whole self and not just as my title.

Sandra Executive Assistant Sand and Surf Enthusiast

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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
• Carnival Cruises explain reason for balcony ban after guest told to remove item

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.

• Carnival Cruise drops upcoming trips - and a refund is available
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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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• CCL-Carnival announces 2026-2027 cruise itineraries from Tampa...

CCL-Carnival announces 2026-2027 cruise itineraries from Tampa and Mobile

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line has unveiled its 2026-2027 cruise schedule , offering a range of voyages from Tampa FL and Mobile AL to destinations in The Bahamas, the Caribbean, and the Panama Canal .

These itineraries, now open for booking, will feature Carnival Paradise and Carnival Legend sailing from Tampa, while Carnival Spirit will resume seasonal operations from Mobile.

Celebrating 30 years of year-round service from Tampa, Carnival Paradise will continue her schedule with 4-day Western Caribbean cruises and 4- to 6-day voyages to The Bahamas and Western Caribbean destinations. Notable ports of call include Cozumel , Mahogany Bay , Belize , and Grand Cayman , as well as Celebration Key , Princess Cays , and Nassau .

Carnival Legend will sail seasonally from Tampa between November 2026 and March 2027, offering a variety of 6- and 7-day cruises to Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Costa Maya , and Ocho Rios , among other destinations. Longer 8-day voyages will explore the Western Caribbean and Panama, with shore excursions available to visit the Panama Canal. Additionally, a 13-day Carnival Journeys cruise will visit Aruba, Curacao, Amber Cove , and Colon (Panama) .

Carnival Spirit will return to Mobile with a unique 16-day Carnival Journeys cruise from Seattle WA to Mobile via the Panama Canal in October 2026. This one-way voyage will include stops in Cabo San Lucas , Puntarenas , and Cartagena . Following her return, Carnival Spirit will offer 6-, 7-, and 8-day Bahamas cruises, visiting Celebration Key, Nassau, Key West , and other popular locations.

• Travel Updates

Carnival cruise passengers demand refunds over last-second itinerary change

Footage has gone viral of passengers on-board a Carnival cruise ship chanting “give us our money” as they demand refunds.

Superyacht victims didn’t drown

Drunk passenger tries to storm cockpit

Worker scams hotel of $35k with one word

Mayhem broke out aboard a Carnival cruise when enraged passengers were told they wouldn’t be voyaging to the expected Caribbean getaway because of an engine problem.

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

However, as boarding took place with some passengers were already on the ship, 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 New York 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 August 28.

One man claimed he spent $US6000 ($A9000) 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 eight-day cruise aboard the Vista averages $US779 ($A11700 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 on-board 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 per cent 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 August 10 departure has reportedly had its September 7 departure from Port Canaveral cancelled, 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.

More Coverage

Tisha LaSaine says she had been working hard at her post office job to save up the $US8500 ($A12,700) 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.

This article originally appeared on the New York Post and was reproduced with permission

Harrowing details have been revealed about the final moments of the Bayesian superyacht victims and the troubling way they perished.

An allegedly drunk plane passenger has caused chaos mid-air, terrorising others on-board, when he attempted to storm the cockpit of an easyJet flight.

A hotel worker has been caught out in a carefully crEated scam, using one word to create $35,000 in fraudulent transactions.

Carnival Firenze cruise ship review: A guide to Carnival's second 'Italian Style' vessel

Editor's note: TPG's Ashley Kosciolek accepted a free trip to sail on Carnival Firenze for the ship's naming ceremony and inaugural cruise. The views expressed below are entirely hers and were not subject to review by the cruise line.

When Carnival Cruise Line first announced it was adopting ships from sister cruise line Costa Cruises for a product it now calls " Fun Italian Style ," I wondered, given Carnival's usual vibe, if it was possible for the ships to feel even a little bit authentic. Would they be fun or refined? Luxurious or tacky? Carnival Firenze is all of those things — and that's exactly how Carnival passengers like it.

When you step on board, you're welcomed into what feels like an Italian theme park. It's an alternate universe's version of Italy, where you're likely to hear "That's Amore" in some form daily, take part in a street festival that features a gelato-eating contest and watch as waiters in ruffle-sleeved costumes perform in the dining room to Justin Bieber songs while a giant fig leaf-clad version of Michelangelo's David holds court over the whole scene, awash in colored strobe lights.

It's chaotic and a lot to take in, but somehow it works. Passengers can have their photos taken with a Vespa-style scooter and grab Italian-themed burgers and meatball sandwiches at new iterations of some of Carnival's most popular eateries. A giant replica of Donatello's Marzocco towers above the Piazza del Duomo atrium that serves as the location of Carnival Firenze's massive welcome party. During the event, officers and crew scatter around the atrium's three-deck balcony and wave signs that say "Ciao" and "Benvenuti." The high-energy party starts a sailing off on the right foot.

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

Juxtapose the over-the-top Italian elements with elegant design choices — such as a pool deck that features charming bar facades designed to evoke Italian architecture, well-designed cabins and service that's off-the-charts friendly — and you've got Carnival Firenze.

Want to learn more about what to expect during a sailing on this new-to-Carnival ship? Here's my review of Carnival Firenze with everything you need to know.

Carnival Firenze overview

Carnival Firenze debuted as Costa Firenze, the second ship in Costa Cruises' Venezia Class (similar to Carnival's Vista Class) , in 2021. The 4,126-passenger, 135,156-ton ship was originally designed for the Chinese cruise market, meaning it houses more casino and retail space than the average North American cruise ship. Plus, its pools are smaller than most, with tons of shaded areas around them — a nice touch for anyone who doesn't want to bake in the sun.

In early 2024, the ship transferred to the Carnival fleet and underwent a two-month refurbishment to tweak some of the public spaces and add Carnival's trademark blue wave paint scheme on the hull. Notably, the ship is keeping its yellow Costa smokestack, which is emblazoned with a giant letter "C," and won't be outfitted with Carnival's signature red, white and blue whale tail funnel.

On board, a large number of your fellow passengers will be West Coasters who often drive to the departure port in Long Beach, California. You'll also find Carnival stalwarts who don't mind making the trip from farther afield to sail on the new ship.

Unfortunately, the vessel often seemed crowded, with 4,200 passengers on my sailing — about 1,000 people fewer than maximum capacity. I can't imagine how it would have felt if my sailing were full.

As is the case on other Carnival vessels, the food provides excellent value for money, with the number of included options far exceeding the number of specialty restaurants that charge extra. Cuisines run the gamut from Italian and Asian to seafood and steak, and despite some longer-than-average wait times in the dining room, the service is friendly and generally efficient.

Cabins are furnished in neutral colors and laid out in ways that make sense, with comfortable convertible beds; closets that feature several layouts with drawers, hanging bars and collapsible shelving; bathrooms with plenty of storage space; and a plethora of electrical outlets for charging.

Carnival Firenze is full of activities, including trivia, movies and games. The spa, salon and fitness center offer ways to care for your mind and body, and top-deck waterslides and a ropes course provide opportunities for adventuresome travelers to find their adrenaline fix.

The Italian vibe carries through everything you do on board. It will either make you smile or roll your eyes. Regardless, it's a lot of fun.

What I love about Carnival Firenze

The design elements.

I wasn't sure what to expect on Carnival Firenze, but what I found immediately upon boarding was a grand three-deck atrium, Piazza del Duomo, that's both over the top and beautiful. In the center is a bar, from the middle of which rises a faux marble pillar with a replica of Donatello's Marzocco golden lion statue on the top. Your eyes can't help but follow it up toward the ceiling, which is painted to look like a blue sky with fluffy white clouds.

As you move between decks, you'll spy Italian-style art in the stairwells and elevator banks. Walls in the cabin hallways are printed with snippets from photos of famous Italian statues; photos of Florentine landmarks like the Duomo serve as headboards in non-suite cabins.

But the most impressive element of the ship's design is the Lido Pool area, which is set up to resemble a courtyard with the pool in the center and several Italian building facades overlooking it. Those facades, which are equipped with wrought-iron balconies, house everything from bars and board game areas to a deli, Guy's Burger Joint (with an Italian twist) and a combination Mexican-Italian burrito and taco bar, as well as the ship's JavaBlue Cafe . It's the first time I've ever visited a cruise pool area and not felt like I was on a ship.

