can you bring alcohol on cruise carnival

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A liquor and beverage consumption policy was created in order for Carnival to be able to control the liquor consumption of minors and the quantities consumed that lead to the disruptive behavior of others on board.

Bringing Alcohol On Board - Embarkation Day

What items am I not allowed to bring?

Prohibited Items:

Alcohol (hard liquor) and beer
Wine or champagne beyond the allowable limit of one 750 ml bottle per adult (18 years of age or older)
Non-alcoholic beverages in containers other than a can or carton; excessive quantities per person (over 12 cans/cartons per person); exessive size per can/carton (over 375 ml each)

Carnival's Liquor and Beverage policy states that the guests are prohibited from bringing water, sodas and other non-alcoholic beverages on board that are packed in bottles. What is Carnival's liquor and beverage policy?

Guests are prohibited from bringing water, sodas and other non-alcoholic beverages that are packaged in glass or plastic bottles.

On embarkation day, a small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages (i.e., sparkling water, sodas, energy drinks, juice, and milk), packaged in cans or cartons, may be brought on board and must be in the guest's carry-on luggage. A small quantity is considered a maximum of 12 sealed, unopened cans/cartons of 375-ml each or less, per person.

Guests are prohibited from bringing alcoholic beverages on board with the following exception - at the beginning of the cruise during embarkation day only, guests (18 years of age and older) may bring one 750-ml bottle of sealed/unopened wine or champagne, per person, in their carry-on luggage. Outside this exception, all liquor, beer, other forms of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage and such items will be confiscated and discarded and no compensation will be provided . Guests sailing with us on back-to-back cruises are entitled to bring the same quantity as stated in this policy, per cruise. The additional quantities will be stored for safekeeping at the start of the first cruise and will be given to the guest as each following cruise begins.

Corkage Fee:

Should guests wish to consume their wine or champagne in the main dining room, specialty restaurant or bar, a $15.00 AUD corkage fee, per 750-ml bottle, will be charged. A corkage fee is a charge that is assessed, at time of service, for every bottle that is served and not bought on the premises.

Large cooler restrictions : Carnival Cruise Line does not allow guests to bring large coolers on board its ships. However small, personal-sized coolers, no larger than 30x30x30cm for the purpose of housing small quantities of non-alcoholic beverages and/or medications are permitted as carry-on luggage. Screening and movement of large coolers through embarkation is an impediment to the boarding and security screening process. Therefore, large coolers are not permitted as carry-on or checked luggage.

Ports-of-Call : Alcoholic beverages of any kind purchased in any Port-of-Call will be retained at the gangway, stored on board and held by Carnival until the end of the voyage.

Drinking Alcohol On Board : The minimum age for the purchase and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages in the bars, lounges and gift shops is 18 years of age. In the event that Bar/Restaurant/Gift Shop staff are in question that a guest is less than 18 years old, they shall request picture identification, prior to serving the drink or selling the bottle of liquor. Carnival reserves the right to refuse the sale of alcoholic beverages to anyone.

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Your Guide to Carnival Cruise Wine Policy: What You Need to Know

Your Guide to Carnival Cruise Wine Policy: What You Need to Know

Introduction:

Planning a Carnival Cruise and wondering about their wine policy? Look no further than this comprehensive guide that will provide you with all the information you need to know before setting sail. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply enjoy a glass of vino with your meals, understanding Carnival Cruise’s wine policy will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on board.

To help you navigate through the intricacies of Carnival Cruise’s wine policy, we have compiled a list of the most important points in the table below. From the allowed quantities of wine to the corkage fees, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make the most of your wine experience on a Carnival Cruise.

Understanding these key points will help you make informed decisions and avoid any surprises when it comes to enjoying wine on your Carnival Cruise. For more detailed information and specific guidelines, it is always recommended to refer to the official Carnival Cruise website or consult with their customer service representatives.

Remember, a relaxing cruise paired with your favorite wine can create unforgettable moments. So, sit back, sip, and enjoy the journey while being well-informed about Carnival Cruise’s wine policy.

Do you put your wine in your luggage for cruise?

When preparing for your Carnival Cruise, it’s important to understand the wine policy and whether you can pack your own bottles in your luggage. Carnival Cruise Line allows guests to bring onboard limited quantities of wine or champagne, subject to certain rules and restrictions. Each guest is permitted to bring one bottle of wine or champagne (standard size, 750ml) to enjoy in their stateroom. However, if you plan to bring more than one bottle or wish to consume it in public areas, a corkage fee will apply. To ensure a seamless experience, it’s recommended to pack your wine in your carry-on luggage to avoid any potential mishaps with checked bags. For more detailed information on Carnival Cruise Line’s wine policy, please visit their official website at [source link].

Can you bring two bottles of wine on a cruise ship?

Carnival Cruise allows passengers to bring two bottles of wine per stateroom onboard their ships. However, there are certain guidelines to follow. The wine must be in a standard-size bottle (750ml) and can be packed in either carry-on or checked luggage. It is important to note that any additional bottles beyond the limit will incur a corkage fee. To avoid any hassles, it is recommended to review the Carnival Cruise wine policy before embarking on your journey. For more information, visit the official Carnival Cruise website: https://www.carnival.

Can you bring a wine opener on Carnival cruise?

Yes, you can bring a wine opener on a Carnival cruise. Carnival Cruise Line allows guests to bring their own wine onboard, subject to certain restrictions outlined in their wine policy. However, it is important to note that Carnival does not provide wine openers in staterooms. Therefore, if you plan to bring your own wine, it is advisable to pack a wine opener with you. This will ensure that you can enjoy your favorite bottle of wine without any inconvenience during your cruise. For more information on Carnival’s wine policy and other guidelines, you can visit their official website at www.carnival.com/faq.

Why can you bring wine but not liquor on a cruise?

When it comes to packing for your Carnival Cruise, it’s important to understand the wine policy. While you can bring your own wine on board, the same doesn’t apply to liquor. This policy is in place for several reasons. Firstly, it allows Carnival to control the quality and safety of alcohol served on their ships. Secondly, it helps prevent overconsumption and ensures a safer environment for passengers. Finally, it allows the cruise line to generate revenue from selling their own selection of liquor. So, if you’re a wine enthusiast, make sure to check the guidelines and bring your favorite bottle on board to enjoy during your cruise! For more information on Carnival Cruise’s wine policy, visit [Carnival Cruise Wine Policy](https://www.carnival.com/help/15-FAQs-about-Bringing-Wine-and-Champagne-on-Board.aspx).

Can you bring wine on a cruise carnival

Carnival Cruise Line allows guests to bring limited quantities of wine onboard their ships. Each adult aged 21 or older is permitted to bring one 750ml bottle of unopened wine or champagne. If guests wish to bring more bottles, they will be subject to a corkage fee. It is important to note that hard liquors, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages are not permitted to be brought on board. Additionally, the wine brought on board can only be consumed in the guest’s stateroom and not in public areas or dining venues. For more detailed information on Carnival Cruise Line’s wine policy, please refer to their official website: [https://www.carnival.com/help](https://www.carnival.com/help).

In summary, understanding the wine policy of Carnival Cruise is essential for wine enthusiasts who wish to bring their favorite bottles on board or enjoy the vast selection offered by the cruise line. By adhering to the guidelines and regulations set forth by Carnival, passengers can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience when it comes to wine consumption during their cruise vacation.

First and foremost, it is crucial to be aware of the limitations on the amount of wine that can be brought on board. Carnival allows each guest to bring one bottle of wine per person, with a maximum of two bottles per stateroom. This policy enables passengers to savor their preferred wines without exorbitant corkage fees or restrictions.

However, it is important to note that if passengers exceed the allowed limit, a corkage fee will be applied for every additional bottle brought on board. To avoid any unexpected fees, it is advisable to carefully review and adhere to the wine policy before embarking on the cruise. This ensures a hassle-free experience and eliminates any confusion or inconvenience.

Additionally, Carnival Cruise offers an extensive selection of wines on board, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From exquisite reds to refreshing whites and sparkling varieties, there is something to satisfy every wine connoisseur. The cruise line also hosts wine tastings and events, providing the perfect opportunity to expand your knowledge and indulge in new flavors.

For those who wish to bring their own wine to be enjoyed in the ship’s restaurants or bars, Carnival imposes a corkage fee. This fee covers the service of opening and serving the wine, ensuring that passengers can enjoy their chosen bottle with ease and convenience. It is important to note that the corkage fee may vary depending on the specific ship and dining venue.

To make the most of your wine experience on Carnival Cruise, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the various dining options and venues available. Each ship offers a range of restaurants and bars, each with its own unique ambiance and menu. By exploring these options, passengers can discover the perfect setting to savor their favorite wines and enhance their overall dining experience.

Furthermore, it is worth noting that Carnival Cruise has implemented responsible drinking policies to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers. Passengers are encouraged to consume alcohol in moderation and to be mindful of their own limits. The cruise line offers a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and mocktails for those who prefer to abstain from alcohol or simply desire a refreshing alternative.

In conclusion, understanding the wine policy of Carnival Cruise is essential for wine enthusiasts seeking to enjoy their favorite bottles during their cruise vacation. By familiarizing yourself with the guidelines and regulations, passengers can ensure a seamless and enjoyable wine experience on board. Whether bringing your own bottles or exploring the extensive selection offered by the cruise line, Carnival Cruise provides a diverse and satisfying wine experience for all passengers. So, embark on your next cruise adventure with confidence, knowing that your love for wine can be fully indulged while cruising the high seas.

For more information on Carnival Cruise’s wine policy and dining options, please visit their official website: [Carnival Cruise Wine Policy](https://www.carnival.com/help/2048)

To learn more about responsible drinking and alcohol policies on cruises, please refer to the Cruise Lines International Association: [CLIA Alcohol Policy](https://cruising.

Bringing Water or Soda on a Cruise Ship (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and More)

Interested in cruise line rules about bringing water, soda, and other non-alcoholic beverages aboard? Most people look forward to a cruise’s adult libations — an umbrella drink in one hand can mysteriously put anyone in a better mood. But that doesn’t mean you only want to drink booze for a week.

While water, juice, and tea are usually free on a cruise, you often have to go to the ship’s restaurants to get them. Meanwhile, non-alcoholic drinks like sodas cost extra (usually around $3 per serving), so bringing those on with you when allowed can actually save you a decent amount.

Plus, you might have a favorite non-alcoholic drink that the cruise doesn’t normally serve, and it’s always nice to have some water with you in the cabin instead of having to head to the buffet or a bar just to get a glass to drink.

So can you bring water, soda or other drinks on your cruise? The answer depends on which line you sail, but in many cases it is allowed .

Below, we’ve researched the policies for each major cruise line to give you everything you need to know.

In This Article...

Carnival Cruise Lines Drink Policy

Carnival is fairly liberal with their beverage policy. According to their website, “On embarkation day, a small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages (i.e., sparkling water, sodas, energy drinks, juice, and milk), packaged in cans or cartons, may be brought on board and must be in the guest’s carry-on luggage. A small quantity is considered a maximum of 12 sealed, unopened cans/cartons of 12 ounces each or less, per person .”

Given that most people sail with two people to a room, that means you can bring 24 cans/cartons of anything you want as long as it’s non-alcoholic. Just be sure that it is not in a bottle.

With the prices of beverages on the cruise (around $3 per non-alcoholic drink), that can save you a lot of money.

One tip: If you want to have water to drink, it’s harder to find in cans or cartons, and Carnival doesn’t allow bottles to be brought aboard. In that case, you can order a 12-pack of bottled water to be delivered to your cabin for about $10. That’s much easier than carrying it on with you.

Carnival policy: 12 cans/cartons (12 ounces or less) per person are allowed. Source .

