cruise director for carnival jubilee

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Carnival Cruise Director Schedule 2024/2025

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.

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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Carnival Names Cruise Director for New Carnival Jubilee

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: August 23, 2023  - Last updated: August 24, 2023

Carnival Cruise Line has named Kyndall “Fire” Magyar as Cruise Director of the new Carnival Jubilee and Matthew Boyd as the ship’s Entertainment Director.

In anticipation of Carnival Cruise Line ’s next new ship, Carnival Jubilee , the cruise line today announced Matthew Boyd will serve as Entertainment Director and Kyndall “Fire” Magyar will be Cruise Director for the ship’s inaugural season.

The pair will lead the teams that provide all the fun aboard the new ship when she begins sailing on December 23 from her homeport of Galveston, Texas .

Related: Carnival Cruise Line Opens 2025 and 2026 Bookings From Galveston

“Watching their dedication come to life on board Carnival Jubilee ’s sister ships, I know Kyndall and Matthew are perfectly suited to deliver Texas-sized fun that maximizes the capabilities of this spectacular new ship and upholds our high standards for entertainment,” said Chris Nelson , Carnival’s vice president of entertainment.

Magyar and Boyd are both accomplished leaders who will bring a combined 20 years of Carnival experience to their teams.

The news comes a week after the company announced the appointment of the ship’s senior officers , including Captain Andrea Catalani .

Matthew Boyd: Jubilee’s new Entertainment Director

Boyd was recently named Carnival’s 2023 Entertainment Director of the Year . He has been part of the Carnival family since 2010 and has served as an entertainment director aboard several ships since 2018.

Matthew most recently led the entertainment team aboard Carnival Celebration . The company shared that he is honored to be the inaugural Entertainment Director of Carnival Jubilee and is excited to present guests with all the new entertainment offerings in development for the new ship.

Kyndall “Fire” Magyar: Jubilee’s new Cruise Director

Magyar is a Texas native who has worked on Carnival ships since 2016. She most recently served as cruise director aboard Mardi Gras . Kyndall was also part of the inaugural team for Carnival Horizon and served as the cruise director of Carnival Vista when the ship returned to service in 2021.

According to a press release, she’s elated to be part of the inaugural Carnival Jubilee family, and to sail from her home state of Texas.

The new Carnival Jubilee

Carnival Jubilee will soon join her sisters Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras as the third ship in the fleet powered by a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion system.

When she sets sail in December 2023, Jubilee will also debut unique and immersive ocean-themed experiences in two new zones: Currents and The Shores .

Related : Carnival Jubilee Floats Out

The new ship will be home to other features already popular on board her sister ships, like BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster and a three-deck atrium offering expansive views during the day. The transforming atrium space will double as an entertainment venue at night, with movable theatrical lighting and LED screens.

More news about Carnival Cruise Line

Are you looking forward to the new Carnival Jubilee ? Have you sailed with Kyndall Fire or Matthew Boyd on other Carnival ships? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!

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Home » Cruise » Carnival Cruise Line » Carnival Jubilee » Carnival Announces Cruise Director for Carnival Jubilee

Carnival Announces Cruise Director for Carnival Jubilee

Carnival announces the Cruise Director and Entertainment Director for Carnival Jubilee who will deliver fun to guests sailing from Galveston.

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Carnival cruise line announces duo who will lead texas-sized fun aboard all-new carnival jubilee.

Carnival Names Kyndall “Fire” Magyar New Ship’s Cruise Director and Matthew Boyd to Serve as Entertainment Director

As excitement builds around the arrival of Carnival Cruise Line’s next new ship, the cruise line announces the cruise director for  Carnival Jubilee . Matthew Boyd will serve as Entertainment Director and Kyndall “Fire” Magyar as Cruise Director for the ship’s inaugural season. Together, the two will lead the teams that deliver all the fun guests will find aboard the new ship when it begins sailing on Dec. 23, 2023 from its homeport of  Galveston , Tex.

“Watching their dedication come to life on board Carnival Jubilee’s sister ships, I know Kyndall and Matthew are perfectly suited to deliver Texas-sized fun that maximizes the capabilities of this spectacular new ship and upholds our high standards for entertainment,” said Chris Nelson, vice president of entertainment.

Both Magyar and Boyd are strong leaders with a combined 20 years of Carnival experience.

Magyar is a Texas native who has been working on Carnival ships since 2016, most recently serving as cruise director aboard  Mardi Gras . She was also part of the inaugural team for Carnival Horizon and served as the cruise director of Carnival Vista when the ship returned to service in 2021. She is elated to bring her home to Texas.

Boyd, Carnival’s 2023 Entertainment Director of the year, has been part of the Carnival family since 2010. He has served as an entertainment director aboard several ships since 2018, including Carnival Celebration most recently. He is excited to present guests with all the new entertainment offerings.

More on Carnival Celebration

Carnival Jubilee joins her sisters  Carnival Celebration  and  Mardi Gras  as the third ship in the fleet powered by LNG. Carnival Jubilee will debut unique and immersive ocean-themed experiences in two new zones, Currents and The Shores.

Further, Carnival Jubilee will be home to other features already popular on board her sister ships, like BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster and a transformational three-deck atrium that offers expansive views during the day and doubles as an entertainment venue at night with movable LED screens and theatrical lighting.

SOURCE Carnival Cruise Line

Are you happy to hear that Carnival announces the Cruise Director and Entertainment Director for Carnival Jubilee? Do you have plans to sail on this new Carnival Cruise Line ship when she debuts in Galveston? Drop us an anchor below to share what you love about this class of cruise ships.

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Carnival Cruise Line Announces Entertainment Duo Aboard Carnival Jubilee

• August 23, 2023

Carnival Cruise Line announced that Matthew Boyd will serve as entertainment director and Kyndall “Fire” Magyar as cruise director during the Carnival Jubilee’s inaugural season.

The duo will lead the teams that deliver all the fun onboard when the ship makes its debut on December 23, 2023, starting from its homeport of Galveston, Tex.

“Watching their dedication come to life on board Carnival Jubilee’s sister ships, I know Kyndall and Matthew are perfectly suited to deliver Texas-sized fun that maximizes the capabilities of this spectacular new ship and upholds our high standards for entertainment,” said Chris Nelson, vice president of entertainment.

Magyar and Boyd together bring a combined 20 years of Carnival experience to the teams they will lead.

Magyar has been working on Carnival ships since 2016. Most recently, she served as cruise director aboard the Mardi Gras. She was also part of the inaugural team for the Carnival Horizon and was the cruise director of the Carnival Vista when it returned to service in 2021. 

Boyd, who was recently named Carnival’s 2023 Entertainment Director of the Year, joined Carnival in 2010. Most recently, he led the entertainment team aboard the Carnival Celebration.

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Carnival Jubilee

Cruise line Carnival Cruise Line

• Galveston (Texas)

Carnival Jubilee current position

Carnival Jubilee current location is at Caribbean Sea (coordinates 20.69403 N / -86.55873 W) cruising at speed of 14.4 kn (27 km/h | 17 mph) en route to Roatan Island. The AIS position was reported 28 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Carnival Jubilee

Carnival Jubilee current cruise is 7 days, round-trip Western Caribbean . Prices start from USD 849 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 13 Apr, 2024 and ends on 20 Apr, 2024 .

Specifications of Carnival Jubilee

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Carnival Jubilee Itineraries

Carnival jubilee review, review of carnival jubilee.

The 2023-built Carnival Jubilee cruise ship is CCL fleet 's newest and largest liner (fleet's 26th vessel) and the third/last unit of the XL-Class (aka EXCELLENCE) inaugurated in December 2023. Carnival's XL units in this series are from the German shipbuilder Meyer Werft (shipyard Papenburg ).

Jubilee is the first Carnival ship constructed in Germany. As with all other "Fun Ships", the shipowner is Carnival Corporation - the world's largest passenger shipping company .

The vessel (IMO number 9851737) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311001390) and registered in Nassau . Previously, it was Panama-flagged (MMSI 352002723) and registered in Colon .

The XL-Class is similar in design and facilities to Excellence/Helios-Class ships produced for Carnival Corporation's brands Costa and AIDA by Meyer Werft. Other Excellence-Class liners (Carnival Jubilee sisterships) are Carnival Mardi Gras (2021) and Carnival Celebration (2022), as well as P&O Iona (2020), P&O Arvia (2022), Costa Smeralda (2019), Costa Toscana (2021), AIDAnova (2018), AIDAcosma (2021).

Carnival XL-Class ship design features a new (red-white-navy blue) hull and was created by the NYC-based naval architecture firm "Bluarch Architecture". Among the world's largest passenger ships , the new liner has length 1130 ft (344 m), passenger capacity 5200 (lower berths) and boasts the most advanced maritime technologies as well as various fleet-first and industry-first innovations.

Like the sisterships Mardi Gras and Celebration, Jubilee has the industry's first-at-sea roller coaster. The facility ("BOLT Ultimate Sea Coaster") will be built by Maurer Rides ( Munich Germany -based company) specializing in roller coaster design and manufacturing. The race track has length 244 m (800 ft), with twists, turns, drops and speeds up to 64 kph (40 mph). Individual speeds are posted after the race. Carnival's roller coaster is all-electric and allows 2 riders to race along in motorbike-like vehicles at height 57 m (187 ft) above the sea. The experience features breathtaking top-deck 360-degree views and ends with a high-speed turn around the funnel/smokestack.

On January 25, 2019, was announced that the new Carnival XL-class vessels will have 6 themed zones (neighborhoods).

Mardi Gras ship's neighborhoods are named Grand Central, French Quarter , Lido-Pool, La Piazza , Summer Landing, The Ultimate Playground.

Jubilee ship's neighborhoods are named Grand Central, Currents , Lido-Pool, The Shores , Summer Landing, The Ultimate Playground.

Decks and Cabins

Carnival Jubilee staterooms (a total of 2626 passenger cabins) are divided into 22 different categories, including 2-deck apartments (duplex suites) and 80 wheelchair-accessible cabins (for disabled passengers). All cabin bathrooms feature CCL fleet's first glass-door showers and in-shower shaving bar. Over 70% of all staterooms are outside, 300 pairs are connecting/family cabins.

The boat has 18 decks , of which 15 are passenger-accessible and 11 with cabins.

Cabin balconies are accessed via sliding floor-ceiling glass doors. The lounge area is furnished with new-type sofabeds (couch bed with footstools opening up for storage), under-bed storage (for suitcases), flexible reading lamps (bedside), mini-refrigerator with transparent glass door, plenty of power outlets, USB ports (on the vanity table and bedside), more shelving (for electronic devices), large wardrobe (with folding shelves, sliding shoe rack, 2 pull-out bins).

Like the Vista-class Carnival liners, Jubilee has Havana staterooms with a patio (indoor-outdoor space) with direct access to an exclusive Sundeck area with loungers, Bar and swimming pool. Another Vista-class type of cabins are Family Harbor (clustered near Camp Ocean/kids club) and with direct access to the exclusive Family Harbor Lounge. Cloud 9 Spa staterooms traditionally offer exclusive amenities, including premium bathrobes and slippers and Elemis brand toiletries.

The new Carnival ship Jubilee offers 180+ suites in 11 categories, including CCL's new premium category "Carnival Excel" suites (32 staterooms in 4 categories) with new VIP amenities and exclusive access to Loft 19 (resort-style, open-air sundeck). All ship suites offer a VIP amenities package including priority boarding/debarkation, bottled water upon arrival, priority MDR (main dining room) seating, plush bathrobes. Passengers in "Carnival Excel" suites receive as additional amenities:

• Dedicated concierge phone line
• Unlimited access to Loft 19
• Guaranteed specialty dining times (except Bonsai Teppanyaki, and Chef's Table)
• Complimentary room service, laundry, and Bottomless Bubbles soda package
• Fresh fruit basket and sparkling wine upon arrival
• Upgraded bathroom amenities

Shipboard facilities and amenities

The sisterships Mardi Gras, Celebration and Jubilee have CCL fleet's largest Atriums and open-deck areas.