The artwork

During my first night on Carnival Firenze, as I was walking from my cabin down to dinner, I stopped in my tracks and burst out laughing. The aft stairwells on the ship are bedecked with floor-to-ceiling prints that seem innocuous at first, but as you look more closely, you can pick out some exceptionally odd characters. In this particular case, it was two young women who clearly tested the limits of their drink package.

Throughout the rest of my sailing, I made sure to study each print carefully, turning up a creepy crone who needs dental work and some pasties, a woman pulling a centaur's hair, another woman choking on plants and a sad dog standing on top of the table in a chaotic version of "The Last Supper" as Jesus nonchalantly looks on.

Similarly amusing art was positioned on several walls in the ship's two main dining rooms. At Rococo, the bar that serves the Lido Pool, you'll find the walls plastered with late Baroque-style art featuring subjects that have been embellished with modern twists like sunglasses and pithy text. Women in frilly dresses are overlaid with exclamations like "Don't rush me," "Dogs before dudes" and "Swag."

I wasn't a fan of some of the cheesiness on board (see below), but it's clear that both passengers and crew were excited to be there. From the second we were welcomed aboard with a raucous atrium party, the crew was smiling and friendly, and my fellow cruisers were always ready to strike up a conversation.

Every waiter asked how my day was, and my room steward greeted me by name whenever he saw me in the hall. The crew at JavaBlue went out of their way to make sure my coffee order was right each morning, and the genuine cheerfulness didn't go unnoticed.

What I don't love about Carnival Firenze

Flow can be a problem on Carnival Firenze, with galley placement cutting off access from one end of Deck 3 to the other. Passengers traversing the lower decks often have to walk up a deck, over and back down to get where they're going.

The Lido Marketplace buffet is also a problem at peak dining times. The main walkways through the venue feel narrow, making it difficult for two-way traffic to flow through the space, especially for people using wheelchairs, scooters or walkers.

In some spots, the layout was simply confusing. For example, the Tuscan Lounge has two entrances — a primary one that allows traffic to naturally flow from one venue to the next and a hidden secondary one that most people only find by accident, usually after taking a wrong turn.

The fig leaf

Although I'm a fan of much of the art on Carnival Firenze, one piece in particular disappoints me. In the Michelangelo Restaurant, one of the two main dining rooms on board, a giant copy of Michelangelo's David stands on the landing of the grand staircase that connects the restaurant's two decks.

Previously housed on Carnival Pride, the statue was relocated to Carnival Firenze. It still dons a carefully fashioned fig leaf that was made and attached to cover its groin area after a bunch of pearl-clutching Karens complained about having to see — gasp! — a piece of art that's been around for more than five centuries.

Festa Italiana

Festa Italiana is a big, loud, cheesy Italian-themed street festival-type celebration that's held one night during each Carnival Firenze voyage. The Lido Pool area is strung with red, white and green flags, and the event, which lasts more than two hours, kicks off with a talented violin trio.

Following that, the cruise director moves into what the line calls a "traditional" opening ceremony, involving members of the Playlist Productions cast in cartoonish-looking versions of Italian dress parading around the deck. They perform several times throughout the night, alternating with activities like gelato-eating contests, Italian lessons (where the audience learns a couple of phrases that they scream back and forth at one another) and competitions where participants have to maneuver, blindfolded, around terra cotta pots.

The night ends with a DJ, who plays music (think: interesting mashups like "Funiculi Funicula" and Lady Gaga's "Rain on Me") while servers walk around with trays of Italian sausage sandwiches and bites of salami and cheese pastry.

Parts of it are fun, but overall, it feels like an amalgamation of stereotypes instead of an ode to one of the world's most beautiful countries.

Carnival Firenze cabins and suites

Carnival Firenze cabins range from insides with no natural light and outsides with a window to balcony accommodations and suites, including those in La Terrazza, a special zone that offers private cabana, bar and sun deck access.

One odd cabin type to note is the ship's inside cabins with windows and portholes. Normally, they'd be considered outside cabins, but because the views are partially obstructed, the line sells them as insides. Book one of these cabins, and you can snag a room with natural light for less money.

The ship offers no solo cabins, but it does have 44 accessible accommodations sprinkled throughout all basic categories. The rooms are a mix of fully accessible (access to both sides of the bed), fully accessible single-side approach (access to one side of the bed) and ambulatory accessible (for people who can walk with assistive devices like walkers or canes).

Fully accessible rooms are stair-free, flat-threshold cabins, which offer wider (32-inch) doorways, turning space and bathrooms equipped with grab bars and shower seats.

Even the most basic of cabins offers a queen bed that converts to two twins and two nightstands with cabinet storage and reading lamps. Some also sleep up to four people with either a sofa bed or a mix of a sofa bed and a pull-down bunk.

Each room offers a vanity with a mirror, a desk, a stool or chair, a phone, a minifridge, a hair dryer and plenty of outlets. Rooms also come with ample closet space that includes shelving, drawers and bars for hanging clothes of various lengths. Inside each closet is a code-operated safe for which you can program a four-digit pin. (On the first couple of days of my voyage, I had trouble with my in-room safe. After a quick phone call to my room steward, someone arrived at my cabin within minutes to fix it.)

Bathrooms at the basic level are shower only, and they're made of cheap-looking white plastic. Each shower has a fiberglass door instead of a curtain and a single dispenser for all-in-one shower gel and shampoo. They're also equipped with a toilet, a sink, fluffy white towels and plenty of shelving for storing personal grooming items.

As cabins increase in category, they also increase in size and amenities.

Suites come with additional perks, such as priority check-in, boarding and disembarkation; preferred dinner times in the main dining room; pillow-top mattresses; two large bottles of water and bathrobes; upgraded bathroom toiletries; and extra square footage, some of which is dedicated to larger balconies and even walk-in closets.

Some bathrooms at the suite level include bathtubs in addition to shower facilities. Additionally, passengers booked in Ocean suites and La Terrazza cabins (Carnival Firenze's version of Havana Cabana cabins) have access to the exclusive Terrazza Moda sun deck with loungers, hot tubs and a bar, as well as private waiter-served breakfast each morning in the adjoining, indoor Moda Bar and Lounge.

When I sailed on Carnival Firenze, I sailed alone and stayed in a balcony cabin outfitted with a double sleeper sofa and a balcony with two metal and mesh chairs and a small drinks table. Its size was more than enough for me and another person, but it would have been tight quarters sailing with the room's maximum occupancy of four passengers.

I was particularly impressed by how comfortable the bed was and the number of outlets available for charging devices. (The only minor issue is that only one side of the bed has USB ports for phone charging at night.) One thoughtful touch was the motion-activated nightlight that turns on when it senses movement in a dark room. It's a lifesaver if you find yourself needing to walk to the bathroom in the middle of the night.

I also enjoyed the decor, which is less over the top than on some of the older, more colorful ships in Carnival's fleet but less bland than some of its newest ships. It's a happy medium of neutral whites, light browns and beiges with soothing blue hues and floor-to-ceiling prints of some of Italy's famed landmarks.

Dislikes for me included a shower door that leaked, soaking the floor each time I turned on the water, plus "Snoozin'" door hangers that often got caught in my door when I closed it. For the latter, I would've preferred a "Do not disturb" button like many other new ships have.

Carnival Firenze's cabins require you to put something in the slot near the door in order to turn on the lights. (I used my room steward's business card.)

Speaking of room stewards, mine was fantastic, and he came once a day to clean my room between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. He always did a wonderful job, and he was quick to help when I had clothing to send out for pressing.

Carnival Firenze restaurants and bars

Carnival firenze food.

The food on Carnival Firenze is largely tasty, with lots of options, including no-fee dishes and fancy choices that cost extra.

In keeping with the ship's Italian theming, Carnival has added a twist to other vessels' favorite eateries, such as Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina, which appears as Mexican-Italian hybrid Tomodoro. The standard Carnival deli outpost has also been given an Italian spin.

Additionally, Cucina del Capitano, the added-fee Italian restaurant on several other Carnival ships, has been replaced on Carnival Firenze with Il Viaggio, an absolutely phenomenal take on modern, upscale Italian food.

