carnival cruise ship deck 1

Where is Deck 1 on a Cruise Ship? (Is it a Good or Bad Deck?)

The answer to this question depends on the cruise line you are sailing with. Often, Deck 1 is the lowest deck on the ship. However, this is not always the case and can vary between cruise lines.

On some cruise ships, Deck 1 is just the lowest deck available to passengers.

For example, on Disney cruise ships you can book a cabin on Deck 1.

However, on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, the lowest decks usually start at deck 2 or 3 and those of Princess Cruises start at the lowest deck available to passengers from Deck 4.

There may be lower unnumbered decks that aren’t shown on the deck plan that are restricted to crew members only.   These are sometimes seen as decks A, B, and C.

Is Deck 1 on a Cruise Ship Bad?

Deck 1 has its pros and cons but overall wouldn’t be considered as a particularly bad deck for most people, although it may be less suitable for some.

For some passengers, deck 1 may be the best deck.

We explore some of the reasons why deck one or the lowest numbered deck can be good or bad for different passenger types below.

Is Deck 1 on a Cruise Ship Noisy?

Some noise is expected wherever you are on a cruise ship, but it is often amplified on the lower decks.  If you are a very light sleeper, you might consider booking a cabin on a higher deck.

At the bow of the ship the bow thrusters can sometimes be heard, as well as the dropping or raising of the ship’s anchor .

Some noise can also be expected to be heard on deck one if you are above the engine and laundry room s on the deck below.

One of the main sources of noise is the engine and propellers. As the ship moves through the water, the engines and propellers create a lot of noise. This noise can be heard throughout the ship but is more noticeable on the lower decks.

However, some people like some background noise and even sleep better with it, or alternatively, bring a fan on to put on at night to block out other sounds.

 If you are one of those people, then noise might not be as big of a factor for you when choosing a cabin on Deck 1 of a cruise ship.

In addition to the engine noise, there can also be noise from other passengers.

You might hear people walking around above you or talking in the hallways.  If you are looking for a quiet and relaxing cruise experience, then you might want to consider booking a cabin on a higher deck.

However it’s worth noting there are noisy areas on higher decks too, for example under the lido deck where the pools are located is one particular noisy area.

If you live in a city, you are more likely to be used to all kinds of noise.  However, if you live in a quiet rural area, you might notice more of these sounds while on your cruise.

So, while Deck 1 on a cruise ship may be closer to the source of some noise, it is not necessarily a bad deck to be on. It really depends on your preferences and what you are looking for in a cruise experience.

Cabins to Avoid on Deck 1

Cabins above the engine room as well as noise may feel vibrations, more so when the ship is docking.

The engine rooms are normally located somewhere in the middle and more towards the aft of the ship.

You may also want to avoid cabins above the laundry room, elevator shafts, or stairwells as well.  These are all areas that can create more noise than usual.

Cabins above the bow thrusters can also be quite noisy at times.

Does Deck 1 Smell?

Some people say they can smell sewage or even diesel fuel when they are on lower decks, but this is not always the case for the vast majority of passengers.

Deck 1 should smell like every other deck of the ship.  If you notice any unusual smells, it could be an indication of a problem with the sewage system and you should report it to guest services.

Best Deck for Seasickness

Deck 1, or the lowest passenger deck available is the best deck to book a cabin on if you are prone to seasickness .

The closer you are to the waterline, the less rocking motion you will feel due to being nearer the center of the ship’s gravity.

A midship cabin on the lowest deck would also be better than one at the front of the ship (bow) or back (stern) as these have more movement. 

It really depends on how motion sensitive you are, because with large modern cruise ships the movement is often barely noticeable even on the higher decks.  

No Balconies

Cabins on deck 1 typically do not have balconies because they are too close to the surface of the water.

Cheaper Deck

Lower decks on a cruise ship, including deck 1 are typically cheaper as they are further away from the more numerous activities, entertainment and restaurants often found on the higher decks.

Lower decks also don’t have balconies and sometimes the cabins have no windows.

These factors don’t bother many passengers who just use the cabin mostly for sleeping and showering. 

What’s Below Deck 1 on a Cruise Ship?

The decks below deck 1 or the lowest number deck for passengers are usually where you’ll find the following:

• Engine rooms
• Brig (or jail)
• Medical Rooms
• Laundry Room
• Crew Cabins
• Crew-only dining and social areas
• Cruise staff offices
• Storage rooms

What Are the Advantages of Staying on Deck 1 of a Cruise Ship?

The main advantages of staying on Deck 1 of a cruise ship are combatting seasickness and the price.  Cabins on the lower decks are often cheaper than those on the upper decks and this holds true for deck 1.

Another possible advantage is if your cruise itinerary involves any ports that require tenders (smaller boats that transfer passengers from the ship to shore), those tenders are often located on Deck 1. This means that you won’t have to climb up or down stairs to get to the tender, which can be especially helpful if you have mobility issues.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Deck 1 on a Cruise Ship

Below we summarise the pros and cons of a cabin on deck 1 or the lowest deck of the ship for passengers.