Royal Caribbean Drink Policy

Royal Caribbean allows passengers to bring on some non-alcoholic drinks when embarking.

Their site says “ Guests may also bring non-alcoholic beverages as carry-on items on boarding day . Non-alcoholic beverages may not exceed 12 standard (17 oz.) cans, bottles or cartons per stateroom. Milk and distilled water brought on for infant, medical, or dietary use are permitted.”

One thing to note is that unlike Carnival, that means Royal Caribbean allows bottles and slightly larger containers.

Royal Caribbean policy: 12 cans/cartons/bottles (17 ounces or less) per cabin are allowed. Source .

Princess Cruises Drink Policy

While finding the drink policy for Princess is a bit of a hunt, it is buried within the passenger contract. In this case, the cruise lines says that:

“A small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages (i.e., sparkling water, sodas, juice, milk) packaged in cans or cartons may be brought on board on embarkation day, only if carried on in Guests’ hand luggage (not in checked luggage). A small quantity is considered a maximum of 12 sealed, unopened cans/cartons of 12 ounces each or less per person . Guests will be asked to discard open beverages in plastic containers prior to boarding.”

The cruise line also specifically says that drinks in bottles are not allowed.

Princess policy: Passengers can bring up to 12 cans/cartons of non-alcoholic beverages. Drinks packaged in bottles aren’t allowed. Source .

Norwegian Cruise Lines Drink Policy

Norwegian is one of the few cruise lines that doesn’t allow you to bring your own drinks onto the ship.

According to the website: “Effective for sailings July 15, 2016 and beyond, guests are prohibited from bringing any beverages — including liquor, beer and non-alcoholic drinks such as water, soda and juices — on board either as carry-on or checked luggage.”

The only exception is that purified or distilled water in sealed containers for medical devices like CPAPs or baby formula are OK.

Unfortunately, that means you’ll have to leave your soda at home.

Norwegian Cruise Line policy: No beverages are allowed to be brought aboard. Source .

Disney Cruises Drink Policy

Disney doesn’t specifically point out non-alcoholic beverages as not being allowed on their website, but they also aren’t mentioned them as being prohibited either.

One thing to know is that soda and water are available on the ship at no charge if you get them from the beverage stations on board (one of the few cruise lines with free soda), Still, many people want to bring their own favorite beverage.

In that case, reports are that you can bring your own , but soda and water should be unopened and brought in your carry-on luggage, NOT in your checked suitcases. We haven’t found any specific limits on how much you can bring aboard, but we would suggest being reasonable and only bring a case or less.

Disney Cruise Line policy: Non-alcoholic beverages (including soda) are provided on the ship. There is no mention of them being prohibited when boarding. Source .

Celebrity Cruises Drink Policy

As a sister cruise line to Royal Caribbean (they are owned by the same parent company), you would think that Celebrity would have a similar beverage policy. However, of all the cruise lines, we had the most issue finding any mention of bringing on non-alcoholic drinks on Celebrity. This includes searching the website and ticket contract.

That said, we called the cruise line and were told that non-alcoholic drinks are allowed as part of your carry-on luggage. The agent told us we could “bring as much as you can carry.” There were no restrictions mentioned (such as bottles versus cans or drink size).

Celebrity Cruises policy: While not specifically mentioned online, a phone call to the cruise line told us that non-alcoholic beverages are allowed to be brought on at embarkation.

MSC Cruises Drink Policy

MSC is a global cruise line, and it’s ramping up quickly in the United States. According to their list of “Items Forbidden Onboard,” guests are not allowed to bring drinks on with them when boarding:

“In the interest of health and safety, beverages and food (including partially eaten or home cooked items) may not be brought on board either. Exception: dry, packaged and commercially produced foods.”

MSC Cruises policy: Beverages are mentioned under “Items Forbidden Onboard” so you should leave them at home. Source .

Can I Bring Water for Medical Use or Milk for Baby Formula?

Some need to bring on water for medical purposes, such as use of distilled water to use with a CPAP at night or milk to mix with baby formula.

If you want to bring something for a medical purpose, it’s a good idea to call the cruise line before your trip and ask about their policy. Obviously, if they allow you to bring on water as a general rule, then it won’t be an issue. If they don’t allow you to bring beverages, then you might find they make an exception for medical use, or they can supply what you need on the ship, saving you the hassle of having to carry it yourself.

What Happens if I Bring Water/Soda and It’s Not Allowed?

So what will happen if you bring on a non-alcoholic drink and it’s not allowed? For instance, some cruise lines have specific rules regarding container size or type.

Don’t worry, you won’t be denied boarding . If you bring a non-alcoholic beverage that’s not allowed, at worst, the security staff may confiscate it. There’s also a chance that they don’t even notice the drinks or care.

We’d still suggest following the guidelines set out by the cruise line, just to make things as easy as possible.

How Strict Are the Cruise Lines on Their Policies?

It’s important to know that screening for liquids isn’t normally done by the cruise line itself, but by the private security contractors at the port. We’ve found that the leniency can vary. We’ve personally been on cruise lines where the official policy is that drinks aren’t allowed to be brought on the ship, but noticed passengers bringing them anyway.

We’d advise you to follow the line’s policy, but if you want to risk it, you can always try to bring on some drinks. At worst, they will be taken away, which may cost you a few dollars.

For more on what sort of alcoholic drinks you can bring on a ship, visit this link .

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Bringing Water or Soda on a Cruise Ship (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and More)

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Carnival Firenze cruise ship review: A guide to Carnival's second 'Italian Style' vessel

Editor's note: TPG's Ashley Kosciolek accepted a free trip to sail on Carnival Firenze for the ship's naming ceremony and inaugural cruise. The views expressed below are entirely hers and were not subject to review by the cruise line.

When Carnival Cruise Line first announced it was adopting ships from sister cruise line Costa Cruises for a product it now calls " Fun Italian Style ," I wondered, given Carnival's usual vibe, if it was possible for the ships to feel even a little bit authentic. Would they be fun or refined? Luxurious or tacky? Carnival Firenze is all of those things — and that's exactly how Carnival passengers like it.

When you step on board, you're welcomed into what feels like an Italian theme park. It's an alternate universe's version of Italy, where you're likely to hear "That's Amore" in some form daily, take part in a street festival that features a gelato-eating contest and watch as waiters in ruffle-sleeved costumes perform in the dining room to Justin Bieber songs while a giant fig leaf-clad version of Michelangelo's David holds court over the whole scene, awash in colored strobe lights.

It's chaotic and a lot to take in, but somehow it works. Passengers can have their photos taken with a Vespa-style scooter and grab Italian-themed burgers and meatball sandwiches at new iterations of some of Carnival's most popular eateries. A giant replica of Donatello's Marzocco towers above the Piazza del Duomo atrium that serves as the location of Carnival Firenze's massive welcome party. During the event, officers and crew scatter around the atrium's three-deck balcony and wave signs that say "Ciao" and "Benvenuti." The high-energy party starts a sailing off on the right foot.

For more cruise guides, news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Juxtapose the over-the-top Italian elements with elegant design choices — such as a pool deck that features charming bar facades designed to evoke Italian architecture, well-designed cabins and service that's off-the-charts friendly — and you've got Carnival Firenze.

Want to learn more about what to expect during a sailing on this new-to-Carnival ship? Here's my review of Carnival Firenze with everything you need to know.

Carnival Firenze overview

Carnival Firenze debuted as Costa Firenze, the second ship in Costa Cruises' Venezia Class (similar to Carnival's Vista Class) , in 2021. The 4,126-passenger, 135,156-ton ship was originally designed for the Chinese cruise market, meaning it houses more casino and retail space than the average North American cruise ship. Plus, its pools are smaller than most, with tons of shaded areas around them — a nice touch for anyone who doesn't want to bake in the sun.

In early 2024, the ship transferred to the Carnival fleet and underwent a two-month refurbishment to tweak some of the public spaces and add Carnival's trademark blue wave paint scheme on the hull. Notably, the ship is keeping its yellow Costa smokestack, which is emblazoned with a giant letter "C," and won't be outfitted with Carnival's signature red, white and blue whale tail funnel.

On board, a large number of your fellow passengers will be West Coasters who often drive to the departure port in Long Beach, California. You'll also find Carnival stalwarts who don't mind making the trip from farther afield to sail on the new ship.

Unfortunately, the vessel often seemed crowded, with 4,200 passengers on my sailing — about 1,000 people fewer than maximum capacity. I can't imagine how it would have felt if my sailing were full.

As is the case on other Carnival vessels, the food provides excellent value for money, with the number of included options far exceeding the number of specialty restaurants that charge extra. Cuisines run the gamut from Italian and Asian to seafood and steak, and despite some longer-than-average wait times in the dining room, the service is friendly and generally efficient.

Cabins are furnished in neutral colors and laid out in ways that make sense, with comfortable convertible beds; closets that feature several layouts with drawers, hanging bars and collapsible shelving; bathrooms with plenty of storage space; and a plethora of electrical outlets for charging.

Carnival Firenze is full of activities, including trivia, movies and games. The spa, salon and fitness center offer ways to care for your mind and body, and top-deck waterslides and a ropes course provide opportunities for adventuresome travelers to find their adrenaline fix.

The Italian vibe carries through everything you do on board. It will either make you smile or roll your eyes. Regardless, it's a lot of fun.

What I love about Carnival Firenze

The design elements.

I wasn't sure what to expect on Carnival Firenze, but what I found immediately upon boarding was a grand three-deck atrium, Piazza del Duomo, that's both over the top and beautiful. In the center is a bar, from the middle of which rises a faux marble pillar with a replica of Donatello's Marzocco golden lion statue on the top. Your eyes can't help but follow it up toward the ceiling, which is painted to look like a blue sky with fluffy white clouds.

As you move between decks, you'll spy Italian-style art in the stairwells and elevator banks. Walls in the cabin hallways are printed with snippets from photos of famous Italian statues; photos of Florentine landmarks like the Duomo serve as headboards in non-suite cabins.

But the most impressive element of the ship's design is the Lido Pool area, which is set up to resemble a courtyard with the pool in the center and several Italian building facades overlooking it. Those facades, which are equipped with wrought-iron balconies, house everything from bars and board game areas to a deli, Guy's Burger Joint (with an Italian twist) and a combination Mexican-Italian burrito and taco bar, as well as the ship's JavaBlue Cafe . It's the first time I've ever visited a cruise pool area and not felt like I was on a ship.

The artwork

During my first night on Carnival Firenze, as I was walking from my cabin down to dinner, I stopped in my tracks and burst out laughing. The aft stairwells on the ship are bedecked with floor-to-ceiling prints that seem innocuous at first, but as you look more closely, you can pick out some exceptionally odd characters. In this particular case, it was two young women who clearly tested the limits of their drink package.

Throughout the rest of my sailing, I made sure to study each print carefully, turning up a creepy crone who needs dental work and some pasties, a woman pulling a centaur's hair, another woman choking on plants and a sad dog standing on top of the table in a chaotic version of "The Last Supper" as Jesus nonchalantly looks on.

Similarly amusing art was positioned on several walls in the ship's two main dining rooms. At Rococo, the bar that serves the Lido Pool, you'll find the walls plastered with late Baroque-style art featuring subjects that have been embellished with modern twists like sunglasses and pithy text. Women in frilly dresses are overlaid with exclamations like "Don't rush me," "Dogs before dudes" and "Swag."

I wasn't a fan of some of the cheesiness on board (see below), but it's clear that both passengers and crew were excited to be there. From the second we were welcomed aboard with a raucous atrium party, the crew was smiling and friendly, and my fellow cruisers were always ready to strike up a conversation.

Every waiter asked how my day was, and my room steward greeted me by name whenever he saw me in the hall. The crew at JavaBlue went out of their way to make sure my coffee order was right each morning, and the genuine cheerfulness didn't go unnoticed.

