This past fall, I had the opportunity to sail on my first Carnival Cruise. After being a loyal Norwegian Cruise Line passenger with nine cruises under my belt, I was curious to see how the popular Carnival Cruise Line would compare to the Norwegian brand I know so well.
For context, my first Carnival cruise experience took place onboard the Carnival Valor, one of the oldest ships in the Carnival fleet. Launched in 2004, Valor is part of Carnival’s themed ships, offering a unique, fun-filled atmosphere. I sailed on a 4-night itinerary out of New Orleans, Louisiana, but unfortunately, due to some unexpected stormy weather, the cruise was shortened by a day.
In this article, I’ll compare my experiences with Norwegian and Carnival, diving into key differences in dining options, activities, entertainment, staterooms, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, understanding these differences can help you choose which cruise line suits your vacation preferences best.
#1 - Freestyle Cruising Vs. Anytime Dining
One of the most noticeable differences between Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian is how dining is structured. Both cruise lines strive to give guests flexibility, but their approaches are different.
Norwegian is known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, which is all about freedom and flexibility. Guests are not tied to set dining times or locations. Instead, they can dine whenever they choose in the ship’s various complimentary restaurants.
Whether you want to enjoy a casual breakfast at 9:00 AM or a late dinner at 9:00 PM, you can do so at your convenience. This "anytime dining" approach allows for a more laid-back experience, especially if you have a busy itinerary with shore excursions or prefer more control over your schedule.
On the other hand, Carnival has a more traditional approach. Guests are assigned a specific time and dining room for the duration of their cruise.
Carnival also offers “Anytime Dining,” which provides a bit more flexibility, allowing guests to dine at a time of their choosing, but you still need to wait in line to be seated on a first-come, first-served basis.
The “assigned time” model works well for those who prefer consistency, but it can feel a bit rigid. To avoid long wait times with "Anytime Dining," I recommend arriving either before the rush or well after peak dining hours.
Pro tip: If you’re used to Norwegian’s Freestyle Dining, the scheduled dining concept on Carnival might take a little getting used to. But if you’re okay with a little structure, you’ll find that both cruise lines offer great dining experiences overall.
Read: 13 things that surprised me on my first Carnival cruise
#2 - Food Options
Carnival and Norwegian offer a wide range of complimentary food options onboard, but they cater to different dining styles.
Norwegian places a heavy emphasis on creating a “restaurant-style” experience. The complimentary dining options are designed to mimic traditional dining at an upscale restaurant, offering multiple venues to choose from.
From elegant main dining rooms to buffet-style eateries, Norwegian's ships offer plenty of venues with diverse menus, so you’ll never be stuck eating the same thing.
In comparison, Carnival tends to focus more on fast and convenient dining, particularly with options that fall into the “grab-and-go” style.
There are still main dining rooms, but Carnival also offers more casual options like Guy’s Burger Joint (a hit with many cruisers), the BlueIguana Cantina (for tacos and burritos, and a great breakfast option), and the famous Carnival Deli.
Specialty dining is another area where there’s a clear difference. Norwegian generally offers more specialty dining venues—sometimes as many as six or seven across larger ships. These can range from Italian and French-inspired restaurants to steakhouses and sushi bars.
Meanwhile, Carnival typically offers fewer specialty dining options, but the quality of these experiences can be just as high. For example, I had a wonderful meal at Scarlett's Steakhouse on Carnival Valor, and many guests rave about the Carnival Steakhouses across the fleet. Keep in mind that these specialty restaurants come at an extra cost on Norwegian and Carnival ships.
Read: How I spent $50 onboard my Carnival cruise, all the best ways
#3 - Itineraries and Sailing Lengths
When it comes to itinerary variety, Carnival and Norwegian offer cruises to many of the same popular destinations—the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, and Europe—but the lines differ in their approach to sailing lengths and routes.
Carnival is renowned for offering shorter, more affordable cruises, particularly those that sail over the weekend or for 3-4 days. If you’re looking for a quick getaway, Carnival’s frequent sailings from U.S. ports make it easy to find a short escape. They’re also a great choice for people who want to maximize value for money on a quick cruise.
Norwegian, on the other hand, tends to focus more on longer, more immersive itineraries. Their voyages range from 7-day Caribbean sailings to more exotic options like European or South American itineraries. Norwegian is a great choice if you want a more unique destination or a longer sailing.
Both cruise lines offer excellent value depending on your travel preferences, but for those who are short on time or on a tighter budget, Carnival’s shorter cruises may be a better option.
#4 - Cabin and Stateroom Types
I’ve sailed in inside cabins on Carnival and Norwegian ships, and I've noticed that Carnival's are typically more spacious. For example, Carnival Valor had a very comfortable interior cabin for a 4-night cruise. The space felt roomy enough for a couple, and I was pleased with the cabin’s layout and functionality.
That said, Norwegian offers a wider variety of stateroom types, especially on its newer ships which feature suites, solo cabins, and special categories like Studio staterooms, designed specifically for solo travelers who prefer a private, affordable option.
On the newer ships, you’ll also find more luxurious suites with extensive amenities, such as private dining, exclusive access to certain areas, and expanded balconies. These offerings make Norwegian the better choice for travelers who want more variety in terms of accommodation styles.
#5 - Entertainment
Norwegian and Carnival provide plenty of entertainment options for their guests, but the styles differ. Norwegian is known for its Broadway-style shows, which feature large-scale musical productions like “Jersey Boys,” “Choir of Man,” and “SIX.”
