Carnival Cruise

Last week, I sailed on my first Carnival cruise to Alaska. Prepping for a trip to the Last Frontier differs from sailing in the sunny and warm Caribbean. However, there are a few smart pre-cruise preparations that make embarkation smoother and help save money, regardless of where you're headed. 

For example, you don't want to wait until the last minute to make your travel arrangements, as you'll end up paying more for flights and accommodations. 

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. 

Historically, shore excursion tickets served as a great souvenir from your cruise vacation, especially to remember the fun activities you've done ashore. However, Carnival Cruise Line is making it easier for guests to check in for excursions with the use of their Sail & Sign card and cell phone. 

Instead of providing passengers with tickets, Carnival is streamlining the process by integrating shore excursion check-ins directly into a mobile app.

Most cruise passengers know to pack their best behavior, as forgetting to take the line's rules seriously can have lifelong consequences. 

Rarely does anyone board a cruise anticipating a lifelong ban. However, disruptive behavior can lead to permanent blacklisting from any line, including Carnival. 

Carnival has a zero-tolerance policy for actions jeopardizing onboard safety and comfort. Though you might feel inclined to let loose on vacation, the rules are clear, and enforcement is strict. 

Carnival's Brand Ambassador spoke out after a massive brawl broke out in Carnival's Galveston cruise terminal. 

24 passengers were involved in a violent fight after disembarking Carnival Jubilee, the cruise line's newest ship, on Saturday, April 26. Consequently, the two dozen guests were banned from cruising with Carnival ever again, while a 21-year-old was arrested. 

24 passengers were banned from sailing with Carnival Cruise Line after a massive fight broke out in Galveston's cruise terminal while collecting their luggage. 

Trelle Ray shared a one-minute video of the incident on Facebook, saying, "It went down this morning." The clip shows a large group of guests shoving past barriers inside the terminal. At least one person was pushed to the ground and punched while security guards tried to break up the brawl. 

I took my grandma on a 4-night Carnival cruise, and while we mostly had fun, we also encountered some unexpected challenges. Whether crazy lines at the cruise terminal or long waits to go ashore, not everything went to plan.

After taking 30 cruises, I’ve traveled the world with many family members and friends of all ages. I explored Alaska with my sister, island-hopped the Caribbean with my dad, and cruised the Mediterranean with one of my best friends. Cruising has been a wonderful way to make memories with my friends and family.

Carnival Cruise Line has cancelled a number of sailings aboard two of its vessels due to dry dock rescheduling for 2026.

The itinerary cancellations impact multiple Caribbean itineraries on Carnival Horizon and Carnival Magic during the spring of 2026. In addition, one unique repositioning cruise was cancelled.

Carnival Cruise Line is a great choice for families. Their diverse fleet of ships offers something for everyone, from short Bahamian getaways to nature-focused voyages through The Last Frontier. 

From pools to outdoor movie screens, mini-golf courses, waterslides, and youth clubs, there are tons of activities for children to enjoy. Still, not all ships were designed equally. Plus, new innovations have redefined the offerings on family-friendly cruises. 

Here are 6 of the best Carnival ships for kids, from brand-new mega-ships to affordable classics.