Advantages of Deck 1 (or lowest deck):

• Better close-up view of any sea life (whales, dolphins)
• Accessible cabins for people with disabilities
• Closer proximity to key areas such as reception & customer service desk
• Easy access to tenders that are on lower decks
• Cheaper cabins

Disadvantages of Deck 1 (or lowest deck):

• Comparatively poor long-distance panoramic views
• The lowest deck is closest to the engine room & propeller noise
• Unlikely to have the option of balcony cabins
• Further away from Lido decks and outdoor movie screens, buffets, etc

Frequently Asked Questions

Do carnival cruise ships have a deck 1.

Carnival varies its first deck numbers depending on the ship.  For example, Carnival Breeze and Conquest start with a deck one which they name Riviera.

They then refer to Deck 2 as the “Main Deck” and Deck 3 as the “Lobby”.

For other cruise ships such as Carnival Celebration, the first deck for passengers is Deck 4.

Below is the view from a Deck 1 Ocean view window.

The window ledge is plenty deep enough to sit on and see the views and is much preferred to an interior room.

In general, Deck 1 cabins on Carnival cruise are a popular choice without many complaints.

Where’s Deck 1 on a Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship?

Royal Caribbean doesn’t have a deck one on their vessels.

Their ship deck plans tend to start with a deck 2 or a deck 3 as the first deck.

Here are some examples of the first numbered decks on these ships:

• Adventure of the Seas – deck 2
• Allure of the Seas – deck 3
• Anthem of the Seas – deck 2
• Grandeur of the Seas – deck 2
• Symphony of the Seas – deck 3

Where is deck 1 Disney Cruise Ship?

All 5 Disney Cruise ships have a deck 1.  It’s the lowest deck on the deck plan.

Do Celebrity Cruises Have a Deck 1?

Celebrity cruise ships do not have a deck 1.

They start their deck plan for booking passenger cabins with either a deck 2 or a deck 3.

What is Deck One Used For?

The usage of Deck One can vary between cruise lines, but it is mostly utilized for storage, crew quarters, or engine rooms.

However, you can book a cabin on Deck One on some cruise lines.

Is Deck One Top or Bottom of a Ship?

Deck one is always a lower deck on a cruise ship. Higher deck numbers mean you are closer to the top of the ship.

Related Reads:

• Front or Back of a Cruise Ship? Which is Best?

There is no definitive answer to whether or not Deck 1 on a cruise ship is good or bad. It really depends on your preferences and what you are looking for in a cruise experience.

If you have disability issues or suffer from seasickness and deck one of the lowest numbered deck on your ship for passengers is likely to be good for you.

Depending on where you are on deck one you may incur some extra noise from the crew-only decks below, such as the engine and laundry rooms plus other workings of the ship.

Related Posts

What is the Draft of a Cruise Ship? (and Why Does it Matter?)

How Many Doors on a Cruise Ship? (Yes, I Counted)

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• Carnival Cruise Lines

Deck 1 Stateroom's Pros / Cons

By JP350 , April 24, 2022 in Carnival Cruise Lines

Recommended Posts

I am planning on booking Carnival Vista Deck 1 midship. Does anyone know that if staying on deck 1 has any advantages. I know that it is right above propulsion systems, and to not choose a cabin in the bow, but is it worth it to pay $10 to upgrade to deck 2, and $20 to upgrade to any higher decks. (9, 6, 7 etc)

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Cruise, J.D.

I'd pay $20 to upgrade to one of those higher decks. It's very convenient to be close to both the promenade deck and the lido deck.

The lower in the ship you are the less you feel the motion of the ocean, so if you are prone to any seasickness, etc. then lower is always better.  As you stated you do not want to be in the rear or in the front (propulsion and anchor issues).  

For the most part the quiet rooms are those that have rooms above them and below them both.  Unless you get rude guests above you that like to jump off the bed (had kids above us one time).    You do not want "open" deck or noisy activity areas above or below you - and steer clear of Camp Carnival, gym areas above or around you!  Proximity to what you think you will do the most is important too, and also "traffic" patterns for people.  Watch to see that you are not real close to stairs or elevators as everyone that goes down your hall will then pass your door on the way to their room (and people again can be loud in the halls).  Also are you going to be by access points a deck or below to major happening areas like lobby bar, guest services, show rooms, etc. again high traffic.

We tend to like to be higher in the boat in the front of the boat.  These areas have little traffic (only people in the rooms tend to go down these halls).  Also, it puts husband close to smoking on outer/upper deck (if someone is a smoker in your group this is a consideration too... travel time to smoke).  Also close to buffet, bars, pool etc the higher you are.

No real advantage in my opinion.  I simply don't buy into the entire 'motion' argument, the ship isn't some little skiff riding up over the crest of the wave and down the other side.  It has the size to plow through waves, when it is moving enough to effect people you can't get away from it.

