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What Theme Parties Are on a Carnival Ship?

Carnival has always positioned itself as the fun cruise line, and you can usually feel that from the moment you step onboard. It just has a different energy from other cruise lines. Everyone just seems ready to have a great vacation. As part of the cruise, Carnival hosts theme parties or events.

Previously, it seemed that Carnival was trying to standardize all the events across the fleet. However, it seems that has gone by the wayside. John Heald , Carnival Brand Ambassador, recently shared the theme parties that will be occurring on each ship in the fleet, and they’re pretty varied. It comes down to a lot of factors like the Cruise Director, sailing length, and ship.

Take a look at the different parties below and how they work. 

Update 12/30/2023: John Heald provided an updated list and we’ve put the details below.

What is a Carnival theme party?

Several nights on a Carnival cruise, they host a party with a specific theme. The parties usually take place on the main Lido pool deck or in the ship’s Atrium area. Guests are encouraged to dress to fit the theme, but it’s not required. Unfortunately, Carnival only schedules 30 minutes for most of these events, which seems way too short for an event you go out of your way to dress up for. 

What types of theme parties are there?

There’s a variety of parties, here are some of the more popular ones.

White Hot Night Party

This is the easiest party to dress for; just wear white. The more, the better. White hats, glasses, watches, accessories, go all out. Most ships with a white party are equipped with black lights to make you pop. It’s an amazing experience to see a room full of people in glowing white dancing away. 

Mega Deck Party

This “mega” party will usually take place on the deck by the main pool if the weather allows. The music will be pumping, and Carnival’s fun squad will keep the energy up. There will be limbos, choreographed dances, and more. Carnival recommends wearing red or blue to this party, but we rarely see people dress up in theme for this one. 

80’s Rock & Glow

Get ready for lots of neon, leg warmers, and high hair. The 80’s Rock and Glow party celebrates everything 80’s. Usually taking place on the Lido Deck, the party features all your favorite music from the 80’s. It seems like one of the better attended and dressed for events on the cruise ship. 

Decades Theme Parties

Some ships will also have a theme party dedicated to a specific decade. Typically, in our experience, fewer people dress for these events, but they usually have a great turnout. 

Silent Night Disco

The Silent Night Disco is a recent addition to the Carnival fleet but has been on other cruise lines for some time. In a silent disco, you get a set of headphones to listen to the music. There’s a button to change between two different live streams of music on the headsets. That means you can be dancing next to someone who’s listening to a completely different song. If you really want to have fun, go without headphones and enjoy the surreal experience of seeing people dancing in a completely silent room. Well, not completely silent; you’ll have people singing along to the different tracks at the same time, which adds to the experience.  

What theme parties are on your Carnival cruise?

John Heald provided the list below in mid-March. Keep in mind these parties can change because of weather, change of cruise director, or adjustment of the cruise itinerary. Usually, you’ll get an email a few weeks before your cruise outlining the parties so you can be prepared. It’s frustrating that Carnival can’t just post this information in the online cruise planner to make it easy for everyone. They have a listing about it on their general website, but it’s outdated and hard to find.

Carnival Breeze

• Motown Showdown – Atrium
• Decades Atrium Party – Atrium
• 80’s Rock & Glow – Lido
• Rock the Promenade – Atrium
• Silent Disco – Lido

Carnival Celebration

• Evolution Party – Atrium (Center Stage)
• Motown Showdown Party – Atrium (Center Stage)
• White Hot Party – Lido

Carnival Conquest

• 80’s & 90’s Party – Atrium
• Mega Deck Party – Lido
• Motown Party – Atrium (4-day cruises only)

Carnival Dream

• 90’s Party – Atrium
• Silent White Night Party – Lido/Nightclub

Carnival Elation

• 80’s Party – Atrium
• Motown Trivia Party – Atrium

Carnival Freedom

• Decades Party – Atrium
• Motown Party – Atrium

Carnival Glory

• Getaway Island Afterparty – Atrium
• 70’s and Motown Music Party – Atrium
• White Hot Nights – Atrium

Carnival Horizon

• Farewell Music Party – Atrium
• Silent Disco Party – Lido
• White Night Party – Atrium

Carnival Jubilee

• 80’s Party- Lido
• Motown Party – Lido
• Tailgate Party – Lido
• Atrium/Center Stage parties to be announced

Carnival Legend

• Silent Party – Lido

Carnival Liberty

• 80’s Trivia Party – Atrium
• 70’s & Motown Trivia – Atrium (4-day sailings only)

Carnival Luminosa

• Backyard Bash – Lido (on sailings 8+ days)
• Decades Music Party – Ocean Plaza
• 80’s Rock & Glow Party – Lido
• Island Nights – Lido (on sailings 7+ days)
• Motown & 70’s Party – Ocean Plaza
• Silent White Night Party – Lido
• Superhero Party – Ocean Plaza

Carnival Magic

• Serenity Nights – Serenity Deck (8-night sailings)

Carnival Mardi Gras

• 90’s Party – Atrium (Center Stage)
• Tiki Fest (Hawaiian) – Lido
• Rock and Glow Party – Lido

Carnival Miracle

Schedule for 14-day journeys cruises.

• Ballroom Dancers – Atrium
• Hawaiian Appreciation Event – Atrium
• Luau Deck Party – Lido
• Sail Away Party – Lido
• Walk the Plank – Atrium

Carnival Panorama

• Farewell Party – Atrium
• Silent Night Disco – Lido
• White Night – Atrium

Carnival Paradise

• Fun Farewell – Atrium
• Rock the Promenade- Atrium

Carnival Pride

• 70’s & Motown Party – Atrium
• Silent Disco – Nightclub

Carnival Radiance

• 80’s Rock & Glow – Atrium
• White Party – Atrium

Carnival Spirit

• Silent White Party – Lido

Carnival Splendor

• Island Nights – Lido (on sailings 8+ days)
• Superhero Party – Atrium (on sailings 5+ days)
• White Hot Party – Lido (on sailings 6+ days)

Carnival Sunrise

• 80’s Rock and Glow Party – Lido
• Rock the Promenade – Atirum

Carnival Sunshine

Carnival valor.

• 90’s Trivia Party – Atrium

Carnival Venezia

• Festa Italiana – Lido
• Motown party – Atrium
• 90’s Party – Lido

Carnival Vista

• White Hot Party – Atrium

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Randy Young

Randy Young is the founder and editor-in-chief at Cruise Spotlight. He has been in marketing for 19 years and has been cruising for just as long. Over the years, he's worked with products like TVs, copiers, light bulbs, and EV chargers, but cruising has always been his passion. There's nothing Randy likes more than the first couple of hours on a ship, exploring every nook and cranny and seeing how it's different from everything else out there. He's known for providing detailed and analytical coverage of cruising to help cruisers get a comprehensive picture of a ship's offerings.

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Carnival Theme Parties 2024

by Prof. Cruise · Published May 25, 2023 · Updated February 11, 2024

Are Carnival Cruises Just Giant Parties?

I have a reputation for being cheap and nerdy and Carnival has a reputation for offering cruises with a wild, party atmosphere. So is either actually true?

Yes and partly. You’ll likely find me doing one of two things on a cruise. First, gorging on complimentary food and calculating how much the same meal would cost me on land in my home city of Seattle (sometimes I actually cheer when I determine I’ve reached the break even point on my cruise fare). And second, reading, walking while listening to an audiobook, or looking for wildlife on an outside deck. Cheap. Nerdy.