Grand Central (midship on Decks 6-7-8) is an expanded Atrium concept combining day-to-night entertainment complex with a bar lounge (overlooking the ship's starboard side) with 3-decks high floor-ceiling windows. From the Atrium are accessible the restaurants Bonsai Sushi, Bonsai Teppanyaki and Punchliner Comedy Club, as well as the intimate Piano Bar 88 (themed venue for sing-a-longs).

Currents (aft on decks 6-7) is lined with eateries and bars. This neighborhood is linked via 2-deck-high Promenade with "The Golden Mermaid" (bar lounge offering hand-crafted cocktails and live music).

The Shores (midship on Deck 8) is an ocean-themed zone housing two new 24-hour complimentary fast food venues - Coastal Slice (pizzas) and Beach Buns (mini-sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs), as well as the new Marina Bar (lounge with live music nightly).

Summer Landing (aft on Deck 8) houses Guy's Pig and Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse (Carnival's complimentary smoked-on-board BBQ food by Guy Fieri), The Watering Hole (outdoor bar with wide selections of cocktails and beers), ParchedPig (onboard- brewed craft beers), Heroes Tribute Lounge. Also in this neighborhood are located a lunch counter (for the Smokehouse-Brewhouse), an expansive outdoor deck area with two whirlpools and an infinity pool, a stage for live music, a sports bar featuring indoor and outdoor TV screens, hang-out space with trivia, dance classes, arts and crafts.

Heroes Tribute (bar lounge via partnership with Operation Homefront/USA-based nonprofit organization that provides services and supports military families and veterans) offers comfortable seating (leather armchairs with low tables) and large TVs (for live sporting events).

Lido (aft on Decks 16-17) houses Carnival's complimentary Pool Deck eateries Seafood Shack, BlueIguana Cantina, and Guy's Burger Joint, plus the fleet's new venues "Street Eats" (grab-and-go eatery) and "Big Chicken by Shaq" (lunch and dinner take-away food bar)

The Ultimate Playground (aft on Decks 18-20) is a large family-friendly outdoor playground area highlighted by the fleet's largest Carnival WaterWorks (aquapark) and an expanded SportSquare (sports complex). Also here is the "BOLT - Ultimate Sea Coaster" (first at sea).

The new Carnival Jubilee also has CCL's signature facilities Serenity (adults-only resort), Alchemy Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse. Further innovations are yet to be announced.

On Carnival Jubilee debuted two new for CCL ocean-themed zones/neighborhoods - Currents (decks 6-7) and The Shores (deck 8). Note: CURRENTS and THE SHORES on Jubilee replaced the Mardi Gras ship's respective zones French Quarter and La Piazza.

The Currents Zone (midship-aft on decks 6 and 7) changes from day to night and also throughout the current voyage. It is fitted with 6x large LED screens (serving as windows) and a wave-shaped LED ceiling for UHD media projections. Within the Currents Zone are the venues Dr. Inks Ph.D. Bar (serving ocean-themed and color-changing beverages, including cocktails and shots) and The Golden Mermaid Lounge (serving specialty cocktails and having a stage for live band music performances). Also on Deck 6 is the "Emeril's Bistro 717" (a specialty restaurant by Emeril Lagasse/CCL's Chief Culinary Officer).

Carnival Jubilee's Currents Zone is underwater-themed and provides a submarine-like experience.

• The "Seaquest: A Fun Sub Adventure" is a feature attraction comprising of the LED screens (Portals to the Sea/ flanking the Promenade), the LED ceiling (length 100 ft/31 m), interactive lighting, music and sound effects. Seaquest's "underwater excursion" visits different locations (including the fictional resort Carnival Seacation and the The Golden Mermaid's kingdom) and showcases various marine life.
• The Change the Currents activations transform the Currents Zone into six different underwater worlds, with each environment changing the Zone's ambiance (colors and sounds). The Create A Fish zone allows children to design their own sea creatures and watch them come to life on the LED screens.
• In the evenings, the Currents Zone displays different themes/destinations every night.
• The Soundwaves Jukebox is a music-activated visualizer that brings passenger-chosen songs to life through UHD media and light display.
• The Currents Atlas is an interactive map displaying real-time locations (satellite AIS tracking) of the entire CCL fleet, in addition to fun facts about marine creatures and their migratory patterns.

The Shores Zone (midship-aft on deck 8) is themed on seaside scenery (piers and beaches) and features a 3-deck-high (decks 6-7-8) fish art installation. The Shores' boardwalk features a Ferris wheel-themed ceiling and houses two complimentary fast food venues open 24 hours - Coastal Slice (pizza bar) and Beach Buns (mini-sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs), as well as the Cucina del Capitano (seafood restaurant) and the Marina Bar (lounge serving specialty coffees and cocktails, and with live music nightly).

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Carnival Jubilee's main dining rooms feature select items from the onboard steakhouse, available for an additional fee. Traditionally, shipboard dining includes a complimentary Lido Buffet Restaurant. A special venue is the New England-inspired casual eatery Seafood Shack. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating and the menu includes steamed lobster, lobster rolls, fried shrimp, fried clams, crab cakes, and other seafood surprises. Seafood Shack serves lunch and dinner and is priced a la carte starting at $4.

The ship has a Japanese specialty restaurant (named Bonsai Teppanyaki) located within the Bonsai Sushi restaurant (on Promenade-Havana Deck). The restaurant offers authentic Far East dishes and a live cooking show performance (by the chefs) at custom-built cooking stations positioned at the center of an 8-seat dining table. Due to the room's limited seating, reservations are required. Each meal at Bonsai Teppanyaki starts with a sampling of 5 appetizers (Miso Soup, Pork Belly Yakitori, Spicy Tuna on Rocks). Combo dinners are also offered. Each meal ends with the specialty desserts "Chocolate Bento Box" and "Green Tea Ice Cream". The restaurant is open for lunch (seadays only) and for dinner (every night of the voyage). The cover charge/price is per person and covers the entire meal.

Available on all Fun Ships is Chef's Table (VIP dining experience / 12-guest capacity) that includes multicourse dinner with the Master Chef, private cocktail reception and galley/kitchen tour. This dining option usually takes place in a non-traditional venue (a dedicated room in the galley) and can be booked onboard for USD 75 per person.

Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse has a specialty restaurant (located in the French Quarter of Deck 6 / portside). Lagasse is the chef and owner of 11 different restaurants, including 4 in New Orleans . He is a regular guest on Good Morning America (TV show) and has hosted 2000+ shows on Food Network (US pay-TV channel). Lagasse Restaurant offers New Orleans cuisine, including spicy creole specialties. Menu items include muffuletta sandwiches, oyster and cochon de lait po-boys, gumbo, jambalaya, side dishes (Creole potato salad with diced scallions, red beans, jazz-man rice), desserts (Bananas Foster, lemon icebox pie). For Breakfast are also offered Shrimp & Grits, and Shrimp Creole Omelet. A-la-carte menu appetizers cost US$2 each, entrees are priced at US$12.

New (currently available on XL-class Carnival ships only) drinking and dining venues are within the themed zones "Lido" (deck 16) and "Summer Landing" (Lanai/promenade deck 8 aft). These include RedFrog Tiki Bar, The Watering Hole, Street Eats, Big Chicken by Shaq.

• RedFrog Tiki Bar is a South Pacific Island-themed, 2-level bar designed as a variation of Carnival's poolside RedFrog Bar. New is the island-inspired outdoor decoration with floral patterns, vibrant colors, tiki heads. Located close to Guy's Burger Joint, RedFrog Tiki Bar offers refreshing cocktails (like Red's Rum Runner Jumper, Jungle Bird, Polynesian Punch) presented in souvenir glasses and pineapples.
• The Watering Hole (located within The Patio at Summer Landing) is a backyard-like designed outdoor bar with wide selections of cocktails and beers (including Carnival's own brands / canned and draft brews).
• Street Eats is an open-air complimentary eatery located next to Seafood Shack. It offers ready-to-eat street food via 3 themed kiosks (steamed, fried, and plancha food). The new grab-and-go dining venue has a daily rotating menu. Small plates (including falafel or empanadas) are available at the fried food station, siu mai or bao buns - at the steamed food outlet, and satay and kebabs at the plancha food kiosk.

Carnival Jubilee has the fleet's fourth "Big Chicken" restaurant at sea (by Shaquille O'Neal). Big Chicken by Shaq is located aft on Lido Deck. Many menu items are developed by the basketball player himself, the rest are based on the celebrity's favorite food recipes.

Rudi's Seagrill is another fleet-first dining venue (seafood restaurant by Rudi Sodamin / Holland America Line 's Master Chef). Rudi's Seagrill is a specialty restaurant (at surcharge / reservation fee) located on Deck 8 (between Summer Landing and The Shores) with indoor (80 seats) and outdoor seating (al fresco dining on The Lanai). The Seagrill offers appetizers, entrees and desserts, with all menu items presented as food faces. Signature dishes include Bigeye Tuna, Lemon-Stuffed Grilled Branzino, Seared Scallops, Salt-Roasted Prawns, Broiled Lobster Tails, Crab Cake, Caramel Apple Cheesecake, Chocolate Truffle Cake. Non-seafood options are also on offer.

Jubilee's 2-deck-high Lido zone houses fleet's biggest "Guy's Burger Joint" (by Guy Fieri), the Mexican food bar BlueIguana Cantina, the New England-inspired Seafood Shack, and Lido Marketplace (ship's buffet restaurant). Other signature facilities in the area are Beach Pool (midship) and the infinity swimming pool Tides Pool (aft) with a bar, great stern views and ample seating. Lido-Pool Deck also houses deck parties and Dive-in Movies (at Carnival Seaside Theater/outdoor cinema).

Follows the complete list of Carnival Jubilee restaurants and food bars.

• Pacific Restaurant (2-level Aft Dining Room)
• Atlantic Restaurant is a dinner-only Dining Room (complimentary) with sit-down waiter service.
• "Emeril's Bistro 717" is the second-at-sea (after Mardi Gras ship's) restaurant by chef Emeril Lagasse (celebrity chef and owner of 11 different restaurants in the USA). The restaurant is on Deck 6 (starboard) and was named after the Jubilee ship's hull/Papenburg shipyard number (S717). A-la-carte menu appetizers cost US$2 each, entrees are priced at US$12. The restaurant offers New Orleans cuisine, including muffuletta sandwiches, side dishes (Creole potato salad with diced scallions, red beans, jazz-man rice), desserts (Bananas Foster, lemon icebox pie). For Breakfast are also offered Shrimp & Grits, and Shrimp Creole Omelet. Signature dishes at Emeril's Bistro 717 are chef's favorites Slow-Cooked Cochon de Lait Po'Boy (Boston butt pork roast), BBQ-Grilled Shrimp (large shrimp/peeled-deveined, tails attached), Emeril's Classic Seafood Gumbo (shrimp, fish, oysters), Cajun Jambalaya (boneless-skinless chicken thighs).
• Bonsai Sushi restaurant (including Bonsai Teppanyaki) serves Japanese cuisine specialties and drinks (a la carte priced menu).
• Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse (indoor/outdoor seating, open between 6 - 9:30 pm) is a premium steakhouse-seafood restaurant at a surcharge (reservations recommended).
• The Chef's Table (private dining room) is a small room dedicated to the multi-course Chef's Table VIP dinner package (surcharged at $75 per person).
• The Shores Zone is ocean-themed and houses two 24-hour complimentary fast food venues - Coastal Slice (pizza bar) and Beach Buns (mini-sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs), as well as the Cucina del Capitano (seafood restaurant) and the Marina Bar (lounge serving specialty coffees and cocktails, and with live music nightly).
• Summer Landing houses Guy's Pig and Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse (Carnival's complimentary smoked-on-board BBQ food by Guy Fieri) and ParchedPig (onboard-brewed craft beers).
• Lido houses Carnival's complimentary Pool Deck eateries Seafood Shack, BlueIguana Cantina (Mexican fast food bar), and Guy's Burger Joint
• BlueIguana Cantina is a complimentary poolside (self-serve) fast-food bar with Mexican cuisine serving the Beach Pool area.
• Lido Marketplace (self-service buffet restaurant)
• Big Chicken by Shaq (specialty restaurant by Shaquille O'Neal)
• Rudi's Seagrill (specialty restaurant by Rudi Sodamin)
• RedFrog Tiki Bar
• The Watering Hole
• Street Eats (grab-and-go eatery)

(deck 16/Lido) Chibang! is a new (introduced on the ship Mardi Gras) restaurant for signature Chinese and Mexican dishes (a la carte-priced), with two separate food menus plus a beverage menu (including specialty cocktails, like Chibang! Margarit, Smokey Mezcal Negroni, Green Tea Martini). The decor is marked by floor-ceiling windows (wall-to-wall), heavy red and green, with gold accents, a colorful dragon (at the entrance). Dishes include favorites like Kung Pao Chicken, Singapore Chili Shrimp/Prawn, Slow-Braised Pork Belly, Egg Drop Soup, Crispy Pork Carnitas Tacos, Steak Ranchero, Mole de Pollo Mexicano, Pork Lomito, Pescado Frito Crujiente, Camarones a la Diabla (shrimp).