What I don't love about Carnival Firenze

Flow can be a problem on Carnival Firenze, with galley placement cutting off access from one end of Deck 3 to the other. Passengers traversing the lower decks often have to walk up a deck, over and back down to get where they're going.

The Lido Marketplace buffet is also a problem at peak dining times. The main walkways through the venue feel narrow, making it difficult for two-way traffic to flow through the space, especially for people using wheelchairs, scooters or walkers.

In some spots, the layout was simply confusing. For example, the Tuscan Lounge has two entrances — a primary one that allows traffic to naturally flow from one venue to the next and a hidden secondary one that most people only find by accident, usually after taking a wrong turn.

The fig leaf

Although I'm a fan of much of the art on Carnival Firenze, one piece in particular disappoints me. In the Michelangelo Restaurant, one of the two main dining rooms on board, a giant copy of Michelangelo's David stands on the landing of the grand staircase that connects the restaurant's two decks.

Previously housed on Carnival Pride, the statue was relocated to Carnival Firenze. It still dons a carefully fashioned fig leaf that was made and attached to cover its groin area after a bunch of pearl-clutching Karens complained about having to see — gasp! — a piece of art that's been around for more than five centuries.

Festa Italiana

Festa Italiana is a big, loud, cheesy Italian-themed street festival-type celebration that's held one night during each Carnival Firenze voyage. The Lido Pool area is strung with red, white and green flags, and the event, which lasts more than two hours, kicks off with a talented violin trio.

Following that, the cruise director moves into what the line calls a "traditional" opening ceremony, involving members of the Playlist Productions cast in cartoonish-looking versions of Italian dress parading around the deck. They perform several times throughout the night, alternating with activities like gelato-eating contests, Italian lessons (where the audience learns a couple of phrases that they scream back and forth at one another) and competitions where participants have to maneuver, blindfolded, around terra cotta pots.

The night ends with a DJ, who plays music (think: interesting mashups like "Funiculi Funicula" and Lady Gaga's "Rain on Me") while servers walk around with trays of Italian sausage sandwiches and bites of salami and cheese pastry.

Parts of it are fun, but overall, it feels like an amalgamation of stereotypes instead of an ode to one of the world's most beautiful countries.

Carnival Firenze cabins and suites

Carnival Firenze cabins range from insides with no natural light and outsides with a window to balcony accommodations and suites, including those in La Terrazza, a special zone that offers private cabana, bar and sun deck access.

One odd cabin type to note is the ship's inside cabins with windows and portholes. Normally, they'd be considered outside cabins, but because the views are partially obstructed, the line sells them as insides. Book one of these cabins, and you can snag a room with natural light for less money.

The ship offers no solo cabins, but it does have 44 accessible accommodations sprinkled throughout all basic categories. The rooms are a mix of fully accessible (access to both sides of the bed), fully accessible single-side approach (access to one side of the bed) and ambulatory accessible (for people who can walk with assistive devices like walkers or canes).

Fully accessible rooms are stair-free, flat-threshold cabins, which offer wider (32-inch) doorways, turning space and bathrooms equipped with grab bars and shower seats.

Even the most basic of cabins offers a queen bed that converts to two twins and two nightstands with cabinet storage and reading lamps. Some also sleep up to four people with either a sofa bed or a mix of a sofa bed and a pull-down bunk.

Each room offers a vanity with a mirror, a desk, a stool or chair, a phone, a minifridge, a hair dryer and plenty of outlets. Rooms also come with ample closet space that includes shelving, drawers and bars for hanging clothes of various lengths. Inside each closet is a code-operated safe for which you can program a four-digit pin. (On the first couple of days of my voyage, I had trouble with my in-room safe. After a quick phone call to my room steward, someone arrived at my cabin within minutes to fix it.)

Bathrooms at the basic level are shower only, and they're made of cheap-looking white plastic. Each shower has a fiberglass door instead of a curtain and a single dispenser for all-in-one shower gel and shampoo. They're also equipped with a toilet, a sink, fluffy white towels and plenty of shelving for storing personal grooming items.

As cabins increase in category, they also increase in size and amenities.

Suites come with additional perks, such as priority check-in, boarding and disembarkation; preferred dinner times in the main dining room; pillow-top mattresses; two large bottles of water and bathrobes; upgraded bathroom toiletries; and extra square footage, some of which is dedicated to larger balconies and even walk-in closets.

Some bathrooms at the suite level include bathtubs in addition to shower facilities. Additionally, passengers booked in Ocean suites and La Terrazza cabins (Carnival Firenze's version of Havana Cabana cabins) have access to the exclusive Terrazza Moda sun deck with loungers, hot tubs and a bar, as well as private waiter-served breakfast each morning in the adjoining, indoor Moda Bar and Lounge.

When I sailed on Carnival Firenze, I sailed alone and stayed in a balcony cabin outfitted with a double sleeper sofa and a balcony with two metal and mesh chairs and a small drinks table. Its size was more than enough for me and another person, but it would have been tight quarters sailing with the room's maximum occupancy of four passengers.

I was particularly impressed by how comfortable the bed was and the number of outlets available for charging devices. (The only minor issue is that only one side of the bed has USB ports for phone charging at night.) One thoughtful touch was the motion-activated nightlight that turns on when it senses movement in a dark room. It's a lifesaver if you find yourself needing to walk to the bathroom in the middle of the night.

I also enjoyed the decor, which is less over the top than on some of the older, more colorful ships in Carnival's fleet but less bland than some of its newest ships. It's a happy medium of neutral whites, light browns and beiges with soothing blue hues and floor-to-ceiling prints of some of Italy's famed landmarks.

Dislikes for me included a shower door that leaked, soaking the floor each time I turned on the water, plus "Snoozin'" door hangers that often got caught in my door when I closed it. For the latter, I would've preferred a "Do not disturb" button like many other new ships have.

Carnival Firenze's cabins require you to put something in the slot near the door in order to turn on the lights. (I used my room steward's business card.)

Speaking of room stewards, mine was fantastic, and he came once a day to clean my room between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. He always did a wonderful job, and he was quick to help when I had clothing to send out for pressing.

Carnival Firenze restaurants and bars

Carnival firenze food.

The food on Carnival Firenze is largely tasty, with lots of options, including no-fee dishes and fancy choices that cost extra.

In keeping with the ship's Italian theming, Carnival has added a twist to other vessels' favorite eateries, such as Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina, which appears as Mexican-Italian hybrid Tomodoro. The standard Carnival deli outpost has also been given an Italian spin.

Additionally, Cucina del Capitano, the added-fee Italian restaurant on several other Carnival ships, has been replaced on Carnival Firenze with Il Viaggio, an absolutely phenomenal take on modern, upscale Italian food.

Overall, the food offerings on the ship are a great blend of old favorites — like the Lido Marketplace buffet, Pizzeria del Capitano, the Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Teppanyaki — and these new takes on existing restaurants.

Plus, the ship has so many places to sit outside for an alfresco bite. Check out Deck 5, near Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Teppanyaki, for example. You can enjoy a meal with sea views to boot.

Note: Hours for most restaurants vary based on whether it's a sea day or a port day. Check the daily schedule or Carnival's Hub app for details.

Carnival Firenze has two main dining rooms: Medici Restaurant (Deck 3, mid) and Michelangelo Restaurant (decks 3 and 4, aft).

Michelangelo Restaurant is dedicated to passengers who select Your Time Dining, which lets you eat anytime between 5 and 9 p.m. (The dedicated YTD restaurant can vary by sailing, depending on how many people choose that option.) Medici Restaurant is used for set seating, with two dining times: one at 5:30 p.m. and one at 7:45 p.m.

Both serve the same menu for dinner, but only the larger Michelangelo Restaurant is open for Sea Day Brunch on sea days and breakfast (but not lunch) on port days. It also serves afternoon tea on sea days. Meanwhile, the Medici Restaurant serves a pasta bar for lunch on select sea days.

I had YTD, and I dined three times in the Michelangelo Restaurant. The first time was for brunch, where I had a vegetable omelet with a side of chef Emeril Lagasse's signature beignets. The second time was for a dinner of a simple but lovely Caprese salad and an Indian vegetarian sampler, which included spiced paneer dumplings, chana madra, peas pulao and rice. (Indian dishes are a little-known Carnival specialty.) The final time was disembarkation morning, when I enjoyed delectable vanilla French toast with maple butter and caramelized bananas.

The service was friendly but slow; I had to wait longer than expected between courses at dinner. Both breakfast and brunch were served at a perfect pace, though, with items appearing quickly and looking and tasting fresh.

Lido Marketplace is the ship's complimentary Deck 10 midship buffet that is open daily for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night snacks like cookies and other finger foods. For breakfast, you can expect cereal, an omelet station, eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns, cold cuts and cheeses. Lunch offers a salad bar, various hot entrees and sides, plus a selection of desserts. Dinner is similar, with salads, a carving station and hot items that might include things like Cornish game hen, rice, roasted potatoes, green beans, egg rolls, fried shrimp and Asian noodles.

Although the buffet is fine for a meal on the go, I largely avoided it due to crowds. It's a shame, too, because it's one of the prettiest buffets I've ever seen, adorned with faux vegetation lining the walkways and tables set up indoors with umbrellas and lanterns hanging over them, mimicking the feel of an outdoor bistro.

I did pop in once in a while to enjoy a cone of soft serve ice cream from the two Swirls locations, which are small alcoves with machines that also serve frozen yogurt. At one point, both sets of Swirls machines were broken, and it was a comical scene as several officers and engineers stood around them looking confused.

Elsewhere on Deck 10, near the Lido Pool, you'll find two complimentary venues, Tomodoro and Guy's Burger Joint, both with an Italian spin. Tomodoro serves as the Mexican-Italian stand-in for Carnival's popular BlueIguana Cantina. Both walk-up counters are open for lunch and dinner.

I tried both of the Italian burger options from Guy's — one with mozzarella, balsamic, tomatoes, basil and Donkey Sauce and another with pepperoni, marinara sauce, Donkey Sauce, mozzarella, provolone and Parmesan cheeses. Both were just OK, and I was sad to see that my favorite burger, the Pig Patty, was absent from the menu on this ship.

At Tomodoro, the menu lists tacos and burritos, as well as Italian meatball heroes, Sicilian chicken wraps and tortas de Milanese. The burritos were fantastic, as always, but my hot take on the changes made to both BlueIguana Cantina and Guy's Burger Joint is if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Venture aft and you'll run into Pizzeria del Capitano , which is open 19 hours a day and makes some of the best pies at sea . (Seriously.) I often waited 20 minutes on sea days, but it was well worth it. (If you don't want to stand in line, you can order pizza to be delivered to your cabin via room service for a $6 fee.) You can choose from Margherita, pepperoni, four cheese, mushroom and prosciutto. You can also order a couple of extra-fee specialty pies, such as teriyaki chicken and Korean steak barbecue.

I was pleasantly surprised by Il Mercato, Carnival's take on an Italian deli that is open from lunchtime until late. Usually, the deli is located inside Lido Marketplace, but it was moved to a quieter and less crowded area on Deck 11, just above the Lido Pool, to make room in the buffet for an added-fee chicken wing stand.

Il Mercato looks like a bit of an afterthought, given its portable-looking booth area, but the alfresco atmosphere and the food are great. The menu consists of meatball sandwiches, hot dogs and Italian sausage sandwiches. Eight options for both hot and cold sandwiches include grilled ham and cheese, a Reuben, cheese steak, tomato and mozzarella with arugula on focaccia, chicken salad, and turkey and Swiss. I tried the cheese steak with peppers and onions; despite its rather sad appearance, it was delicious and could rival just about anything found in Philadelphia.