As for Carnival, it has somewhat embraced its reputation as the party cruise line by referring to vessels as “fun ships,” calling the daily onboard schedule of events the “Fun Times,” with its “Funderstruck” marketing campaign, and by offering onboard theme parties.

Know though that your experience on Carnival will vary depending on the specific ship, itinerary, and time of year. I once sailed with my toddler on a spring break Carnival cruise so wild I had to have the sex talk with him a decade earlier than planned. But I’ve also sailed on many Carnival cruises that have felt more peaceful and subdued (look for longer sailings and dates when school is in session). Regardless of which ship, itinerary, or time of year you sail though, you’ll find your fellow Carnival cruisers among the friendliest at sea and your ship will offer several onboard theme parties for those who like to dress up, let loose, dance, and have a good time.

While I nearly always sleep through them (see, nerd), you should definitely check out these parties if interested! So…

What are Theme Parties on Carnival Cruises?

Usually (but not always, so check your Fun Times schedule of events for the location) held in the evening near the main lido pool or in the atrium, theme parties are short (typically lasting around 30-45 minutes) and energetic gatherings led by the cruise director and Fun Squad with music and dancing consistent with a particular theme. Guests are encouraged to dress in accordance with the theme, but it’s not required. (Everything I own is from the 90’s, so I just show up to that party in my regular gear only to feel low-key offended when I hear: “Nailed it!”)

Themes include decades parties from the 70’s through the 90’s, Mega Deck where you can wear blue or red, White Hot where you can dress in white and dance amidst black lights, 80’s Rock and Glow where the Fun Squad will pass around glow sticks, Motown, Mardi Gras (sometimes including a parade), a Hawaiian themed Tiki Party, and Backyard Bash featuring country music and line dancing. Relatively new to Carnival are “silent” parties where music is played through provided headphones.

Which Theme Parties will be on my Carnival Cruise?

Here’s the schedule of planned theme parties by Carnival ship for 2024 (source: John Heald, Carnival’s Brand Ambassador). Keep in mind that these parties are at the discretion of the cruise director, so always double check your schedule once onboard.

Carnival Breeze Theme Parties 2024

• Rock the Promenade
• Motown Showdown
• Decades Atrium Party
• White Night Silent Party
• 80s Rock and Glow

Carnival Celebration Theme Parties 2024

• White Hot Party
• Motown Party
• Evolution Party

Carnival Conquest Theme Parties 2024

• 80s and 90s Party (3 and 4-night sailings)
• Motown Party (4-night sailings only)
• Mega Deck Party

Carnival Dream Theme Parties 2024

• Silent White Night Party

Carnival Elation Theme Parties 2024

• Motown Trivia Party

Carnival Freedom Theme Parties 2024

• Decades Party

Carnival Glory Theme Parties 2024

• 70’s and Motown Party
• Getaway Island Afterparty
• 80s Rock and Glow Party
• White Night Party

Carnival Horizon Theme Parties 2024

• Farewell Music Party
• Silent Disco Party

Carnival Jubilee Theme Parties 2024

• Lone Star Tailgate

Carnival Legend Theme Parties 2024

• Silent Party

Carnival Liberty Theme Parties 2024

• 80s Trivia Party (3-night cruises)
• 70s and Motown Trivia (4-night cruises)

Carnival Luminosa Theme Parties 2024

• Silent Night White Party
• Island Nights (7-nights and shorter sailings)
• Backyard Bash (8-night sailings and longer)
• Motown and 70s Party
• Decades Music Party
• Superhero Party

Carnival Magic Theme Parties 2024

• Serenity Nights (8-night cruises only)

Carnival Mardi Gras Theme Parties 2024

• Rock and Glow

Carnival Miracle Theme Parties 2024

14-night Cruises

• Ballroom Dancer Demonstrations
• Hawaiian Appreciation Event
• Sail Away Party
• Luau Deck Party
• Silent White Night

Carnival Panorama Theme Parties 2024

• White Party
• Farewell Party
• Silent Night Disco

Carnival Paradise Theme Parties 2024

• Rock the Prom
• Fun Farewell

Carnival Pride Theme Parties 2024

• Silent Disco
• Electric White Night
• 70s and Motown Party

Carnival Radiance Theme Parties 2024

Carnival splendor theme parties 2024.

• Superhero Party (5-night and longer sailings)
• White Hot Party (6-8 night sailings)
• 90s Party, Island Night (8-night and longer sailings)
• Backyard Bash (8-night and longer sailings)

Carnival Spirit Theme Parties 2024

• Silent White Party

Carnival Sunrise Theme Parties 2024

Carnival sunshine theme parties 2024, carnival valor theme parties 2024.

• 90s Trivia Party

Carnival Venezia Theme Parties 2024

• Festa Italiana

Carnival Vista Theme Parties 2024

What should i wear to my carnival cruise theme party.

You don’t have to dress at all (I mean dress up at all – even Carnival has some standards), can keep it simple, or go all out. Here are a few reasonably-priced ideas available to purchase on Amazon (click on the photo to pull them up)*:

Costume Ideas for a 70’s and Motown Theme Party

Costume Ideas for an 80’s Theme Party

Costume Ideas for an 90’s Theme Party

Costume Ideas for a White Hot Theme Party

Costume Ideas for a Backyard Bash (country) Theme Party

And with that…

Class Dismissed.

Don’t forget to PIN so you can refer back to this later and share with your traveling companions and social medial groups!

Homework (10 points): What’s a party without a few adult beverages? Find all the Carnival bar menus and drink prices HERE :

Carnival Bar Menus and Drink Prices 2024

And be sure to follow  Prof. Cruise  on your favorite social media sites:

Twitter  (@cruiseprof)

Instagram  (@profcruise)

TikTok  (profcruise)

*I earn a small commission on products purchased through links on my site at no extra cost to you, including through the Amazon Affiliates Program. All commissions go toward supporting the work of the website. Thank you for your support!

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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Carnival Celebration Captures Audiences with All-New Live Entertainment

When Carnival Celebration sets sail this November 2022 on Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages from the specially redesigned Terminal F at Port Miami, guests will be treat to never-before seen live entertainment.

Offered throughout the cruise, Carnival’s exciting new live evening entertainment is something that guests just won’t want to miss.

New Aerial, Multimedia, Game Shows and More

From new main gala production shows and nail-biting aerialist acts to game shows, parties and events, the ship’s new unique offerings were designed to be as much celebrations as they are performances. 

Guests can engage in new game shows and upbeat dance parties, witness new playful choreography with colorful scenes, and tons of fun.

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Carnival Celebration Live Entertainment for All

Guests should hold on to their brand-new theater seat and get ready to soar to new heights, or rather stage heights. Carnival Celebration debuts new and unique live entertainment. 

Passengers will love the exciting, fully immersive theatrical circus experience in The Most Magnificent Circus. 

Enjoy live painting with coordinated music and choreography while performers recreate classic love stories told through jazz, hip-hip, and iconic ballads in Color My World – An Indie Rock and Pop Love Story.

Also, Celebration will feature all-new high-energy parties. Toast to the night with Happy Hour at Latitudes Bar, a captivating Evolution mega-dance party spun by the ship’s pro DJ.