Overall, the food offerings on the ship are a great blend of old favorites — like the Lido Marketplace buffet, Pizzeria del Capitano, the Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Teppanyaki — and these new takes on existing restaurants.

Plus, the ship has so many places to sit outside for an alfresco bite. Check out Deck 5, near Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Teppanyaki, for example. You can enjoy a meal with sea views to boot.

Note: Hours for most restaurants vary based on whether it's a sea day or a port day. Check the daily schedule or Carnival's Hub app for details.

Carnival Firenze has two main dining rooms: Medici Restaurant (Deck 3, mid) and Michelangelo Restaurant (decks 3 and 4, aft).

Michelangelo Restaurant is dedicated to passengers who select Your Time Dining, which lets you eat anytime between 5 and 9 p.m. (The dedicated YTD restaurant can vary by sailing, depending on how many people choose that option.) Medici Restaurant is used for set seating, with two dining times: one at 5:30 p.m. and one at 7:45 p.m.

Both serve the same menu for dinner, but only the larger Michelangelo Restaurant is open for Sea Day Brunch on sea days and breakfast (but not lunch) on port days. It also serves afternoon tea on sea days. Meanwhile, the Medici Restaurant serves a pasta bar for lunch on select sea days.

I had YTD, and I dined three times in the Michelangelo Restaurant. The first time was for brunch, where I had a vegetable omelet with a side of chef Emeril Lagasse's signature beignets. The second time was for a dinner of a simple but lovely Caprese salad and an Indian vegetarian sampler, which included spiced paneer dumplings, chana madra, peas pulao and rice. (Indian dishes are a little-known Carnival specialty.) The final time was disembarkation morning, when I enjoyed delectable vanilla French toast with maple butter and caramelized bananas.

The service was friendly but slow; I had to wait longer than expected between courses at dinner. Both breakfast and brunch were served at a perfect pace, though, with items appearing quickly and looking and tasting fresh.

Lido Marketplace is the ship's complimentary Deck 10 midship buffet that is open daily for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night snacks like cookies and other finger foods. For breakfast, you can expect cereal, an omelet station, eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns, cold cuts and cheeses. Lunch offers a salad bar, various hot entrees and sides, plus a selection of desserts. Dinner is similar, with salads, a carving station and hot items that might include things like Cornish game hen, rice, roasted potatoes, green beans, egg rolls, fried shrimp and Asian noodles.

Although the buffet is fine for a meal on the go, I largely avoided it due to crowds. It's a shame, too, because it's one of the prettiest buffets I've ever seen, adorned with faux vegetation lining the walkways and tables set up indoors with umbrellas and lanterns hanging over them, mimicking the feel of an outdoor bistro.

I did pop in once in a while to enjoy a cone of soft serve ice cream from the two Swirls locations, which are small alcoves with machines that also serve frozen yogurt. At one point, both sets of Swirls machines were broken, and it was a comical scene as several officers and engineers stood around them looking confused.

Elsewhere on Deck 10, near the Lido Pool, you'll find two complimentary venues, Tomodoro and Guy's Burger Joint, both with an Italian spin. Tomodoro serves as the Mexican-Italian stand-in for Carnival's popular BlueIguana Cantina. Both walk-up counters are open for lunch and dinner.

I tried both of the Italian burger options from Guy's — one with mozzarella, balsamic, tomatoes, basil and Donkey Sauce and another with pepperoni, marinara sauce, Donkey Sauce, mozzarella, provolone and Parmesan cheeses. Both were just OK, and I was sad to see that my favorite burger, the Pig Patty, was absent from the menu on this ship.

At Tomodoro, the menu lists tacos and burritos, as well as Italian meatball heroes, Sicilian chicken wraps and tortas de Milanese. The burritos were fantastic, as always, but my hot take on the changes made to both BlueIguana Cantina and Guy's Burger Joint is if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Venture aft and you'll run into Pizzeria del Capitano , which is open 19 hours a day and makes some of the best pies at sea . (Seriously.) I often waited 20 minutes on sea days, but it was well worth it. (If you don't want to stand in line, you can order pizza to be delivered to your cabin via room service for a $6 fee.) You can choose from Margherita, pepperoni, four cheese, mushroom and prosciutto. You can also order a couple of extra-fee specialty pies, such as teriyaki chicken and Korean steak barbecue.

I was pleasantly surprised by Il Mercato, Carnival's take on an Italian deli that is open from lunchtime until late. Usually, the deli is located inside Lido Marketplace, but it was moved to a quieter and less crowded area on Deck 11, just above the Lido Pool, to make room in the buffet for an added-fee chicken wing stand.

Il Mercato looks like a bit of an afterthought, given its portable-looking booth area, but the alfresco atmosphere and the food are great. The menu consists of meatball sandwiches, hot dogs and Italian sausage sandwiches. Eight options for both hot and cold sandwiches include grilled ham and cheese, a Reuben, cheese steak, tomato and mozzarella with arugula on focaccia, chicken salad, and turkey and Swiss. I tried the cheese steak with peppers and onions; despite its rather sad appearance, it was delicious and could rival just about anything found in Philadelphia.

Carnival has also done something interesting with Seafood Shack on this ship. Instead of only serving seafood, this Deck 10 venue starts as the Breakfast Shack in the morning and then turns into the Chicken Shack for lunch. Both are complimentary and serve up a variety of chicken sandwiches with fries, pasta salads and other sides. (Carnival Firenze doesn't have Shaq's Big Chicken like some of the other vessels in the fleet, so this was a nice way to utilize the space and offer a similar dining experience to passengers.)

Although I wasn't staying in a suite, I was able to try the private breakfast for La Terrazza and Ocean Suite passengers offered daily in Deck 5's Moda Bar and Lounge. If you're staying in one of those cabins and have access, trust me when I say you won't want to miss the quiche or avocado toast.

Other free food options include La Strada Grill (Deck 5 midship), Fresh Creations salad bar (Deck 15 forward on the adults-only Serenity sun deck) and room service (free continental breakfast). I didn't try any of these because La Strada is only open from noon to 2:30 p.m. on sea days, Fresh Creations was way too crowded when I stopped by and I didn't eat in my room for breakfast.

Of these three options, the most compelling menu is La Strada's. It lists a Sicilian chicken hero, roast beef on a roll, Italian sausage, smoked pulled pork and macaroni and cheese, with a choice of salads and sides.

Extra-cost food

On many of its ships, Carnival already has an Italian restaurant, Cucina del Capitano , which offers a homey ambience and family-favorite recipes from the Italian captains across the line's fleet. Oddly, the restaurant appears on neither Carnival Firenze nor sister ship Carnival Venezia (another vessel that offers the "Fun Italian Style" experience).

Instead, it has been replaced by one of my new favorites: Il Viaggio, an upscale Italian eatery with a $42 per-person cover charge, nearly double what most ships with Cucina del Capitano charge passengers to dine. Il Viaggio's decor is elegant but understated, and it opens for dinner only. It doesn't drip with red, white and green or stereotypical Italian adornments, offering a refreshing escape from other areas of the vessel where the theming is intense.

The menu, which is billed as "a culinary voyage through Italy's diverse regions — one plate at a time," includes some of the best food I've ever had on a ship. I thoroughly enjoyed the house-made burrata; the pollo parmigiana pizza, which has a crust made of chicken; the gnocchi with goat cheese and truffle oil; and the mile-high gelato pie.

For anyone looking for a decent steak dinner that won't break the bank, Fahrenheit 555 on Deck 5 is it. Not only is it one of the most consistently superb oceangoing steakhouses from ship to ship, but its cover charge of $49 per person is nominal compared to what you'd pay at a steakhouse ashore.

I ate an incredible filet mignon with onion rings, broccoli and chimichurri sauce, and it was absolutely worth the price.

Interestingly, the steakhouse was added after the ship left China. It's in what used to be a hot pot restaurant, so the vibe is decidedly Asian, featuring black counters and tables with deep red carpeting and chairs. Black latticework in part of the space adds to the ambience.

Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Teppanyaki, positioned near one another midship on Deck 5, are both open for lunch (on sea days only) and dinner.

I had a light dinner of sushi during one night of my voyage, and it set me back just $11 ($3 for an order of edamame and $8 for a California roll).