Deck 1 just puts you the farthest away from everything you routinely do when leaving your cabin.  It takes more time and effort to go eat or to get to the popular common areas.  It is well worth the $20 to avoid a weeks worth of hassle especially during those several times during the week when the elevators are backed up.  If you only need to go up one deck you can grab the stairs, if you need to go up 8 decks you have to wait out the elevator.

As someone that suffers easily from motion sickness, trust me.  It does make a difference.   🤪

Lower center of mass = less movement that your body notices.  We always go high though, I just wear Sea Bands (used to be Dramamine, but found Sea Bands and they saved my cruising life)

I was in 1415 on the Vista a few months ago. It's a sideways interior. It was super quiet. I would definitely book that one again. 

2 hours ago, HEATH3913 said: I was in 1415 on the Vista a few months ago. It's a sideways interior. It was super quiet. I would definitely book that one again. 

Great to know, did you hear any propulsion noise from the azipods. 

Clarasgrandma

We almost always book deck 1. Less foot traffic. Mostly quiet. Easy to  disembark  at ports. Quick to get back to your room after a port day. Rooms seem cooler temperature wise imo.  Negatives would be farther from lido but if you are using elevators, it really doesn’t matter.  We try to use the stairs mostly and get winded here and there. 

scorpioncrawl

The lower you go, the less movement of the ship you will feel.  We are avid balcony & suite rooms, but have also booked insides, front and back of the ship and have pretty much covered  just about all of the floors during our 25+ yrs of cruising. Booked  an inside on deck 2 for our cruise next week.  Don't mind at all not being close to everything, as taking stairs and extra hallways helps keep those extra lbs off!!

Happy Sailing!

It always amazes me when people say to get a cabin on the lower decks to avoid sea sickness.  Do you spend your whole time in your cabin?  Do you not go to the dining room, Lido Deck, Buffet, Theater, etc?  Most people spend very little time in their cabins.  

10 hours ago, Clarasgrandma said: We almost always book deck 1. Less foot traffic. Mostly quiet. Easy to  disembark  at ports. Quick to get back to your room after a port day. Rooms seem cooler temperature wise imo.  Negatives would be farther from lido but if you are using elevators, it really doesn’t matter.  We try to use the stairs mostly and get winded here and there. 

We were on deck 2 our last cruise and the elevators were the biggest downside by far.  I didn't mind where we were except having to use the elevators that were slow and always full.  I'd prefer to use the stairs but deck 2 to deck 10 or 11 was a lot.  I did get lots of steps in during our trip though.  I always went down the steps. 

I love the low decks where the room is close to an elevator. .

Deck 1 is really nice returning from ports.  

grammymarcia

21 hours ago, JP350 said: I am planning on booking Carnival Vista Deck 1 midship. Does anyone know that if staying on deck 1 has any advantages. I know that it is right above propulsion systems, and to not choose a cabin in the bow, but is it worth it to pay $10 to upgrade to deck 2, and $20 to upgrade to any higher decks. (9, 6, 7 etc)

We had 3 ocean view deluxe rooms on the Vista, August 2016 in Europe. So easy getting on and off the ship. We had no noise. Cabins 1359, 1363 and 1347. The extra bathroom was great for showers and we had a 3 year old who fit in the small tub, in one of the rooms.

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Carnival Jubilee

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.

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19 Shocking Cruise Ship Secrets And Tips I Learned After Going On Seven Cruises

Booking a cruise is just like buying a car, meaning you can negotiate the price and get bonus perks, so ~never~ pay the price you see online.

BuzzFeed Staff

Hey! I'm Spencer , and I just got back from my seventh cruise. I've seen and learned a lot of really cool behind-the-scenes secrets while traveling the world on these ships, so I wanted to share some of the most interesting ones with you here, including some tips that may be helpful for your own future adventures. Enjoy!

For context, I've traveled on four different cruise lines: Royal Caribbean, Princess, Holland America, and now Carnival. My most recent trip was a seven-day sail aboard Carnival Firenze, which traveled throughout Mexico. This was my first time on Carnival, and I somehow managed to get a private tour to areas of the ship that even the most elite VIP passengers will never, ever see. Here are some things I learned along the way.

1. First of all, yes, most cruise ships have both a jail and a morgue on board. These were the only areas of the ship where I wasn't allowed to visit (trust me, I asked multiple times) because they're strictly off limits unless you find them the old-fashioned way...by getting arrested or dying. I didn't want to take those chances, but I did find out that shorter cruises tend to see a LOT more action in the jails (aka "the brig"). Guests typically treat shorter sailings as more of a party by taking advantage of unlimited drink packages, and more alcohol = more fights on board, so needing a jail totally makes sense.

In terms of the morgues, those are usually located on one of the ship's lowest decks. Think of these as giant refrigerators that, depending on the ship's size, can house anywhere from a couple to nearly a dozen bodies. The majority of these deaths are obviously of natural causes – for reference, as of 2018, fewer than  25%  of global passengers were under the age of 30 – but the average age of a cruise ship passenger is getting younger and younger every year now.