In mid-January 2018, CCL announced 4 new craft beers that will be brewed onboard Carnival Horizon (and on the new XL-class ships/Mardi Gras, Celebration, Jubilee). The brews were developed by brewmaster Colin Presby. They are offered at Guy's Pig and Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse (Brewhouse), The names of the new draft beers are inspired by the BBQ offerings at the Smokehouse/Brewhouse.

• "ParchedPig Farmhouse Ale" is a lightly hopped dry finish beer.
• "ParchedPig Smoked Porter" is brewed with in-house smoked malt, hickory smoke, and molasses.
• "ParchedPig Toasted Amber Ale" has rich amber color and notes of toasted caramel and biscuit.
• "ParchedPig West Coast IPA" is a traditional West Coast India Pale Ale loaded with bitterness and a distinctive aroma of pine and citrus.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The outdoor activity complex on Carnival Jubilee is named "The Ultimate Playground" (2-deck high) with SkyCourse, SportSquare, Carnival WaterWorks (fleet's largest aquapark with 3x spiraling waterslides, 1x 2-lane racing slide, 1x tipping bucket) and "BOLT - Ultimate Sea Coaster" (world's third rollercoaster at sea).

A signature outdoor fun facility is the ropes course SkyCourse (length 600 ft / 183 m). SkyCourse is part of the SportSquare (sports complex) with an indoor hangout, mini-bowling, mini-golf course, The Clubhouse, Ping-Pong area with tables, jogging track, interactive sports gaming, arcade basketball.

Located on top-deck ( deck 19 ), Loft 19 is a new VIP leisure concept (secluded retreat for adults) designed as a premium resort complex. Here are offered full bar service, swimming pool, sunbathing area with cabanas, deckchairs and sun loungers available for rent. The cabanas are fully stocked with beverages, chilled towels, plush bathrobes and provide dedicated concierge service with lunch delivery and fresh fruits. Carnival Excel Suite passengers enjoy priority cabana reservations.

Follows the complete list of Carnival Jubilee lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens, and adults.

• Family Harbor Lounge (a dedicated to families space with 24-hour complimentary dining, concierge and babysitting service, movies, video games, board games by Hasbro).
• Jubilee Theater is the boat's main show lounge for grand-style show productions featuring live performances (tribute acts - singing and dancing) combined with sound and lighting special effects.
• Currents Zone's "The Golden Mermaid" bar lounge is a music-themed venue with live performances and hand-crafted cocktails.
• Punchliner Comedy Club/brunch (Karaoke, art auctions, nightly shows).
• Piano Bar 88 (cocktail bar) offers themed music nights, a grand piano for live performances by a resident pianist, singalongs, trivia quizzes.
• JavaBlue Cafe (open between 7-10 am, and between 4 pm-12:30 midnight) is a specialty patisserie/coffee bar.
• Havana Bar is an authentic Cuban cafe (cocktail/coffee bar) with live Latin music in the evenings. After midnight, the bar transforms into a Latin disco/nightclub.
• Cherry on Top (open between 4-10:30 pm) is a Carnival signature shop selling bulk candies by the oz (mix and match, sugar-free, assortments), confections (lollipops, sweet apples, truffles, chocolate deep cheesecakes and pretzels, cupcakes, fudge, cookies /and sugar-free).
• The Fun Shops is named the shipboard duty-free shopping complex of retail stores (open between 8 am - 12 midnight).
• Special Occasions shop sells Bon Voyage wines/champagnes/liquor, Carnival cruise packages, specialty items, and gifts.
• Jubilee Casino is a Vegas-style gambling casino equipped with various slot machines (Coinless Fun Slot Machines) and gaming tables (Craps, Roulette, Black Jack 21, Caribbean Stud Poker, dealer-free poker tables).
• Limelight Lounge offers live evening entertainment by vocalists, musicians, comedians, karaoke.
• Lanai promenade (with outdoor seats, served by Lanai Bar-BQ Bar).
• Alchemy Bar is a vintage-themed cocktail bar (drink pharmacy) where professional mixologists (dressed in lab coats) serve handcrafted cocktails and made-to-order drinks from unique ingredients.
• Dreams Studio (photo sessions studio)
• Pixels Photo Gallery and Shop (professional photo-video services, duty-free equipment, and accessories, photos on display available for purchasing)
• Havana Outside is the Havana complex' pool area (1 swimming pool /Havana Pool, live palm trees).
• Tides Pool (aft) has 1 swimming pool flanked by 2 Whirlpools and a large sunbathing area served with drinks by the Tides Bar.
• Circle C (kids club lounge), Club O2 (teens club lounge)
• Warehouse (Video Arcade)
• Camp Ocean (formerly known as "Camp Carnival" - youth activities program)
• Creative Cove (a dedicated room for kids arts-crafts and workshops)
• Dr Seuss Bookville is a family-themed indoor playground (kids room/library) fitted with all Dr Seuss books (available for reading), fun games, themed decorations and activities (Dr Seuss characters, memorable phrases from the books, character meet-and-greets). Other themed events held on the ship include Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast (at Main Dining Rooms), Story Time (at Camp Carnival), Seuss-A-Palooza Parade (Promenade Deck show).
• Carnival Cloud 9 Spa (wellness complex)
• The Fitness Center/Gymnasium (complimentary)
• Serenity Retreat (adults relaxation area served by Serenity Bar, with 2 cantilevered Whirlpools and sunbathing area)
• Loft 19 Retreat offers full bar service and a swimming pool surrounded by cabanas.
• The Ultimate Playground is a large (2-decks high) family-friendly outdoor playground with fleet's largest Carnival WaterWorks (aquapark), expanded SportSquare (sports complex with a basketball court, ropes course, jogging track, mini-golf) and "BOLT - Ultimate Sea Coaster" (world's 3rd rollercoaster at sea).

Grand Central (midship on Decks 6-8) is an expanded Atrium concept combining day-to-night entertainment complex with a bar lounge (overlooking the ship's starboard side) with 3-decks high floor-ceiling windows.

Carnival Cruise Line's entertainment team partnered with celebrity directors from Los Angeles (Broadway) and London (West End) to create 3 new signature shows - part of the onboard "Playlist Productions" revues. The new shows (named "Celestial Strings", "Soulbound", "Vintage Pop") use the full capacity of the interactive LED screens. A 4th show ("Amor Cubano - A Caribbean Dance Romance") is also available on the Horizon ship. It was introduced in 2017 on Carnival Vista.

• "Celestial Strings" show is themed on classical music mixed with modern pop.
• "Soulbound" is a gothic-inspired, New Orleans-themed show featuring R&B music favorites.
• "Vintage Pop" show is themed on "Gatsby's Cotton Club", featuring modern songs recomposed into classic jazz interpretations performed live by a 6-piece jazz band.
• "Amor Cubano - A Caribbean Dance Romance" show is themed on classic Latin songs mixed with modern music hits. It is held at the Havana Bar and highlighted by a 7-piece Cuban music band.

To pay homage to Texas, to Jubilee's Playlist Productions shows was added the new interactive pop musical "Dear Future Husband". The onboard live entertainment also includes CCL's popular game shows "Family Feud Live" and "Deal or No Deal".

The ship's new and reimagined live entertainment offerings for families with children also include:

• "Space Cruisers Program" (via partnership with Kennedy Space Center) - Jubilee introduced a high-tech space wall (inside Camp Ocean) with a large LED screen resembling a space capsule dashboard and showcasing NASA imagery.
• "See The World Program" (based on LED technology creating virtual "portholes"/Currents Zone) - allows kids to design unique sea creatures. The program is for teens and was expanded with the Panagbenga Festival (flower parades and culture-themed activities).
• "Night Owls Camp Out" is a new evening entertainment program with outdoor activities like fort building and obstacle courses.
• "Dr. Seuss Celebrations" is an extension of CCL's popular Dr. Seuss Breakfast transformed into a birthday party. The Seuss-a-palooza Parade on Jubilee has a new character - Fox in Socks, who creates an underwater world on LED screens.
• "Seuss-a-palooza Story Time" (interactive storytelling program) includes the book "Green Eggs & Ham".
• "Planet Play at Sea" is a space-themed toddler playground modeled after the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex's Planet Play.

Enhanced facial recognition technology in the youth area ensures secure authentication for child and adult matches during entry and exit.

Itineraries

Carnival Jubilee's itinerary program is based on year-round Caribbean roundtrips leaving from homeport Galveston (Texas USA) . The inaugural cruise season was originally planned to start on October 30, 2023, with an 18-day Transatlantic crossing from Southampton to Texas (call ports Vigo, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Funchal Madeira, Grand Turk). The Caribbean Maiden Voyage was scheduled for November 18th. However, due to construction delays, the liner's delivery was postponed and the Maiden Voyage was rescheduled for December 23rd (6x sailings were canceled in Dec 2022/the Transatlantic from Europe to the USA plus 5x Caribbean departures).

The 7-day Western Caribbean roundtrips from Galveston visit Mexico ( Cozumel and Costa Maya ) and Honduras ( Isla Roatan's Mahogany Bay ).

Carnival Jubilee cruises were open for booking on January 25, 2021.

CCL's homeporting operations in Galveston started in 2000. From Galveston Carnival offers cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, visiting ports in Bahamas (Nassau, Freeport, Half Moon Cay), Florida (Key West), Mexico (Cozumel, Costa Maya), Honduras (Roatan), Belize City.

During their inaugural seasons, Jubilee's sisterships were homeported in Florida's Port Canaveral (Mardi Gras/2021) and Miami (Celebration/2022).

Carnival Jubilee - user reviews and comments

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Carnival Jubilee Wiki

The shipbuilding order (Meyer Werft yard number / hull S717) was placed by Carnival Corporation (shipowner) with the shipbuilder Meyer Werft ( Papenburg Shipyard Germany) on February 27, 2018. The order was for a 3rd unit (EXCEL/Excellence class) and was originally planned for the Corporation's German subsidiary AIDA Cruises as a sistership to/same designed as AIDAnova and the AIDAcosma . Back then, this was the 98th cruise ship order for the industry's global fleet (vessels in the order book 2018-2026). However, in June 2021 was announced that the newbuild will be instead assigned to the CCL fleet.

On June 23, 2021, CCL-Carnival announced plans to add two additional ships to its fleet by 2023. The vessels included an EXCEL-class unit (Carnival Jubilee/2023-built) and Costa Magica (2004-built/joins CCL in 2022-H1).

The vessel's name (Carnival Jubilee), IMO number (9851737) and homeport ( Galveston TX ) were officially announced on November 11, 2021, by Christine Duffy (CCL's President). The new ship's name honors MS Jubilee (1986-built/2017- scrapped in Alang India ) - CCL's second (out of three) Holiday-class liners, with sisterships MS Holiday (1985-built/2021-scrapped as " CMV Magellan ") and MS Celebration (1987-built/2021-scrapped as " Grand Celebration ").