On a different night, I opted for the teppanyaki experience, which involved a chef cracking jokes, singing songs and making flaming onion volcanoes and snakes out of rice as he cooked. Thankfully, we didn't have to try to catch flying food in our mouths. For the $42 flat-fee cover charge, each passenger receives white shrimp, pork belly yakitori, spicy tuna and a choice of either miso soup or kabuki salad to start.

From there, you choose from entrees like lobster tail, shrimp, spiced grilled chicken, grilled tofu, black cod and filet mignon or a combination of them. I chose the filet and was pleased with my decision. The meat and accompanying rice and vegetables were exceptionally flavorful.

Bonsai Teppanyaki is also open for lunch with a similar menu for $38 per person.

JavaBlue Cafe on Deck 10, just off of the Lido Pool courtyard, is one of my favorite places on any Carnival ship. In the warm Mexican weather, I wasn't always a fan of its alfresco location on Carnival Firenze — most JavaBlue locations are indoors — but I was able to grab my daily pick-me-up just the way I like it.

Although coffees at JavaBlue come with an extra charge, the price is nominal compared to Starbucks. Plus, if you ask for a punch card, you'll earn yourself a free coffee after you buy six, which isn't hard to do on a weeklong sailing.

JavaBlue also sells cupcakes, cookies, doughnuts and other pastries for a fee.

Room service is offered for a per-item fee (except for continental breakfast, which is free each morning). Door hangers are no longer offered, so you'll have to order via your cabin phone or the Hub app. The menu on the app for Carnival Firenze seemed smaller than it does on other ships, listing items like pizza and sandwiches. On a particularly busy sea day when I didn't want to wait in line at Pizzeria del Capitano, I ordered a pie to my cabin. For $6, it arrived hot, fresh and fast, and it tasted wonderful.

The places I didn't try were All Things Wings and Seafood Shack. Carnival Firenze has a new walk-up counter in the Lido Marketplace buffet that sells wings, with prices ranging from six pieces for $5 to 24 pieces for $18. You can choose from several flavors like barbecue, Parmesan garlic, chipotle honey, hot barbecue and buffalo, which increase in heat respectively. All orders come with bleu cheese dressing and celery sticks.

Seafood Shack, found on Deck 10 aft, opens at 3:30 p.m. and stays open late at the same walk-up counter where Breakfast Shack and Chicken Shack are located earlier in the day. It sells for-fee seafood bites, such as lobster rolls and crabcakes, for a la carte prices.

A small empanada counter is hidden away in the back of the Tuscan Lounge. I never saw it open, but several passengers told me it only operated at night, selling added-fee options that include shrimp sofrito, chipotle chicken with cheese, beef picadillo, and spinach and mushroom with cheese. Sweet empanadas are also available, including chocolate, banana and coconut; dulce de leche cheesecake; guava and cream cheese; and Nutella and hazelnut varieties.

Carnival Firenze bars

Unlike the version of the Heroes Tribute Bar that's tucked away in a corner on Carnival's Excel Class ships, the version on Carnival Firenze is much brighter and more centrally located on the main promenade area along Deck 5 mid. Designed to honor service men and women who sail, it has a relaxed vibe and a sports bar ambience. The seating at the bar counter is the perfect spot to watch the big games on multiple TVs.

I was a regular at the Tuscan Lounge, also centrally located on Deck 5 aft, mainly because it's where the ship's daily trivia games take place. The space features a lounge area with tables, a dance floor and a projection screen. Across the walkway that runs through the space is a bar set up with stools and nearby tables with black and white striped umbrellas.

Frizzante is one of my absolute favorite bars. There, you'll find various spritz-style drinks. I enjoyed a Frizzante Spritz (made with dry vermouth, moscato wine, triple sec and club soda) on my second night on board and kept heading back to the bar to try more cocktails. It's a terrific place to grab a pre-dinner drink if you have a reservation at neighboring Il Viaggio.

I admit that I misjudged the Amari Bar at first. Found smack in the middle of Deck 5's main thoroughfare, it serves cocktails made with, as the name suggests, amari — herbal Italian liqueurs.

For days, I didn't see it crowded, but perhaps I was merely passing by at the wrong times. By day four or five of my seven-night sailing, it was packed. I was also initially upset to learn that Amari replaced the Alchemy Bar on Carnival Firenze, but I found out later that you can still order some of the most popular Alchemy drinks, such as The Remedy and the Cucumber Sunrise, there.

I was fortunate to sit in on a mixology class at the Amari Bar and was fascinated to learn some of the finer points of mixing drinks with an eye — or a tastebud — toward balancing the flavors of each ingredient. For $30 per person, the head bartender, Drazen, will impart some of that knowledge as you belly up to the bar to try samples of what he concocts.

Rococo is a fun, partially enclosed pool bar area by the courtyard around the Lido Pool on Deck 10. In addition to the fun art mentioned previously, it also has palate-pleasing beverage selections, including fruity libations with an Italian bent like bellinis, as well as pistachio and limoncello cocktails.

Other onboard bars include the centrally located one on Deck 3 in the Piazza del Duomo. The Moda Bar and Lounge on Deck 5 evokes a high-fashion mood with an entryway that feels like a model's catwalk as stylish seating areas flank the sides; it's often the home base for karaoke. Meanwhile, the shockingly red, white and black Piano Bar 88, also on Deck 5, plays host to live piano music daily.

Heading up a few decks, the Versilia Pool Bar serves fruity, beachy drinks near the aft Versilia Pool on Deck 10. Finally, the Pergola Bar, found adjacent to Il Mercato and overlooking the opposite side of the Lido Pool, feels like a complete afterthought. It's so sterile and nondescript it's almost not worth mentioning, but I'm putting it in here because the seating area around it is lovely, featuring fake topiary-style pillars and lots of seating that makes for a great place to read.

Carnival Firenze entertainment

Carnival firenze activities.

Carnival Firenze offers a large number of daily activities on each voyage.

Passengers might choose to head to the casino (or the smoke-free casino, both on Deck 5), enjoy an alcohol tasting, participate in a sports tournament, mingle at a deck party, play miniature golf, take a dance class or attend a spa, jewelry or shopping seminar.

The Cloud 9 Spa on Deck 12 forward is equipped to perform a menu of services, including massages and facials. The connected fitness center is on the small side but features for-fee personal training and organized fitness classes, as well as equipment that's free for passengers to use. Carnival Firenze does not have a thermal suite.

The Cloud 9 Salon, found in a different area of the ship on Deck 5 mid, offers manicures, pedicures and hairstyling, haircuts and color. Be warned that you'll pay huge markups for services on board versus on land.

Looking to find a group of like-minded travelers on your sailing? Check out meetups for solo travelers, singles, people in recovery, veterans and members of the LGBTQ+ community listed in the daily program.

If you're interested in spending time outdoors working on your tan, you can do so at one of two onboard pools: the Lido Pool on Deck 10 midship and the Versilia Pool on Deck 10 aft. Both are ridiculously small for the number of people on board but have more shade than most cruise ship pools.

If you're looking for loungers in the sun and don't mind being a bit farther from the pools themselves, head up two decks to 12, where loungers are so plentiful they block part of the jogging track. (Four laps equal 1 mile.)

Oddly, the Lido Pool has no hot tubs. If you want to soak, you'll have to go to the Versilia Pool, which has two of them. The adults-only (21 and older) Solarium area on Deck 15 forward also has two hot tubs, and the La Terrazza exclusive outdoor area also has two. Neither Serenity nor La Terrazza has a pool.

Pool lifts accommodating up to 300 pounds are available for passengers with limited mobility. Lifeguards are on duty, and children's life vests are available near the Lido Pool.

If you're looking for some wholesome fun, head to Deck 11 mid, where a portable cabinet serves as both the book and board game library. The open-air space offers plenty of tables where you can set up that chess or Scrabble board. In nearby alcoves, you'll also find pingpong and foosball tables. Or, simply grab a snack or drink from the Pergola Bar or Il Mercato and take in a movie on the poolside screen.

If you're a water baby who loves thrills, head to WaterWorks, which offers waterslides and a splash area for kids on Deck 12 (the slide entrance is on Deck 15). Kids and adults who aren't afraid of heights will also enjoy the top-deck ropes course on Deck 15 mid. Just beneath it is the ship's miniature golf course.