Carnival has also done something interesting with Seafood Shack on this ship. Instead of only serving seafood, this Deck 10 venue starts as the Breakfast Shack in the morning and then turns into the Chicken Shack for lunch. Both are complimentary and serve up a variety of chicken sandwiches with fries, pasta salads and other sides. (Carnival Firenze doesn't have Shaq's Big Chicken like some of the other vessels in the fleet, so this was a nice way to utilize the space and offer a similar dining experience to passengers.)

Although I wasn't staying in a suite, I was able to try the private breakfast for La Terrazza and Ocean Suite passengers offered daily in Deck 5's Moda Bar and Lounge. If you're staying in one of those cabins and have access, trust me when I say you won't want to miss the quiche or avocado toast.

Other free food options include La Strada Grill (Deck 5 midship), Fresh Creations salad bar (Deck 15 forward on the adults-only Serenity sun deck) and room service (free continental breakfast). I didn't try any of these because La Strada is only open from noon to 2:30 p.m. on sea days, Fresh Creations was way too crowded when I stopped by and I didn't eat in my room for breakfast.

Of these three options, the most compelling menu is La Strada's. It lists a Sicilian chicken hero, roast beef on a roll, Italian sausage, smoked pulled pork and macaroni and cheese, with a choice of salads and sides.

Extra-cost food

On many of its ships, Carnival already has an Italian restaurant, Cucina del Capitano , which offers a homey ambience and family-favorite recipes from the Italian captains across the line's fleet. Oddly, the restaurant appears on neither Carnival Firenze nor sister ship Carnival Venezia (another vessel that offers the "Fun Italian Style" experience).

Instead, it has been replaced by one of my new favorites: Il Viaggio, an upscale Italian eatery with a $42 per-person cover charge, nearly double what most ships with Cucina del Capitano charge passengers to dine. Il Viaggio's decor is elegant but understated, and it opens for dinner only. It doesn't drip with red, white and green or stereotypical Italian adornments, offering a refreshing escape from other areas of the vessel where the theming is intense.

The menu, which is billed as "a culinary voyage through Italy's diverse regions — one plate at a time," includes some of the best food I've ever had on a ship. I thoroughly enjoyed the house-made burrata; the pollo parmigiana pizza, which has a crust made of chicken; the gnocchi with goat cheese and truffle oil; and the mile-high gelato pie.

For anyone looking for a decent steak dinner that won't break the bank, Fahrenheit 555 on Deck 5 is it. Not only is it one of the most consistently superb oceangoing steakhouses from ship to ship, but its cover charge of $49 per person is nominal compared to what you'd pay at a steakhouse ashore.

I ate an incredible filet mignon with onion rings, broccoli and chimichurri sauce, and it was absolutely worth the price.

Interestingly, the steakhouse was added after the ship left China. It's in what used to be a hot pot restaurant, so the vibe is decidedly Asian, featuring black counters and tables with deep red carpeting and chairs. Black latticework in part of the space adds to the ambience.

Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Teppanyaki, positioned near one another midship on Deck 5, are both open for lunch (on sea days only) and dinner.

I had a light dinner of sushi during one night of my voyage, and it set me back just $11 ($3 for an order of edamame and $8 for a California roll).

On a different night, I opted for the teppanyaki experience, which involved a chef cracking jokes, singing songs and making flaming onion volcanoes and snakes out of rice as he cooked. Thankfully, we didn't have to try to catch flying food in our mouths. For the $42 flat-fee cover charge, each passenger receives white shrimp, pork belly yakitori, spicy tuna and a choice of either miso soup or kabuki salad to start.

From there, you choose from entrees like lobster tail, shrimp, spiced grilled chicken, grilled tofu, black cod and filet mignon or a combination of them. I chose the filet and was pleased with my decision. The meat and accompanying rice and vegetables were exceptionally flavorful.

Bonsai Teppanyaki is also open for lunch with a similar menu for $38 per person.

JavaBlue Cafe on Deck 10, just off of the Lido Pool courtyard, is one of my favorite places on any Carnival ship. In the warm Mexican weather, I wasn't always a fan of its alfresco location on Carnival Firenze — most JavaBlue locations are indoors — but I was able to grab my daily pick-me-up just the way I like it.

Although coffees at JavaBlue come with an extra charge, the price is nominal compared to Starbucks. Plus, if you ask for a punch card, you'll earn yourself a free coffee after you buy six, which isn't hard to do on a weeklong sailing.

JavaBlue also sells cupcakes, cookies, doughnuts and other pastries for a fee.

Room service is offered for a per-item fee (except for continental breakfast, which is free each morning). Door hangers are no longer offered, so you'll have to order via your cabin phone or the Hub app. The menu on the app for Carnival Firenze seemed smaller than it does on other ships, listing items like pizza and sandwiches. On a particularly busy sea day when I didn't want to wait in line at Pizzeria del Capitano, I ordered a pie to my cabin. For $6, it arrived hot, fresh and fast, and it tasted wonderful.

The places I didn't try were All Things Wings and Seafood Shack. Carnival Firenze has a new walk-up counter in the Lido Marketplace buffet that sells wings, with prices ranging from six pieces for $5 to 24 pieces for $18. You can choose from several flavors like barbecue, Parmesan garlic, chipotle honey, hot barbecue and buffalo, which increase in heat respectively. All orders come with bleu cheese dressing and celery sticks.

Seafood Shack, found on Deck 10 aft, opens at 3:30 p.m. and stays open late at the same walk-up counter where Breakfast Shack and Chicken Shack are located earlier in the day. It sells for-fee seafood bites, such as lobster rolls and crabcakes, for a la carte prices.

A small empanada counter is hidden away in the back of the Tuscan Lounge. I never saw it open, but several passengers told me it only operated at night, selling added-fee options that include shrimp sofrito, chipotle chicken with cheese, beef picadillo, and spinach and mushroom with cheese. Sweet empanadas are also available, including chocolate, banana and coconut; dulce de leche cheesecake; guava and cream cheese; and Nutella and hazelnut varieties.

Carnival Firenze bars

Unlike the version of the Heroes Tribute Bar that's tucked away in a corner on Carnival's Excel Class ships, the version on Carnival Firenze is much brighter and more centrally located on the main promenade area along Deck 5 mid. Designed to honor service men and women who sail, it has a relaxed vibe and a sports bar ambience. The seating at the bar counter is the perfect spot to watch the big games on multiple TVs.

I was a regular at the Tuscan Lounge, also centrally located on Deck 5 aft, mainly because it's where the ship's daily trivia games take place. The space features a lounge area with tables, a dance floor and a projection screen. Across the walkway that runs through the space is a bar set up with stools and nearby tables with black and white striped umbrellas.

Frizzante is one of my absolute favorite bars. There, you'll find various spritz-style drinks. I enjoyed a Frizzante Spritz (made with dry vermouth, moscato wine, triple sec and club soda) on my second night on board and kept heading back to the bar to try more cocktails. It's a terrific place to grab a pre-dinner drink if you have a reservation at neighboring Il Viaggio.

I admit that I misjudged the Amari Bar at first. Found smack in the middle of Deck 5's main thoroughfare, it serves cocktails made with, as the name suggests, amari — herbal Italian liqueurs.

For days, I didn't see it crowded, but perhaps I was merely passing by at the wrong times. By day four or five of my seven-night sailing, it was packed. I was also initially upset to learn that Amari replaced the Alchemy Bar on Carnival Firenze, but I found out later that you can still order some of the most popular Alchemy drinks, such as The Remedy and the Cucumber Sunrise, there.

I was fortunate to sit in on a mixology class at the Amari Bar and was fascinated to learn some of the finer points of mixing drinks with an eye — or a tastebud — toward balancing the flavors of each ingredient. For $30 per person, the head bartender, Drazen, will impart some of that knowledge as you belly up to the bar to try samples of what he concocts.

Rococo is a fun, partially enclosed pool bar area by the courtyard around the Lido Pool on Deck 10. In addition to the fun art mentioned previously, it also has palate-pleasing beverage selections, including fruity libations with an Italian bent like bellinis, as well as pistachio and limoncello cocktails.

Other onboard bars include the centrally located one on Deck 3 in the Piazza del Duomo. The Moda Bar and Lounge on Deck 5 evokes a high-fashion mood with an entryway that feels like a model's catwalk as stylish seating areas flank the sides; it's often the home base for karaoke. Meanwhile, the shockingly red, white and black Piano Bar 88, also on Deck 5, plays host to live piano music daily.

Heading up a few decks, the Versilia Pool Bar serves fruity, beachy drinks near the aft Versilia Pool on Deck 10. Finally, the Pergola Bar, found adjacent to Il Mercato and overlooking the opposite side of the Lido Pool, feels like a complete afterthought. It's so sterile and nondescript it's almost not worth mentioning, but I'm putting it in here because the seating area around it is lovely, featuring fake topiary-style pillars and lots of seating that makes for a great place to read.

Carnival Firenze entertainment

Carnival firenze activities.

Carnival Firenze offers a large number of daily activities on each voyage.

Passengers might choose to head to the casino (or the smoke-free casino, both on Deck 5), enjoy an alcohol tasting, participate in a sports tournament, mingle at a deck party, play miniature golf, take a dance class or attend a spa, jewelry or shopping seminar.

The Cloud 9 Spa on Deck 12 forward is equipped to perform a menu of services, including massages and facials. The connected fitness center is on the small side but features for-fee personal training and organized fitness classes, as well as equipment that's free for passengers to use. Carnival Firenze does not have a thermal suite.

The Cloud 9 Salon, found in a different area of the ship on Deck 5 mid, offers manicures, pedicures and hairstyling, haircuts and color. Be warned that you'll pay huge markups for services on board versus on land.

Looking to find a group of like-minded travelers on your sailing? Check out meetups for solo travelers, singles, people in recovery, veterans and members of the LGBTQ+ community listed in the daily program.

If you're interested in spending time outdoors working on your tan, you can do so at one of two onboard pools: the Lido Pool on Deck 10 midship and the Versilia Pool on Deck 10 aft. Both are ridiculously small for the number of people on board but have more shade than most cruise ship pools.

If you're looking for loungers in the sun and don't mind being a bit farther from the pools themselves, head up two decks to 12, where loungers are so plentiful they block part of the jogging track. (Four laps equal 1 mile.)

Oddly, the Lido Pool has no hot tubs. If you want to soak, you'll have to go to the Versilia Pool, which has two of them. The adults-only (21 and older) Solarium area on Deck 15 forward also has two hot tubs, and the La Terrazza exclusive outdoor area also has two. Neither Serenity nor La Terrazza has a pool.

Pool lifts accommodating up to 300 pounds are available for passengers with limited mobility. Lifeguards are on duty, and children's life vests are available near the Lido Pool.

If you're looking for some wholesome fun, head to Deck 11 mid, where a portable cabinet serves as both the book and board game library. The open-air space offers plenty of tables where you can set up that chess or Scrabble board. In nearby alcoves, you'll also find pingpong and foosball tables. Or, simply grab a snack or drink from the Pergola Bar or Il Mercato and take in a movie on the poolside screen.

If you're a water baby who loves thrills, head to WaterWorks, which offers waterslides and a splash area for kids on Deck 12 (the slide entrance is on Deck 15). Kids and adults who aren't afraid of heights will also enjoy the top-deck ropes course on Deck 15 mid. Just beneath it is the ship's miniature golf course.

Additional activities for youngsters take place on Deck 11 in Camp Ocean, Carnival's kids club . The kids club splits children into four groups: Turtles (up to 2 years old), Penguins (2 to 5), Stingrays (6 to 8) and Sharks (9 to 11). The camp facility connects to an enclosed outdoor playground area that's used on days when the weather is nice.