For the newbuild (yard number S717), on October 1, 2021, Meyer Werft contracted Silverstream Technologies ( London UK -based company specializing in the development and installation of hull air lubrication systems). The technology is based on releasing air bubbles from the full-length hull's flat bottom (12x ARUs/Air Release Units) that generate a dense carpet of microbubbles for reducing water resistance (resulting in better fuel efficiancy/~5%) and improving maneuverability during navigation. The same system (by Silverstream Technologies) was installed on P&O Arvia (2022) and on Diamond Princess (2004).

Like most large -sized newbuilds , the new Carnival Jubilee is LNG-powered , with 4x Caterpillar Marine LNG engines (model MaK 16M-46DF) generating combined output 57,2 MW. The propulsion system is based on two Azimuting thrusters with combined power output 37 MW. The ship has 3x LNG tanks (cryogenic steel) with total capacity ~3200 m3. Two of the tanks are larger (length 35 m / 115 ft, diameter 8 m / 26 ft, gas capacity 1525 m3), while the 3rd tank has length 28 m (92 ft), diameter 5 m (16 ft) and gas capacity 520 m3. The vessel's bunkering takes ~8 hours and her LNG capacity is enough for ~14 days of operation (navigation and onboard electricity production).

For its LNG-bunkering operations in Florida (at homeports PortMiami and Port Canaveral ), CCL-Carnival partnered with Royal Dutch Shell plc as fuel supplier.

The vessel's construction officially started on March 18, 2022, with the steel-cutting ceremony held at the Papenberg shipyard. The special event was attended by Christine Duffy (CCL's President) and Jan Meyer (Meyer Werft GmbH's Managing Director).

The physical construction/assembly started with the keel-laying/coin ceremony held on July 21, 2022, at Meyer Werft Papenburg and attended by Christine Duffy, Ben Clement (CCL's Senior VP of Newbuilds, Refurbishments & Product Innovation) and Bernard Meyer (Meyer Werft's Managing Director).

CCL's 26th ship was launched/floated out from drydock, on July 22, 2023, then was moved to the shipyard's outfitting pier. Carnival Jubilee's hull livery has a unique feature - a Texas star on the bow. During the launch ceremony, Christine Duffy commented that this is a symbol of CCL's commitment to Port Galveston, as Carnival was the first cruise line that started homeporting in Galveston year-round.

CCL's symbolic winged funnel/smokestack was installed on July 25th.

In August, CCL announced that Jubilee's senior officers - Captain Andrea Catalani (Master, with CCL since 1999), Vittorino Perasole (Chief Engineer, with CCL since 1998), Pierre Camilleri (Hotel Director, with CCL since 2004), Kyndall Magyar (Cruise Director, with CCL since 2016), Matthew Boyd (Entertainment Director, with CCL since 2010).

During the Ems River conveyance (from Papenburg to Eemshaven Holland ), the vessel navigated the waterway in reverse/backward, being assisted by two tugboats. It left Papenburg at 8:30 AM UTC (Oct 30) and arrived in Eemshaven at 3:56 AM UTC (Oct 31).

North Sea/Baltic Sea trials were completed in two phases - November 7-10th and November 14-17th. On Nov 10th, the ship visited Skagen Denmark and remained at anchorage for 5 hours. Following technical and nautical trials in open sea, Carnival Jubilee returned to Eemshaven for further outfitting.

In November Carnival announced that Jubilee would be the fleet's first liner offering 5G connectivity/mobile phone service. The service is provided via partnership with WMS/Wireless Maritime Services LLC (2005-founded, Miramar Florida-based company) specializing in cellular networks for high-performance/fast connectivity at sea.

Carnival Jubilee was officially delivered to CCL by Meyer Werft GmbH & Co KG on December 4th (2023) in Port Bremerhaven . The delivery event was attended by Christine Duffy, Ben Clement, Jan Meyer, as well as the ship’s senior officers.

For Carnival Jubilee, Meyer Werft contracted Almaco Group for planning, designing, building, supply/installation and commissioning of the ship's all provisioning stores. The project (completed in December 2023) included fixed furniture, air supply connections, electrical works, carpeting, ceiling enhancements, finishing of 1000+ staterooms. All cabins were prefabricated, delivered and installed by the subcontractor EMS PreCab GmbH.

The ship's christening ceremony was on February 24, 2024, held at Port Galveston. The naming event was invitation-only and led by godmother Gwen Renee Stefani (1969-born American singer and songwriter, co-founder and lead vocalist/songwriter of "No Doubt"/1986-formed rock band). Live-streamed online, the 45-min event was hosted by Kyndall Fire (Carnival Jubilee's Cruise Director) and attended by Christine Duffy and Craig Brown (Galveston City's Mayor). The live entertainment included a rope trick performance and rendition of the Star Spangled Banner (USA’s national anthem). Galveston's Mayor bestowed CCL's President with the city keys and proclaimed February 24th as "Carnival Jubilee Day". Notably, the date coincided with what would have been the 100th birthday of Ted Arison (CCL's Founder/1924-1999).

Inaugural cruise itineraries 2023

The next tables show the ship's Maiden Voyage/inaugural Caribbean cruise out of Galveston (Texas USA) .

Note: Due to construction delays/shipyard issues, 6x voyages scheduled for 2023 (Nov 30 through Dec 16/including) were canceled.

(Maiden Voyage/ CANCELED ) 18-day westbound Transatlantic crossing from Europe/UK to Texas USA ($1445 pp)

(new MAIDEN VOYAGE ) 7-day Western Caribbean itinerary ($945 pp)

• Cruise News

Exclusive Access: Behind the Scenes at Carnival Jubilee’s Naming Ceremony

Heather Baxter

• February 26, 2024

It’s a Jubilee, y’all!

That was the theme for the day while celebrating Carnival Jubilee’s christening in Galveston, Texas. 

Attendees wore their best Texan attire as a nod to Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ship and her ties to the Lone Star State.

Even just walking into through the terminal to board the ship, both shoreside and shipboard staff were decked out in things like red cowboy hats, bandanas, and boots. 

Stepping onto the ship felt new and familiar at the same time. New, because the ship still had that new-ship smell, and the sleek, chic, thoughtful design and décor were unlike anything I have ever experienced on a Carnival ship.

Stepping on board, the Grand Central atrium immediately wows you with its three-story-high entertainment screen.

The whole room lit up. It wasn’t just the screen or the lighting—a general air of excitement and fun around the space. It draws you in, and it’s hard to leave.

Just around a corner and down the hall, though, is the Currents zone. Giant LED screens adorn the walls of the second story and mimic windows of a submarine.

When I first arrived, it displayed tons of colorful, unique fish that were actually drawings by children that had been animated and brought to life.

The scenery would quickly change to the golden mermaid or to a submarine adventure.

And the space around you changes too, with the lighting turning dark to reflect a submersible’s dive to deeper depths. Without realizing it, I found myself captivated by the narration, like I was on a real adventure. 

Then, suddenly, several people started shuffling around me. I realized I stood only a few feet away from three-time Grammy Award–winning singer and songwriter Gwen Stefani!

After my deer-in-headlights moment, Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy arrived to officially reveal a piece of artwork by Ty, a patient of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, that Carnival brought to life as a 3D sculpture.

Surrounded by Duffy, Jubilee godmother Gwen Stefani, his family, and Richard Shadyac, president and CEO of the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude, Ty cut the ribbon to officially welcome his artwork to its new home on Carnival Jubilee.

Shadyac then thanked Carnival for their long-standing partnership. Carnival Cruise Line has raised more than $30 million to benefit the patients and families of St. Jude.

As if I wasn’t starstruck enough, immediately after this, it was time to inaugurate Emeril’s Bistro 717.

Award-winning celebrity chef and Carnival’s Chief Culinary Officer Emeril Lagasse appeared, flanked by Duffy and Stefani, to celebrate his third restaurant on a Carnival ship with his own ribbon cutting.

The Jubilee then continued with a private lunch in the Pacific Restaurant dining room for the VIP guests. After just being in the presence of the esteemed Lagasse, I ordered the shrimp and grits—a featured dish from Emeril’s Bistro 717.

It lived up to the hype. The shrimp were perfectly cooked, the grits just the right texture, and the pork added just the right amount of a salty kick to the dish. 

Without the dancing waitstaff, it wouldn’t be a Carnival main dining room experience—or a true jubilee.

Toward the end of our meal, a handful of crew members came out in red cowboy hats to regale us with their rendition of “Chattahoochee” by Alan Jackson. It was every bit as fun and funny as you can imagine, y’all. *tips cowboy hat*

As I made my way down to the Jubilee Theater for the naming ceremony, I felt grateful knowing I will be cruising on Jubilee in just a few weeks.

Otherwise, I would have booked one online right there and then. In just a few hours, this Texas ship captured my Texan heart.

Carnival Jubilee Naming Ceremony

Jubilee’s cruise director, Kyndall Fire kicked off the ceremony. After a performance of the national anthem, artist Will Fitzpatrick took the stage to demonstrate trick roping and show off skills with a lasso.

Next, Mayor of Galveston Craig Brown presented Carnival President Christine Duffy with the key to Galveston, declaring February 24 as “Carnival Jubilee Day.”

Mayor Brown noted that Carnival “initiated the entire cruise industry for the city of Galveston” when it became the first cruise line to homeport from Texas in 1974. “And you’re first in our hearts, too,” he added.

“ Carnival Jubilee is shore power ready, Mayor!” she quipped. “So when the Port of Galveston gets equipped with technology enhancements that will allow cruise ships to plug into the grid, we will be operating here at berth utilizing shoreside electricity, which also helps us reduce emissions.”

Duffy honored Carnival’s roots by mentioning Ted Arison, who founded Carnival Cruise Line in 1972. Ted would have been 100 years-old on the day of the christening.

Jubilee Cowboy Boots Auctioned

Could the ship truly be Texan without a pair of cowboy boots? Don’t worry. Carnival thought of this too. The custom boots by local Houston company Parker Boots display Duffy’s initials “C” and “D” on their backs as well as the Carnival funnel on their sides and the state of Texas on the front. “When I found out how much these boots cost, I figured I shouldn’t be wearing them,” Duffy joked.

Instead, the boots will remain on display on the ship. After receiving numerous inquiries about how one might acquire these boots, Duffy had another custom pair made that went in an online auction .

The proceeds from the winning bid of $25,000 will support military families through Carnival’s partnership with Operation Homefront.

Carnival Raises Goal for St. Jude Donations

In the final remarks before the main event, Duffy presented St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with a $50,000 donation on behalf of Jubilee’s godmother, Gwen Stefani.

Since 2012, when Carnival Cruise Line began supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in its mission to treat and cure childhood cancer, Carnival has raised an impressive $33 million for the organization.

Gwen Stefani Christens Carnival’s Newest Ship

And now, it was time for the official christening!

In choosing a godmother, Duffy noted that the cruise lines looks for someone who reflects the same values of the company and embodies leadership, inclusivity, giving back to the community, and, of course, having fun.

Joining the stage, Stefani then pulled a lever, which released a ceremonial bottle outside that smashed against the side of the ship.

The ceremony concluded with a live performance by Stefani, who performed five top hits from her and her band No Doubt: “Sweet Escape,” “Underneath It All,” “Don’t Speak,” “Just a Girl,” and a unique version of “Hollaback Girl.”

For the last song, she changed the lyrics, proclaiming, “This my ship, this my ship!”

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Carnival Jubilee ship review: A guide to Carnival's third Excel Class cruise ship

Editor's Note

When Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Jubilee debuted in December 2023, it became the third ship in the line's Excel Class , closely mimicking sister ships Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration. Although there are more similarities than differences among the three, Carnival has still found a way to make Carnival Jubilee innovative and fun by tweaking a few of the offerings.