Additional activities for youngsters take place on Deck 11 in Camp Ocean, Carnival's kids club . The kids club splits children into four groups: Turtles (up to 2 years old), Penguins (2 to 5), Stingrays (6 to 8) and Sharks (9 to 11). The camp facility connects to an enclosed outdoor playground area that's used on days when the weather is nice.

Fun pursuits on the daily schedule might include arts and crafts, themed parties, science experiments, games and story time, depending on the age group. Group babysitting is available as part of Camp Ocean's Night Owls program, which runs until 1 a.m. at a cost of $9 per child, per hour. (Daytime Camp Ocean activities are free.)

The ship also has Carnival's Dr. Seuss tie-in, featuring Bookville — a reading room inside Camp Ocean that hosts story time — and the Thing 1 and Thing 2 Birthday Brunch, which is offered at least once per voyage for an extra fee.

Tweens and teens have their own dedicated hangout spaces, too: Circle C and Club O2, both found on Deck 3 forward. Activities there are less structured, and participants can come and go as they please. An onboard arcade offers video games for a fee.

Carnival Firenze shows

The entertainment on Carnival Firenze is squarely OK. I was hoping for something new, but instead, I found shows like "Color My World" and "Dear Future Husband," both of which are already on other vessels in the fleet. Cruise ship standards, such as the "Love and Marriage Show" and adult scavenger hunt "The Quest," are fun the first time you experience them, but I was hoping for something new for Carnival's loyal and repeat guests. The titles on Firenze's proverbial marquee felt tired to me, despite the abilities of the immensely talented entertainment staff.

"Dear Future Husband" is at least relatively new. It debuted on Carnival Jubilee in late 2023 and is rolling out to more vessels. It's based on a couple who decides to have their wedding on a cruise ship, and they bring along several of their friends. They sing and dance to pop songs as they board, dress for the festivities and go through the ceremony. Afterward, a "reception" with the cast is held in an onboard lounge. (On my sailing, it was in the Tuscan Lounge.)

An out-of-this-world violin trio performed one night in the theater, but otherwise, shows were limited to a lot of comedy, usually held in the perpetually freezing Limelight Lounge. Everything, including the walls, is decked out in crushed blue velvet, and you're greeted by a creepy clown statue that still gives me nightmares.

On a positive note, I found plenty of terrific live music throughout the ship each night. Carnival has also stepped up its game lately in the magic department. On my last two Carnival sailings, a roving magician wandered from table to table during dinner to impress us with tricks that had me questioning reality.

Carnival Firenze itineraries and pricing

Carnival Firenze is offering three- to seven-night voyages from Long Beach, near Los Angeles, along the Mexican Riviera. Itineraries include such ports as Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

At the time of publication, the least expensive price for a sailing was $214 per person ($54 per person, per night) for a four-night cruise departing in November 2025.

Note: Prices are subject to change without notice and do not include crew gratuities, taxes or port fees.

What to know before you sail on Carnival Firenze

Required documents.

If you're a citizen of the U.S. on a cruise that starts and ends in the same U.S. port, you'll need a current passport, a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification along with a birth certificate to sail. Some other forms of identification, such as a passport card, are also acceptable. However, other cruises, including ones that begin in the U.S. and end in a different U.S. port, require a passport or passport card.

Passports must be valid for at least six months from the day your sailing ends. For cruises from international ports, you'll need a passport. Note: It's crucial that the name on your booking is exactly as printed on your passport or other proof of nationality. We suggest visiting Carnival's website before sailing to view the latest requirements.

Related: Which documents do you need for a cruise? From passports to printouts, here's what to take

Carnival Firenze passengers will automatically have $16 per person, per day added to their onboard accounts as service charges. Cruisers staying in suites will pay $18 per person, per day. (Children younger than 2 are exempt from gratuities.) An 18% gratuity is also added to bar and cafe purchases, spa services and the Chef's Table.

Related: Tipping on a cruise: What to know about cruise ship gratuities

Carnival Wi-Fi is generally fast and reliable. However, don't be surprised if you find yourself repeatedly and automatically disconnected, which is annoying.

Packages have increased significantly in price in recent years, and each plan is only for one device. (You can log out of one and into another with the same account, but you can't connect more than one at the same time unless you buy additional plans.)

Three package tiers are available:

• Social : Access to most social media, airline websites and apps for $18 per day ($126 for a weeklong cruise)
• Value : Same as Social, plus access to financial and news websites and apps for $23 per day ($161 for a week)
• Premium : Everything from the Social and Value packages, plus Skype access and video calling for $25 per day ($175 for a week)

Passengers can also choose 24 hours of Premium access for $35.

Carnival claims that its packages don't allow FaceTime, iMessage or streaming from popular apps like Netflix and Hulu. However, TPG writers have had success using all of those services with the Premium package.

Related: Wi-Fi on cruise ships: 5 things to know about internet use on board

Carry-on drinks policy

Passengers can carry on one bottle of wine or Champagne per person (21 years and older), which will incur a $15 corkage fee for consumption in public areas. Each person can also bring up to 12 standard cans or cartons of nonalcoholic beverages like juice or soda. Alcohol-free drinks in plastic and glass bottles aren't allowed.

Related: Can I bring alcohol on a cruise ship? A line-by-line guide

Smoking policy

Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) is allowed but only in designated outdoor areas on Deck 11 on the starboard side. Smoking is also allowed in the main casino, but it's for cigarettes only. (For passengers who don't light up, a separate nonsmoking casino is available but is much smaller.) All types of smoking are forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies. A $500 fine will be assessed for cruisers who break the rules of the smoking policy.

Related: Is smoking allowed on cruise ships? A line-by-line guide

Carnival Firenze does not have self-service laundry rooms or pressing rooms. Instead, passengers can send out their clothing for washing, pressing and dry cleaning for a per-item fee.

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

Electrical outlets

Carnival Firenze has a mix of 110-volt North American outlets, 220-volt European outlets and 220-volt Chinese/Australian outlets in its cabins, as well as plenty of USB ports. In my balcony room, I had two North American outlets, one European outlet, one Chinese/Australian outlet and two USB ports at the vanity, plus two additional USB ports under one of the bedside reading lamps. If you bring a couple of universal adapters, you'll have more than enough spots to charge all your electronics.

The currency on Carnival Firenze is the dollar. The ship also operates without cash. Passengers link credit cards to their onboard accounts or put up a set amount of cash to charge against, using their keycards as a means of making purchases. However, you might want to have some bills handy to tip your bartender, room steward, shore excursion guide, luggage porters or room service delivery folks.

Drinking age

You must be at least 21 years old to drink alcohol on Carnival Firenze.

Carnival Firenze does not have a specific daytime dress code, and people dress casually. Mexico is largely a warm-weather destination, so looking like you're going to the beach is perfectly acceptable. Pack T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to go inside on sea days or back on board on port days).

During the evenings, the official dress code is only loosely enforced. Most nights are "cruise casual," which generally involves khakis or jeans, polo shirts, sundresses and the like. Ultra casual items like cutoff jeans, men's sleeveless shirts, T-shirts and gym shorts are supposedly not permitted, but I saw plenty of them in the dining rooms during dinnertime on Carnival Firenze.

A weeklong cruise will generally schedule two formal nights — known as "elegant nights." If you're bound for the dining rooms or specialty restaurants, men should turn up in dress slacks and a dress shirt; Carnival recommends a sports coat, and a suit would not be out of place. The suggested attire for women on such nights is cocktail dresses, pantsuits, elegant skirts and blouses. If you want to avoid dressing up, seek out the casual eateries, including the Lido Marketplace, or order room service to your cabin.

Related: What to wear on a cruise: Cruise attire and cruise line dress codes

Bottom line

Despite some overly stereotypical moments that made the ship feel like a floating caricature of Italy, I had an amazing time on board this new-to-Carnival ship.

The food was excellent, the decor was gorgeous and the crew worked hard to make sure passengers had the best vacations possible.

Is Carnival Firenze gaudy and, at times, maybe even a little cringey? Yes, but I found myself taking limoncello shots and stuffing my face with pizza alongside everyone else. Embrace "Fun Italian Style" for what it is, and you're sure to have a great time on board.

