Monday, April 1, 2024

Carnival vs Royal Caribbean vs Norwegian: How To Know Which Cruise Line is Best for You

carnival cruise vs norwegian cruise

Further amenities -- like fitness centers, for-fee arcades and nightclubs with DJ-spun music -- allow cruisers to make their own fun without a schedule. Exuding upbeat, lively vibes, the atmosphere on both of these lines' ships is one of fun, and passengers will find plenty of activities for all ages -- including kids. Be aware that while these prices might seem low in comparison with other cruise lines out there, this may not include taxes, gratuities, port fees, Wifi, or food and drink. Be sure to look carefully through each plan before committing to a booking to see what you get for the price. When it comes to food, Carnival has a huge variety of dining options and a more traditional dining style.

NCL Kids’ Facilities

Royal Caribbean’s beverage package is priced between $63 and $70/day depending on the sailing and ship class. As with Norwegian, there is no limit to the number of alcoholic drinks but does not include drinks priced higher than $12. Soda, specialty coffees, and bottled waters are included with the package.

Food

carnival cruise vs norwegian cruise

Carnival has one of the largest fleets at sea, with several classes of ships, each offering its own spin on fun. Carnival fares are also among the lowest in the Bahamas and Caribbean, and the line sails from multiple U.S. home ports, making its cruises accessible to a vast pool of vacationers. Adults can pay extra for shows themed around wine or prohibition cocktails; kids aren't allowed because the fun comes with drinks. Comedy, improv and themed parties are all favorites of the late-night crowd.

Carnival vs. Norwegian: Cabins

There can be lines to board, lines to get off the ship, lines to talk to Guest Services about your bill, lines to get into the dining room. That means ports like Jacksonville, Baltimore, Galveston, and more have a Carnival cruise ship departing from there. Carnival is known for its affordability and value, with nearly all dining and entertainment included in its fares. You'll find fewer high-tech entertainment options onboard, but you also won't find a lot of nickel-and-diming in terms of added fees.

Carnival Cracks Down on High Stakes Activity on Pool Deck

One person’s preference might not align with another person’s travel needs. On the other hand, Norwegian Cruise Line tends to be a little more pricey. Less than half of Norwegian’s restaurants are included with your cruise fare. The cruise line is also known for adding extra fees, which can take some aback once onboard. The youth programming is available for kids ages 6 months to 17 years old with both Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line. When it comes to entertainment, Carnival Cruise Line specializes in comedy with its Punchliner Comedy Club.

Types of Cruise Ships

There are inside rooms with virtual balconies depicting exactly what it looks like outside of the ship at that moment. Other inside staterooms or balconies overlook the inside of the ship, providing views of the Royal Promenade, Central Park, and the Boardwalk. It may be surprising to some that although Carnival is frequently touted as a budget line, its sailings were not always the cheapest from cruises that I looked at.

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Princess Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line's 19 ships carry from just over 1,900 passengers (small by megaship standards) to around 4,200 passengers. The line is not trying to win the size war (Royal Caribbean, for instance, has ships that top 6,000 passengers) but has plenty of excitement on board. For example, some of the latest Norwegian ships are topped by multilevel go-kart racetracks, ropes courses and laser tag arenas. If you're considering a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line or Carnival Cruise Line, you're looking at two big-ship brands offering lots of onboard activities and attractions at an affordable price. Both Carnival and Norwegian offer a range of packages and add-ons for these extras, so it’s important to compare prices carefully to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money. Carnival Cruise Line is known for its fun and festive atmosphere, focusing on family-friendly activities.

From fast food to fancy steakhouses, there’s something for everyone onboard a Carnival cruise ship. Norwegian has a fleet size of only 19 ships, but they still offer itineraries with destinations all across the world. Itineraries range between 3 days and 21 days and include a mix of destinations across Africa, Europe, South America, and more. Soda, bottled water, specialty coffees, and energy drinks are included and will not count against the 15 drinks. Other complimentary options are popular Asian-themed restaurants such as Shanghai’s Noodle Bar, and a true pub-style venue, O’Sheehan’s. Though the menu is somewhat limited, the pub offerings are quite good and served quickly.

Cruise Ships

Just getting to your cruise port of embarkation can be a significant expense. Cruise lines are making an effort to expand their footprint in order to make cruising as accessible as possible. Though Freestyle Cruising means there is no need to dress up for dinner, the white tablecloths and décor still give the experience an elegant feel. Some dining rooms may host a live band and dance floor, resulting in an enjoyable supper club vibe. Highlights on the Lido deck are Guy’s Burger Joint, with a selection of burgers and toppings to choose from.

The impressive 75-acre facility features a giant pool with swim-up bar, waterfalls, and tropical palm tree islands. The beach area, with its overwater zip line, is expansive with plenty of complimentary loungers in both sun and shade. Food and drink are available for purchase at the Landshark Bar and Grill. In the Dominican Republic, is Amber Cove, Carnival’s newest and most developed private island cruise port. This stop has both beach access and a pool with swim-up bar, waterslides, and lazy river.

Norwegian Cruise Line, on the other hand, offers more diverse and exotic itineraries, catering to travelers looking for a more unique vacation experience. The line offers a variety of stateroom options, from budget-friendly inside cabins to oversized suites. While we’ve seen other cruise lines test the waters with “free perk” deals like Norwegian, as this point Carnival hasn’t offered such a sale. If you want nearly everything included on your cruise, then this deal might tip the favor to NCL.

Whether you cruise to relax or prefer to stay active onboard, you won't be disappointed with either a Norwegian or Carnival cruise. Both offer quiet, out-of-the-way spaces for reading and napping, secluded sun decks for your vitamin D fix and adults-only spaces for escaping the kiddos and enjoying the hot tub. All ships in both fleets have spas, too, if you'd prefer a day of pampering instead. NCL's most standout suites are its Garden Villas, which each sleep up to eight people -- ideal for large groups traveling together. Most include a living room setup with entertainment system, separate bedrooms and bathrooms, a dining table, bar area, large balconies, a baby grand piano and a private sun deck area. When it comes to food, both lines' fares include complimentary meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner in the onboard self-service buffets and waiter-served main dining rooms.

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