The ship shares Carnival's "zone" concept with its two older sisters, meaning it has dedicated areas for dining, drinking, entertainment and outdoor fun, including Bolt, a top-deck roller coaster. The biggest differences on the newest iteration are in two reinvented zones, Currents and The Shores; respectively, they take the place of The French Quarter and La Piazza on Mardi Gras , and The Gateway and 820 Biscayne on Carnival Celebration .

On my voyage, the ship carried 5,676 passengers, plus crew. This meant it wasn't at capacity, but it still felt loud and crowded, and often was fraught with lines. However, the service was generally excellent, with an exceedingly friendly crew.

The vessel is also a ton of fun, featuring two new shows (one with a football tailgate theme and the other with an onboard wedding plot), plenty of daily activities and so many fantastic dining options — many of them free — that it'll make your head spin.

Here's the rundown on what you can expect on board so you can determine if Carnival Jubilee is right for your next sailing.

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Carnival Jubilee overview

Carnival Jubilee is a megaship, coming in at 183,521 tons and carrying up to 6,631 passengers at full capacity. It's tied with Carnival Celebration for the title of the largest ship in Carnival's fleet.

The vessel offers weeklong Caribbean voyages on a regular rotation from its home port in Galveston, Texas, meaning you'll find a healthy dose of Texas-style fun on board (more on that later). In fact, Carnival is so dedicated to keeping the ship in the Lone Star State that it had a Texas star painted on the ship's hull.

Carnival Jubilee's demographics run the gamut from families with young kids or extended family groups to groups of friends, couples and even solo cruisers (even though it doesn't have any cabins for singles). True to the rumors about Southern hospitality, the people on my cruise were some of the warmest and most polite I've ever encountered; fellow passengers were saying "excuse me," allowing others to go first in line and generally being more courteous than I've found on sailings from other places.

The ship is divided into six zones, where passengers can find a mix of bars, restaurants, live performances, water-filled fun and exhilarating activities like a ropes course, minigolf and, of course, the Bolt roller coaster . Here's a bit about each zone.

Carnival Jubilee zones

Grand Central: This bustling area rises up three decks — decks 6, 7 and 8 — and replaces the traditional atrium found on older Carnival vessels. The focal point is Center Stage, a starboard-side (on your right when facing the front of the ship) secondary theater that's home to events like bingo during the day and song-and-dance performances at night.

Surrounding the stage are tons of seating options, as well as JavaBlue Cafe, which serves coffee and snacks; Cherry on Top candy shop; the Center Stage and Grand View Bars; and Bonsai Sushi and Teppanyaki. It also serves as an access point for the onboard shops, Piano Bar 88, The Punchliner Comedy Club and the Jubilee Casino.

Currents: Currents is one of the other main social hubs on Carnival Jubilee. It starts on Deck 6, just aft of Grand Central and features two new bars. The Golden Mermaid has gilded decor and a custom-designed mural depicting mermaids and lots of hidden Easter eggs (look for SpongeBob SquarePants references). Meanwhile, Dr. Inks, Ph.D., is a bar based on the fictional character Dr. Inks — an octopus with academic credentials. Both bars have excellent drink menus.

Also in the space is Emeril's Bistro 717, a New Orleans-style, for-fee eatery developed by celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse.

On the wall above Dr. Inks, window-shaped screens provide a show for anyone passing through the length of the Currents promenade area. Programming rotates between underwater adventures, nature scenes and even artwork produced by passengers and kids from St. Jude's Children's Hospital. For a better view, head up one deck to the Alchemy Bar.

The Shores: If the Currents zone is the underwater-themed area of the ship, The Shores on Deck 8 is what you get when you pop your head above the metaphorical surface. Inspired by boardwalks and beaches, The Shores offers two walk-up food counters: Beach Buns (Carnival Deli on other ships) and Coastal Slice (the equivalent of Pizza Pirate or Pizzeria del Capitano). Offset by colorful, blinking carnival-style lighting, the venues all but scream, "Step right up!"

Other venues in the area include the Marina Bar for cocktails and coffee, complimentary Italian restaurant Cucina del Capitano and for-fee seafood eatery Rudi's Seagrill, created by food pop artist chef Rudi Sodamin.

Summer Landing: From The Shores, continue aft on Deck 8 to reach Summer Landing. It's an indoor space that encompasses Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse, a Guy Fieri barbecue joint with its own microbrewery and live music; the Heroes Tribute Lounge, which honors members of the military; and soft-serve ice cream.

Outside, the area continues with The Patio, which features a pool and hot tubs, and neighboring The Watering Hole, a bar that serves the space.

Lido: A mix of food and fun, the Lido zone fans out on decks 16 and 17 around the ship's main Beach Pool, which serves as the center of the action. Around and above it, you'll find outdoor movies, dedicated teen hangouts, a video arcade, a two-story version of the RedFrog Tiki Bar, cruiser favorite BlueIguana Cantina, extra-fee Seafood Shack and Street Eats street food.

On the upper deck is the popular Guy's Burger Joint, which is oddly set a bit farther away from the action on Excel Class ships. Farther afield on Deck 16, passengers can check out Shaquille O'Neal's Big Chicken restaurant or venture to Lido Marketplace, the ship's complimentary buffet.

The Ultimate Playground: If you're looking for alfresco thrills to keep you busy, The Ultimate Playground is the place to be. It comprises a miniature golf course, a basketball court, a ropes course and the line's signature WaterWorks water park, all of which are free.

Of course, the highlight of this zone is the Bolt roller coaster. It's an added-fee experience during which passengers (one to two people per ride) zoom twice around the track on a motorcycle-style vehicle that allows you to throttle up or down to a speed that suits you.

What I love about Carnival Jubilee

Grand central.

Grand Central is one of my favorite spots on board. Although it's often loud, busy and difficult to navigate, especially on sea days, it's a prime place to sit and people-watch. I found myself gravitating there repeatedly to enjoy coffee or a snack from the nearby JavaBlue Cafe while watching the cast from that night's show rehearse at Center Stage — something you can't usually do on other ships.

Plus, the space is a bit of a throwback to the days when interior designer and architect Joe Farcus was responsible for Carnival's ship decor. The decor is midcentury modern style meets '80s quirk, featuring a pink and teal color scheme, fun light fixtures and a bar with colored mirror accents.

I'm not generally someone who cares about alcohol. Give me one or two pina coladas on a weeklong cruise, and I'm good to go. However, the massively creative options on the menus at both the Golden Mermaid and Dr. Inks, Ph.D., bars are absolutely worth a shoutout.

For the wow factor, the best drink I had was A Pearly Bubble. Found on the menu at the Golden Mermaid, it's a mix of gin, St-Germain liqueur, white cranberry juice, dragon fruit and lime juice. It was a bit too dry for me, so I didn't care for the taste; however, you won't want to miss the presentation, which involves a giant bubble atop the drink. It pops when you poke it, leaving behind a tiny poof of smoke.

For taste, which I know is subjective, my favorite is the Crimson Catch (Swedish Fish candy-infused vodka, lime juice, pomegranate liqueur, white cranberry juice and Swedish Fish candy). I prefer sweet drinks, and this hit the spot.

It's not unusual for the line at JavaBlue to snake around the corner and down the hall at peak times. The staff members try their best to keep things moving, but if you don't feel like waiting 10-15 minutes for a cuppa, head upstairs to Deck 8's Marina Bar instead.

There, you can order any of the same coffee beverages you'll find at JavaBlue but in far less time. If you're feeling more like a cocktail, you can grab one of those, too. On my sailing, the bartenders were phenomenal and even remembered that I prefer non-dairy milk with my lattes.

Bolt roller coaster

Cruise fans know that Carnival brought Bolt, the first-ever roller coaster at sea, to Mardi Gras in 2021. Carnival Jubilee offers the same ride — the third of its kind on a cruise ship — in the deck 18, 19 and 20 Ultimate Playground area.

Pay a fee to ride, and you (or you and a friend) can navigate two laps of twists and turns around the ship's funnel as you use the throttle and hyper-boost buttons to try to break the day's speed record. (Yes, you'll be timed, and don't forget to smile for a photo.) The ocean views from above are totally worth the cost.

What I don't love about Carnival Jubilee

There's no easy way to say this: The ship almost always feels crowded. If you want to enjoy it when it's not, you'll have to stay on board during port calls just to find some space to yourself. Many restaurants and walk-up counters have near-constant lines, particularly at the complimentary venues during peak dinner times every evening.

It's so common for JavaBlue to be backed up throughout the day that an easy-to-miss sign directs passengers to other locations where they can grab a cup of coffee. Meanwhile, lines at the onboard deli and pizzeria counters frequently snake so far down Deck 8 that they block the entrance to seafood restaurant Rudi's Seagrill. One night, as I was dining at Rudi's with some of my travel companions, we joked that the lines were dangerously close to melding with the line for the nearby guest services desk.

And it isn't just a problem with dining. I arrived 15 minutes early for a magic show at the Punchliner Comedy Club, and I couldn't find a single available seat in the entire place. On another night, I showed up on time for Family Feud Live in the ship's theater, and it was a standing-room-only situation. The sizes of the performance venues are generally way too small for the number of passengers wishing to watch the shows.

My cabin had some of the best soundproofing I've experienced on a new ship in a long time — I had balcony accommodations near an elevator bank and heard nothing when I was in my room. However, a couple of passengers told me they could hear noise from Bolt in their balcony cabin on Deck 15.

Most other places on board seem to be excessively loud. Even on port days, when most passengers are ashore, the public areas are filled with loud music that makes it hard to find a quiet escape. Some of it is understandable. After all, Carnival vessels are known as the Fun Ships, but some of it seems unnecessary.

One example is the Dr. Seuss-themed Seuss-a-palooza Parade that makes its way through the Currents zone once per sailing. I happened to be sitting at a table in the area when the festivities kicked off. I decided to stay to see what it was all about, and I'm sorry I did. As costumed Dr. Seuss characters arrived, Carnival staff asked the children to scream solely for the sake of screaming. Ear-piercing shrieks reverberated throughout the space, which was also blocked off to passengers trying to pass through.

The excessive upselling

Combining noise with the annoyance of hawking alcohol, the roving waiters visited every table at Chibang! — the ship's hybrid Mexican-Asian restaurant — one night while I was having dinner there. Their goal was to push Rumchata shots on everyone. Whenever somebody bought one, the waiter would demand that they yell "Shot, shot, shot!" before downing it. This was extremely disruptive and added to the already loud atmosphere.

One afternoon later in the sailing, two different crew members approached me a total of six times in less than half an hour while I was having lunch on the Lido deck. The first five times, I simply said, "No, thanks." After the sixth time, I had enough and told them nicely but firmly to stop asking me. I found the high-pressure sales tactics excessive and irritating when all I wanted to do was eat my meal in peace.

The inconsistencies

Oddly, there were some discrepancies on board that I was surprised to see on a ship that's been sailing for several months.

The first couple had to do with differences between the Carnival HUB app and the daily Fun Times printed schedule. On one occasion, the app said Seafood Shack opened half an hour earlier than it did, while the paper version of the daily schedule had the correct information. Another time, the printed daily had the wrong theater show listed for that night; the correct one was posted in the HUB. On another day, the printed schedule was missing part four of a four-part show, which did show up on the agenda in the app.

In terms of food and drinks, I had a strange experience at Chibang! when I ordered spring rolls. Usually, they don't have meat in them, nor was meat listed as an ingredient on the menu. When the waiter took my order, he said, "Spring rolls with chicken." When I asked him about it, he said he could request for them to be made without it, but that doesn't explain why something with meat in it wouldn't have meat in its list of ingredients. If I were a vegetarian or vegan, it would have concerned me.

As for drinks, I ordered a Snapping Pop at Dr. Inks., Ph.D. It was completely different — different color, different taste and different presentation — from what I received when I ordered the same drink on a sailing two months prior. I was told the drink had to be changed for several reasons. However, the old ingredients were listed on the menu, meaning passengers weren't getting what they thought they ordered.