Planning a Carnival cruise? Start with these stories:

• The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line ships and itineraries
• 43 Carnival Cruise Line tips, tricks and hacks to enhance your vacation at sea
• Best Carnival cruise ships: Here's which ship you should sail, based on your travel style
• Carnival cruise packing list: What to pack for a cruise, Fun Ship style
• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly

MARDI GRAS: FUN-FUELED VACATION INNOVATION POWERED BY LNG

When we launched our first ship, 1972's TSS Mardi Gras , we made cruising a lot less stuffy, a bit less fancy, the kind of fun everybody could enjoy. Nobody expected this ship to change the cruise world, but... here we are! So here’s a brand-new ship with a familiar name. With this Mardi Gras ® we aren't just paying homage to our first ship — in cruising circles this name suggests innovation, signals the start of something big. Oh, and this Mardi Gras still shouts “fun!” at the top of its lungs. This ship introduces Zones — six themed areas packed with brand-new experiences for eating, drinking and spectacularly getting down to fun. There's BOLT ® , the first-ever rollercoaster at sea, Emeril's Bistro 1396 ™ from yes-that-Emeril, Family Feud ™ Live for everybody... plus incredible new bars like The Brass Magnolia and Fortune Teller . Everybody can enjoy Mardi Gras , sailing now. Come on down!

MEET THE HOMEPORT

On June 4 th , Mardi Gras met her homeport for the first time... which would be the awesome Port Canaveral , of course. So maybe you should meet it too! Port Canaveral is a great place to kick off a cruise from, especially with the beautiful, brand-new cruise terminal we built specifically to be Mardi Gras’ home. Cruise you soon, can’t wait!

MEET THE GODMOTHER

When it’s almost time for a new Carnival ship to start sailing, one of the most important decisions to make is who the ship’s godmother will be. This ceremonial position is such an important choice to get right… since the choice is not only a statement about the ship, but the things we value as a cruise line. That’s why Mardi Gras’ godmother is Kimberly Jiménez , better known as Miss Dominican Republic! Kimberly has distinguished herself through her important work as a champion for at-risk youth, and as a founding member of the Dominican Republic Women’s Club. She also recently won the Spirit of Carnival award for embodying our values of fun, friendship, diversity and inclusion. Congrats and welcome aboard, Kimberly!

MEET THE CEREMONY

We kick off a new ship’s career with a naming ceremony… and ours are one part tradition and a lotta parts fun! On the tradition end, we get dignitaries like Mardi Gras' godmother, Miss Dominican Republic Kimberly Jiménez, and our own Chief Fun Officer Shaq to help make sure the champagne bottle gets broken just right for good luck. And of course we don’t forget the party end of things, inviting countless well-known well-wishers, hosting a second line parade and spotlighting Mardi Gras’ crew of 120 nationalities. Welcome to the fleet!

INSPIRED BY THAT SPECIAL PLACE VACATION TAKES US

Ok, a few places — get ready for six distinct onboard zones featuring brand-new experiences for spectacularly getting down to food, drink and fun.

Grand Central

On a Carnival cruise your vacation starts in the atrium, and on Mardi Gras ® that's in the Grand Central zone. By the way... on this ship the atrium's different . Don't be surprised if you step inside and the first place you want to look is upwards. Up there are high ceilings that hint at even more fun living on the three decks above! But look around down here too... you'll find floor-to-ceiling windows that really bring in the ocean views. Of course you'll be back here throughout your cruise, taking a break with a nice cup of coffee or a menu of great food choices at JavaBlue ™ Café , enjoying performances up on stage, or killing time fabulously at the Grand View Bar. Just wait until the sun goes down and the space slips into evening dress, transforming into an amazing show venue after dark! In Grand Central you're never far from great dining spots like Bonsai Sushi ™ and Bonsai Teppanyaki ™ , plus feel-good entertainment like Piano Bar 88 ™ and The Punchliner Comedy Club ™ .

French Quarter

If "big" and "easy" sound about right for your vacation, you might just make the French Quarter on Mardi Gras ® your home zone. What inspired this area is no less than New Orleans itself… and if all this talk of NOLA has you half as hungry as we are, you’ll be pleased to hear that our French Quarter is lined with bars and eateries worthy of their namesake. For one thing there’s the spectacularly, authentically delicious Emeril’s Bistro 1396 ™ , developed in partnership with yes-that-Emeril. Just steps away is entertainment clearly influenced by the world-renowned Crescent City nightlife — yep, The Brass Magnolia bar features not only great drinks but also hot jazz, live. What’s more, you’re just steps away from sipping mystically at the Fortune Teller bar, and definitely save time to browse some funky little shops.

Summer Landing

Go ahead and call Summer Landing 'the greatest chill spot at sea'... and we'll be right there with you, any time of year! What's three letters long and goes great with chilling outdoors? BBQ, so we're building a Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse ™ into this zone so it always tastes like summer here with freshly-smoked faves designed by Guy Fieri and original Parched Pig ® beers brewed just feet away. If you're wondering where the pool and whirlpool are, we're so alike, you and us... and that's why we're sure you're gonna love The Watering Hole , a poolside bar we're building for aficionados of backyard-style relaxation. And for military folks — or folks who just want to raise a glass to them — please report to Heroes Tribute ™ Lounge for great service. We know you guys like soft serve too, so we're throwing in a Swirls ™ location — one of two! And why wouldn't we? At Summer Landing, fun this cool is literally always in season.

La dolce vita is within reach at La Piazza ... and we'd know, with all the Italian seafaring spirit that's literally driving the ship. This zone stands for atmosphere and flavor, and it starts with Cucina del Capitano ® , which brings your party together for an evening of Italian favorites served family-style, while Pizzeria del Capitano makes delizioso happen for you atop a base of imported Italian flour and fresh mozzarella. Mardi Gras ® debuts Piazza Panini where the handhelds are hot and pressed, plus Bar della Rosa , where you'll sip authentic espresso drinks by day and classic Italian cocktails when the sun goes down. All this flavor and flair we’ve got in here may practically transport you straight to Italy… but don’t forget that so much of it can be enjoyed outdoors, where the sea breeze is just bellissimo .

If you’ve cruised with us before, you know Lido ... but aboard Mardi Gras ® this poolside zone features even more delicious and fun experiences among the familiar flavors. Evolving the classic poolside rum-bar was a tall order, but RedFrog Tiki Bar will be serving up the good stuff across two decks’ worth of South Pacific atmosphere. Also first-time-fresh is Street Eats , bringing together highlights from the world’s fast-good cuisine like kebab, bao buns and seriously upgraded fries. Shaq’s latest Big Chicken ™ restaurant is here, and fan-fave spots like Guy’s Burger Joint ™ , the New England-inspired Seafood Shack ™ , and BlueIguana Cantina ™ taco spot aren’t done with your taste buds yet. And for folks hoping we haven’t forgotten: yes, Lido is absolutely home to one of two Swirls ™ locations, the free soft-serve spot!

THE ULTIMATE PLAYGROUND

Don't let the name fool you — this zone is ages everybody and up. Kids, you're going to love this. And adults, the playground has grown up with you. So yay for play! Of course The Ultimate Playground starts with BOLT ® , the first rollercoaster at sea, an all-electric thrill ride that puts the power of speed in your hands. But that's only the beginning — this playground has the largest Carnival WaterWorks ™ ever with three huge spiraling slides, plus SportSquare ™ is here featuring an entire mini-golf course, full-court basketball and a ropes course. And, of course, more. Ultimate enough for you?

INSPIRED BY ALL THE BEST STUFF

Mardi Gras ® is full of fun new ways to spend your time, but definitely isn’t leaving the fan favorites ashore.

BOLT: ULTIMATE SEA COASTER

Aboard Mardi Gras ® you’ll meet BOLT ® : the fastest — and first! — rollercoaster at sea. Strap in and zoom your motorcycle-style speed machine around an open-air course high, high above sea level. You know how on most rollercoasters... actually, never mind. Forget other coasters because this all-electric thrill ride puts you in the driver’s seat. That means you actually get to control how fast you go, so hit the gas and try for the fastest time, go for the biggest thrill — plus some amazing 360° ocean views! And for the folks who choose to chill: go light on the pedal, and this just might be the coaster for you!