These productions are on par with performances you’d see in a theater, and the tickets for these shows are typically included in your cruise fare.
Carnival’s entertainment, in contrast, focuses more on fun, interactive experiences, such as live music performances, game shows, and even trivia. The stage shows aren’t the focal point, but Carnival’s focus on live music and events like “Hasbro, The Game Show” and the Love & Marriage Show create a fun and lively atmosphere.
Both lines also feature stand-up comedy shows and talent competitions to keep things light and engaging. So, whether you prefer a Broadway musical or a lively ship-wide event, you’ll find something to enjoy.
#6 - Kids and Family Fun
Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Lines are incredibly family-friendly, but they each offer something different for kids and families.
Carnival’s partnership with Dr. Seuss is a standout. Kids can meet characters like The Cat in the Hat and enjoy a fun Green Eggs and Ham breakfast on select ships. Carnival also offers robust kids’ clubs, water parks, and family-friendly activities, making it a top choice for families traveling with young children.
Meanwhile, Norwegian offers many of the same amenities, including water parks, kids’ clubs, and even teens-only spaces for older kids. On ships like the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Prima, families can enjoy go-kart racing, laser tag, and other interactive outdoor activities.
The main difference with Norwegian is their focus on making family vacations more inclusive of older kids and teens, so if you have a wider age range of children, Norwegian could be the better choice.
#7 - Indoor Activities
Carnival and Norwegian offer a wealth of indoor activities, ensuring that there’s always something happening on board, no matter the weather.
Onboard Norwegian, you'll find activities like trivia contests, the Galaxy Pavilion (which features high-tech games and simulators), and various fitness classes. They also have spas, art auctions, and lounges, so there’s plenty to do if you prefer staying inside.
Carnival’s indoor activities are equally varied, with everything from trivia to dance classes and game shows. If you’re into the entertainment scene, Carnival is well-known for its live music, karaoke, and interactive games, which take place in venues like the Punchliner Comedy Club.
Read: My favorite Norwegian Cruise Line ships and itineraries
#8 - Outdoor Activities
When it comes to outdoor activities, both cruise lines are continuously innovating to keep passengers entertained.
Norwegian has recently introduced the Norwegian Speedway—a thrilling go-kart track on ships like the Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva. Additionally, they offer exciting outdoor games like mini-golf and laser tag. The outdoor spaces on these ships are designed to cater to guests looking for fun, energetic experiences.
Carnival, on the other hand, is also upping the ante with the introduction of BOLT, the world’s first roller coaster at sea. This adrenaline-pumping ride is a major draw for thrill-seekers and adds a whole new level of excitement to the cruise experience. Carnival also offers mini-golf, water slides, and basketball courts to keep guests active.
Some of these outdoor activities come with an extra cost, usually around $10-$15 per activity, but for those seeking unique experiences, they’re worth considering.
#9 - Passenger Demographics
The passenger demographics on Carnival and Norwegian ships tend to be quite similar. Both lines attract a wide range of guests, from young couples to families with kids, to retirees looking for a relaxing escape.
Carnival attracts a younger crowd looking for fun, especially on weekend sailings, while Norwegian tends to draw a slightly older crowd, particularly on longer itineraries.
Families are common on both lines, but Carnival’s focus on fun activities and parties tends to appeal to a younger, more lively demographic.
#10 - Nightlife
Both cruise lines offer a lively nightlife scene, but the experience differs depending on which line you choose.
On Norwegian ships, nightlife revolves around themed parties, like the famous Glow Party, where guests can dance the night away under UV lights. You’ll also find karaoke bars, themed dance nights, and several lounges offering everything from comedy shows to live jazz music. The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down.
Carnival, too, is known for its bars, nightclubs, and lively entertainment. With a reputation for being a fun-loving cruise line, you’re likely to find something exciting happening every night, whether it’s a live band or a pub crawl.
Similarities
Despite the differences, Carnival and Norwegian share many similarities. Both lines are family-friendly, offer a wide variety of activities, and are known for their fun atmosphere. Whether you prefer a laid-back, relaxing cruise or one packed with activities, both cruise lines deliver on their promises.
Choosing between Carnival and Norwegian ultimately comes down to what kind of vacation you’re seeking. If you’re someone who loves flexibility and the freedom to dine and explore at your own pace, Norwegian's Freestyle Cruising may be the perfect fit.
Their Broadway-style entertainment, diverse itineraries, and variety of stateroom options make it an excellent choice for those looking for a more relaxed yet immersive cruise experience.
On the other hand, if you’re in the mood for fun-filled adventures, live music, and a lively atmosphere perfect for families or groups of friends, Carnival’s spirited vibe and wide range of activities may be what you’re after. With unique features like BOLT, the roller coaster at sea, and a reputation for high-energy events, Carnival ensures there’s never a dull moment.
Both cruise lines have something to offer, so the decision really depends on your personal preferences. Whether you’re after an action-packed vacation or a more laid-back, flexible experience, Carnival and Norwegian are sure to deliver unforgettable memories on the high seas.
The best advice? Do your research, check out which ships are sailing your preferred itinerary, and choose the cruise that aligns with the kind of vacation you want to have. Either way, you’re bound to have a fantastic time!
Hayley Phillips
Hayley Phillips is a military spouse currently living in Florida and loves all things travel and travel planning.