Carnival Jubilee cabins and suites

Carnival Jubilee offers cabins in the usual varieties: insides with no windows or balconies, ocean-view accommodations with windows, balcony cabins with outdoor veranda space and suites that include additional perks. These include priority check-in, boarding and disembarkation; preferred dinner times in the main dining room; pillow-top mattresses; two large bottles of water and bathrobes; and extra square footage.

Within those categories, Carnival Jubilee offers three types of special cabins. First is Family Harbor, which offers nautically themed cabins that sleep up to five people and rooms that can be connected via an interior door. Families booked in Family Harbor cabins have access to a dedicated Family Harbor Lounge, which offers daily breakfast, snacks and drinks, as well as board games and TVs with a selection of movies and video games. They also receive a free night of babysitting in the kids club so parents can enjoy some alone time.

The second special cabin type is the Havana Cabana. Done up in bright, tropical colors, these rooms offer extended outdoor lounge space and private access to the Havana Pool and Bar area.

The third type is Cloud 9 Spa cabins. With calming seafoam green and yellow decor alongside extras like Elemis toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, these are some of the most relaxing cabins on any ship. These guests also receive priority spa appointments and free access to fitness classes and the onboard thermal suite.

Suites in all three of these special accommodation types also give passengers the suite perks mentioned above.

Excel Suites, Carnival Jubilee's highest-level accommodations, receive all standard suite perks plus additional ones. These include complimentary access to the private sun deck at Loft 19, priority cabana reservations at Loft 19, concierge services, guaranteed reservations at most extra-fee restaurants, free room service, upgraded toiletries, fruit and sparkling wine upon embarkation, a free soft drink package, free in-room movies, an in-cabin coffee machine and complimentary laundry service .

Standard amenities in all rooms include a queen bed that converts to two twins on request, bedside shelving with reading lamps and USB outlets, a desk and vanity area, a sofa or chair, a closet and drawers for storage, a safe for valuables, a house phone and a hair dryer.

Bathrooms feature a toilet, sink and shower with a door instead of a curtain. Complimentary toiletries are basic: bar soap for handwashing and dispensers of shampoo and shower gel mounted on the wall in the shower.

On my sailing, I stayed in a balcony cabin, which was elegantly decorated in neutrals with blue accents. I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of storage space. I appreciated touches like ample vanity mirror lighting, adjustable shelving in the closets and a surplus of USB outlets throughout the room, including near the vanity and beside the bed.

Speaking of the bed, it was exceptionally comfortable, and I was excited to find that the TV across from it had a sizable selection of free movies (as well as newer releases for a fee). The TV also allows you to watch select live channels and shipboard programming and to check your onboard bill.

Dislikes for me include a shower door that opens toward you instead of into the shower, making the already tiny bathroom even tighter. I also didn't like the "SNOOZIN'" door hangers, which often got caught in my door when I closed it; I would've rathered a "do not disturb" button like many other new ships have.

I also would have liked a taller table on the balcony, but it only had room for two chairs (not lounger-style) and a small drinks table.

Carnival Jubilee offers 82 accessible cabins in a mix of types and categories: inside, ocean-view, balcony and suite, as well as rooms in the Family Harbor, Havana Cabana and Cloud 9 Spa categories.

Within those 82 options, there are fully accessible accommodations with access to both sides of the bed and rooms that are fully accessible with single-side access to one side of the bed, which work well for passengers who use wheelchairs and scooters. Ambulatory-accessible rooms provide accommodations for people who walk with the help of assistive devices like canes or walkers.

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.

There are no solo cabins on Carnival Jubilee.

Cabin cleaning is limited to once per day. Unless you specifically request your cabin steward to come at night for turndown service instead of earlier in the day, your room will be made up in the morning. Hang the "SNOOZIN'" card on the outside of your door, and no one will bother you — but your room won't be cleaned that day.

Carnival Jubilee restaurants and bars

Carnival jubilee food.

One of the best ways Carnival provides value to its customers is through its food offerings. Complimentary dining abounds on Carnival Jubilee, and the variety of cuisines is impressive. You'll find more free options on Carnival ships than on just about any other fleet's vessels, and they're actually tasty. It's entirely possible to eat only food that's included in the cruise fare and not feel like you're missing out.

Excellent added-fee options include steak, seafood and teppanyaki, which might be worth trying if you're celebrating a special occasion or feeling like a splurge.

Dinner reservations are recommended for many eateries, even the main dining rooms. You can make them by visiting your restaurant of choice or by using the HUB app. If you don't make one, you might find yourself waiting 20 minutes or more for a table at peak times. If you make a reservation through the app, you'll receive a notification to report to the host stand when your table is ready.

In my experience, waiters were diligent in asking about dietary requirements and restrictions. However, it was disappointing to see that many menus weren't marked with specific options for vegetarians, vegans and people who can't eat gluten.

The ship has two main dining rooms: Atlantic Restaurant (Deck 6, mid) and Pacific Restaurant (decks 6 and 7, aft).

One of them 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.)

Both serve the same menu for dinner, but only the larger Pacific Restaurant is open for Sea Day Brunch on sea days and breakfast (but not lunch) on port days.

I very much enjoyed an omelet with hashbrowns at Sea Day Brunch and salmon during the formal night dinner in the Pacific Restaurant. I also had a wonderful time at two special events — complimentary afternoon tea and an extra-fee Dr. Seuss-themed Thing 1 and Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast — held in the Atlantic Restaurant.

Tip: If you're a vegetarian or a fan of Indian food, don't miss the daily Indian dish on the main dining room menu.

The buffet is the other free food option that's a staple on just about any cruise.

On Carnival Jubilee, the Lido Marketplace on Deck 16 is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, but I found it largely uninspired and lacking in variety. The French toast I had for breakfast and the mahi mahi I had for dinner were tasty, but there are definitely better no-charge venues on board.

A little-known fact is that, at least for the inaugural season, passengers can dine at Mexican-Asian restaurant Chibang! and the Italian Cucina del Capitano, both on Deck 8, for free. Cruisers with YTD can eat there for dinner anytime; those with set seating can dine there after 7:45 p.m.

At Cucina del Capitano, I was exceptionally pleased with the spaghetti carbonara I ordered. The nachos and spring rolls are don't-miss items at Chibang!

Unfortunately, both the service and atmosphere at Chibang! are lacking. The space is simply packed with tables — so much so that there were only about two inches between my table and the one next to me, even though I was dining alone. It then took nearly 10 minutes for a waiter to bring me water and another 10 before someone came to take my order.

Also on Deck 8 are Coastal Slice and neighboring Beach Buns, which respectively replace the pizza and deli counters found by the pool on most other Carnival ships.

The former bakes several different types of pies nearly around the clock, and they're scrumptious. The latter whips up hotdogs, soups and a variety of sandwiches. (I was pleasantly surprised by the grilled ham and cheese.) Lines for both counters are often long, but I promise it's worth the wait.

Two great staples in the ship's outdoor Lido zone are the BlueIguana Cantina (Deck 16), where you can find yummy tacos and burritos throughout the day, and Guy's Burger Joint (Deck 17), which is the place to grab some of the best burgers at sea via Carnival's partnership with chef and TV personality Guy Fieri.

The breakfast burritos at BlueIguana are fantastic. My pick from Guy's is the Chilius Maximus — an 80/20 ground chuck patty with cheese, chili, onion rings and barbecue sauce.

Guy Fieri isn't the only celebrity affiliated with Carnival's free food.

Shaq's Big Chicken , a restaurant backed by basketball great Shaquille O'Neal (who is also Carnival's CFO, chief fun officer), is perfect if you have a hankering for some fried chicken. In addition to chicken strips, sandwiches and fries, the counter-service venue also serves breakfast. Do yourself a favor and try the chicken and biscuit combo with fries.

If you're seeking a between-meal snack or light bite, try the JavaBlue Cafe on Deck 6 in Grand Central. The cafe offers a sizable menu of specialty coffee beverages and tea, as well as free and for-fee snacks.

Breakfast pastries, bowls and English muffin sandwiches, as well as all-day options like salads, sandwiches, wraps, empanadas and calzones, are complimentary; cookies, doughnuts, cupcakes and cheesecake cost extra.

As a sucker for soft-serve ice cream, I was a frequent visitor to the three soft-serve ice cream and frozen yogurt machines on decks 8, 16 and 17. At some point, I lost count of how many cones I ate.

Since there are no toppings, I recommend you snag a bowl of dry Froot Loops from the buffet during breakfast, and stash them in your cabin to mix with your ice cream later. Or grab cookies from the buffet for a DIY ice cream sandwich.

Carnival Jubilee has so many places to eat that I ran out of time to try them all on my weeklong sailing.

I missed Fresh Creations, a salad station in the adults-only sun deck area on Deck 18, and Street Eats, a set of three street food-style walk-up windows on Deck 16 near the main pool. The walk-up windows include Steam Dream, which serves dumplings; Time Fries, offering creative takes on french fries; and Sizzle, a grill that specializes in kebabs and other dishes.

Extra-cost food

My favorite onboard dining experience of the whole sailing was at Emeril's Bistro 717 in the Currents zone on Deck 6. A version of this chef Emeril Lagasse-affiliated spot is on each of Carnival's Excel Class ships, bearing the hull number of the original vessel for which the new one is named. Simply walk up to order at the counter, have a seat and a waiter will take over from there.

During my visit, I ordered a pound of stone crab claws in garlic butter (market price) with red beans and rice ($3) and a brie bowl ($6). The food was fabulous, and the service was friendly. My only complaint is that, apart from a claw cracker, there were no other tools available to get to the crab meat. (I asked.) My waiter had no bibs or wet wipes to offer, which left me a bit messy afterward.

The food item I most recommend you try when sailing on Carnival Jubilee is an order of beignets at Emeril's. Pillows of soft fried dough coated in powdered sugar with chocolate and strawberry sauces for dipping are $5 for an order of six.

My second favorite experience was a calm, quiet and uncrowded lunch at Bonsai Sushi on Deck 8. I partook in edamame ($3) and a California roll ($8). It was fresh, tasty, filling and reasonably priced.

Another excellent dinner during my voyage occurred at Rudi's Seagrill (Deck 8), an upscale seafood restaurant named for chef and pop artist Rudi Sodamin. The lobster macaroni and cheese was the perfect indulgence to start my meal, and I followed it up with a delicious crab cake.

I wasn't overly hungry when I sat down, but the $49 cover charge ($15 for kids) would also have included a soup or salad and a dessert if I had wanted them.

No Carnival sailing would be complete for a carnivore without a visit to Fahrenheit 555, the onboard steakhouse . On Carnival Jubilee, it's adorned in neutral tans, dark browns and red tones.

The menu has several types of meat — including steak, of course, as well as lamb chops and chicken — and seafood items like fish and lobster tail. I went with a 9-ounce filet mignon, which was cooked to perfection. It came alongside several sauces and sides of broccoli and crinkle-cut fries for $49 ($15 for kids).

My two most disappointing extra-fee food encounters on Carnival Jubilee were Seafood Shack (Deck 16, in the Lido zone, near the pool) and room service.

The first one opened late, and despite my order being the first one of the day, it still took more than 20 minutes to be served. I chose a single crab cake for $15. When I received it, the bun was soggy, and no garnishes or sauces were offered until I went back to the counter to ask for coleslaw and tartar sauce, neither of which helped the flavor.

It didn't hold a candle to the crab cake from Rudi's, and I ended up abandoning most of it.

Room service, which comes with a la carte fees (except for free Continental breakfast), set me back almost $20 for a chicken quesadilla, chicken fingers with curly fries and a chocolate chip cookie, which I ordered sometime around 2 a.m.

Everything arrived quickly and at the right temperature. The fries and cookie were great, but the chicken fingers were rubbery and full of gristle. When I tried to order the quesadilla without chicken, I was told they were already made, which seems strange. Shouldn't room service be made to order?