Fun pursuits on the daily schedule might include arts and crafts, themed parties, science experiments, games and story time, depending on the age group. Group babysitting is available as part of Camp Ocean's Night Owls program, which runs until 1 a.m. at a cost of $9 per child, per hour. (Daytime Camp Ocean activities are free.)

The ship also has Carnival's Dr. Seuss tie-in, featuring Bookville — a reading room inside Camp Ocean that hosts story time — and the Thing 1 and Thing 2 Birthday Brunch, which is offered at least once per voyage for an extra fee.

Tweens and teens have their own dedicated hangout spaces, too: Circle C and Club O2, both found on Deck 3 forward. Activities there are less structured, and participants can come and go as they please. An onboard arcade offers video games for a fee.

Carnival Firenze shows

The entertainment on Carnival Firenze is squarely OK. I was hoping for something new, but instead, I found shows like "Color My World" and "Dear Future Husband," both of which are already on other vessels in the fleet. Cruise ship standards, such as the "Love and Marriage Show" and adult scavenger hunt "The Quest," are fun the first time you experience them, but I was hoping for something new for Carnival's loyal and repeat guests. The titles on Firenze's proverbial marquee felt tired to me, despite the abilities of the immensely talented entertainment staff.

"Dear Future Husband" is at least relatively new. It debuted on Carnival Jubilee in late 2023 and is rolling out to more vessels. It's based on a couple who decides to have their wedding on a cruise ship, and they bring along several of their friends. They sing and dance to pop songs as they board, dress for the festivities and go through the ceremony. Afterward, a "reception" with the cast is held in an onboard lounge. (On my sailing, it was in the Tuscan Lounge.)

An out-of-this-world violin trio performed one night in the theater, but otherwise, shows were limited to a lot of comedy, usually held in the perpetually freezing Limelight Lounge. Everything, including the walls, is decked out in crushed blue velvet, and you're greeted by a creepy clown statue that still gives me nightmares.

On a positive note, I found plenty of terrific live music throughout the ship each night. Carnival has also stepped up its game lately in the magic department. On my last two Carnival sailings, a roving magician wandered from table to table during dinner to impress us with tricks that had me questioning reality.

Carnival Firenze itineraries and pricing

Carnival Firenze is offering three- to seven-night voyages from Long Beach, near Los Angeles, along the Mexican Riviera. Itineraries include such ports as Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

At the time of publication, the least expensive price for a sailing was $214 per person ($54 per person, per night) for a four-night cruise departing in November 2025.

Note: Prices are subject to change without notice and do not include crew gratuities, taxes or port fees.

What to know before you sail on Carnival Firenze

Required documents.

If you're a citizen of the U.S. on a cruise that starts and ends in the same U.S. port, you'll need a current passport, a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification along with a birth certificate to sail. Some other forms of identification, such as a passport card, are also acceptable. However, other cruises, including ones that begin in the U.S. and end in a different U.S. port, require a passport or passport card.

Passports must be valid for at least six months from the day your sailing ends. For cruises from international ports, you'll need a passport. Note: It's crucial that the name on your booking is exactly as printed on your passport or other proof of nationality. We suggest visiting Carnival's website before sailing to view the latest requirements.

Related: Which documents do you need for a cruise? From passports to printouts, here's what to take

Carnival Firenze passengers will automatically have $16 per person, per day added to their onboard accounts as service charges. Cruisers staying in suites will pay $18 per person, per day. (Children younger than 2 are exempt from gratuities.) An 18% gratuity is also added to bar and cafe purchases, spa services and the Chef's Table.

Related: Tipping on a cruise: What to know about cruise ship gratuities

Carnival Wi-Fi is generally fast and reliable. However, don't be surprised if you find yourself repeatedly and automatically disconnected, which is annoying.

Packages have increased significantly in price in recent years, and each plan is only for one device. (You can log out of one and into another with the same account, but you can't connect more than one at the same time unless you buy additional plans.)

Three package tiers are available:

Social : Access to most social media, airline websites and apps for $18 per day ($126 for a weeklong cruise)
Value : Same as Social, plus access to financial and news websites and apps for $23 per day ($161 for a week)
Premium : Everything from the Social and Value packages, plus Skype access and video calling for $25 per day ($175 for a week)

Passengers can also choose 24 hours of Premium access for $35.

Carnival claims that its packages don't allow FaceTime, iMessage or streaming from popular apps like Netflix and Hulu. However, TPG writers have had success using all of those services with the Premium package.

Related: Wi-Fi on cruise ships: 5 things to know about internet use on board

Carry-on drinks policy

Passengers can carry on one bottle of wine or Champagne per person (21 years and older), which will incur a $15 corkage fee for consumption in public areas. Each person can also bring up to 12 standard cans or cartons of nonalcoholic beverages like juice or soda. Alcohol-free drinks in plastic and glass bottles aren't allowed.

Related: Can I bring alcohol on a cruise ship? A line-by-line guide

Smoking policy

Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) is allowed but only in designated outdoor areas on Deck 11 on the starboard side. Smoking is also allowed in the main casino, but it's for cigarettes only. (For passengers who don't light up, a separate nonsmoking casino is available but is much smaller.) All types of smoking are forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies. A $500 fine will be assessed for cruisers who break the rules of the smoking policy.

Related: Is smoking allowed on cruise ships? A line-by-line guide

Carnival Firenze does not have self-service laundry rooms or pressing rooms. Instead, passengers can send out their clothing for washing, pressing and dry cleaning for a per-item fee.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry services

Electrical outlets

Carnival Firenze has a mix of 110-volt North American outlets, 220-volt European outlets and 220-volt Chinese/Australian outlets in its cabins, as well as plenty of USB ports. In my balcony room, I had two North American outlets, one European outlet, one Chinese/Australian outlet and two USB ports at the vanity, plus two additional USB ports under one of the bedside reading lamps. If you bring a couple of universal adapters, you'll have more than enough spots to charge all your electronics.

The currency on Carnival Firenze is the dollar. The ship also operates without cash. Passengers link credit cards to their onboard accounts or put up a set amount of cash to charge against, using their keycards as a means of making purchases. However, you might want to have some bills handy to tip your bartender, room steward, shore excursion guide, luggage porters or room service delivery folks.

Drinking age

You must be at least 21 years old to drink alcohol on Carnival Firenze.

Carnival Firenze does not have a specific daytime dress code, and people dress casually. Mexico is largely a warm-weather destination, so looking like you're going to the beach is perfectly acceptable. Pack T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to go inside on sea days or back on board on port days).

During the evenings, the official dress code is only loosely enforced. Most nights are "cruise casual," which generally involves khakis or jeans, polo shirts, sundresses and the like. Ultra casual items like cutoff jeans, men's sleeveless shirts, T-shirts and gym shorts are supposedly not permitted, but I saw plenty of them in the dining rooms during dinnertime on Carnival Firenze.

A weeklong cruise will generally schedule two formal nights — known as "elegant nights." If you're bound for the dining rooms or specialty restaurants, men should turn up in dress slacks and a dress shirt; Carnival recommends a sports coat, and a suit would not be out of place. The suggested attire for women on such nights is cocktail dresses, pantsuits, elegant skirts and blouses. If you want to avoid dressing up, seek out the casual eateries, including the Lido Marketplace, or order room service to your cabin.

Related: What to wear on a cruise: Cruise attire and cruise line dress codes

Bottom line

Despite some overly stereotypical moments that made the ship feel like a floating caricature of Italy, I had an amazing time on board this new-to-Carnival ship.

The food was excellent, the decor was gorgeous and the crew worked hard to make sure passengers had the best vacations possible.

Is Carnival Firenze gaudy and, at times, maybe even a little cringey? Yes, but I found myself taking limoncello shots and stuffing my face with pizza alongside everyone else. Embrace "Fun Italian Style" for what it is, and you're sure to have a great time on board.

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The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line ships and itineraries
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21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly

23 Things That You Should Never (and We Mean Never) Do on a Cruise

Posted: February 22, 2024 | Last updated: March 21, 2024

<p>From the peril of reckless selfies to the nuances of interacting with staff, and the absolute necessity of not missing the muster drill, cruise ship etiquette extends far beyond the buffet line. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned sailor, being aware of these lesser-known guidelines and things to never do on a cruise is crucial so your dream vacation isn’t turned into a nautical nightmare.</p>

Cruising for Trouble

From the peril of reckless selfies to the nuances of interacting with staff, and the absolute necessity of not missing the muster drill, cruise ship etiquette extends far beyond the buffet line. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned sailor, being aware of these lesser-known guidelines and things to never do on a cruise is crucial so your dream vacation isn’t turned into a nautical nightmare.

Editor's note: This story was updated in February 2024

<p>Just because you’ve booked a cruise of a lifetime does not mean you have the license to endanger yourself for a TikTok. <a href="https://www.royalcaribbean.com/guest-terms/guest-health-safety-and-conduct-policy/english/">Royal Caribbean's</a> rules get right to the point: “Sitting, standing, jumping, laying or climbing on, over or across any exterior or interior railings or other protective barriers is strictly prohibited” and <a href="https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/woman-selfie-cruise-royal-caribbean-intl-scli/index.html">they enforce it as well</a>; they’ve banned a woman caught posing on her balcony railing in her swimwear.</p>

1. Shoot Reckless Selfies

Just because you’ve booked a cruise of a lifetime does not mean you have the license to endanger yourself for a TikTok. Royal Caribbean's rules get right to the point: “Sitting, standing, jumping, laying or climbing on, over or across any exterior or interior railings or other protective barriers is strictly prohibited” and they enforce it as well ; they’ve banned a woman caught posing on her balcony railing in her swimwear.

<p>Every cruise line has strict and explicit guidelines on interactions between crew and passengers. <a href="https://www.royalcaribbean.com/guest-terms/guest-health-safety-and-conduct-policy/english/">Royal Caribbean</a> even goes so far as to say: “Please do not misinterpret their friendliness. Crew members are prohibited from engaging in physical relationships with guests.” Staff are not permitted in staterooms except to perform their shipboard duties, and similarly, passengers are not allowed to enter restricted or crew areas of the ship.</p>

2. Hook Up With a Member of Staff

Every cruise line has strict and explicit guidelines on interactions between crew and passengers. Royal Caribbean even goes so far as to say: “Please do not misinterpret their friendliness. Crew members are prohibited from engaging in physical relationships with guests.” Staff are not permitted in staterooms except to perform their shipboard duties, and similarly, passengers are not allowed to enter restricted or crew areas of the ship.

<p>Yes, you can <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/island-vacations-without-passport/">go on a cruise without your passport</a> but you need to make sure you have the right paperwork, and IF you get stranded in a foreign port of call and have to fly back, it could get tricky. So pack your passport and government ID on you, and leave it in your checked bag or you might end up being refused boarding.</p>

3. Forget Your Passport

Yes, you can go on a cruise without your passport but you need to make sure you have the right paperwork, and IF you get stranded in a foreign port of call and have to fly back, it could get tricky. So pack your passport and government ID on you, and leave it in your checked bag or you might end up being refused boarding.

<p>Whether it’s a fork, a lounge chair, or even yourself, don’t throw anything overboard. It may sound like an obvious one, but as we know, common sense isn’t always so common. Cruise staff take this offense very seriously and passengers have not only faced fines but been asked to disembark, or even banned for life <a href="https://nationalpost.com/news/world/company-issues-lifetime-ban-after-man-jumps-from-cruise-ship">like this man</a> who leaped from a Royal Caribbean cruise.</p> <p><b>Related:</b> <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/cruise-ship-nightmares/">The Worst Cruise Ship Horror Stories</a></p>

4. Throw Anything Overboard, Including Yourself

Whether it’s a fork, a lounge chair, or even yourself, don’t throw anything overboard. It may sound like an obvious one, but as we know, common sense isn’t always so common. Cruise staff take this offense very seriously and passengers have not only faced fines but been asked to disembark, or even banned for life like this man who leaped from a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Related: The Worst Cruise Ship Horror Stories

5. Skip the Muster Drill

A muster drill is a mandatory safety exercise that familiarizes passengers with emergency procedures such as using life vests and locating escape routes. Now that you can usually access the drills from your stateroom TV or via an app on your phone (applicable only to some cruise lines), you don’t have any excuse not to complete them. If you miss the 24-hour deadline to participate in one, find out how/when you can attend a makeup drill.