“At home, when the sun goes down, normally it’s time to wind down, but not on a Carnival cruise,” said Chris Nelson, vice president of entertainment for Carnival Cruise Line. “We wanted to give our guests new reasons to celebrate nights at sea with us on Carnival Celebration and have designed a collection of new shows and other types of entertainment where eye-catching aerialists, cutting-edge technology and next-level talent will dazzle our guests every evening.”

From new theatrical performances to hilarious game shows, parties and events, Carnival Celebration is true to her name.

Each act onboard the ship is as unique as it is high-energy, high-flying, and hyped-up. Be ready to tap your feet, clap your hands, and be visually amazed while having all the fun Carnival is famous for creating. 

Performances from the new  Playlist Productions  and Center Stage entertainment include:

• The Most Magnificent Circus  – Taking talent to new heights, wire-rigged performers will showcase their skills and soar above and beyond the audience, creating action in every direction. 
• Color My World  – An Indie Rock and Pop Love Story – The artistic love story will blend fun dance styles such as street jazz, hip-hop, musical theater, and ballet with the best songs from indie rock and pop genres. Additionally, Celestial Strings and Latin rhythms in the Cuban-meets-Latin Amor Cubano shows will be performed providing a dynamic choice of musical entertainment throughout the cruise. 
• Visual Symphony Debuts in December  – This innovative show will use Celebration Central’s 16 massive moving LED screens, lasers, and classical rock music to create a high-tech visual masterpiece. 
• Rio Carnival Debuts in May 2023  – A vibrant and high-energy Brazilian extravaganza will have guests moving their hips in a parade and celebration of music and dance as the cast performs authentic Brazilian dance to some of the most famous Latin pop songs of all time.

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While Carnival still plans to keep classics like  Family Feud Live, Deal or No Deal and the Love and Marriage game shows, new interactive evening shows will now feature: 

• What’s Age Got to Do With It  – fun for everyone, this question and answer trivia show, one parent and their child will have to prove they are the best family duo.
• Cash Bash  – the casino team offers guests a chance to win real cash prizes. Compete in Fun Squad challenges and activities to win!
• Guess That Groove  – guests will show off their dance moves of classic tunes – get ready to boogie!

Carnival Celebration sets sail from PortMiami on November 21, 2022 with a 6-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary. 

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Home » Cruise » Carnival Cruise Line » Carnival Celebration » Best Things to Do on Carnival Celebration

Best Things to Do on Carnival Celebration

With a number of free things to do and some activities that will cost extra, we highlight our best things to do on Carnival Celebration.

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Carnival Cruise Line’s newest mega-ship, Carnival Celebration is 19 decks of fun, food, and drinks. Similar to her sister ship, Mardi Gras, this 180K+ gross ton ship is home to 6 different zones, over a dozen bars, and 20 eateries. After having sailed on the  inaugural cruise  on this ship, we put together our list of the Best Things to Do on Carnival Celebration.

Free Things to Do on Carnival Celebration

Brave the ropes course.

Located in SportSquare, the SkyCourse is suspended over Deck 18. This 230 foot long ropes course includes two tracks, with varying levels of easy to difficult challenges.

On the portside of the course, there is a small zip line for those looking to swing over the edge of the ship. On the starboard side, there is a plank that extends over the edge of the ship for some great selfies, if you don’t dare to look down!

The attraction is open to those 48” or taller with a weight limit of 300 lbs. Cruisers can complete multiple laps around the Course if they want. And, the best part is that it is one of the many free things to do on Carnival Celebration.

Splash down the waterslides

Central to the Ultimate Playground Zone on Deck 18 not far from the SkyCourse is Carnival Waterworks. Along with several water features for the little kids in the Splash Zone, the waterpark is home to a 150 gallon Power Drencher bucket and slides for toddlers.

For those 42” or taller, there are more thrilling slides as well. There is a traditional body slide; this yellow Carnival Twister is 265 feet long with several spiraling twists and turns. The Blue Lightning is a 312 foot long headfirst mat slide and was perhaps our favorite.

Additionally, for those 48” or taller, the 239 foot long Orange Thunder drop slide does offer the most thrilling start to any of the rides.

Putt a round of mini golf

The Ultimate Playground wouldn’t be complete without some mini golf as well. Aft on Deck 18 is the 9-hole mini-golf course on Carnival Celebration. While the course is not as well themed as we would have expected for a family oriented cruise line, it is still a lot of fun.

Further, it is complimentary and open most of the day. Thus, it is another one of the great free things to do on Carnival Celebration.

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS: Get Deals on Carnival Celebration Cruises!

Sample all the complimentary dining options

There are  several dining options  that are  included in your cruise fare with Carnival. The newest ships in the fleet offer a plethora of casual fare.

Perhaps the two most popular casual spots to grab a bite to eat are Guy’s Burger Joint and Shaq’s Big Chicken. There’s also BlueIguana Cantina, Street Eats, and the Lido Marketplace buffet all located near the main pool deck.

Guy’s Burger Joint features fresh off the grill burgers and fries with a toppings bar for you to customize your meal to perfection. Shaq’s Big Chicken delivers amazing chicken sandwiches, fries, and chicken tenders. Shaq’s Chicken even offers breakfast sandwiches on buttermilk biscuits.

BlueIguana Cantina offers custom made burritos, bowls, and tacos for breakfast and lunch, complete with a fully stocked salsa bar. Nearby on the pool deck is also Street Eats with 3 food truck-like stalls serving small plates which rotate daily.

If that’s not enough, located in the vibrant 820 Biscayne zone on Carnival Celebration, Miami Slice is your go-to spot for pizza. This eatery is open daily from 9 AM to 4 AM to fulfill your cravings any time of day. Adjacent to Miami Slice, you will find Deco Deli, a counter-style sandwich shop serving up a menu of traditional deli sandwiches along with some Miami and Cuban favorites.

Let’s not forget that there are also three soft serve ice cream stations on Carnival Celebration. So, you better board this cruise ship hungry!

Indulge in a multi-course dinner in the MDR

Like most cruise lines, Carnival also offers daily sit-down meals in the main dining room. You can opt for Assigned Dining with an early or late seating or Your Time Dining for more flexibility. With this option, cruisers can dine whenever they want at various locations by joining a virtual queue in the Carnival HUB app whenever they are ready to eat.

Festivale and Carnivale are the two main dining rooms on Carnival Celebration. Each features multi-course menus that change nightly.

Additionally, Cucina del Capitano and Chibang! are complimentary on Carnival Celebration giving cruisers more options.

Chibang! is an eclectic restaurant that mixes up Chinese and Mexican favorites for one diverse and delicious meal. Chibang is open for lunch on sea days and dinner nightly.

Cucina del Capitano serves a small menu of appetizers, soups, and pizza, along with a create your own pasta bowl section for lunch. At dinner, cruisers can enjoy favorites like Nonna’s meatball, chicken parm, short rib, and tiramisu.

Relax by the pools

Carnival Celebration has a pool to fit every mood. So, relaxing by the pool is almost mandatory during your cruise.

The Beach Pool is the central attraction of the Lido Deck and a hub of activity during the day. The Fun Squad regularly hosts events here, like sing a longs and the sail away party. There’s also a DJ and other musicians to keep the fun vibe going. There are plenty of loungers surrounding the pool as well.

Aft on Deck 16 is the Tides Pool. This pool offers some amazing aft views and is surrounded by several loungers and two whirlpools. If you are looking for a quieter Lido Deck vibe, you should head to this pool.