The Brass Magnolia

Think about the fruity Hurricane cocktail or the stately Sazerac — for ages now, these hometown heroes have been ambassadors for New Orleans ‘credo of fun, flavor and just plain good times. So of course we’ll be serving up classics like these at The Brass Magnolia! You’ll also find a swingin’ jazz trio keeping things nice and hot … and it takes only one look at the décor to feel as if you just stepped into an elegant Southern estate. So come on down and let a white-coated bartender know what your pleasure is. Among the menu of Crescent City mainstays, we suggest starting off with a true connoisseur’s local favorite … the Brandy Crusta .

Fortune Teller

If you’ve strolled along New Orleans’ French Quarter in the evening, you’re not alone in feeling that mysteries and surprises lie around every corner. A French Quarter-styled zone on a new ship wouldn’t be complete without an unassuming little bar that feels like it’s always been there. On Mardi Gras ® , that’s Fortune Teller! Spirits truly abound here, and our unnaturally talented bartenders will be pleased to conjure up recipes like the all-black New Moon , the changes-color-before-your-eyes Abracadabra and the Golden Galaxy … actually made with a bit of real gold. Call us supernatural, but we’re sensing vacation fun in your future.

Family Feud Live

The show has been delighting viewers at home for generations, but you never had the chance to buzz-in on a cruise ship… until now! Carnival ships are the only place you’ll find Family Feud™ Live, and on every sailing we’ll be hosting games on an authentic Family Feud™ set — right down to the iconic Face-Off podium, plus all the excitement of Fast Money. Family Feud Live will be emceed by none other than your cruise director, so if you’re game, sign up your team of five for an audition… and make sure they bring that Family Feud spirit. And, of course, everybody’s welcome to grab a seat in the audience to catch all the hilarious action!

RedFrog Tiki Bar

Let's recap what we know about the mysterious RedFrog so far. He's cute, he knows how to chill… and flavor is everything to the little guy. We only just found out about the years he spent soaking up the sun among the grass skirts and frangipani flowers of the South Pacific where, he would tell you, it’s easy being red. You'll find some of his favorite recipes from those days on menu at the first-ever RedFrog ® Tiki Bar — sip a Polynesian Punch, try a Jungle Bird, or get a little tongue-twisted ordering a Red's Rum Jumper. This poolside bar on Mardi Gras ® spans two decks and transports you right to the land of Tiki.

For those who flock to waterparks just ready to make a splash, we’d suggest sliding on over to WaterWorks ™ aboard Mardi Gras ® . Three large-scale spiraling slides, a giant dumping bucket, twin racing slides and more — you know, the works — are all practically overflowing for your hydro-delight. When you spot the big slides on board you’ll see that they mean business, splashy business: Blue Lightning ™ is packed with headfirst, high-speed twists and turns, while Orange Thunder ™ starts you off standing before propelling you down into a world of wetness… and of course, our signature Twister ™ slide keeps on thrilling splash-seekers.

HAVANA BAR & POOL

On Mardi Gras ® you'll find the Havana Bar ™ & Pool. Good find — the relaxation pool is an exclusive retreat to paradise, and the bar becomes a hot dance spot when the sun goes down. Grab a seat at the bar and order up a handcrafted Cuban cocktail like a traditional daiquiri or classic mojito. This bar is just steps from the pool, whose ocean view and atmosphere mingles with the bar's own, for a bit of that old-time Cuban resort flavor.

SERENITY ADULT-ONLY RETREAT

Somebody at Carnival knows just what you need, and it's pretty much exactly the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat ™ . Look, you'll still be on the same ship as the kids, the hoopla, and all the Carnival-style excitement... but you could easily forget, because when you're at Serenity you could not be further from it all. The world you'll find yourself in is one of complete peace, sea breezes and, of course, a nearby bar. It's the place to get done the kind of stuff you just can't seem to do anywhere else — reconnect with your partner, finish that book, or do absolutely, blissfully, nothing at all.

CLOUD 9 SPA

True or false: cruises are a time for relaxation. Our answer: whether you're all action all the time, or chill to the core, everybody needs a chance to take it easy! And nobody will find an easier spot than Cloud 9 Spa ™ aboard Mardi Gras ® . This is an oasis built from the ground up for relaxation, from a full complement of traditional spa services like massages, facials, body wraps to the carefully-designed climates of Cloud 9's thermal suites... rooms swirling with moist or dry air, each heated very precisely. It turns out it's true: anyone can find a reason to say 'ahhh' at Mardi Gras's Cloud 9 Spa.

PLAYLIST PRODUCTIONS

When was the last time you got up and grooved... at the theater? Playlist Productions ™ takes songs you know and presents them like you’ve never known them before. Past favorites become full-blown musical productions featuring multi-talented performers absolutely bringing down the house with song, dance... and superstar attitude. With tunes from fan-favorite divas, crooners or rockers, each show has a different theme — and of course, a completely different playlist! Get ready for heartfelt emotions, straight-up bouncy fun, or something in-between — all types are welcome to get down here.

WISH MARDI GRAS ® HAD EVEN MORE FUN?

INSPIRED BY BOTH MMM & YUM!

Whether it’s casual munching or sit-down elegance you’re hungry for, we can’t wait to share all this dining variety with you.

You’ll detect some delicious Chinese and Mexican culinary traditions in the atmosphere at Chibang! ™ , our new restaurant… but even more importantly, you’ll notice them on your plate! We’ve brought together favorite dishes from the two cuisines, into an amazing menu that invites you to spread your culinary wings across the Pacific. Try a little from each side by mixing, matching and sharing in a dinner of flavor explorations. (Plus cocktails made from authentic ingredients!) Or stop in to Chibang! for a casual lunch that features noodle and burrito bowls based on our favorite ingredients from both of these worlds. Tip: Great news! Your first meal at Chibang! is on the house… and additional visits are just $8.

Rudi’s Seagrill

Rudi’s Seagrill ™ is the brainchild of cookbook author and master chef Rudi Sodamin. He has years of experience pleasing palates of vacationers… and this guy loves serving up a smile as much as Carnival does! But he’s serious about seafood, and an evening at Rudi’s proves it through the courses. Enjoy selections like seafood bisque and crab-stuffed lobster tail imperial — all served with an elegant flair that pays proper tribute to the beauty of the ocean from which so much fun, and flavor, arises.

Street Eats

Some of the world’s favorite flavors aren’t found in restaurants, but on the street in trucks, stalls and carts where flavor, convenience... and quality matter. That’s right, when you’re just feet from the chef, you know they’re cooking to impress! Street Eats is Carnival’s tribute to this food phenomenon, debuting aboard Mardi Gras ® with three ever-changing open-air stations. The first, Steam Dream , specializes in the steamiest stuff this side of the spa, featuring favorites like bao buns and pot stickers. Then there’s Mad Sizzle , which puts the “skill” in skillet with the likes of kebab and satay. And we’re definitely not about to forget Time Fries , which serves up every cruiser’s dream: fries loaded up with culinary creations from our chefs, like cheesesteak fries! On Mardi Gras you may be far from the street, but flavor’s right around the corner.

Emeril’s Bistro 1396

Mardi Gras ® sets sail with Emeril Lagasse's first-ever restaurant at sea: Emeril's Bistro 1396 ™ . Everybody knows about Emeril's love for Creole cuisine, and now you'll enjoy the authentic bayou flavors and fun New Orleans is known for on your vacation. If you haven't had the pleasure, we're talking about fried oysters, duck & sausage gumbo, po-boy sandwiches, fresh ceviche and more. We're serving up Emeril's faves all day… and because flavors this big don't just sleep in, we do some great ones for breakfast too! Raw bar, incredible desserts and Crescent City atmosphere round out the experience.

Big Chicken

When Shaq tells you to build a chicken joint on board, you start warming up immediately. The big guy brings his poultry know-how and good taste to the seas with Big Chicken ™ on Mardi Gras ® . Just like Shaq’s a multitalented entertainer, his restaurant is no one-trick chick. Step up to the counter for lunch or dinner and walk away with your choice of chicken sandwiches, crispy chicken strips or juicy fried chicken baskets... plus side dishes like potato salad and jalapeño slaw. Early-morning buzzer-beaters are invited to enjoy a breakfast of classics like chicken biscuits, a three-cheese omelet or our biscuit/egg combo featuring bacon or sausage. Snoozers are invited, too — breakfast is served until 3!