2. The higher you are on a ship, the more movement you'll feel, so if you're someone who tends to get motion sickness then you should definitely book your room on the lowest floor possible (just not in the morgue). I've personally never had an issue with motion sickness on a cruise, but I'll occasionally see passengers with at-sea patches behind their ears for help. Contrary to what you might think, though, you'll probably get the best night's sleep of your life on a cruise. Yes, there's a ~very~ slight rocking, but it'll feel sort of like you're a baby again who's being lulled to sleep in a cradle. Just trust me on this one.

This is a photo of what my cabin looked like. I also included a picture of my bathroom, which was a little bigger than I thought it'd be. The shower itself was a pretty decent size and left me with room to spare (if you want a point of reference, I'm 5'11" [a real 5'11", not a Tinder 5'11"]).

I was in a balcony room on Deck 6, and, again, I had no issues with motion sickness. I've also sailed on higher deck levels before (up to Deck 9) and didn't have any issues then either. In terms of where on each deck you should book your cabin (i.e. midship, aft, or forward), that doesn’t actually matter because you won’t really feel the motion differently in other spots on the same deck.

3. But I promise that you probably won't even have to worry about getting seasick. I got a private tour of the ship's control room, and I learned that they do a lottttt to combat any movement from the waves. For example, ships try to hit waves at a 45-degree angle because that's apparently the most effective way to help break them up and cut down on the extra motion. Ships also have stabilizers that can extend outwardly (picture, like, wings on an airplane), which help to keep things super, super stable.

Think of these stabilizers like fins on a fish, so they help each ship glide along the water. I spoke with the captain and some of the engineers in the control room, and they explained that the stabilizers require extra fuel and also decrease the speed of the ship, so they tend to not use them unless the water is pretty rocky.

4. Before you book a cruise, you should know that they're sort of like buying a car: you can negotiate! Basically, the price you see online should almost never be the price you pay (though they often offer great discounts that you should absolutely check out!). Instead, it's best to call and book your trip with an actual person (i.e. someone who works for the cruise line, a travel agent, etc.). For example, travel agents are usually free, and they can get you a ton of bonus perks and huge discounts on rooms for a fraction of the original price.

A lot of cruise lines occasionally offer "buy one, get one" discounts, as well as a ton of other sales around specific holidays. There are also a bunch of sites where you can book discounted sailings to fill the leftover rooms that haven't sold, so just do a little research. Also, places like BJ's and Sam's Club offer trip discounts if you have a membership card to their stores, so take advantage! I booked a previous cruise through one of them a few years back and got a massive discount for my room, onboard credit, and free gratuities. It pays to save!

5. And if you ever want a "free" cruise then you should definitely hit up the casinos on board. It's super common to get extra perks on future sailings (like free Wi-Fi, drink packages, or even entire trips altogether) if you're someone who gambles a lot. Basically, each bet is tied to your personal cruise card (i.e. your room key) every time you play the slots or put money down at a table game. Your total winnings are tracked on that card, and you'll earn points based on the amount you spend. The more you gamble, the more likely you are to get offered those extra perks.

I'm always mesmerized by cruise casinos because they literally created their own mini Las Vegas on board. Like, there are pit bosses and thousands of tiny security cameras and everything else that a real casino would have. The only downside is that these casinos are obviously much smaller than what you'd find in Vegas, so they probably won't have every table game you're looking for. Yes, they have roulette (my favorite) and craps and half a dozen variations of poker, but I still haven't found a pai gow table on board. Maybe next time!

6. The cool thing about cruises – especially for people who are ages 18 through 20 – is that they can sort of make their own laws while at sea. This is known as Maritime Law. For example, gambling at the casino is only allowed once the ship is at least 12 miles from land, but that also means they can lower the age limit from 21 to 18 while in international waters. The legal drinking age on most cruise ships is also 18, not 21.

There were actually two separate casinos on my recent Carnival ship. The larger area allowed smoking and had hundreds of slot machines, a ton of table games, and "adult" claw machines that replaced stuffed animals for huge wads of cash. The other casino, though, was the designated non-smoking area, and even though it was much smaller it still got the job done.

I'm still surprised that people are allowed to smoke in the main casino (there was also a cigar room on board but on a different deck), but, hey, I guess that's Vegas, baby.

7. There are themed cruises for pretty much anything you could ever imagine – for example, Royal Caribbean offers an immersive Star Trek cruise , and Norwegian is even offering a 2,300-person nude cruise next year – but on "regular" cruises there are certain SFW guidelines that guests (and staff!) need to adhere to. For instance, it's forbidden for staff to hook up with guests on board. Doing so would result in a pretty quick termination of their employment contract. Also, there are thousandsssss of security cameras on board, so, like, good luck trying to get away with it.

Years ago I befriended one of the gym trainers on a cruise, and he revealed that he actually managed to hook up with a guest on board. Because there are so many security cameras, it would have been impossible for either of them to visit the other person's cabin without getting caught, so he told me they hooked up in a random towel closet. I guess this is why a lot of cruise ship employees end up dating each other instead of the guests, because it's way less risky and a lot more convenient.