In the Summer Landing zone on Deck 8, cruisers can find an infinity pool overlooking the wake. With loungers, and even a few in-pool seats, this is a perfect escape from the often loud and busy Lido deck. On the starboard side, you will even find whirlpools overlooking the side of the ship and the Watering Hole Bar.

Score some adult time in the Serenity Retreat

On Deck 18 forward, there is the massive Serenity Retreat. This adults only space is one of the largest 18+ pool decks we have ever seen. It is also one of the most thoughtfully designed.

With two whirlpools, one on each side of the ship, the space includes a mix of loungers, day beds, oversized seabeds, and more. Encompassing close to a third of the front of the ship, there is plenty of shade and sun.

Central to the Serenity Adults Only retreat is a pool, the Serenity Bar, and Fresh Creations. The Serenity Bar features its own specialty drink menu, while Fresh Creations is a small salad bar open on sea days.

With everything that you could possibly need, spending a sea day in the Serenity Retreat on Carnival Celebration is a must.

Attend the Playlist Productions

Carnival Cruise line is known for its Playlist Productions. On Carnival Celebration, these shows are performed in both the Grand Spectrum Theater and on Center Stage in Celebration Central. They consist of Amor Cubano, Color My World, Celestial Strings, and The Most Magnificent Circus.

These theater shows are your typical cruise ship revue shows with singing and dancing, but still fun to watch. Center Stage does feature the more dynamic shows, but seating fills up very quickly here. So, make sure to show up extremely early if you even want a chance at securing prime seats.

Laugh it up at Punchliner Comedy Club

The Punchliner Comedy Club is home to several comedians throughout the week. The club is typically only open in the evenings for adult comedy shows. The small theater consists of a stage with cozy booths and plenty of other additional seating near the stage. So, there’s not a bad seat in the house.

Before the show, you can grab a drink from the small themed menu. With cocktails like the signature Punchliner and the Jokester, it’s sure to be a good night.

On multiple nights, there were comedy shows in the Limelight Lounge and main theater as well.

Enjoy live music around the ship

On Carnival Celebration, there is no shortage of entertainment. One of our favorite evening activities is always enjoying the live music around a ship.

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse features all your BBQ favorites and signature brews with a side of live country rock music. There’s also musicians in the Deck 6 Latitudes Bar and Golden Jubilee Bar, including guitarists and a string trio.

Not to mention, there’s sing-a-long piano tunes in Piano88 Bar and Latin hits in the Havana Bar.

No matter your preference, you are sure to find a spot to settle in and enjoy the live music.

Check out the new bars

When it comes to bars , Carnival Celebration has all the favorites like the 2-story RedFrog Tiki Bar, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Brewhouse, and the Alchemy Bar with handcrafted elixirs. However, there are also plenty of new bars to check out on this ship. That’s why a bar crawl is certainly one of the best things to do on Carnival Celebration.

Yes, the drinks will cost you extra money. But, Carnival has the reasonably priced Cheers package so you don’t have to worry about the bar tab at the end of your cruise.

A few of the new must-visit spots are Bar 820, the Latitudes Bar, and the Golden Jubilee Bar.

Looking for a Cuban coffee or a mojito? Bar 820 is the place to go for a pre-dinner or post dinner drink. At the Golden Jubilee Bar, cruisers can take a step back to the golden age of cruising. From the historical pieces from the cruise line’s history to live classical music, this martini bar was one of our favorite spots on the ship.

The Latitudes Bar, in the heart of the Gateway Zone, is meant to resemble a classic railway station. Complete with a flickering sign, it offers a signature cocktail menu featuring classic drinks from around the world.

People watch in Celebration Central

At the center of the ship on Decks 6, 7, and 8, you will find the three-story zone known as Celebration Central. Celebration Central showcases floor-to-ceiling windows, 14-foot LED screens, and a ceiling of 1,400 color-changing lights. This multi-purpose space hosts a variety of activities day and night.

Further, this zone features a variety of restaurants, bars, and lounges. With the nearby Java Blue Café and Tropicale Bar on Deck 6 or the Aquaria Bar on Deck 7, this area makes for the ideal people-watching spot.

You can grab a coffee or a drink and settle into the comfy furniture located here to admire the views on a sea day. Or, you can take part in all the activities that occur here. From game shows, to productions, to dance parties, there’s never a dull moment.

SCORE BIG: Carnival Celebration Cruises on Sale!

Make it a game night

Speaking of activities, the FUN squad on Carnival Celebration hosts several game shows throughout the cruise. Many of them are free to participate, while a few do cost extra money like Deal or No Deal and Bingo.

Perhaps the most popular game show is Family Feud. This television show is brought to life in the Grand Spectrum Theater and is certainly one of the best free things to do on Carnival Celebration. Whether you audition to actually play the game or are a spectator in the audience, survey says this game show is a fun night out.

Of course, there are also other cruise staples like trivia, the Love and Marriage game show, Majority Rules, and more.

Attend the parties

If that’s not enough, the FUN squad also hosts a variety of parties throughout the cruise. From the lively Sail Away party on embarkation day to the Mega Deck Party, the pool deck on Carnival Celebration is one of the most happening spots on the ship.

There’s also the Evolution mega dance party led by the DJ spinning club hits which is sure to get you up on your feet.

Of course, there are plenty of other opportunities for some dancing while onboard. From dance classes, to live music, karaoke, and a DJ spinning hits nightly, get ready to party on Carnival Celebration.

Savor some Sea Day Brunch

With all the late night parties and dancing, you might find yourself sleeping in a bit, especially on sea days. When you do decide to roll out of bed, Carnival features an amazing Sea Day Brunch in the main dining room that is not to be missed.

This Sea Day Brunch is completely free for all guests and features a number of your favorite breakfast and lunch dishes. With classics like eggs benedict and omelets, to fried chicken or steak and eggs, there’s plenty of options to enjoy.

There are also some signature specials like the skillet cake and 12 hour French toast. With whipped ricotta, guava preserve, marshmallow, and maple butter, we highly recommend the skillet cake.

Spend some family time at Dr. Suess Bookville

If you are cruising with the kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities as well. If you are looking for a little educational fun, head to Dr. Suess Bookville.

Dr. Seuss Bookville is a unique and dedicated Seuss-themed family reading and play space featuring iconic décor, colors, and funky furniture inspired by the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss.

Kids can read one of many available Dr. Seuss books or enjoy the other family-fun activities including Dr. Seuss board games and puzzles.

Watch a movie on the Lido Deck

Looking for more family fun? How about a movie on the Lido Deck. Perched above the pool is the ship’s seaside theater where family-friendly films are shown day and night. All showtimes can be found in the Carnival HUB app or in the print copy of the daily schedule.

There’s nothing more relaxing than enjoying a movie under the stars with the family. The best part is that these movies don’t cost a dime. They are just another one of the many free things to do on Carnival Celebration.

Be sure to bring some snacks along to enjoy during the flick.

Embark on a journey in the Gateway

New to Carnival Celebration is the Gateway Zone. This area is your starting point to international destinations and flavors with a variety of restaurants and bars.

With inspiration from locations around the world, the Gateway features digital enhancements that transport cruisers to destinations across the globe. Cruisers will find a rotating selection of vistas brilliantly displayed on the LED windows. There are even themed nights like Abroad in Europe, Far East Voyage, and Mexico Lindo.