Bonsai Teppanyaki

It’s a meal, a performance, and it’s definitely unforgettable. The Bonsai Teppanyaki ™ experience is set to delight guests aboard Mardi Gras ® . Take a little time out of vacation to sit down to a selection of tempting appetizers, before your chef prepares the main course featuring selections of meats, tofu, fish, shrimp or lobster… right at your table. In the teppanyaki tradition — and Carnival’s tradition of fun — expect an interactive, satisfying meal full of surprise and delicious delight.

Bonsai Sushi

So maybe you’ve had sushi before, but have you tried it at Bonsai Sushi ™ ? This is Carnival’s onboard seafood-and-soy-sauce spot, and we think you’ll enjoy our latest location, aboard Mardi Gras ® . Dine indoors or out amidst carefully-pruned bonsai trees, while enjoying a delectable menu with sit-down service. Rounding out the meal: soups, sides, sakes and desserts. So the next time you’re taking a stroll down the onboard promenade, stop at Bonsai Sushi for a roll, a box or maybe order a whole sushi ship — seaborne satisfaction for two.

Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse

With choices like brisket, sausage, baby back ribs and dry-rubbed chicken, our pros do the smoking right there over hickory wood before serving them up at your table. You’re in Guy Fieri’s house — Mardi Gras ® has Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse ™ . Now about the brews: this house of BBQ tradition doesn’t just satisfy your hunger — you’ll also enjoy our all-new, exclusive line of Parched Pig ™ craft brews. There’s a smoked porter, a farmhouse ale, a hoppy IPA and a toasted amber, all brewed just feet from your table. Tip: Come by and check out the free menu at lunchtime, plus live music and lively atmosphere all day.

Seafood Shack

A good seafood dish… mmm, quite the catch. However you like yours — roll, bowl or platter — Seafood Shack ™ is Mardi Gras's place for you to cast your net. Imagine a seaside spot in New England, where the locals gather for great meals served with a bit of a breeze and a lot of a view. (That said, nowhere on land will you get 360-degree ocean views like ours!) Look to Seafood Shack for rustic favorites like Crab Cake Sliders, Lobster BLT, Fried Buffalo Shrimp, Snow Crab and more. Steer a course for Mardi Gras ® ... that’s where you’ll find this little shack by the sea, wherever in the world you happen to be!

Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse

Haute cuisine meets atmosphere at Fahrenheit 555 ™ , a dining experience that stands toe-to-toe with some of the best steakhouses on land. Except this one’s at sea — aboard Mardi Gras ® . Ours features your choice of steak cuts, lobster, lamb and more… and inside, there’s even a full bar that pours great pairings. These are the building blocks of an amazing experience — delectable elements that combine with great service to offer an evening to remember.

Cucina del Capitano

At Cucina del Capitano ® on Mardi Gras ® , who you’ve got gathered around the table is truly as important as what’s being served there. At our table you’ll enjoy delicious Italian favorites — we serve them family-style because we know that sharing large plates and sharing tales of your day’s adventures goes hand-in-hand. Speaking of which, our walls are adorned with old snapshots from our officers’ family albums, proving that the rustic Italian-farmhouse atmosphere definitely isn’t for show. Tip: Great news! Your first meal at Cucina del Capitano is on the house… and additional visits are just $8.

NOT HUNGRY YET?

INSPIRED BY COMFORT ITSELF

Mardi Gras’ staterooms are major innovations in the field of helping you get ready for fun, or relaxing after a long day. (No joke — we studied it!)

STATEROOM DESIGN

Design is more than just the way things look — it's as much about how they work. And staterooms aboard Mardi Gras ® are packed with innovative changes to both. It's the way the ring-lit vanity mirror lights you evenly and shadow-free as you get ready. How the ottoman cushion flips over to serve as an extra table. And even those reading lights, recessed into the wall so you can read in bed without waking anyone! These details are really more than just details. Better comfort, lighting and storage all spring from a deep understanding we've developed around how people actually use their staterooms… and how small changes to the room add up to make the experience that much better. (Enough USB charging ports for everybody’s stuff? Oh yes!) Thoughtful, guest-centric design is how we do it… and all this in-room convenience comes paired with a fresh new look.

Havana Staterooms & Suites

Consider your Havana stateroom or suite your own island resort aboard Mardi Gras ® . Most important is the exclusive location: near the Havana Bar & Pool. This relaxation pool is your members-only spot, and the bar's a fun-for-all hotspot when the sun goes down. Indoors, all Havana staterooms feature a unique décor, but step up to a Havana Cabana for an extra-large outdoor chill space. Step into a Havana Cabana suite for even more space, plus a luxurious rain shower. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Cloud 9 Spa Staterooms & Suites

Cloud 9 Spa ™ staterooms on Mardi Gras ® feature exclusive décor and in-room amenities to help soothe you after a long day’s fun — spa bathrobes and slippers, plus toiletries by Elemis. Book one of these staterooms and enjoy priority spa reservations, unlimited access to the thermal suites, free fitness classes, exclusive discounts and more! And you can have comfort and value — Mardi Gras’s got a full range of Cloud 9 staterooms in all sizes, from cozy Interiors to stretch-out Suites.

Family Harbor Staterooms & Suites

Family Harbor staterooms, with their unique nautical décor, can be found near Mardi Gras’ own Family Harbor Lounge — an exclusive spot with breakfast, snacks during the day, plus board games, family movies, video games and more. The benefits don’t end there — your little girls and boys eat free in most onboard specialty restaurants and get a free evening of Night Owls babysitting service, so you can enjoy a little alone time.

Interior Staterooms

Here’s the most affordable way to experience Mardi Gras ® , without cutting even a single corner in the comfort department. With an Interior stateroom you’ll get a full private bathroom, your choice of bed size and layout — covered in linens you can feel at home in — all of which make this truly a great spot for curling up after a long day’s fun. Get all the comfy details about Interior staterooms on Mardi Gras.

Ocean View Staterooms

These comfy rooms with a view let you take in the scenery as you sail toward your beautiful destinations. And how about those views? Nowhere on land will you find anything like ‘em. But the views aren’t all that matters here — Ocean View staterooms on Mardi Gras ® are a little bit bigger than Interior rooms and most feature a supremely loungeable couch for those times when neither lying nor standing will do. Get all the comfy details about Ocean View staterooms on Mardi Gras.

Balcony Staterooms

Balcony staterooms are proof that while it’s great to be cruisey… on vacation, breeziness is a virtue too. And any time you’re in your well-appointed Balcony stateroom aboard Mardi Gras ® , you’re just steps away from the outdoors by way of your private open-air oasis. Designed for kicking back al fresco, you’re in for some amazing ocean views… views so stunning you’ll just have to feel ‘em to believe ‘em. Get all the comfy details about Balcony staterooms on Mardi Gras.

Get all the comforts of home, and even a few extras. Since your huge Suite on Mardi Gras ® affords you VIP status, you're in the priority line when getting on and off the ship… plus Suites come with exclusive perks! (Carnival Excel Suites pack even more, like concierge service and access to Loft 19™.) A Suite is the ultimate way to enjoy the ship, and the extra comfort definitely goes a long way, with more room to put your feet up or stretch out on the extra-large balcony. Get all the comfy details about Suites on Mardi Gras.

Loft 19 ™ was designed to afford you a unique opportunity for relaxation and indulgence. This retreat-style space invites you to soak up the sun all day from the comfort of a lounge chair or infinity whirlpool. This pairs so perfectly with Carnival Excel suites that staying in one actually gets you Loft 19 access! Drink service is always close at hand, plus you can even opt for a little private time — renting a cabana gets you more than just a place in the shade, but extras like fresh fruit, chilled towels, lunch delivery and concierge service. (Cabana rentals are open to everyone, though guests in Carnival Excel-level suites enjoy priority reservations.)

INTRIGUED BY ALL THIS COMFORT?

Inspired by big plans for building fun.

Ships start as sketches, then come deck plans… and we get building from there. Check the decks on Mardi Gras ® and plan all the fun you're going to have on board.