8. Speaking of hooking up on board, there was so much "swinging" happening between couples that a lot of cruise lines had to create training programs for the staff. Basically, decorating cabin doors is a pretty common thing for elite cruisers (as pictured below), and the secret symbol for swingers is an upside-down pineapple. As a result, a lot of couples would decorate their doors with upside-down pineapples to let other guests know that they're open for fun. According to the high-up staff member I talked to, employees on their previous ship were instructed to report any pineapple decorations found on board.

That staff member also told me that this whole issue started because some couples would leave their cabin doors ajar as an invitation for other swingers. However, the housekeeping staff (who are truly, truly incredible!) unknowingly entered while the couples were ~doing the deed~. Employees on cruises typically come from all over the world (on my Carnival ship, they had staff from over 100 different nations), which means they also have certain religious backgrounds. Spotting and removing these pineapple decorations was done in an effort to protect the staff and their religious beliefs.

9. You have to remember that these ships are basically floating cities, so they have everything you could ever want. Like, I've been on ships with a freaking ice skating rink before, and my recent Carnival sailing had an 18-hole mini golf course on the top deck. Also, itineraries are left outside each guest's stateroom every morning, and they list alllll the activities you can do (or not do!) that day. Want to try your luck at bingo? Have at it. Always wanted to go to an art auction? They've got those too. Want to prove your sports, movie, history, Harry Potter , Friends , or just general knowledge at dozens of trivia events? Be their guest! I promise that you'll never be bored on a cruise.

Cruises even have LGBTQ+ mixers, silent disco parties, wine tastings, and cooking classes. There are also discreet meetings for those who are sober or in recovery. For example, Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are labeled as "Friends of Bill" events on each ship's itinerary (this is a nod to Bill Wilson, who co-founded AA).

10. Keep in mind that items on cruise ships are definitely more expensive than what you'd normally pay on land. The spa and salon on my last sailing, for example, charged $175 for a 75-minute Swedish massage and $99 for a "red carpet blowout." If that's somehow in your budget then have at it, but if you want heavily discounted prices then you should book those treatments on days when the ship is at port – this is when most passengers will be off the vessel, so a lot of cruise lines offer discounted treatments to help fill up those time slots and prevent people from hitting up the spas on land. Again, though, you can typically negotiate for certain spa perks when booking!

Every cruise I've been on has had a full-fledged shopping mall on board. There are dozens of stores that sell everything from designer goods to any type of candy or snack you could want. Again, these prices are pretty steep, so if you forget to bring sunscreen then it's probably best to just wait until you get to the next port. Even so, there are definitely ways to save money while cruising! 

11. The more you cruise with a specific line, the more perks you'll get (like free room upgrades, priority access, unlimited internet, and on-board casino credit). These loyalty programs are based on the number of days you sail with each line, so, for example, everyone on their first Carnival cruise is in the Blue tier, then they reach Red status on their second sailing, and once they hit 25 days on board they'll reach the Gold tier. Platinum is achieved after 75 total days of sailing, and Diamond status is for people who've sailed for at least 200 days. I met so many Diamond members that my jaw kind of dropped – like, these people LOVE cruises and go on several a year. It isn't just a vacation for them; it's a full-on hobby.

While doing some research, I also found out that Royal Caribbean even has a "Pinnacle Club" for people who've sailed for over 700 days on their ships, which, holy crap??? So if you're prepared to spend the equivalent of two years on a ship (which kind of sounds like a dream to me, to be honest), then get ready for the ultimate form of perks and luxury.

12. Another way to save money is by booking your shore excursions through third-party vendors. Booking through the ship is definitely the most expensive route, but it's also the safest because you'll never have to worry about the ship leaving without you. Ships have strict docking schedules to follow on port days, so they ~will~ leave without you if you aren't back in time. Otherwise, you're in charge of making it to the next port of call on your own, so good luck. If you have a short port day and are only docked for a few hours then I'd suggest booking through the ship so you don't risk getting left behind.

Cruise lines display all excursion reviews from past passengers on their site, so this can be such a helpful resource to prevent you from booking something that sounds good on paper but is underwhelming in reality (been there, done that). I typically book excursions through vendors who are waiting outside as soon as everyone gets off the ship, but I do a lot of research ahead of time and will often find things to do that aren't even offered by the cruise.

You obviously don't have to go on any excursions at all either. There have been plenty of times when I've simply explored on my own by walking around, grabbing a bite from a local spot, or relaxing at the beach. You also don't even have to leave the ship if you don't want to. In fact, port days are incredible for peak relaxation on board because it's way more quiet, and you'll never struggle to find an open lounger by the pool. Free is my favorite number, so remember that there will always be plenty to do no matter your budget.

13. You should know that there are some banned items you simply can't bring on a cruise. Before boarding, you'll quickly go through security, sort of like a relaxed version of TSA at the airport. The whole process typically only takes a few minutes. Depending on the cruise line, you're usually allowed to bring up to 12 cans of non-alcoholic beverages (my friend brought a six-pack of ginger ale in case she felt seasick, and those made it through just fine. I also saw a bunch of Diet Coke-obsessed people with whole cases, and those made it through too). Candles, hot plates, and the obvious knives, guns, fireworks, etc. are all banned as well.