And if you think you can skip it altogether, according to Cruise Hive you can be forced to exit the ship at its next port of call. At the very least your cabin number and name will be broadcast ship-wide, so don’t be that person.

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<p>You can pack it but may not be able to use it, and it might be temporarily confiscated until the end of your voyage. Carnival and Royal Caribbean sailing are currently the only cruise lines that allow drones but there are conditions, Carnival only allows camera drones, Royal Caribbean won’t allow you to use the drone on the ship or even inside the port, and also their private destinations of CocoCay, Bahamas or Labadee, Haiti.</p> <p><b>Related:</b> <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/cruise-tips/">Tips and Tricks for Smooth Sailing on Your Next Cruise</a></p>

6. Fly a Drone

You can pack it but may not be able to use it, and it might be temporarily confiscated until the end of your voyage. Carnival and Royal Caribbean sailing are currently the only cruise lines that allow drones but there are conditions, Carnival only allows camera drones, Royal Caribbean won’t allow you to use the drone on the ship or even inside the port, and also their private destinations of CocoCay, Bahamas or Labadee, Haiti.

Related: Tips and Tricks for Smooth Sailing on Your Next Cruise

<p>With so many passengers in an enclosed space, ships take any form of infectious disease (flu, coronavirus, norovirus) very seriously. According to Royal Caribbean, even if mild symptoms show up, you’re expected to return to your stateroom and report to the ship’s medical personnel by calling the medical facility onboard or risk a fine.</p>

7. Hide a Communicable Illness

With so many passengers in an enclosed space, ships take any form of infectious disease (flu, coronavirus, norovirus) very seriously. According to Royal Caribbean, even if mild symptoms show up, you’re expected to return to your stateroom and report to the ship’s medical personnel by calling the medical facility onboard or risk a fine.

<p>Don’t bring drugs. Not even cannabis even if it may be legal in your state. They’re not allowed on cruise ships, especially those calling into ports that have a hard stance on drugs. Try to sneak some in (even if it’s just some CBD gummies) and you risk getting arrested or even <a href="https://people.com/woman-receives-lifetime-ban-carnival-cruises-after-bringing-cbd-gummies-8404491#:~:text=A%20Texas%20woman%20received%20a,in%20her%20luggage%20during%20boarding.">banned for life</a> — even if you have a medical marijuana card.</p>

8. Bring Drugs, Even CBD Gummies

Don’t bring drugs. Not even cannabis even if it may be legal in your state. They’re not allowed on cruise ships, especially those calling into ports that have a hard stance on drugs. Try to sneak some in (even if it’s just some CBD gummies) and you risk getting arrested or even banned for life — even if you have a medical marijuana card.

<p>Variety is nice but the ship’s buffet is often the most crowded and chaotic part of the ship. Take the time to browse the rest of the dining options (don’t just leave specialty dining to the last day) or order off the menu at the main dining room for a more peaceful dining experience.</p> <p><b>Related:</b> <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/people-should-not-go-on-a-cruise/">14 People Who Should Never Take a Cruise</a></p>

9. Just Eat at the Buffet

Variety is nice but the ship’s buffet is often the most crowded and chaotic part of the ship. Take the time to browse the rest of the dining options (don’t just leave specialty dining to the last day) or order off the menu at the main dining room for a more peaceful dining experience.

Related: 14 People Who Should Never Take a Cruise

<p>It doesn’t matter if it’s <a href="https://www.distractify.com/p/passengers-miss-cruise-breakdown">20 minutes</a> or two hours, cruise ships are on a tight schedule and they leave on time. If you think you can rock up at the tail end of boarding, don’t wing it because you might run late and get there just in time to see the ship sail out of port. But what about excursions, surely they won’t leave without you right? Nope. Just ask this woman who came back late and had to <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/tiktok-cruise-ship-stranded-viral-b2295241.html">catch a plane</a> to her next port of call.</p>

10. Be the Last One to Board

It doesn’t matter if it’s 20 minutes or two hours, cruise ships are on a tight schedule and they leave on time. If you think you can rock up at the tail end of boarding, don’t wing it because you might run late and get there just in time to see the ship sail out of port. But what about excursions, surely they won’t leave without you right? Nope. Just ask this woman who came back late and had to catch a plane to her next port of call.

<p>Cruise staff can be pretty pushy when it's time to disembark, but you don't want to shortchange yourself. Some people don't even get coffee in their race to get off the boat, but the main buffet and main dining room are usually both open on disembarkation day, though possibly with a limited menu. Definitely grab some coffee at the very least.</p>

11. Be the First to Disembark

Cruise staff can be pretty pushy when it's time to disembark, but you don't want to shortchange yourself. Some people don't even get coffee in their race to get off the boat, but the main buffet and main dining room are usually both open on disembarkation day, though possibly with a limited menu. Definitely grab some coffee at the very least.

<p>Cruise ships are basically moving hotels. Just because you checked in your luggage early does not mean it’ll be waiting in your cabin as soon as you board. So if you have essential medications, or need something specific for your first day of cruising, it's best to keep it handy with you.</p>

12. Forget to Pack a Day Bag for Embarkation Day

Cruise ships are basically moving hotels. Just because you checked in your luggage early does not mean it’ll be waiting in your cabin as soon as you board. So if you have essential medications, or need something specific for your first day of cruising, it's best to keep it handy with you.

<p>Even if you’re out on the water regularly, having sea legs on a large cruise ship is another thing altogether. There are wristbands and patches but you can pop a seasick pill every evening to keep you even-keeled.</p>

13. Think You Won’t Get Sea Sick

Even if you’re out on the water regularly, having sea legs on a large cruise ship is another thing altogether. There are wristbands and patches but you can pop a seasick pill every evening to keep you even-keeled.

<p>Mouthwash bags, rum runner flasks, fake shampoo bottles: cruise staff are onto just about every method or product used to smuggle in booze — <a href="https://cruise.blog/2023/09/how-to-sneak-alcohol-cruise">thanks TikTok</a> for spoiling it for the rest of us — so just don’t do it or you may be asked to disembark at the next port.</p> <p>Royal Caribbean’s alcohol policy explicitly states, “Guests who violate any alcohol policies, (over consume, provide alcohol to people under the legal drinking age, demonstrate irresponsible behavior, or attempt to conceal alcoholic items at security and or luggage check points or any other time), may be disembarked or not allowed to board, at their own expense.”</p> <p>Most cruise lines will allow each 21-year-old and above adult to carry one 750 milliliter bottle of wine or Champagne onboard, which can be enjoyed for a corkage fee at bars, dining rooms, and specialty restaurants.</p>

14. Sneak Alcohol Onto a Cruise

Mouthwash bags, rum runner flasks, fake shampoo bottles: cruise staff are onto just about every method or product used to smuggle in booze — thanks TikTok for spoiling it for the rest of us — so just don’t do it or you may be asked to disembark at the next port.

Royal Caribbean’s alcohol policy explicitly states, “Guests who violate any alcohol policies, (over consume, provide alcohol to people under the legal drinking age, demonstrate irresponsible behavior, or attempt to conceal alcoholic items at security and or luggage check points or any other time), may be disembarked or not allowed to board, at their own expense.”

Most cruise lines will allow each 21-year-old and above adult to carry one 750 milliliter bottle of wine or Champagne onboard, which can be enjoyed for a corkage fee at bars, dining rooms, and specialty restaurants.

<p>You’ll need a power strip but make sure it does not have surge protection. <a href="https://support.anker.com/s/article/Can-my-Anker-power-strip-be-taken-on-a-cruise-ship#:~:text=Surge%20protectors%20are%20not%20allowed,current%20on%20a%20cruise%20ship.">According to Anker</a>: “Surge protectors are not allowed on cruise ships because they increase fire risk. The reason this danger exists is that a normal surge protector only breaks the circuit on the “live” electrical wire, whereas both the “live” and “neutral” wires carry current on a cruise ship.”</p>

15. Pack the Surge Protector

You’ll need a power strip but make sure it does not have surge protection. According to Anker : “Surge protectors are not allowed on cruise ships because they increase fire risk. The reason this danger exists is that a normal surge protector only breaks the circuit on the “live” electrical wire, whereas both the “live” and “neutral” wires carry current on a cruise ship.”

<p>The onboard art auctions may be fun but they’re not the best place to buy a piece of art unless you’ve already done your due diligence — look up Park West Gallery which handles most art auctions on cruise ships — to make sure you’re paying the “right” price for it. The lack of Wi-Fi makes it difficult to do on-the-go research on an art piece’s provenance, there’s been controversy over authenticity, and while it’ll come with a COA (Certificate of Authenticity) it’s only as good as who issued it unless the artist signed it.</p> <p><b>Related:</b> <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/things-you-should-never-buy-on-cruise/">Things You Should Never Buy on a Cruise</a></p>

16. Buy a Piece of Art at Sea

The onboard art auctions may be fun but they’re not the best place to buy a piece of art unless you’ve already done your due diligence — look up Park West Gallery which handles most art auctions on cruise ships — to make sure you’re paying the “right” price for it. The lack of Wi-Fi makes it difficult to do on-the-go research on an art piece’s provenance, there’s been controversy over authenticity, and while it’ll come with a COA (Certificate of Authenticity) it’s only as good as who issued it unless the artist signed it.

Related: Things You Should Never Buy on a Cruise

<p>Vaping is generally not allowed in a ship’s indoor spaces, though restrictions vary by cruise line. Seabourn and Oceania allow vaping in guest suites while most other cruise lines allow vaping in outdoor spaces, but some only in specific outdoor areas.</p>

17. Assume You Can Freely Vape in Your Room

Vaping is generally not allowed in a ship’s indoor spaces, though restrictions vary by cruise line. Seabourn and Oceania allow vaping in guest suites while most other cruise lines allow vaping in outdoor spaces, but some only in specific outdoor areas.

<p>Everyone wants a chair by the pool so be a good sport and reserve it only if you’re going to be using it. If you think you can reserve a pool chair by placing a towel on it and then walking away for a few hours, you might come back to get your towel (and belongings) removed by a pool attendant or an irate fellow cruiser — and you’ll be the one in the wrong.</p>

18. Be a Chair Hog

Everyone wants a chair by the pool so be a good sport and reserve it only if you’re going to be using it. If you think you can reserve a pool chair by placing a towel on it and then walking away for a few hours, you might come back to get your towel (and belongings) removed by a pool attendant or an irate fellow cruiser — and you’ll be the one in the wrong.

<p>Do go window shopping early in the cruise to curate a few things that you might want but leave it to the last couple of days to pull the trigger on your purchase. Why? Because you might find the same thing cheaper on a shore excursion, or more likely, it’ll be on sale on the last day of your cruise.</p>

19. Go Shopping Too Early

Do go window shopping early in the cruise to curate a few things that you might want but leave it to the last couple of days to pull the trigger on your purchase. Why? Because you might find the same thing cheaper on a shore excursion, or more likely, it’ll be on sale on the last day of your cruise.