Again, I couldn't fit every single restaurant into my time on Carnival Jubilee, so I missed out on Bonsai Teppanyaki, where chefs grill your food right in front of you, complete with corny jokes. I also missed Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse, another Guy Fieri creation that serves barbecue fare, wings and microbrewed beer made right on the ship (lunch is free). I couldn't make it to Chef's Table, an exclusive multicourse small-group dining experience that's the most pricey meal on board, either.

Carnival Jubilee bars

Drinks are priced individually unless you have a Cheers beverage package that includes alcohol.

My favorite bar on Carnival Jubilee is the Marina Bar in The Shores zone on Deck 8. It offers a menu of adult beverages, but it also serves the same specialty coffees you'll find at JavaBlue, which often has a long line.

This nautically themed outpost is next to a popular access point to the outer decks, so the only downside is that you might be blasted with hot air while your drink is being made.

Unique to Carnival Jubilee are two new bars in the Deck 6 Currents zone.

The Golden Mermaid is a nod to treasures one might expect to find under the sea, and a mural on the opposite wall depicts underwater scenes, including mermaids. (For some "Where's Waldo"-style fun, try to spot a miniature likeness of the ship, a pair of custom sneakers and references to SpongeBob SquarePants.)

The menu of drinks is noteworthy, too, featuring names like From Far Seas and Atlantis Potion. My favorite, though, is A Pearly Bubble — a blend of gin, St. Germain liqueur, white cranberry juice, lime juice and dragon fruit that's as much for show as it is for taste.

The second new bar is Dr. Inks, Ph.D. In addition to a fun selection of cocktails — some of which involve candy — the bar's theme is tied to an animated octopus named Dr. Inks. She has a Ph.D., pet butterflies and extensive collections of both books and fashionable eyewear. Every so often, she'll appear on the screens above the area to chat.

Cruiser-favorite Alchemy Bar — where white-coated apothecaries prescribe drinks to heal what ails you (try the Cucumber Sunrise) — and the bar at Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse returned to Carnival Jubilee after finding success on other Carnival ships.

Besides beer that's brewed right on board — which you can order by the glass, flight or growler, or in cocktails — you can snag one of several whiskies or interesting cocktails like a smoky watermelon margarita and a black bourbon fizz. I tried a bacon Manhattan, but the taste wasn't my favorite. I also wasn't impressed with how long it took a bartender to ask for my order, especially since it wasn't particularly crowded.

I'm not a huge drinker, so I didn't personally try cocktails from the Center Stage Bar (Deck 6) or Grand View Bar (Deck 7) in Grand Central. The former features a bit of a retro vibe, and the latter is backed by a giant light-up wall that looks like wave.

I also missed out on the RedFrog Tiki Bar, a two-deck (decks 16 and 17), hut-style setup that replaces the RedFrog Rum Bar found on many other Carnival ships' pool decks. It's where you'll find the most quintessentially tropical menu of mixed drinks on board.

Other outdoor bar options include The Watering Hole near Summer Landing on Deck 8, the Serenity Pool Bar on Deck 18 in the adults-only area and the Loft 19 Bar on the exclusive Loft 19 sun deck. (Access is free for passengers booked in suites or anyone who reserves a cabana for anywhere from $250 to $500 per day.)

Back inside, Deck 6's Piano Bar is where passengers can order a tipple while an onboard pianist tickles the ivories. Make your way up a deck, and you'll find the Limelight Lounge, which serves as a secondary performance space and trivia outpost.

Go one deck farther, and you can choose between the Havana Bar, which serves Latin-themed cocktails, and the Heroes Tribute Lounge, which has a special menu of drinks dedicated to military members.

Carnival Jubilee entertainment

Carnival jubilee activities.

Carnival Jubilee offers a full roundup of daily activities on each voyage.

Passengers might choose to head to the casino, play bingo, enjoy an alcohol tasting, participate in a sports tournament, go on a digital scavenger hunt, mingle at a deck party, play minigolf, take a dance class, learn towel folding, or attend a spa, jewelry or shopping seminar.

Particularly notable are the rotating animations that pop up throughout the Currents zone during each voyage.

If you show up during "Soundwaves Jukebox," you'll see synthesizer-like graphics pulsating to the music on the giant screens above the space.

"Change the Currents" will allow you to view underwater scenes from different areas of the world, including the Arctic and swampy Everglades; other experiences take you on an underwater adventure in a submarine and display ocean-themed artwork drawn by kids at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Some of my personal favorite pastimes on board included trivia, pool deck movies, for-fee culinary classes and a particularly relaxing massage. (Watch out for discounts early in your sailing or on port days.)

In addition to treatments, the Cloud 9 Spa offers salon services and a thermal suite — access to which is free with the purchase of a pass or a spa treatment — with a thalassotherapy pool, heated tile loungers, a sauna and two steam rooms. The adjacent 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.

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

If you're interested in spending time outdoors working on your tan by the pool, you can do so at one of five onboard pools.

There's the Havana Pool (private access for cruisers staying in Havana Cabanas) and the Patio Pool, both on Deck 8 (the latter with hot tubs); the Beach Pool and Tides Pool on Deck 16 (also with hot tubs); and the Deck 18 adults-only Serenity Pool (with hot tubs). There's also a hot tub at Loft 19 on Deck 19, which charges a fee for access.

Cabanas are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis. Prices vary by sailing, but on my voyage, they were $500 per day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pool lifts accommodating up to 300 pounds are available for passengers with limited mobility.

On Deck 18, you'll find Waterworks, which offers waterslides and a splash area for kids.

Kids and adults who aren't afraid of heights will enjoy the top-deck ropes course, which offers two options for different levels of skill and bravery. The Bolt roller coaster, a minigolf course and a basketball court are also found in the SportSquare area within the Ultimate Playground zone.

Additional activities for youngsters take place in Camp Ocean, Carnival's kids club , which splits children into four groups: Turtles (up to 2 years old), Penguins (2-5), Stingrays (6-8) and Sharks (9-11).

Fun pursuits on the daily schedule might include arts and crafts, themed parties, science experiments, games and story time, depending on the age group.

Camp Ocean also has an interactive space wall, where astronauts lead kids on virtual expeditions, complete with a ceiling that lights up like the night sky to show the constellations.

Kids can also attend Build-A-Bear workshops, march along in a Dr. Seuss-themed parade led by the Fox in Socks and Thing 1 and Thing 2, and listen to the Cat in the Hat read stories.

Tweens and teens have their own dedicated hangout spaces. Activities here are less structured, and participants can come and go as they please. Plus, an onboard arcade offers video games for a fee.

Carnival Jubilee shows

Entertainment on Carnival Jubilee is a combination of passenger favorites from other ships and new shows that you'll only find on this vessel.

Of the performances, I most enjoyed two main-theater shows that are also found on some other ships in the fleet. "Celestial Strings" is a mix of classical and modern pop instrumentals partnered with ethereal costumes and sets; "Soulbound" is a song-and-dance performance with a Victorian steampunk vibe, set in what feels like New Orleans, during which a soul-stealer tries to mess with a twisted love story.

Another excellent show is "Rio Carnival," which occurs at Center Stage in the Grand Central zone instead of the main theater. Although the first half felt a bit shaky and slightly boring to me, the second half redeemed it all, featuring a parade of dancers and aerialists dressed in flamboyant costumes synonymous with Rio de Janeiro's Carnival.

The ship's two new shows are just OK. The first, "Dear Future Husband," is a song-and-dance theater show with a plot that involves a couple taking their closest friends on a cruise for a combination bachelor/bachelorette party and wedding. Musical numbers befit the wedding theme and include Bruno Mars' "Marry You" and, of course, Meghan Trainor's "Dear Future Husband."

After the performance, a "reception" (read: dance party with a DJ and visits from the cast) is held in one of the ship's public areas. When I saw this show several months ago, the reception was in the Limelight Lounge. On this more recent voyage, Dr. Inks, Ph.D., served as the reception location.

The second new show is the "Lone Star Tailgate." Drawing on Texas' love for all things football, Carnival has created four indoor/outdoor "quarters" of fun to mimic the four quarters of a football game. When I sailed, the first quarter, which is all about pool deck games for kids, was held on one sea day, and the other three were held on another sea day.

The second quarter involves pool deck games where passengers have to dress up in football gear to complete team races.

During "halftime," the ship's theater singers and dancers put on a show on the pool deck, dressed in team colors to support the fictional Carnival University — the team cruisers are supposedly cheering on during the festivities.

The third and fourth quarters occur in the Summer Landing zone; passengers can rope hay bales, participate in a hot wing-eating contest at Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse and follow it up with music from a live band.

Don't miss the audience participation-style game shows like "Family Feud Live," "Deal or No Deal" and the "Love & Marriage Show." The first pits two family teams against one another to guess popular answers to survey questions; the latter tests couples to see how well they know one another, often resulting in hilarious answers.

Other entertainment during my sailing included several day and nighttime comedy acts, an absolutely phenomenal magic show (be sure to arrive at the Punchliner Comedy Club at least 30 minutes early or you won't find a seat) and "We Are One," a farewell show that focuses on togetherness.

Carnival Jubilee itineraries and pricing

Through at least April 2026, Carnival Jubilee offers two seven-night Western Caribbean itineraries out of its Galveston home port on a regular rotation. Both types of sailings begin and end in Galveston and visit Mahogany Bay in Roatan and Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico with three sea days mixed in. The only difference between the two itineraries is the order in which the port calls and sea days occur.

At the time of publication, prices started from $709 per person ($101 per person per night) for an inside cabin or $919 per person ($131 per person per night) for balcony accommodations.

What to know before you sail on Carnival Jubilee

Required documents.

If you're a U.S. citizen on a cruise that starts and ends in a U.S. port, you'll need a current passport or an official copy of your birth certificate and a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification to sail. A few other forms of identification, such as a passport card, also are acceptable.

Passports must be valid for at least six more months. For cruises from international ports, you'll need a passport. Note that it is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality. All this said, we recommend checking Carnival's website before sailing for up-to-date requirements.

Related: Which documents do you need for a cruise?

Carnival Jubilee passengers will automatically have $16 per person per day added to their onboard bills. 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 bills, spa treatments and the cover charge of the Chef's Table.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on cruise ships

Carnival Wi-Fi is generally fast and reliable, and Jubilee features StarLink connectivity. 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 simultaneously unless you buy additional plans.)

Three package tiers are available: Social (access to most social media and airline websites and apps for $18 per day or $126 for a weeklong cruise), Value (same as Social, plus access to financial and news websites and apps for $23 per day or $161 for a week) and Premium (everything from the Social and Value packages plus Skype access and video calling for $25 per day or $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.

Carnival Jubilee is also the first ship in the fleet to offer 5G cellphone connectivity, which means faster speeds when you connect using your cellphone's plan. But be warned: If you don't have a special plan that allows you to connect at sea without roaming, you could be looking at hefty fees when you return. Generally, it's best to keep your phone in airplane mode when you sail.

Related: 5 things to know about cruise ship Wi-Fi

Carry-on drinks policy

Passengers can carry on one bottle of wine or Champagne per person (21 years and older); this 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 my own alcohol on a cruise ship?

Smoking policy

Smoking (including electronic cigarettes) is allowed but only in designated outdoor areas on Deck 8 mid-ship on the starboard side. Smoking is also allowed on the starboard side of the casino, but it's for cigarettes only. All types of smoking are forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies.

Related: Cruise line smoking policies

Carnival Jubilee has self-service pressing rooms on decks 4, 5, 9, 14 and 15 with ironing boards and irons that are free to use. There are no self-service laundry facilities, though. 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

Electrical outlets

Carnival Jubilee has standard North American 110-volt outlets in its cabins, as well as plenty of USB ports. In my balcony room, I had three standard outlets and four USB lightning ports by the vanity. There was also a USB port (non-lightning) on either side of the bed, just below the reading lamp.

The currency on Carnival Jubilee is the U.S. 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. The only time you might want to have some bills handy is for tipping your room steward, bartenders, room service delivery people, luggage porters or shore excursion guides.

Drinking age

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

Carnival Jubilee does not have a specific daytime dress code, and people dress casually. If it's a sea day in a warm-weather destination, and you're bound for the top deck, T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to go inside) are just fine.