Bottled water isn't typically allowed through security when checking in, but you can absolutely buy it on board. More importantly, though, there will be plenty of free fill-up stations for your water bottle throughout the ship, so that's an easy fix. I can't stress enough how necessary having a water bottle is, so make sure you bring one (both for your regular onboard living but also for when you leave the ship on port days).

14. Also, don't even try to sneak alcohol on board because you'll definitely get caught. Each ship is different, but for the most part you're only allowed one unopened bottle of wine or champagne in your carry-on. If you buy spirits while at port then you'll have to check them when you get back on the ship, and they'll be returned when you disembark. After all, most cruises only become profitable after adding up their total alcohol sales and casino winnings (I guess it helps that Carnival's 27 ships, for example, sell over 14,000 margaritas each day). For reference, a standard cocktail on my last trip was about $13, and the unlimited drink packages were about $60 a day.

Depending on the cruise line, these unlimited drink packages can range from $55 to over $100 each day. These include specialty coffees, soda, beer, wine, cocktails, and the works. Remember, some people treat cruises like parties (my last sailing had FIVE different types of espresso martinis at the bars, so, like, I sort of don't blame them), and they certainly try to get the most bang for their buck. I've done the math, and you need to have at least five specialty drinks per day to make the unlimited package "worth it."

Non-alcoholic drink packages also exist, like a $9.50-a-day pass that'll get you unlimited sodas. But there are free drinks on board, whether you're at the buffet or sit-down dining, like tap water, brewed coffee, hot teas, hot chocolate, lemonade, iced tea, fruit juices (fresh-pressed ones will cost extra), and milk.

15. Cruise ships obviously make tons (and I mean that literally, not figuratively) of food every single sailing. After all, the average ship holds about 3,000 guests and 1,000 crew members. An employee who I spoke with said Carnival serves about 30,000 burgers every single day, and they'll make over 1.3 million pounds of French fries each year. There are free sit-down restaurants and buffets on board, but there are also specialty dining options that guests can pay for, like hibachi and steak houses. My family always sticks with the free dining options, and I think non-cruisers will be shocked by how good the food actually is, but the best part is that you can order several appetizers, entrées, and desserts per person, so, like, you'll never leave hungry.

All of that food used to mean there's a lot of food waste, but that's not really the case anymore. In fact, a lot of ships are working on how to become more and more sustainable and environmentally friendly. For example, rather than dumping food waste in the water, I saw on my private tour that Carnival has a "food digester" room. Basically, it's a massive machine filled with bacteria that'll break down all the food scraps, just like how your own body breaks down food. Yes, it smelled just as bad as you probably think it would.

Similarly, some ships are even using artificial intelligence to make their sailings more environmentally friendly. While in the control room, one of the engineers told me about how their ship is using new AI that basically studies each sailing so it can recommend new ways to make future voyages as efficient as possible, like by creating energy-saving routes and so on.

16. If you're worried about potentially having bad weather on your cruise then, well, think again. Yes, there's obviously a lot to do inside, but a lot of ships also have retractable roofs on their top decks. So, if it's ever too cold, rainy, or windy then they can usually cover the entire lido deck (i.e. where most of the pools, jacuzzis, and lounge chairs are), which means you can relax "outside" even in the terrible weather. A lot of ships also offer indoor pools and adults-only sections, so, like, you'll totally be set no matter what.

My recent cruise had a regular pool and jacuzzi setup on the lido deck, but there was also another section at the back of the ship with one more pool and two more jacuzzis. There was even a "Serenity" section at the top deck, which served as an "adults-only retreat," meaning passengers younger than 18 weren't allowed. That area unfortunately filled up super fast on sailing days, so if you ever go on a ship with one I'd definitely recommend getting there early.

A lot of ships also offer private areas and decks that are exclusive to only those who book certain rooms. This secluded area was much quieter, super luxurious, and actually felt like I was on a totally different ship. If you're booking a cruise and see that there's an exclusive area, you should absolutely ask about how to get access ahead of time.

17. It's tradition for every ship to have a celebrity godmother or godfather who christens the boat before the inaugural launch, and those celebs are typically rewarded with free cruises for life (!) on that specific vessel. For example, Oprah Winfrey is the godmother of a Holland America ship, and even Audrey Hepburn was the godmother of a Princess ship. Carnival only has two godfathers, and they're fittingly both for their Italian-themed cruises: Jay Leno and now Jonathan Bennett. Christening the ship used to entail smashing a bottle of champagne against its hull, but the night before my cruise I got to watch Jonathan Bennett pour a bottle of champagne over the ship's bell to toast its safe travels instead.

Judi Dench is also the godmother of a ship, and it famously took her three different attempts to break the bottle of champagne against its hull, which then sprayed all over her. That was in 2002, so I think switching to this new christening method with the ship's bell is definitely less messy.