<p>Going shirtless in Croatia, traipsing in heels when visiting the Acropolis, or wearing camouflage clothing in certain Caribbean hotspots (Bahamas, Dominica, Barbados, Jamaica) are some of the lesser-known clothing rules. So before you pack, make sure you take note of what’s accepted or not, usually a cruise line will clue you in.</p> <p>Royal Caribbean’s website states, “Please note camouflage print clothing and accessories, as well as military-style clothing, is illegal in Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago. This style of clothing is reserved only for members of the military at these destinations.”</p> <p>And yes, this even extends to backpacks, just ask <a href="https://cruise.blog/2023/11/camo-and-weed-why-you-shouldnt-bring-camouflage-clothing-or-marijuana-cruise-ship#:~:text=It%20can%20be%20easy%20to,government%20officials%20or%20military%20members.">this cruise passenger</a> who got escorted back to the ship in Barbados for his camo backpack.</p>

20. Dress Inappropriately

Going shirtless in Croatia, traipsing in heels when visiting the Acropolis, or wearing camouflage clothing in certain Caribbean hotspots (Bahamas, Dominica, Barbados, Jamaica) are some of the lesser-known clothing rules. So before you pack, make sure you take note of what’s accepted or not, usually a cruise line will clue you in.

Royal Caribbean’s website states, “Please note camouflage print clothing and accessories, as well as military-style clothing, is illegal in Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago. This style of clothing is reserved only for members of the military at these destinations.”

And yes, this even extends to backpacks, just ask this cruise passenger who got escorted back to the ship in Barbados for his camo backpack.

<p>That Drink Package may look excessive when booking but it’s one way to not overpay for drinks if you’re likely to be drinking more than a couple of glasses a day. Other savvy ways to keep your drink bill reasonable include checking for daily drink specials and happy hour, attending the captain cocktail parties, and if you’re going to be playing at the casino, enjoying some complimentary libations.</p><div class="rich-text"><p>This article was originally published on <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/things-to-never-do-on-a-cruise/">Cheapism</a></p></div>

21. Overpay for Drinks

That Drink Package may look excessive when booking but it’s one way to not overpay for drinks if you’re likely to be drinking more than a couple of glasses a day. Other savvy ways to keep your drink bill reasonable include checking for daily drink specials and happy hour, attending the captain cocktail parties, and if you’re going to be playing at the casino, enjoying some complimentary libations.

<p>If you buy bottles of liquor or beer in port or the ones they're hawking on the ship, you won't be able to drink it while on board, much to the chagrin of many. That bottle of tequila from Mexico will be taken by the staff as you board, as will any liquor you buy on the ship, and then delivered to your room on the final morning for disembarkation. Some cruise lines make an exception for fine wines, but only after you pay a corkage fee.</p>

22. Expect to Drink Bottles of Liquor Purchased on Board

If you buy bottles of liquor or beer in port or the ones they're hawking on the ship, you won't be able to drink it while on board, much to the chagrin of many. That bottle of tequila from Mexico will be taken by the staff as you board, as will any liquor you buy on the ship, and then delivered to your room on the final morning for disembarkation. Some cruise lines make an exception for fine wines, but only after you pay a corkage fee.

<p>Using the internet on board a cruise ship is expensive, like <i>really</i> expensive. Some lines <a href="https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles/cruise-line-wi-fi-and-internet-packages">charge $20 per hour</a>, and that's usually restricted to things like browsing email and social media sites only. On top of the price, the service is usually very slow, so you're not going to be able to get a lot done in those 60 minutes. Instead, plan to disconnect and enjoy your vacation, or do as most people do and mob the Starbucks in port and use its free Wi-Fi instead.</p><div class="rich-text"><p>This article was originally published on <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/things-to-never-do-on-a-cruise/">Cheapism</a></p></div>

23. Buy the Wi-Fi Package

Using the internet on board a cruise ship is expensive, like really expensive. Some lines charge $20 per hour , and that's usually restricted to things like browsing email and social media sites only. On top of the price, the service is usually very slow, so you're not going to be able to get a lot done in those 60 minutes. Instead, plan to disconnect and enjoy your vacation, or do as most people do and mob the Starbucks in port and use its free Wi-Fi instead.

This article was originally published on Cheapism

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Carnival is taking on Royal Caribbean with its own $600 million private resort — see Celebration Key's planned features

Carnival Cruise Line is set to launch its new private destination, Celebration Key , in 2025.
The $600 million project has amenities similar to Royal Caribbean's private island.
Carnival is "clearly following Royal Caribbean's footsteps," one analyst told Business Insider.

Step aside, CocoCay. Royal Caribbean's private island could soon face some serious competition.

About 140 miles east of Miami, Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay receives thousands of eager families virtually every day of the year, drawn to the private Caribbean island's irresistible waterpark, beach clubs, and family-friendly amenities.

The tropical destination has become a massive hit with the cruise line's guests. And it seems Carnival, which also targets cruising families, wants a slice of its competitor's winning pie.

Carnival already operates its own private island, Half Moon Cay.

But what's better than one exclusive port? Two of them.

The cruise giant is now building another destination just for its guests: Celebration Key, a mile-long resort-like getaway on Grand Bahama Island .

The $600 million project, Carnival Corp's largest, is set to open in 2025 — a sign that the company is "clearly following Royal Caribbean's footsteps," Patrick Scholes, lodging and leisure research analyst at Truist Securities, told Business Insider in March.

Carnival’s promises for its private destination might sound familiar.

Royal Caribbean's private island has a waterpark with 14 slides and children's play areas.

Similarly, according to Carnival's recent announcement, Celebration Key will have a large, family-friendly freshwater lagoon with two 350-foot-long waterslides and a children's water playground.

It's a scaled-back version of CocoCay's popular feature — for now. Looking ahead, Carnival said it plans to build a waterpark and zipline course, too.

Celebration Key would also offer amenities like ping-pong, basketball, and volleyball.

As you might've guessed, these activities are also available on Royal Caribbean's island as well.

Looking to escape the sound of screaming children? Carnival says Celebration Key will have a separate adult-only section, again with frills reminiscent of CocoCay's recently opened pool club (as in, a swim-up pool bar, a DJ, and no kids in sight).

It wouldn’t be a cruise-owned private island without up-charged amenities.

Travelers at Perfect Day at CocoCay can splurge on private beach clubs, cabanas, shopping, food, and alcohol.

The same goes for Celebration Key. In fact, "You'd be surprised at how much people are willing to pay to rent cabanas for the day," Josh Weinstein, president and CEO of Carnival Corp, told investors in late March.

Like CocoCay, Carnival expects its private destination to be a big money maker with increased ticket revenue and "incremental in-port spending," Weinstein said. Plus, it'll be near Florida's major cruise ports, allowing Carnival to save money on fuel — another major benefit to owning private Caribbean properties.

Celebration Key is already included in over 500 of Carnival’s itineraries across 18 ships.

We're still a year from its debut, but that's not stopping the company from planning the expansion of its upcoming property.

Carnival said it'll spend $100 million extending Celebration Key's pier, which, when completed in 2026, will allow it to accommodate four of Carnival's largest cruise ships.

By 2028, the cruise line says the destination will be able to accommodate 4 million travelers annually.

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5 Affordable Cruise Vacations to Book — Plus How to Find the Best Deals

Here's what you need to know to save money on your next cruise.

Best Affordable Cruise Lines

How to find the best cruise deals, tips for saving money while on board.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Cruising has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. This form of travel is incredibly convenient (read: no need to pack and unpack), and everything you need can be found right on board — ultimately taking the stress out of trip planning. Plus, with hundreds of ships at sea across dozens of lines, there’s a cruise out here for every type of traveler. Fortunately, cruising doesn’t have to cost a small fortune, and many budget-conscious travelers may opt to set sail for their next trip. Below, we’ve rounded up the best cruise lines offering affordable fares coupled with value-packed inclusions to stretch your dollar further. We’ve also tapped some expert cruise specialists to share their top tips and tricks to help you save money both on and off the ship.

Here's everything you need to know to book an affordable cruise vacation.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

This adults-only cruise line from Richard Branson — which also happens to be a Travel + Leisure World’s Best Award winner — offers excellent value. In fact, according to T+L A-list cruise advisor and Q Cruise + Travel founder and president Rob Clabbers, Virgin Voyages fares “include more than on most mainstream large-ship cruise lines.” For example, he says, “Virgin fares include internet access, gratuities, all meals — there are no cover charges for its restaurants that on most other lines would be considered specialty restaurants.” Beverages like soft drinks, coffee, and tea are also included, as are snacks, mezze at the aft terrace, and group workout classes. Best of all, there are no pricey beverage packages. “Instead,” says Clabbers, cruisers — or, as Virgin calls them, sailors — can buy their own reasonably priced drinks (think: beers from $6, $10 cocktails, and wines by the glass under $11) a la carte. Additionally, with some promotions , the cruise line throws in a “ bar tab ” credit that can be used towards drinks.

Princess Cruises

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Another World’s Best Award winner — and WBA Hall of Fame Honoree, no less — this fan-favorite ocean line is renowned for refined ships, serene ambiance, and exceptional service. Moreover, per Clabbers, passengers can choose from “optional packages to help customize a passenger’s trip that provide savings over buying things separately.” For an extra $60 per day, consider Princess Plus, which offers perks like Wi-Fi for one device per guest, gratuities, fitness classes (two per sailing), and beverages like bottled water, specialty coffee, soft drinks, and juice. Alternatively, for $80 per day, passengers can spring on the Princess Premier package, which features the same beverages plus specialty dining (two per sailing), unlimited fitness classes, premium desserts, reserved theater seating, and Wi-Fi (four devices per guest).

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is a favorite among families of all ages for its over-the-top entertainment and activities (think: go-karting, Broadway-caliber productions, and so on). “While Norwegian Cruise Line may price slightly higher than some of its competitors, you need to consider the Free at Sea package,” says travel advisor Jennifer Travis of Marvelous Mouse Travels . She goes on to describe the promotion as a “game-changer when it comes to cruising” since it includes perks like a “free open bar (up to $1,400 in savings), free specialty dining (up to $180 in savings), free Wi-Fi (up to $200 in savings), and a $50 discount on excursions.” Other Free at Sea perks include 70 percent off second guests, free third and fourth guests (on select dates), and free airfare (per the cruise line’s website: “ Pay airfare for one guest, and you'll automatically lock in roundtrip flights for two ”). Also, you can’t go wrong with the Free at Sea Plus package, which includes a wider selection of beverages, more specialty dining, unlimited Wi-Fi, and additional shore excursion credits. Before booking, be sure to check the line’s full selection of deals , which run the gamut from half-off deposits to $150 cruise credits and more.

Royal Caribbean

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Zip lines, water slides, surfing simulators, ice skating, rock climbing walls: Find all this and more aboard (most) Royal Caribbean ships — and, best of all, they’re complimentary! Ideal for fun- and adventure-loving travelers of all ages — read: kids and kids-at-heart alike — it’s pretty much impossible to be bored while cruising on this World’s Best Award-winning mega-ship line . Additionally, according to Travis, Royal Caribbean “offers some of the best short itineraries,” some of which clock in at under $200 per person for two-night sailings. Longer itineraries, including a seven-night Bahamas sailing aboard one of the line’s newest ships, Odyssey of the Seas , clock in at under $600 per person. The line also offers an abundance of deals , including up to $600 off sailings, 60 percent off second guests, and more.

Carnival Cruise Line

Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

“ Carnival Cruise Line is known for its competitive pricing without cutting back on the onboard activities or various dining options, thus making them an attractive option to budget-conscious cruisers,” explains Travis. For example, many itineraries, including a four-night Bahamas cruise from Miami , clock in at just over $150 per person. Additionally, says the travel advisor, “Carnival sails to a wide variety of destinations from so many local ports that you almost do not need to fly to your cruise ship anymore, which is another huge savings given the cost (and stress) flights can add to any vacation.” Keep an eye out for frequent flash sales for even more savings.

