carnival cruise single cabin

• Carnival Cruise Lines

Single Occupancy on Carnival?

By champagne123 , March 19, 2014 in Carnival Cruise Lines

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champagne123

I was just on the Carnival website, booking a cruise for May 4th. One of the parties does not have anyone to share a cabin with. I already told him he would have to pay double occupancy and he was fine with it.

WELL....lo and behold. I booked his. SINGLE charge. :eek: I called the 800 number to confirm before finishing the booking process. YUP...single fare.

He is now doing the HAPPY DANCE.:):):)

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Good for him I never get that lucky.

I was just on the Carnival website, booking a cruise for May 4th. One of the parties does not have anyone to share a cabin with. I already told him he would have to pay double occupancy and he was fine with it.   WELL....lo and behold. I booked his. SINGLE charge. :eek: I called the 800 number to confirm before finishing the booking process. YUP...single fare.   He is now doing the HAPPY DANCE.:):):)

Congrats to him on the savings! Carnival has been removing the solo supplement on certain sailings they are having trouble filling up. They started that late last year. In fact they have a list of available sailings on their website. My cousin and I both booked separate cabins on the Legend in May.

Enjoy your cruise!

http://www.carnival.com/Content/single-occupancy.aspx?icid=CC_singcd_1942

I too, am VERY happy with the NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT sailings, and have taken advantage of several of them already. ;) I watch very carefully, and when I can, I book. GREAT DEAL IMO! Thanks Carnival!

I get to fly out in 3 weeks thanks to them waiving the single supplement.

It has gotten me back on Carnival as I had been using other lines who somewhat reduced the single supplement on sailings.

Freedom2014

They are rare but happen! We got on for a spring break cruise for one of our people

Sonoran_cruiser

I'm taking my first Carnival Cruise in April solo, thanks to the NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT SALE. Only a 4 dayer out of LB, but at least it's a taste of the Carnival product!

caribbean dreams

We just picked up 3 singles out of Long Beach for $184pp, it was cheaper to book seperately then 3 in one cabin so now we all have our own cabins..all in a row:)

I used to sail with my DD and then she grew up.

Of course, just after I started sailing solo, Carnival went from 150% to 200% single supplements. :mad:

I had booked a May cruise on Fantasy with 2 friends. Then I saw the Pride had no single supplement so I switched to that (yes, I'm anti-social and I'd rather sail alone :p ). No, really, I'd been wanting to sail Pride but it was expensive and the itineraries were dull, but since this was one that stopped at HMC, I couldn't resist and they wanted to sail out of Charleston, so I switched and they didn't.

I also had a casino offer (no, not free, just a discount plus $50 casino cash), so I got a pretty good price. I even upgraded myself to a French Door cabin, which I normally would not do.

My problem is I can't really book last minute. My work schedule just doesn't lend itself to spontaneity or I'd be jumping on as many of these as I could. Gotta get to Milestone!

I booked my DS yesterday morning under casino fare single supplement for 4 day inspiration 5-12 was 247.92 plus she gets $100 casino cash....how can you say no to that

Where can you find the list of no solo supplement cruises?

Congrats to him on the savings! Carnival has been removing the solo supplement on certain sailings they are having trouble filling up. They started that late last year. In fact they have a list of available sailings on their website. My cousin and I both booked separate cabins on the Legend in May.  

Here is a link to the page on the Carnival site. They have been updating it every few weeks so far this year. If the link does not work go to the Carnival website. On top of the home page is a link to Cruise Deals. Then select Exclusive Savings and there is a selection for Solo Cruises.

From what I have read from other posters there are a set amount of cabins they will waive the solo supplement so some sailings listed might not still be available.

Great! Thanks!

Here is a link to the page on the Carnival site. They have been updating it every few weeks so far this year. If the link does not work go to the Carnival website. On top of the home page is a link to Cruise Deals. Then select Exclusive Savings and there is a selection for Solo Cruises.   From what I have read from other posters there are a set amount of cabins they will waive the solo supplement so some sailings listed might not still be available.     http://www.carnival.com/Content/single-occupancy.aspx?icid=CC_singcd_1942   Mike

RRFPresident

We actually just took advantage of this promotion and booked a last minute get out of the snow getaway for 10 days from now.

Dad had been trying to find some little getaway for months during this specific time frame and on a whim, he looked into going solo on a cruise out of here (Baltimore). When he saw that there was no single supplement, we both decided to book our own neighboring cabins for the first time since we started cruising together. This will be my 3rd time on the Pride with the same exact itinerary so I'm really looking forward to a cruise of pure relaxation.

That is correct. Once the quota is filled the sailing will return to charging the supplement. I booked the Triumph next month with no supplement but it changed back to 200% about 2 weeks after booking.

This list is updated twice a month:

https://www.goccl.com/~/media/GOCCL/Files/Sales/SingleOccupancy.ashx

WahooGirl95

OMG!!! It pays to goof off at work reading Cruise Critic!! LOL! I booked a 7-day cruise on Carnival Pride for March 30-April 6, 2014. When we booked the cruise, I was told that as a single passenger, I would have to pay double. Thus, I paid over $1800 to have a balcony room on the same hallway as my family members. Well after reading your posts, I went on the Carnival website and saw that my sailing had a single supplement sale! I then called Carnival, and they were so great and returned almost $900 of it to me. You all saved me much money and I can't thank you enough! I told the Carnival Operator that probably this money will go back to Carnival anyway... we are going to David's steakhouse, and now I can spend time in the spa!! LOL!