18. One of the most unique parts about cruising is that you'll typically find a cool towel animal waiting for you after returning to your cabin every night. The housekeeping staff are all trained in towel folding, so after dinner you'll have a new animal sitting on your bed or, in my case, hanging from the ceiling. A lot of ships even host towel-folding classes during sailings so guests can learn how to make the animals themselves, and how-to books are also available in the bookstore. I found out that Carnival's housekeeping team makes about 15 million towel animals every single year, which, holy crap.

One morning while on my way to the gym, I walked through the lido deck and saw hundreds of towel animals sitting on every single lounge chair outside. There were monkeys and elephants and dogs, but the most impressive towel animal that I saw was an octopus. I still have no idea how they managed to pull this off, and I'm genuinely so impressed.

19. And finally, the most important thing you should know about cruises is that there are several self-serve ice cream machines on board, and they're all completely free (and unlike McDonald's, these machines are always working!). If you're like me and deserve a sweet treat after dinner – or, let's face it, after or even before breakfast – then you understand how big this is. After all, you're on vacation, so you should be eating as much ice cream and frozen yogurt as you can get your hands on.

I worked at Dairy Queen for a few summers as a teen and genuinely loved it there, so having the ability to serve myself a cone whenever I wanted made me feel at home. And if you're more of a gelato person then I totally understand! Luckily for you, cruises have got you covered. My ship had a freaking gelato spot on board, and they expect to serve about 750,000 scoops this year, but I have a feeling half of them were because of me.

That's it! If you have any other cruise travel tips that have worked for you, please feel free to share them in the comments. Thanks!

Note: BuzzFeed was granted this cruise aboard Carnival Firenze for free, though we were under no obligation to provide a positive review.

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Butterflies Lounge (capacity 484 seats, hosts the Punchliner Comedy Club/brunch, Karaoke, art auctions)

Riviera Deck cruise cabins from 1101 to 1266 of which Inside cabins (category 4A, and 1A/Upper-Lower) and Oceanview (category 6A).

During drydock refurbishment 2023, Beauties Dance Club's lower level (aft-portside) was replaced with passenger cabins and the Chef's Table (VIP Dining Room).

(on crew deck 0 below) Medical Center is the ship’s hospital operated by resident doctors/physicians and nurses on 24-hour call duty. The infirmary (open between 8 am – 8 pm /doctor hours 8-11 am and 3-6 pm) is equipped with defibrillators, external pacemakers, pulse oximeters, an ECG (electrocardiograph machine), thrombolytic and lab equipment. Treatments at the ship hospital are equivalent to a private doctor’s visit. All treatments, tests and medications are at extra charge. The only exception is Bonine (seasickness medication) also available for free at the ship’s Reception (24 hours).

General health insurance policies do not apply, so buying cruise health insurance is recommended. Buying Carnival Cruise Vacation Protection Plan makes you eligible for reimbursements of up to USD 10000 (covered medical expenses) and up to USD 30000 (Emergency Medical Evacuation/medevac expenses).

The ship’s physicians are independent contractors and render medical services at a customary fee. The basic fee doesn’t include medication, tests or treatments. Payments are made via the “Sail and Sign” card. Medical staffing varies by ship – either 1 physician with 3 nurses or 2 physicians with 5 nurses.

Carnival Cruise Line shares a big smoking rule decision

Smoking has become less popular in the U.S., but it has not fallen fully out of favor.

That creates a challenge for cruise lines, as they must accommodate smokers while also taking into account the health and safety of nonsmoking passengers.

Cruise ships are not bound by U.S. laws that prohibit smoking indoors in every place except in select casinos. In addition, cruise passengers can't simply leave the ship to smoke, and they most certainly can't smoke in their cabins.

Related: Carnival brings back a controversial fan favorite activity

So if the cruise lines want to attract smokers to sail on their ships, they must designate smoking areas. Carnival Cruise Line ( CCL ) ships, much like rival Royal Caribbean's ships, designate multiple smoking areas.

Both cruise lines also allow smoking in part of their casinos while also having designated outdoor smoking areas on the pool deck. Smokers generally want more smoking areas while nonsmokers, especially casino players, don't like being exposed to secondhand smoke.

It's challenging for both companies as they want to keep all their passengers happy. In the case of the casino, the answer has been dictated by money. Royal Caribbean has tested banning smoking in its casino multiple times, and it results in lower revenue, so the decision to allow smoking in parts of the casino is clear.

Where to allow smoking outdoors, however, is a bigger question, and Carnival's brand ambassador, John Heald, recently weighed in on the controversial topic.

Carnival says no to smokers

Carnival has an area on its ships called the Serenity Decks. These are adults-only areas that vary by ship, but they generally have hot tubs, a pool, a bar and plenty of seating for people to enjoy the outdoors away from children,

"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 cruise line says on its website. 

"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."

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Currently, you can do a lot of things on the Serenity decks, but you can't smoke. That's something Heald addressed on his Facebook page.

"One thing I will not be able to help with are the changes people requested for the gorgeous Serenity Decks we have on our ships," he said. "Firstly a request to make one side a smoking section. 'P' said 'we live in a free society, and if Carnival’s smokers want to smoke, then that is their right and that includes on Serenity Deck.'” 