During the evenings, the official dress code is pretty laid-back. Most nights are designated "cruise casual," which means just that — khakis or jeans, polo shirts, sundresses and the like. Super casual items such as 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 Jubilee.

Each weeklong cruise will schedule two formal nights — known as "elegant nights." If you're bound for the dining rooms, men are expected to turn up in dress slacks and a dress shirt, preferably with a sports coat or even a suit. The suggested attire for women on such nights is cocktail dresses, pantsuits, elegant skirts and blouses. Passengers who wish to avoid dressing up can enjoy dinner in any of the casual eateries aboard.

Related: What to wear on a cruise – all about cruise line dress codes

Bottom line

Sure, Carnival Jubilee carries a lot of people, and it can feel crowded and cumbersome to learn your way around at first.

However, it offers new ocean- and beach-themed zones, delicious food, creative cocktails, friendly crew members, comfy cabins, outdoor thrills, Texas charm and a marquee packed with fun daily diversions and nighttime shows. You'll find it's an affordable Caribbean vacation that speaks to just about any traveler who enjoys a large-cruise-ship experience.

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Carnival Jubilee

CARNIVAL JUBILEE™ SAILS FROM GALVESTON PACKED WITH SUCH FUN & INNOVATION

CARNIVAL JUBILEE: NEXT-LEVEL FUN, POWERED BY LNG

Hey, welcome to Carnival Jubilee! The ship that’s following in the fun footsteps of Mardi Gras ® and Carnival Celebration ® has some big flip-flops to fill, and you can count on Carnival Jubilee™ to take things to the next level with six “zones” of fun. Zones are areas themed to transform your vacation into a unique mix of experiences — hop from zone to zone throughout your day to make your own. (And two of them — Currents™ and The Shores™ — are new, oceany-fresh fun spaces.) We’re talking things like the third bistro at sea — Emeril’s Bistro 717™ — from our new Chief Culinary Officer; plus Carnival classics like BOLT ® , RedFrog ® Tiki Bar , Family Feud™ Live , Cucina del Capitano ® , Seuss at Sea™ and Playlist Productions™ . These are joined by fresh innovations like The Golden Mermaid™ and Dr.Inks, Ph.D.™ … plus all-new onboard fun spots. And every last one of them is powered by clean-burning LNG fuel!

NEXT-LEVEL FUN IS EXPLORING NEW WORLDS

In the world of Carnival Jubilee ™ zones are where fun, flavor and relaxation live… and there are six just waiting for you to explore.

Grand Central

Grand Central is designed to make an impression… and that’s good because it’s going to be your first one! You can count on Carnival Jubilee’s atrium to set the vacay vibes for your whole cruise. Look up and you’re honestly in for an eyeful — floor-to-ceiling windows, 14-foot LED screens, a ceiling of 1,400 color-changing lights… everything points to BIG FUN happening in here. And even if you’re just passing through, know that you’ll definitely be back later. Center Stage features a rotating selection of live entertainment, while Grand View Bar serves up great drinks with plenty to feast your eyes on. In Grand Central you're never far from cups of comfort at JavaBlue ™ Café , great dining spots like Bonsai Sushi ™ and Bonsai Teppanyaki ™ , plus feel-good entertainment like Piano Bar 88 ™ and The Punchliner Comedy Club ™ .

We’ve taken the vast world that exists underneath the waves as the inspiration for Currents™ … but why limit your imagination to what’s real? Let the fantastical world of sunken cities, mermaids and sea monsters swirl around your mind as you enjoy new bars, dining spots and live music venues that carry this vibe. This space has good looks, but you can’t miss the innovative tech packed into the zone! Six huge LED “windows” — and the awe-inspiring wavy LED ceiling — will help transport you to mesmerizing digital underwater worlds. These screens are the center of the local entertainment, with interactive audio-visual elements that let kids, adults and everyone enjoy and add to the under-this-world seascapes! Plus there’s Seaquest , a show that virtually transforms the zone into a submarine on an adventure we’ll enjoy together. And with everything to see, don’t forget about the fantastical flavors, with Emeril’s Bistro 717™ , Dr.Inks, Ph.D.™ and The Golden Mermaid™ .

You know we definitely see our share of coastal areas, so it’s easy to imagine how special a place it is to us. That’s why paying tribute to the magical spot where the water meets the land just feels so natural. That’s what’s going on at The Shores™ , a new zone aboard Carnival Jubilee! Beaches, boardwalks and piers were just a little of what inspired us to create this zone that serves up just the right flavors and feels. For starters, Coastal Slice™ is the hotspot for fresh pizza that can only be topped… by delicious toppings. Marina Bar™ is an indoor/outdoor spot where the drinks are only part of the refreshment story — there’s also some great lounging to do! And if we catch you feasting your eyes on our Beach Buns™ , c’mon, who can blame you? It’s a fabulous way to enjoy delicious sandwiches made how you like, or even a just-got-grilled hot dog.

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.

If you’ve cruised with us before, you know Lido ... but aboard Carnival Jubilee ™ 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?

NEXT-LEVEL FUN IS HITTING ALL THE BEST SPOTS

New innovations join fan favorites across Carnival Jubilee ™ which does its crowd-pleasing with all the awesome tricks of the fun trade.

BOLT: ULTIMATE SEA COASTER

Aboard Carnival Jubilee ™ 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!

Dr.Inks, Ph.D.

In life, there are important, difficult questions to answer. An example: can an octopus enjoy a cocktail underwater? Don’t ask how it works… but the answer is yes. We know this thanks to the extensive research of Dr.Inks, Ph.D.™, the cleverest of sea creatures. She spends her time beneath the waves pondering the big ones while still finding time to sip. And here the drinks aren’t just tasty, but truly unique, with color-changing cocktails, layered shots, jellyfish cocktails and more drinks featuring garnishes like boba pearls and seafoam. At the bar you won’t just enjoy some of her favorites, but you’re welcome to look through some of her favorite books, journals and fountain pens. There’s also live musical entertainment nearby, right on the stage, because even octopuses need to let their hair down.

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!

For those who flock to waterparks just ready to make a splash, we’d suggest sliding on over to WaterWorks ™ aboard Carnival Jubilee ™ . 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.

The Golden Mermaid

To find uncharted flavors, never before seen on land, we had to dive deep. Far below the waves we met a mermaid who swims the depths of the oceans to find the long-lost treasures of ancient civilizations. Oh, and it wasn’t just any mermaid. The mermaid was golden . You’ve gotta trust us… or you can join us at The Golden Mermaid™, where amazing drinks are just the beginning. Some of the mixological treasures we’re recovered from the deep? Cocktail recipes inspired by precious metals and gemstones, drinks served in exquisite glassware, plus garnishes like edible glitter to remind you of sunlight streaming through the waves from up above! All this glitz pairs perfectly with live music, making this the perfect place to relax with an elegant drink before or after dinner.

CENTER STAGE + PLAYLIST PRODUCTIONS

They’re not concerts, they’re not exactly plays… these shows are something else entirely. Every performance is built on amazing songs you know and love, presented like you’ve never seen before. Multi-talented performers fill the stage with song, dance... and superstar attitude. Carnival Jubilee™ plays host to a lineup of shows like Soulbound and its spooky, atmospheric R&B and Visual Symphony , with innovative LED walls and special effects three decks high. Let’s see what else… debuting right here there’s Dear Future Husband , an interactive pop-wedding adventure. Of course there’s also Celestial Strings , which reimagines rock and pop favorites as symphonic classical compositions, and We Are One , which has performers sometimes leaving the stage behind, actually soaring above the audience.

SPORTSQUARE

You’ll find an oasis of friendly competition at SportSquare ® , located at The Ultimate Playground on Carnival Jubilee ™ . Take on friends at mini-golf, battle strangers at basketball, or push yourself to new heights at the ropes course… or to record-setting low times at the jogging track. SportSquare gets you in the game with soccer and volleyball, plus it brings pool, foosball and ping-pong to the table. Are you game?

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 Carnival Jubilee ™ . 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 Carnival Jubilee's Cloud 9 Spa.

THE PUNCHLINER COMEDY CLUB

Carnival Jubilee ™ has its own Punchliner Comedy Club in the Grand Central zone, and up on stage you’ll find some real pros who know how to wedge a little laughter into anyone’s evening. You can count on these comedians to not hold back either. Since some of them get up and say exactly what’s on their mind, we also schedule family-friendly performances… so the only red faces in the audience are from laughing a little too hard.

THAT OUGHT TO BE ENOUGH FUN FOR ANYONE!

NEXT-LEVEL FUN IS TRYING EVERY LAST FLAVOR

Enjoy old favorites or find fresh new ones aboard Carnival Jubilee™, where our chefs aim to delight any time from mealtime to snacktime to pizza-time (that’s ‘til 4 a.m.!).

Emeril's Bistro 717

For all the talents he’s shared with us all throughout his years in the culinary and entertainment worlds, Emeril is at his core a crowd-pleaser, a master at understanding and delivering what we all hunger for. And his style of hometown favorites — New Orleans’ Creole and seafood — are a sure bet if you’re trying to satisfy hungry cruisers! That’s why at Emeril’s Bistro 717, the good stuff starts early in the a.m. with dishes like shrimp & grits, poached eggs and — mm-mmm! — beignets. It doesn’t slow down as the day progresses either, with Crescent City classics like jambalaya, fresh oysters, duck ‘n sausage gumbo and more. Stop in and see why we love Emeril’s stuff so much we made him Carnival’s first-ever Chief Culinary Officer!

Cucina del Capitano

At Cucina del Capitano ® on Carnival Jubilee ™ , 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.

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.

Bonsai Teppanyaki

It’s a meal, a performance, and it’s definitely unforgettable. The Bonsai Teppanyaki ™ experience is set to delight guests aboard Carnival Jubilee ™ . 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.

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 — Carnival Jubilee ™ 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.

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 Carnival Jubilee ™ . 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 Burger Joint

We call Carnival Jubilee ™ 's onboard burger spot Guy’s Burger Joint ™ . We teamed up with Guy Fieri to design not just the burgers and fries, but to help bring in the kind of rustic atmosphere you’d find at a roadside burger shack somewhere off a coastal highway. All signs point to ambiance — and serious flavor — so try a burger dressed up the way Guy likes it, or take it off-roading… to the nearby topping bar, where you can make it your own.

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 Carnival Jubilee ™ . 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.

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 Carnival Jubilee ™ . 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!

Seafood Shack

A good seafood dish… mmm, quite the catch. However you like yours — roll, bowl or platter — Seafood Shack ™ is Carnival Jubilee'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 Carnival Jubilee ™ ... that’s where you’ll find this little shack by the sea, wherever in the world you happen to be!

EVEN ⇨ MORE ⇨ FLAVOR ⇨ THIS ⇨ WAY ⇨

NEXT-LEVEL FUN IS A REALLY RELAXABLE ROOM

Carnival Jubilee™ has staterooms made to fit you, your family, your style of cruising. You can thank us at the end of a long day’s fun!

STATEROOM DESIGN

Design is more than just the way things look — it's as much about how they work. And staterooms aboard Carnival Jubilee ™ 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 Carnival Jubilee ™ . 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 Carnival Jubilee ™ 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 — Carnival Jubilee'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 Carnival Jubilee ™ 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 Carnival Jubilee ™ , 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.

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 Carnival Jubilee ™ 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.

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 Carnival Jubilee ™ , 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 comforts of home, and even a few extras. Since your huge Suite on Carnival Jubilee ™ 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.

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.)

NEXT-LEVEL FUN IS BUILDING-IN EPIC AMOUNTS OF IT

Even during construction, we knew where we were heading with the big plans for Carnival Jubilee! So here’s your deck-by-deck look at where to find all the fun, and all the staterooms.

NEXT-LEVEL FUN IS MAKING BIG HEADLINES

Carnival Jubilee has the travel pros and press about as excited as cruise fans. And with all this fun, of course they are! Check out the latest news and announcements right here.