Booking early is an easy way to save on your next cruise vacation . “Typically,” says Travis, “the best pricing on a cruise is when the schedule is first released.” And, while you could wait for a last-minute deal, “you may not get the room category that you want.” Similarly, Clabbers says that flexibility is key when it comes to finding — and scoring — the best cruise deals . For example, he previously told T+L that if you are “very flexible and are looking for a standard room on a large ship on an itinerary that repeats week after week, you are more likely to find a promotional fare.”

Conversely, giving up some of that flexibility sometimes pays off. According to Clabbers, select cruise lines will offer lower fares to those who opt for a nonrefundable deposit instead of a refundable one. Finally, you may also consider cruising in shoulder season or even low season. Sure, the weather won’t be perfect, but the fewer crowds and cheaper fares more than make up for that, especially if you’re on a budget.

While your tab can quickly rack up once on board, there are several savvy ways to save money. For one, consider bringing your own booze. According to Travis, “Many cruise lines allow their guests to bring a specific amount of alcohol or nonalcoholic beverages onboard the ships, which can help save you money while you are on the ship.” Additionally, Michele Benard , another travel advisor at Marvelous Mouse Travels, advises packing your own necessities from home — like Advil, Tums, motion sickness medicine, and after-sun lotion — as opposed to buying them on board at a much higher price. You’ll also want to skip the souvenirs at the onboard gift shop, which tend to be more expensive than those you’d find in port.

Benard also recommends taking advantage of “all the free activities on the cruise ships,” which can include everything from water slides to trivia game shows. Pro tip: “Stay onboard during a port day, and the lines won’t be as long.” On a similar note, spa treatments tend to be less expensive on port days, so those craving some R&R — that is, sans breaking the bank — may consider booking a service during this time.

Finally, says Clabbers, save money on your next cruise by enlisting the help of an onboard cruise consultant to select your next sailing. “You will typically receive an onboard credit or savings on your next cruise, and your own travel advisor will be alerted so they can help you plan your vacation.”

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Carnival Cruise Line Drink Packages: The Ultimate Guide (2023)
What Food and Drinks Can You Bring on a Cruise? (snacks, water bottles
Carnival Cruise's All You Can Drink Alcohol Package Expands : Leisure
How to SNEAK Alcohol on a CRUISE SHIP!!!
Carnival Cruise Line Drink Packages: The Ultimate Guide (2023)
Actualiser 91+ imagen can you take alcohol on a cruise

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#Falah e Darain Tarkeshwar, #Surat #gujrat.. beutiful seen

COMMENTS

Liquor and beverage policy
Guests are prohibited from bringing alcoholic beverages on board with the following exception: At the beginning of the cruise during embarkation day only, guests (21 years of age and older) may bring one 750 ml bottle of sealed/unopened wine or champagne per person in their carry-on luggage. A $15 USD corkage fee per 750 ml bottle, will be charged should guests wish to consume their wine or ...
Liquor and Beverage Policy
Corkage Fee. A $15 USD corkage fee, per 750 ml bottle, will be charged should guests wish to consume their wine or champagne in the main dining room, specialty restaurant or bar. A corkage fee is a charge...
Important Information to Know Before You Go
Guests are not allowed to bring hard liquor, beer or plastic/glass bottled beverages, (e.g., water, sodas and other non-alcoholic drinks) on board. ... Carnival is committed to protecting the environment so that generations of cruisers can enjoy the ocean and the beautiful destinations we visit. ... If you will be flying to one of our cruise ...
Carnival Cruise Line Alcohol Policy
Can I bring booze onboard a Carnival cruise? Bringing alcohol onboard at embarkation: During embarkation only, each passenger may bring one bottle of wine or Champagne (750ml) onboard in their ...
Duty-Free Allowance
Duty-Free Allowance for Canadian Residents. $800 Canadian (retail) worth of tax and duty-free purchases per person may be spent. 1.5 liters of wine or 1.14 liters of alcohol per person (guest must be at least 21 years old) One carton of cigarettes (guest must be at least 21 years old) 50 cigars (guest must be at least 21 years old) Registering ...
Bringing Alcohol on Cruise Ships: Policy Breakdown
Norwegian Cruise Line. Policy: Sealed bottles of wine and champagne can be brought onboard. No other alcohol is allowed at embarkation. If alcohol is bought in port or an onboard shop, it will be stored until the end of the cruise. Extra Fees: A corkage fee of $15 applies to 750 ml bottles, and $30 for 1,500 ml bottles.
HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?
Carnival Cruise Line Prohibited Items, Exemptions and Other Considerations. Carnival Cruise Line prohibits weapons, illegal drugs and certain items that could interfere with the safe operation of its ships or compromise the safety and secure environment of its guests and crew.Carnival conducts security scanning of all luggage and reserves the right to confiscate any item, which in Carnival's ...
Bringing Drinks and Snacks Onboard A Carnival Cruise
Carnival does allow guests to bring a limited quantity of sodas or non-alcoholic beverages onboard. Non-alcoholic beverages per Carnival's definition includes drinks such as sparkling water, sodas, energy drinks, juice, and milk). The limit is 12 sealed (not opened) cans or cartons of the beverage and the ounces per can/carton must be 12 ounces ...
Cruise FAQ
VIFP Club - Carnival's Recognition Program. I need to cancel my booking, is there a penalty? Online Check-in and Arrival Appointment. See all popular Questions. New to cruising? Get answers to FAQs ranging from cruise preparation to debarkation. Browse by category or click to see the most popular cruise questions.
Carnival Cruise Carry On Beverage Policy: Everything You Need to Know
Carnival Cruise Lines has established a carry-on beverage policy that guests should be aware of before embarking on their voyage in 2023. The policy allows guests to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person, aged 21 years or older, in their carry-on luggage. Additionally, guests are permitted to bring a 12-pack of non-alcoholic ...
Carnival Cruise Liquid Policy: What You Need to Know Before Packing
According to Carnival Cruise's policy, guests are prohibited from bringing any non-alcoholic beverages onboard, with the exception of water, soda, and juice in limited quantities. Each guest is allowed to bring a maximum of 12 cans or cartons of non-alcoholic beverages, each containing 12 ounces or less.
Liquor
Hardy XO Cognac. $210.00. Add to cart. More Details. 17 Out of 17 Results. Shop for Liquor to enjoy during your cruise vacation. Choose from a wide variety of items and favorites to indulge in!
Everything to Know About Alcohol & Drinks on a Cruise (Costs, Rules
Here is a sample menu from a recent Carnival cruise to give you an idea of what's offered. Just like different restaurants, different bars on the ship will have different drink options: ... You can't bring most alcohol onto the ship for drinking during your cruise. So if you wanted to bring a bottle of rum or a 12-pack of beer from home to ...
Carnival Cruise Line Explains Controversial Beverage Policy
Thank you "T" and yes, it is indeed 15 drinks in a 24 hour period. That is alcoholic drinks and indeed sodas, coffee etc is unlimited. So, it's important to know that Carnival won't serve any ...
Cruise Line Alcohol Policies
From what you can (and can't) bring onboard to at-sea drinking ages, we've got the lowdown on cruise line alcohol policies. ... Azamara Cruises Alcohol Policy. Carnival Cruise Line Alcohol Policy.
Liquor and Beverage Policy
A small quantity is considered a maximum of 12 sealed, unopened cans/cartons of 375-ml each or less, per person. Guests are prohibited from bringing alcoholic beverages on board with the following exception - at the beginning of the cruise during embarkation day only, guests (18 years of age and older) may bring one 750-ml bottle of sealed ...
Can I Bring Alcohol on my Cruise? Drink Policies for Every Cruise Line
Can you bring alcohol on your cruise? The answer is likely yes, but with lots of fine print. One of the reasons cruises offer such great value is because the cruise line wants to get passengers on board. Once they are a 'captive audience,' then the cruise lines can offer to sell them all sorts of things -- from excursions to souvenirs to alcohol. And have now doubt, selling drinks is a big ...
How to Sneak Alcohol on a Cruise Ship
The classic method is to empty a bottle of, say, wintergreen mouthwash, sterilize the bottle with boiling water, and let it dry. Then fill it with alcohol and dye the liquid with green or blue food coloring. Wrap it in your unmentionables, and the odds of ship security discovering it are slim. Check out this humorous YouTube video (it has more ...
Can You Bring Alcohol on a Cruise? Everything You Need to Know
Yes and no — the answer depends on the cruise line. It also depends on the type of alcohol. But in all cases, any bottle of beer, wine, or spirits intended to be brought onboard should be unopened and sealed. The most lenient alcohol policies are typically onboard luxury cruise lines that include alcohol in the price of their cruise fare.
Your Guide to Carnival Cruise Wine Policy: What You Need to Know
Firstly, it allows Carnival to control the quality and safety of alcohol served on their ships. Secondly, it helps prevent overconsumption and ensures a safer environment for passengers. Finally, it allows the cruise line to generate revenue from selling their own selection of liquor. ... Can you bring wine on a cruise carnival.
Can I bring alcohol on a cruise ship? A line-by-line guide
With all that in mind, here is a line-by-line rundown of cruise line policies for bringing your own alcohol on ships. You can bring your own liquor, beer or wine for consumption in your. Azamara ...
Bringing Water or Soda on a Cruise Ship (Carnival, Royal Caribbean
Carnival Cruise Lines Drink Policy. Carnival is fairly liberal with their beverage policy. According to their website, "On embarkation day, a small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages (i.e., sparkling water, sodas, energy drinks, juice, and milk), packaged in cans or cartons, may be brought on board and must be in the guest's carry-on luggage.A small quantity is considered a maximum of 12 ...
Cruise FAQ
Popular Questions. Cruise Cancellation and Itinerary Change Policy. Deposit and Final Payment Requirements. Celebrating Holidays. Carnival's Fly2Fun Air Program. Guest Screening Policy. Online Check-in and Arrival Appointment. Sail & Sign Onboard Account. Online Check-In, Arrival Appointment and Boarding Pass.
Carnival Firenze cruise ship review: A complete guide
Each person can also bring up to 12 standard cans or cartons of nonalcoholic beverages like juice or soda. Alcohol-free drinks in plastic and glass bottles aren't allowed. Related: Can I bring alcohol on a cruise ship? A line-by-line guide. Smoking policy
23 Things That You Should Never (and We Mean Never) Do on a Cruise
14. Sneak Alcohol Onto a Cruise. Mouthwash bags, rum runner flasks, fake shampoo bottles: cruise staff are onto just about every method or product used to smuggle in booze — thanks TikTok for ...
Carnival Continues to Send Firm Reminders of Scooter Policy
You can receive daily cruise news updates directly to your inbox, so you don't miss a thing! Go ahead and Subscribe here. Carnival Cruise Line has reached out to guests booked in particular ...
Carnival's New Private Resort Hopes to Take on Royal Caribbean
Carnival is taking on Royal Caribbean with its own $600 million private resort — see Celebration Key's planned features. Analysis by Brittany Chang. May 30, 2024, 7:25 AM PDT. Carnival says its ...
Sick Cruise Passenger Got Stranded at Caribbean Cruise Port
Loretta Cox, 54, and her husband embarked on a Carnival Cruise to the Caribbean on Sunday, May 19, 2024. By Tuesday, the mother of six and grandmother to nine was so sick she had to be placed on ...
5 Affordable Cruise Vacations and How to Find the Best Deals
Longer itineraries, including a seven-night Bahamas sailing aboard one of the line's newest ships, Odyssey of the Seas, clock in at under $600 per person. The line also offers an abundance of ...
Carnival Ship Nearing End of Dry Dock Upgrades
This update will bring fresh new spaces to the ship as well as ensure her technical systems are operating at peak efficiency for many more years of smooth sailings. The 88,500-gross-ton, Spirit ...