So, be sure to embark on a journey in the Gateway during your time on Carnival Celebration.

Best Things to Do on Carnival Celebration That Will Cost Extra

Ride the only coaster at sea.

Bolt is an all electric rollercoaster suspended high above Carnival Celebration. This coaster is 800 feet long and offers some stunning views as it circles the open aft deck. While this activity is an up-charge, we can attest that it is certainly one of the best things to do on Carnival Celebration.

During our cruise on Celebration, the price for Bolt was $15 for one ride which included two loops. There are two cars, each accommodating two guests, that are launched at the same time.

Cruisers can control the speed of the car and even use the 15 seconds of boost to speed their way around the track.

Dine at a specialty restaurant

While Carnival Celebration does have a number of complimentary dining options, certainly more than most mega-ships of today, the ship also features some specialty restaurants that shouldn’t be overlooked.

On Carnival Celebration, you will find the popular Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Teppanyaki, along with Rudi’s Seagrill, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, and Emeril’s Bistro 1397. If you plan to dine at any of these Carnival Celebration restaurants, you should make reservations pre-cruise, as popular dining times do fill up quickly.

Emeril’s Bistro is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner serving New Orleans themed cuisine at a la carte prices. The beignets are a must-try!

The menu at Fahrenheit 555 features upscale offerings like shrimp cocktail and premium cuts of beef, making it a great option for an elegant night out. If you’re a seafood lover, Chef Rudi Sodamin brings his creations to life at Rudi’s Seagrill. 

Spend a day at the spa

If you like to pamper yourself while on vacation, then a spa day is definitely one of the best things to do on Carnival Celebration. Yes, the spa services will cost you extra money, but sometimes it’s worth paying for some rejuvenation.

At the Cloud 9 Spa and Thermal Suite, will find your typical treatment rooms, where you can book massages, facials, and other beauty treatments. There is also a thermal suite with heated loungers, a sauna, steam room, salt room, hydro-pool, and more.

Don’t you feel more relaxed just thinking about it?

Take a cooking class

For cruisers looking to up their cooking skills, the Carnival Kitchen offers signature cooking classes lead by the chefs onboard Carnival Celebration. These small, intimate classes range from cupcake decorating to learning how to host the perfect tailgate.

The venue looks like the stage of a cooking show that you might see on the Food Network. Let’s hope whatever you create is equally appealing. After all, cruisers get to dine on their creations after each class!

If you are interested in booking one of these cooking classes in Carnival Kitchen, you should refer to your online cruise planner or make a reservation as soon as you board the ship on embarkation day .

Join in the fun at the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast

If you are cruising with the kids, the Green Eggs and Ham breakfast is a fun family activity. This Dr. Seuss themed event is an up-charge but a lot of fun. With appearances from Thing 1, Thing 2, and The Cat in the Hat, it’s a truly fantastical feast.

The Green Eggs and Ham breakfast is offered one day of the cruise at 8:30 and 9:45 AM in the Carnivale restaurant. This special breakfast features menu items like Horton’s cereal crusted French toast, pancake stacks, steak and eggs, and of course, green eggs and ham.

Get creative at the Build-a-Bear Workshop

The popular Build-a-Bear Workshop can also be found at sea onboard Carnival ships. Your little ones will love this hands-on activity where they can use their creativity to bring a stuffed animal to life.

They can customize their own furry creation by choosing the animal, clothes, accessories, and more during the workshop. There are even Carnival exclusive designs, making this a great souvenir from the family vacation.

The Build-a-Bear Workshop is offered on sea days for an additional fee.

Upgrade to the Havana

All the way forward on deck 8 are the Havana cabins. Featuring its own unique décor and private sun deck, the Havana is an exclusive area of the ship reserved just for guests staying in these select cabins.

The Havana sundeck is on the starboard side and features loungers, some oversized furniture, as well as a pool, whirlpool, and bar. Passengers staying in the Havana receive wrist bands which provide them access to this private area.

If you want all the amenities of a megaship, but still want to be able to escape the crowds, you should consider upgrading to a Havana cabin. The Havana offers a variety of cabin categories from interior, to cabana, to suite.

BOOK NOW: Exclusive Discounts on Carnival Celebration Cruises!

What are your best things to do on Carnival Celebration? Did we miss a must-do activity on our list? Drop us an anchor below to share your favorite moments from sailing on Carnival’s newest cruise ship.

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DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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Deck Parties

Already known for hosting the best deck parties at sea, Carnival takes it to another level - come and join the fun outdoors, up on deck!

Sail Away Party

Join your Cruise Director to kick off your vacation in true island style .. it's time to say "Adios"... "Hello Fun!"

Following the Safety Briefing and as the ship sets sail, gather at Lido Deck midship for some fun with our cruise staff - our resident DJ gets the party started with music, dancing and drink specials!

Mega Deck Party

Looking for a party you’ll never forget? We’ve got just the thing. Join the Fun Squad for fun and dancing. Smiling ear to ear is a common side effect. The Mega Deck Party is an island inspired party that celebrates the fun and spirit of RedFrog and BlueIguana - the colorful namesake characters from our poolside watering holes. Up for some pool volleyball? The Fun Squad will get you on your feet for line dancing and Limbo - " how low can you go ?". Join in and wear red or blue clothing in honor of some of our favorite places to have a drink!  

The Mega Deck Party is featured on cruises six days and longer (that feature two deck parties). On shorter cruises, it may be featured as the only deck party or replaced with the 80s Night. 80s Night Deck Party

A totally bodacious deck party with awesome giveaways, a rad 80s themed dance contest, a tubular 80s pop concert with our onboard Rock band and of course, the Thriller dance!  

The 80s Rock-N-Glow Party is a high energy, fun and unique experience that showcases our exciting musical offerings. Whether you rock up to the party in leg warmers, neon pink shirts, big gold chains and even bigger hair, you will be welcomed to dance the night away on the open deck!

The 80s Rock-N-Glow Party is featured on cruises six days and longer (that feature two deck parties). On shorter cruises, it may be featured as the only deck party or replaced with the Mega Deck Party.  

White Hot Night Party

The fun on a Carnival cruise may start at sunrise, but that doesn’t mean it comes to an end when the sun goes down. On one night of your cruise, your cruise director will be throwing a White Hot Night Party… and you’re invited! So when packing for your cruise, remember what an amazing photo op this will be and bring your favorite, most fun… even quirkiest white clothing and matching accessories. Keep the theme going head to toe, if you can. We’re counting on you to help us heat up this amazing night of dancing, giveaways, fun and more!

The White Hot Night Party is featured on cruises six days and longer; on some shorter cruises, it may be featured.  

Lone Star Tailgate Party

A Texas-sized deck party, will take over the Carnival Jubilee's Lido Deck. Celebrating the spirit of all-things Texas, the three-hour tailgate is divided into four quarters – much like a football game – with the energy of a country fairground and rodeo, with games and giveaways that promise fun for guests of all ages. This isn’t just a party – it’s a celebration of family, fierce competition and crowd-pleasing fun!

The Lone Star Tailgate Party is featured on the Carnival Jubilee. 