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Heald made clear that that was not going to happen.

"Well, we do indeed live in a free society but we also live in a more non-smoking world than ever before. So while we will continue to provide outdoor smoking areas for as long as possible we will not be allowing smoking on Serenity Deck," he added.

Carnival passengers share their smoking thoughts

Where people can smoke on a cruise ship is a contentious issue, but it's not a simple one, where all smokers want more smoking areas.

"Good morning! I am a smoker but I totally agree with no smoking on the Serenity Deck because just because I smoke not everyone else does. I respect that," posted Angel Goins. 

That's not an uncommon feeling even among smokers.

"Thank you for keeping the serenity deck smoke-free. I’m a smoker and find the smoking areas to be quiet, kid-free, and relaxing," Tessa Jones added.

Other smokers would like to see the current rules modified.

"Vaping should be allowed on Serenity and more outside areas. There is no fire, hazardous smoke, or ash," Jeff Henderson wrote. 

ALSO READ: Carnival brings back a controversial fan-favorite activity

Many nonsmokers shared their appreciation for Carnival limiting where passengers can smoke.

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"People who smoke, unfortunately, do have a right to kill themselves. That being said, they DO NOT have the right to take us with them. That's why I appreciate Carnival keeping them away from me," posted Frances Storey.

Carnival Dream Riviera deck plan

• 5 Promenade
• 11 Panorama
• Click here for ALL
• Small Interior
• Interior with Picture Window
• Deluxe Oceanview
• Cove Balcony
• Premium Balcony
• Ocean Suite
• Grand Suite
• Ship info and tracking
• Cabin Check

Cruisedeckplans provides full interactive deck plans for the Carnival Dream Riviera deck. Just move your mouse over any cabin and a pop up will appear with detail information, including a full description and floor layout, and a link to pictures and/or videos. These are the newest deck plans for Carnival Dream Riviera deck plan showing public venues and cabin numbers and locations.

You are viewing deck: 1 Riviera plan

Click on another deck below to view more deck plans.   Click here for LIVE SHIP TRACKING

Useful Links

• DRAG DECK FEATURE
• PDF of all the decks
• PDF (choose your own decks)

Cabin Check Tool

Looking for riviera (deck) actual cabin pics and videos, sub categories on riviera, click links below to view category info including cabin pics and videos for that category on the carnival dream..

This tool will help you see what is on the deck above and the deck below your stateroom. Don't be surprised by loud chair scraping noise above you.

Carnival Dream 1 Riviera (deck) Cabin Guru

The cruise line separates the different categories (Inside, Oceanview, Balcony) into subcategories. The only difference in the subcategories is usually location on the ship. The detail above shows subcategory color, category name, and subcategory name. For detailed information, mouse over a cabin on the deck plans and a pop up window will appear. You will find diagrams, pictures and information about that cabin category including square footage and features. Carnival uses a two digit code for its stateroom categories. The first letter represents the type of cabin. 1=Small Interior, 4=Interior, 6=Oceanview, 7=Cove Balcony, 8=Balcony, 9=Premium Balcony. The second letter represents the desired location with A being the least desirable. As an example a 4J (Interior cabin) is in a more desirable location than a 4A (Interior cabin).

CRUISEDECKPLANS.COM Use the input buttons above to go to the main page for a Cruise Ship or Cruise Line.

Deluxe Ocean View

Similar to cabin 1272

Type: Deluxe Oceanview

Cabin is 220 ft 2

*Actual cabin size and layout may differ from size and diagram shown.

CDP Code: Deluxe Oceanview

- Twin beds that convert to king - picture window - television - private bath with shower - separate washroom with sink and junior tub - safe - mini bar - phone - television - sitting area - sofa - hair dryer - bathrobes - Category 6N beds do not convert to a king and can sleep up to 5.

Standard Layout

Type: Interior

Cabin is 185 ft 2

CDP Code: Interior

- Twin beds that convert to king - television - private bath with shower - safe - mini bar - phone - television - sitting area with chair - hair dryer - bathrobes.

Similar to cabin 1218

Type: Oceanview

CDP Code: Oceanview

- Twin beds that convert to king - picture window - television - private bath with shower - safe - mini bar - phone - television - sitting area - sofa - hair dryer - bathrobes - Category 6A has two porthole windows - Category 6S is partially obstructed.

Similar to cabin 1205

Type: Porthole

Cabin is 170 ft 2

CDP Code: Porthole

- Portholes - twin beds that convert to king - television - private bath with shower - safe - mini bar - phone - television - sitting area with chair or single sofa - hair dryer - bathrobes.

Interior Upper/Lower

Similar to cabin 1202

Type: Small Interior

Cabin is 160 ft 2

CDP Code: Small Interior

- Upper and lower bed - television - private bath with shower - safe - mini bar - phone - television - sitting area - hair dryer - bathrobes - Cabin 2204,2208,2203,2207 do not have portholes.