Carnival Cruise

Although the debut of a new cruise ship is undoubtedly exciting, not everything can live up to its hype. Even the most highly-anticipated cruise ships have kinks that need to be ironed out. Glitz and glam aside, brand-new cruise ships can also bring about disappointment when the bar is set high.

California's new consumer protection law will alter how Carnival advertises its cruise fares. Starting on July 1, 2024, the price must include many components of the current taxes, fees, and port expenses that are left out. It's meant to provide guests with a clear price upfront, rather than leave them surprised by additional fees later on during the booking process. 

Whether you're looking forward to a family-friendly getaway or celebrating a friend's birthday, you've likely thought about purchasing a drink package for your upcoming Carnival cruise. With the CHEERS! Package costing as much as $74.95 per person, per day, splurging on one isn't a cheap investment. 

Few travel experiences come close to the excitement of stepping foot on a brand-new cruise ship. Similar to driving a brand-new car with all the bells and whistles, the experience of cruising on a newly built cruise ship is unmatched. It’s undoubtedly exciting to see the latest and greatest that a cruise line has to offer.

When I took my first Carnival cruise on Carnival Celebration, I was impressed by the modern accommodations, variety of dining options, and an array of onboard activities. Five months later, I found myself boarding one of Carnival's oldest ships, Carnival Elation, for a 5-night cruise out of Jacksonville, Florida. 

Though it was obvious the ship has been well-maintained throughout the years, including an extensive dry dock in 2017, the limited number of dining choices and onboard activities left much to be desired. 

Whether you've been loyal to one cruise line for some time or are new to the industry, stepping foot on a new-to-you line can be daunting. 

My partner, Sarah, and I recently returned from a 5-night spring break cruise onboard Carnival Elation, a Fantasy Class ship that debuted in 1998. Although I've had prior experiences with Carnival, it was a first for my partner. During our time onboard, she kept track of things she wished she had known beforehand. 

If you take a 7-night Caribbean cruise, you'll likely visit at least three ports of call. Those sailing to the Western Caribbean tend to be able to cram four stops into a weeklong itinerary. However, according to Josh Weinstein, Carnival Corporation's President, CEO, and Chief Climate Officer, you may start to see sailings visiting fewer ports of call to save fuel and reduce emissions. 

Nestled in the Bahamas is Half Moon Cay, Carnival Corporation's private island that boasts crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and an array of attractions. Though not as large as Perfect Day at CocoCay, spanning just 50 acres, you're sure to enjoy your day on the island, as it offers a unique charm and is known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. 

As someone who cruises frequently, I've found that by avoiding certain add-ons, I'm able to save a significant amount of money on each of my Carnival cruises. 

I don't fully restrict myself, either. What's the point of going on vacation if you can't indulge a little? While the base fare includes a lot, there are certain experiences that I'm willing to splurge on since they make my cruise more memorable.