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Carnival Celebration: What we loved and what needs work on Carnival's newest, biggest ship

For its 50th birthday, Carnival Cruise Line gave itself a celebration — specifically, the just-unveiled Carnival Celebration, the second ship in the line's Excel class. And it's clear that Celebration isn't your mother's, or grandmother's, Carnival cruise ship, taking the company into its next half-century with a more modern, updated version of Carnival's "Fun Ship" style. Carnival referenced this evolution when it chose Cassidy Gifford, daughter of Carnival's original spokeswoman Kathie Lee Gifford, as godmother of the ship, closing the books on the old era and welcoming in the new.

To be fair, most of Carnival Celebration's modern updates were debuted on sister vessel Mardi Gras , which launched in 2021. Carnival Celebration is now the second ship in the fleet to be powered by liquefied natural gas. It's also the biggest ship Carnival has ever sailed, along with Mardi Gras, carrying 5,282 passengers at double occupancy.

Gone is the line's iconic soaring atrium, replaced by the three-deck-high Celebration Central with panoramic windows looking out to sea. Guy Fieri is no longer the only celebrity chef in town; he's joined by Shaquille O'Neal and Emeril Lagasse. Carnival's thrilling water parks now have to make room for a top-deck roller coaster, and the RedFrog Pub has been replaced by the indoor hangout in the Summer Landing zone.

The ship is also the second Carnival vessel to bear the Celebration name. The first, known simply as Celebration, set sail for the line in 1987. It left the fleet in 2008 before ending up with Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line as Grand Celebration, which was scrapped during the industry's pandemic pause in 2021. Now, Carnival Celebration resurrects the name to offer more fun to more people.

TPG was on board Carnival Celebration's second sailing and the first from its Miami home port to the Caribbean. Here, I'll outline what's new, what we loved and what could use some tweaks.

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

Things to know about Carnival Celebration

Carnival Celebration is divided into six themed zones, three of which are different from the zones on Mardi Gras. Some zones feel more distinct and self-contained than others. The zones are:

Celebration Central

Celebration Central incorporates the atrium/performance area of the same name, JavaBlue Cafe, Bonsai Sushi, Bonsai Teppanyaki, Piano Bar 88 and the Punchliner Comedy Club. You'll also find the new Aquaria Bar, featuring two-deck glass murals rescued from Carnival Victory, and the Tropicale Bar on Deck 6, named after former ship Tropicale, which was the first ship in Carnival's fleet to have the brand's well-known whale-tail funnel. Look for the vintage blue 1934 Rolls-Royce, brought over from Carnival Ecstasy before that ship was scrapped, and the Golden Jubilee Bar, named in honor of the line's 50th anniversary and decorated with pieces formerly found on past Carnival ships.

Related: Why I'm sad Carnival is retiring its oldest ship

820 Biscayne

A nod to the address where Carnival Cruise Line was born 50 years ago, Carnival Celebration's 820 Biscayne zone is designed with a purposeful Miami vibe. Located on Deck 8 midship, this new area is a dining mecca, featuring Rudi's Seagrill (seafood), Cucina del Capitano (Italian), Miami Slice (pizza) and Deco Deli (Latin-inspired sandwiches). The area also includes Bar 820, serving Cuban-inspired coffee drinks and cocktails.

The Gateway

The new travel-inspired neighborhood The Gateway on decks 6 and 7 midship is most noticeable for its LED "windows" that display scenes from countries around the world, depending on the evening's theme. The new train station-inspired Latitudes Bar and returning Emeril's Bistro 1397 anchor this area, with the popular pharmacy-themed Alchemy Bar above. Emeril's serves Louisiana-style breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as three evening specials based on the day's international theme.

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

Also in this area are the Carnivale Restaurant and Festivale Restaurant, main dining rooms that pay homage to the second and third ships to sail for the brand, as well as the Limelight Lounge nightclub, Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse and Carnival Kitchen (a demo kitchen for cooking classes).

Summer Landing

Aft of 820 Biscayne, Summer Landing makes a comeback on Carnival Celebration. This area is your living room and backyard. Inside, the Heroes Tribute Bar, with its comfy couches and giant TV, spills into Guy Fieri's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse; you'll find soft-serve machines in a military truck, a game room for foosball and table shuffleboard and a stage for live music. Outside, a small pool, two hot tubs and the Watering Hole provide an inviting spot to hang out on a hot day.

The Ultimate Playground

Thrill chasers will flock to the Ultimate Playground to get their hearts pounding. Here, the Bolt roller coaster , the second in the fleet, zooms over the mini-golf course and around the water park and ship's funnel. A packed basketball course and an elevated ropes course keep the fun going; foosball, ping pong and bean bag toss offer an easier form of competition. A jogging track encircles the entire Deck 18 playground.

For all other outdoor pursuits, the Lido is your go-to spot. The midship pool brings back Dive-In Movies on a giant LED screen and is surrounded by a two-deck RedFrog Tiki Bar, Street Eats, BlueIguana Cantina, Seafood Shack and, one deck up, Guy's Burger Joint. Aft of the Lido Marketplace buffet is another pool, plus Shaq's Big Chicken . All the way forward on Deck 18 is the adults-only Serenity Deck, with a pool, two hot tubs and the Fresh Creations custom salad bar. Above is the Loft 19 sun deck exclusive to suite guests.

What we loved

I've seen ships from other lines where the top-deck attractions take up so much space, the pools and lounging space get short shrift. Carnival Celebration manages to pack a lot into the Deck 18 playground, leaving plenty of real estate for the sun worshippers. The Bolt roller coaster is a worthy thrill ride — my only complaint is that for $15, it could be a bit longer. The ropes course manages to be both scary and completely manageable; you might feel like you'll fall, but the obstacles are easier than they appear. Definitely try the short zip line and "walk the plank" over the edge of the ship.

Related: The 8 types of Carnival ships, explained

The water park has three different slides to suit all tastes plus a splash park, and the mini-golf course is a fun time and actually tricky. I saw everyone from little kids to adults enjoying the basketball court, and Carnival lost the ridiculous outdoor exercise equipment from its Vista-class ships and kept only the games cruisers actually play.

Casual dining

One of my favorite things about Carnival is that the line's ships offer a diversity of casual, included dining venues. Carnival Celebration continues this tradition. New with the Excel class is Shaquille O'Neal's Big Chicken venue serving variations on the fried-chicken-and-biscuit theme from breakfast through the late afternoon. The slightly spicy tenders are delicious. Carnival's pizza is some of the best in the biz, and the customizable tacos and burritos at BlueIguana offer something for everyone.

However, I've been on older Carnival ships where all the casual venues are on the lido deck, and the area gets incredibly busy at lunchtime. Too many people crowd into the same spaces, lines snake around corners and bumps and spills are unavoidable.

Related: 7 secret Carnival cruise breakfast spots that let you skip the buffet crowds

The Excel-class ships solve that problem by spreading out the casual venues across multiple decks. Guy's Burger Joint is up on Deck 17 instead of by the midship pool; Big Chicken is outside the Lido Marketplace at the very back of Deck 16. Each is accompanied by a duo of soft-serve machines that get heavy use.

The deli, pizza and Guy's barbecue eateries are all on Deck 8, with a third ice cream outlet in the Heroes Tribute Bar. The only issue with this arrangement is that neither of these spots are big on vegetables; you can no longer get a salad at the pizza venue. If you want some greens with your pizza or turkey sandwich, you have to travel seven decks to the Lido Marketplace.

