The demand for cruise vacations is higher than ever, so you shouldn't be surprised to see higher fares than two or three years ago. Still, it's possible to find a good deal if you know where to look.
Carnival is one of the most popular cruise lines in operation. Though their new Excel Class ships are pricey, they offer other ships and itineraries for cruisers looking to enjoy a much-needed getaway without breaking the bank.
In light of growing recession concerns, cruise lines, including Carnival, are focusing on their ability to remain resilient because of the value gap compared to land-based trips.
"I'd say that we have a tremendous price-to-experience ratio compared to land, and people recognize that value more and more if they're looking to make their dollar go further," said Josh Weinstein, Carnival Corporation's President, CEO, and Chief Climate Officer, during the company's Q1 earnings call.
Here's a look at some of the cheapest Carnival cruises I'd consider booking to save money and guarantee a memorable family trip.
Conquest Class ships have a lot to offer while also highlighting a more traditional era of cruising
I was shocked by how much I enjoyed my 4-night cruise aboard Carnival Conquest last year. It isn't the newest or flashiest ship in the fleet, but for the price, it offers a good balance between value, comfort, and activities.
A 3-night cruise for two in a standard inside cabin starts at $284 per person, including taxes and port fees, for the December 12, 2025, departure. Of course, fares are higher during the peak season, so keep that in mind when planning your next Carnival cruise.
Still, if you're looking for a classic cruise getaway, Carnival Conquest will likely meet your needs with pools, a waterslide, specialty restaurants, a mini-golf course, original production shows, live music, and activities led by the ship's Fun Squad. In other words, the focus isn't on cutting-edge innovations.
Plus, with many voyages heading to Carnival's new private destination in the Bahamas, a cheaper sailing is the perfect way to experience Celebration Key on a budget, perhaps saving money for a family cabana or admission to the adults-only beach club.
Similarly, cruises on Carnival Valor out of New Orleans are more affordable than newer vessels, making them appealing for those who want to explore the Western Caribbean.
According to Carnival's website, the cheapest sailing in 2025 aboard Valor departs on September 29 and starts at $411 per guest for the 5-night cruise.
Read more: I tried Carnival's Conquest class for the first time
Cruises from Los Angeles are usually cheaper compared to Florida sailings
It's hard to believe that a cruise to Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, might be cheaper than the Bahamas. However, voyages from Los Angeles are more affordable than you might think.
This is because traveling to California isn't as convenient as getting to Florida for many cruisers, especially those on the East Coast or in the Midwest. Consequently, the demand isn't as hot, which drives prices down.
Additionally, the weather in western Mexico isn't the same tropical climate you'd find in the Caribbean.
4-night cruises on Carnival Firenze and Radiance are among some of the cheapest sailings Carnival offers, often priced at under $300 per person. However, the more interesting itineraries, such as those with overnight stays in Cabo, aren't as expensive as longer voyages on newer ships.
For instance, a 6-night cruise on Carnival Panorama, a relatively new Vista Class ship that debuted in 2019, starts at just $390 per person in September 2025. In addition to a stop in Ensenada, Panorama is anchored in Cabo for two full days of fun in the Mexican Riviera.
Sunshine Class ships are a good mix of old and new
Carnival Sunshine, Sunrise, and Radiance, former Destiny Class ships that underwent multi-million dollar renovations, maintain their classic layouts while incorporating new amenities, including the Serenity adult-only area, WaterWorks waterpark, a ropes course, Guy's Burger Joint, and BlueIguana Cantina.
While smaller than even the Conquest Class ships, they're easy to navigate thanks to their manageable sizes without sacrificing the modern "FUN" ship experience Carnival is known for.
Another advantage of Sunshine Class ships is that certain vessels are homeported outside of Florida, meaning they might be more accessible to folks who don't want to travel to Miami.
For example, Carnival Sunshine sails from Norfolk, Virginia, which is a 3.5-hour drive from D.C. and a 3-hour drive from Raleigh, North Carolina.
The cheapest sailing aboard Carnival Sunshine starts at $549 per person for a 6-night cruise to the Bahamas in February 2026.
Excel Class ships are amazing, but I'd recommend looking at sailings during the off-season. You'll get way more for your money
Regardless of which ship you're eyeing or the itinerary, one of the easiest ways to save money on your cruise fare is by booking during the shoulder season. For instance, instead of booking a cruise in July, consider a sailing in October.
A 3-night cruise aboard Carnival Conquest in July 2026 starts at a staggering $484 per person. However, you can save around $160 by being flexible and cruising to Celebration Key from Miami in October.
Similarly, the most affordable cruise on Mardi Gras in July 2026 starts at $1,139 per person. The same itinerary to Celebration Key, Honduras, and Mexico costs around $765 in October, though.
Elizabeth Wright
Elizabeth graduated from New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute with her M.A. in Journalism in May 2023. Growing up, she traveled frequently with her family and fell in love with cruising after sailing on the Oasis of the Seas during her freshman year of high school. Having sailed on over 30 cruises across different lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC, Margaritaville at Sea, and Princess, she loves sharing her insight and expertise on all things cruising!