Sit-down dining

If you've never sailed with Carnival, you might be surprised to discover that it has some of the best sit-down dining among the big-ship lines. I have always enjoyed the main dining room, and Carnival Celebration continued the tradition of expansive breakfast menus, delicious Indian food, daring appetizers (where else can you order frog legs?) and the best molten chocolate cake on the high seas.

We sampled a few of Celebration's specialty restaurants, and they also impressed. Rudi's Seagrill delivered an enormous cioppino and a Dover sole that was soft and moist. Emeril's Bistro 1397 wowed my husband with a flavorful ceviche, while I enjoyed hot-from-the-oven beignets. We dined at Chibang! twice to try both its Asian and Mexican specialties. Both were delicious but we agreed that the Mexican menu stole the show. My kids slurped up pasta at Cucina del Capitano at lunch, and I heard others rave that the steakhouse was as good as I remember from other ships.

Carnival's Excel-class ships offer more cabin types than ever before, with family cabins, Havana cabins with patio swings, and all kinds of suites. I stayed in a standard balcony cabin with my family of four and was impressed by how well designed the room was to accommodate four people in a small space.

I'm always talking about cabin storage and Carnival nailed it. Its four-section closet had it all: tall and short hanging spaces, shelves and three pullout drawers. The desk area has two deep drawers and one shallow drawer, two shelves and an ottoman stool with storage inside. I had to ask for extra hangers (quickly delivered), but all our stuff found a home.

Related: Everything to know about Carnival cabins and suites

The bathroom was also impressive. I'm not sure two people could stand next to each other without someone stepping into the shower, but the shower itself is roomy for a bathroom that small. I never banged my elbows or kicked open the door in an attempt to pick a bottle off the floor. Plus, it has an adjustable shower head with a removable wand and a shave bar in one corner — thoughtful touches.

As a professional traveler, it's not a huge surprise that one of my favorite public areas on the ship is the travel-themed The Gateway. The Latitudes Bar called my name with its seatbacks decorated with faux passport stamps and split-flap departure board signage. My husband and I spent an enjoyable hour trying a couple of the bar-specific cocktails, inspired by countries around the world. For a photogenic and tasty tipple, order the Sakura, which comes with a surprise presentation.

And as a cruise buff, I also loved the new Golden Jubilee Bar, decorated with doors, glass, tabletops and other pieces from previous Carnival ships. It serves classic cocktails and takes up its own space, rather than spanning a public thoroughfare. It's the perfect place for a drink before a meal in the Carnivale main dining room next door.

Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival cruising

The Summer Landing zone on Carnival Celebration is the ship's living room, and my family found ourselves there often. My son was a big fan of the foosball and table shuffleboard, and my daughter loved the aft pool, with its loungers in the shallows. Both loved the easy-access soft-serve machine. We swung by Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse for breakfast and barbecue dinner, played trivia, sampled beers brewed right on board and watched other people watch sports at the Heroes Tribute Bar. I was bummed that I never got to hear the band that played here after-hours because the setting is perfect for kicking back with a drink and listening to live music.

The area takes the place of the RedFrog Pub, a venue I've loved on other Carnival ships. The decor here is a little darker, but the expanded size and proximity to a pool, hot tubs and outdoor seating are a definite plus.

Unlike their fleetmates, Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras both skip the soaring, multi-deck-high central atrium and replace it with a three-deck-high ocean-facing atrium along the ship's starboard (right-hand) side. The area was revamped and renamed Celebration Central area on this ship, decorated with color-changing lights designed to look like confetti. Guest services and shore excursions have been moved out of this central area to a more out-of-the-way spot on Deck 8 aft.

By day, panoramic windows offer port and ocean views to guests enjoying coffee and a snack from the JavaBlue Cafe across from Celebration Central's lower level. At night, video screens come down to serve as the high-tech animated backdrop for musical production shows featuring multiple aerialists and performers who dance in and out of passengers sitting closest to the stage.

Related: How to make the most of Carnival's loyalty program

I loved how the atrium area is now more incorporated into the daily flow of the ship, rather than an area you pass by to get somewhere else. The shows are stunning, with the action extending beyond the stage, including into the air. They make full use of the high-tech capabilities of the performance space.

However, the area lacks seating with full sightlines of both the stagebound singers and the aerialists. My family arrived at a show 40 minutes early and only by luck found close-up seats with obstructed views. At another show I attended solo, I found a lone seat in the stadium-style section of banquettes between decks 7 and 8. Even in this area clearly meant for show watching, I could not see all the action, and the noise from passengers wandering around Deck 8 and coming in and out of Bonsai Sushi was loud and distracting.

The hotel director assures me his team will find ways to schedule shows so fewer people show up, but I'm not convinced that enough seats in Celebration Central have full sight of the stage or that putting a theater in a public space is the best idea for focusing on a show.

Dining times

I appreciate what Carnival has tried to do on this ship to make flexible dining more accessible. In addition to the main dining room, passengers who have selected the Anytime Dining plan can enjoy dinner at Cucina del Capitano or Chibang! where they can choose dishes from the restaurant's menu or the always-available options from the main dining room menu.

You can request a table at a specific venue or choose the first available among all three.

The problem is that guests on the early or late assigned dining plan cannot access those restaurants before 7:45 p.m. We were assigned early dining, so the night we wanted to try Chibang! we requested a table exactly at 7:45 p.m — but there was a 50-to-60-minute wait, which led to a very late dinner for our kids.

And that wasn't the only restaurant with a wait. You can't request a table in advance for Bonsai Sushi, but when my husband and son came for dinner at 8:20 p.m., the hostess wasn't sure she could get them a table until close to 10 p.m.

It's likely that many of these dining issues are startup problems. The hotel director told me that it takes around six months for a new ship to be running like clockwork. So if you're on an early sailing, my advice is to dine early or request tables half an hour to an hour before you want to eat. If you like to try out different restaurants for dinner, choose the flexible dining option so you get earlier access to Chibang! and Cucina del Capitano for dinner.

Bottom line

Carnival Celebration, like Mardi Gras, takes the Carnival Fun Ship concept to the next level with a bigger ship and an updated layout that still hold true to the line's core values of dining variety, plentiful bars, entertainment for all interests and a focus on fun. Loyalists will find many of their favorite places and spaces and come to develop new beloved hangouts, while first-timers will be wowed by the nonstop options, livable cabins across all price points and the always-friendly and helpful crew members.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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You know how, in the world of Dr. Seuss ® , things can get… perhaps a bit wonderfully backwards or upside down? Well, the mischievous Thing 1 and Thing 2 are having a birthday party at sea — on your cruise — but in typical Seuss style they’ll actually be celebrating YOU. That’s right! Whether your birthday is near, was last week, or even last year, we want to celebrate your uniqueness at Thing 1 & Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast!

You’re going to find that special spirit all throughout the party, so get ready to celebrate as you enjoy unforgettable interactions with the stars of Dr. Seuss, fun music… and let’s not forget the delicious menu. It’s packed with dishes that are as fun to say as they are to eat, like One Berry, Two Berry, Strawberry And Peach Waffles; Who-Ville Red Velvet French Toast; and of course: Do You Like Green Eggs And Ham? This meal is proof: it is fun to have yums, but you have to know how!

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

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Choosing a Carnival cruise ship is no simple task, especially if you’re new to cruising. As one of the largest cruise brands in the world, Carnival Cruise Line has more than two dozen vessels in its fleet, offering everything from megaship adventures to smaller-ship experiences. Many variables — price, embarkation dates, travel companions, ship size and amenities, and destination — can shape the way you make your choice.

So, what is the best Carnival cruise ship? Here are my picks for the top options in several categories.

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Mardi Gras: Best Carnival cruise ship for families

The best Carnival cruise ship for kids is undoubtedly Mardi Gras . Not only is it one of Carnival’s newest vessels, but it’s also one of the largest, and it has tons of activities to keep families with children busy.

At the expansive kids club, daily programming includes scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, and video games. The club draws in young cruisers and gives them space to make friends and play with peers. Beyond the dedicated kids facilities, the ship has a massive arcade and many top-deck diversions. One of these is the Ultimate Playground — a space encompassing a ropes course, waterslides and Bolt, the first-ever roller coaster at sea . (Note that the arcade and Bolt cost extra.)

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families  

Mardi Gras is full of fantastic family-friendly dining, including the line’s Dr. Seuss-themed Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast (for a small fee). The ship also includes pizza, soft-serve ice cream, Shaq’s fried chicken and Guy Fieri burgers in its fares. Even the pickiest of eaters will be satisfied. Kids can order off special menus in the complimentary main dining rooms and join in their waiters’ rollicking dance performances just when they start to get antsy sitting still.

The ship also does a nice job of accommodating families of all sizes and budgets. Many of Mardi Gras’ standard cabins sleep at least four people, and the ship offers connecting cabins.

Its Family Harbor staterooms provide access to a special family lounge area with TVs, sitting areas and internet stations. Breakfast is offered there each morning, and snacks and drinks — including free soda — are provided throughout the day. So, you never have to go far when the kids need a snack. Cabins in the Family Harbor category feature a nautical theme, plenty of storage and space to sleep at least four people.

Mardi Gras’ new sister ship, Carnival Celebration, is also a fantastic option in this category, offering a nearly identical experience (with just a few changes in the names and themes of specific venues).

Carnival Horizon: Best ship for luxury lovers

Let’s be clear: Carnival is not a luxury cruise line, nor does it offer huge suites on most ships. The suites it has are smaller than most other brands’ high-end accommodations, and they do not include amenities like butler service.

With that in mind, one ship that offers slightly more exclusive options is Carnival Horizon — the second vessel in Carnival’s three-ship Vista class. It offers a top-deck, adults-only Serenity sun deck area; an extensive menu of spa treatments, salon services and fitness classes at the onboard Cloud 9 Spa; and a handful of upmarket cabin offerings.

If you’re into wellness, relaxation and self-care, check out the spa and fitness center’s manicures, pedicures, facials, massages, teeth whitening treatments, acupuncture, anti-wrinkle procedures, state-of-the-art cycling classes, thermal suite, hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms for a fee. For digs that include pampering, try a Cloud 9 Spa cabin to receive extras like complimentary thermal suite access and two free yoga or Pilates classes.

Related: The 8 best cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

If exclusive stateroom enclaves are what you seek, you’ll want to book one of the ship’s Havana Cabana cabins. They come in several varieties, from 185-square-foot insides to Havana Suites, which offer 260 square feet of interior space (with a dividing wall to separate sleeping and living areas), plus a 100-square-foot patio area with loungers and a hammock. All Havana Cabana cruisers get access to an exclusive lanai and pool deck. With a suite booking, you’ll also receive priority embarkation and disembarkation.

If a traditional suite is more your style, consider a Grand Suite, which includes priority embarkation, disembarkation and dining times, as well as access to the Havana pool area. Note, however, that Grand Suites run only 345 square feet with 85-square-foot balconies — disappointing when you consider some of Royal Caribbean’s largest rooms are nearly five times that size.

The only ships on which you’ll find larger accommodations are the line’s newest: Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee, all of which house Presidential Suites. Those accommodations offer 1,120 square feet of space with 600-square-foot balconies and separate living and sleeping areas. However, the ships — part of the line’s Excel Class — are so large and attract so many families that I’ve ruled them out as the most luxurious.

Carnival Conquest: Best ship for budget travelers

If you’re on a budget and simply looking for one of the cheapest Carnival cruise ships, a solid bet is Carnival Conquest. It offers Bahamas and Caribbean voyages of three to five nights. Think of it this way: The shorter the cruise , the less expensive it will be.

Plus, it sails from Miami, one of the world’s largest cruise hubs. More ships leaving from a specific port means more competition, which can drive prices lower.

Related: The 8 classes of Carnival ships, explained

Carnival Conquest is one of the line’s oldest ships, but it’s also a ton of fun. Because short sailings tend to attract a more lively crowd, passengers can expect lots of dancing, socializing and late nights at Henri’s Dance Club. During the day, passengers enjoy spending time around the pool and grabbing free burgers from Guy’s Burger Joint.

It’s also one of the few vessels left in the fleet that still features jaw-dropping interiors designed by renowned architect Joe Farcus, who made Carnival synonymous with quirky patterns, bright colors and neon lights.

At the time of publication, prices started from $47 per person, per night, for an inside cabin.

Carnival Sunrise: Best Carnival cruise ship for singles

Unfortunately, Carnival has been slow to adopt solo cabins, meaning that no ships in its fleet offer accommodations for one.

Because all staterooms are designed for double occupancy, it’s generally a rule that a person traveling alone must pay both fares. This means they would pay twice as much per person as two people sharing a room.

Related: The best cruise ships for solo travelers

In order to make the single supplement as affordable as possible, solo Carnival cruisers will want to balance finding an inexpensive vessel with choosing one that sails short itineraries. They’ll also probably want one that’s a bit livelier (read: not the oldest in the fleet).

A great contender for the title of best Carnival ship for singles is Carnival Sunrise. Formerly Carnival Triumph, the ship was completely gutted, overhauled and renamed in 2019. Although it originally debuted in 1999, it feels fresh and nearly new. It offers the line’s signature Serenity adults-only sun deck, RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and a slew of lounges, nightclubs and daily activities.

Combine that with short, affordable voyages from Miami, and you can sail to the Bahamas or Caribbean for four or five nights from as little as $104 per night if you’re solo. Short sailings also tend to draw a more fun-loving, social crowd. So, if your goal is to mingle and potentially meet other solo cruisers, you stand a good chance on Carnival Sunrise.

Carnival Pride: Best ship for retirees

Retired travelers have all the time in the world to take longer cruises, which generally allow them to visit more far-flung locales. Those trips can come with a substantial price tag, which is why, as a budget option, Carnival is such a great choice.

In particular, Carnival Pride’s voyages consist of nine- and 12-night itineraries to the Baltic, British Isles and Iceland on a regular cadence. Longer voyages mean more time to explore but also fewer children and less of a frat party vibe. (Take note if you’re thinking of bringing your grandkids.)

Related: The 7 best cruises for seniors who love to travel

Carnival Pride is one of the oldest ships sailing for Carnival. That actually works in its favor if you’re a retiree who enjoys smaller ships and vintage design — in this case, more artwork and decor by Farcus.

In addition to a comedy club and an onboard spa, the ship also offers an adults-only sun deck, several bars and lounges, and plenty of dining options and daily activities to stave off boredom on longer voyages.

Bottom line

So, which Carnival cruise ship is the best? It all depends on your specific preferences. Whether you’re searching for an inexpensive vacation, a family-friendly vessel or a ship that will take you on a longer voyage to Europe, there’s a Carnival cruise to fit your taste and budget.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• 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
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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