Thanks, again, everyone!!

Well after reading your posts, I went on the Carnival website and saw that my sailing had a single supplement sale! I then called Carnival, and they were so great and returned almost $900 of it to me. You all saved me much money and I can't thank you enough! I told the Carnival Operator that probably this money will go back to Carnival anyway... we are going to David's steakhouse, and now I can spend time in the spa!! LOL!   Thanks, again, everyone!!

Congrats, that is awesome!! Enjoy your cruise.

lifeasiseeit

Does anyone know when the no supplement list will be updated again? I'm leaving in a week for a cruise, but I want a solo trip. I can usually just up and go, but for all of the sailings I see I have those weeks pretty much booked solid.

crusinpsychRN

OMG!!! It pays to goof off at work reading Cruise Critic!! LOL! I booked a 7-day cruise on Carnival Pride for March 30-April 6, 2014. When we booked the cruise, I was told that as a single passenger, I would have to pay double. Thus, I paid over $1800 to have a balcony room on the same hallway as my family members. Well after reading your posts, I went on the Carnival website and saw that my sailing had a single supplement sale! I then called Carnival, and they were so great and returned almost $900 of it to me. You all saved me much money and I can't thank you enough! I told the Carnival Operator that probably this money will go back to Carnival anyway... we are going to David's steakhouse, and now I can spend time in the spa!! LOL!   Thanks, again, everyone!!

I love those single no supplement cruises!

ccruisequeen

Join our Roll Call. 6 weeks out and we need more members !

Join our Roll Call. 6 weeks out and we need more members !      

We are not going on this particular cruise.

It is my son/spouse and a couple of friends.....none of which belong to Cruise Critic. I always do all of the leg work for them...lol

I will however ask them if they want to sign up for the roll call via me.

By the way everyone....they have extended the single supplement until March 31st in case anyone is interested. ;)

Did you get to keep your balcony cabin, or did they have to move you to get the rate?

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

AdrenalineRush

  By the way everyone....they have extended the single supplement until March 31st in case anyone is interested. ;)

They have been running the no single supplement deal since September of last year, so not sure what you mean by an extension.

I've only seen them through May. Then they do another list.

Thats because june cruises haven't hit penalty phase.

I think the op is confusing no single supplement with the current "4 day to sail" promotion that was extended.

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Top 10 Tips For Cruising Solo with Carnival Cruise

By Carnival Cruise Line

10 Tips for Solo Cruising with Carnival

Are you searching for an epic solo cruising adventure? You’ve come to the right place! Some folks have more fun traveling with a group, and that’s totally okay. But for those who are looking for a little alone time, those who relish a chance to chart their own course and embrace the spirit of wanderlust with no compromise, now is the perfect time to treat yourself to an adventure with a Carnival cruise vacation.

Carpe that diem and plan a trip that’s all about the most important person in your life: you. Get started below with our complete guide to cruising solo with Carnival.

Our Tips for Solo Cruising

Travel anxiety? Never heard of her! As you begin to plan your Carnival cruise journey, these easy tips are sure to keep the planning stress at bay.

• Don’t Be Afraid to Expand Your Horizons

When you take a solo Carnival cruise, you step out of your comfort zone and enter a completely new world of possibility. And trust us when we say that stepping out of your comfort zone has never felt so…comfortable! Whether you’re trying new foods, letting yourself wander through unforgettable destinations or kicking back and learning to enjoy your own delightful company, a solo cruise is the perfect way to build your sense of empowerment, confidence and independence, all while having the time of your life.

• Travel Solo, But Not Alone

This might sound backwards, but just because you’re cruising solo doesn’t mean you have to be alone! From the moment you step onboard a Carnival vacation, you’ll be joined by fellow adventurers from all corners of the world. Don’t let the idea of traveling solo hold you back from meeting new people and making life-long connections. Onboard, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for meeting other travelers, whether you’re striking up a conversation at the RedFrog Rum Bar or teaming up for trivia night. Pro tip: most times, it’s as easy as saying “hello.”

• Remember: You Control the Pace

When you’re master of your own voyage, you have total freedom to thrive. The itinerary, food, activities—you name it, it’s all up to you. Think less compromising, and more doing whatever strikes your fancy, whenever you want. Follow your own desires and tailor every single moment to your liking— who’s going to stop you? Don’t forget to relax and build some down time into your schedule. Whether you want to chill by the pool or even watch one of our Dive-In Movies at Carnival Seaside Theater™, You won’t want to miss a second of all the sweet relaxation you’re in for!

• Stay Informed with Plenty of Research

Before you set sail, arm yourself with knowledge about your destination. From local customs to must-visit hotspots, a little research goes a long way in ensuring smooth sailing on your solo adventure! Whether you’re exploring a bustling metropolis or a serene island town, it’s never a bad idea to have a foundational understanding of the traditions, culture, history and etiquette of the place you’re visiting. It’s also a good idea to research your ship’s layout, dining options and entertainment venues before you set off; this will allow you to navigate with ease and get a rough idea of what you want to do, see and experience.

• Be a Safe & Smart Traveler

Traveling solo means traveling safe and smart! The first step to solo safety is keeping your loved ones in the loop by sharing your itinerary and staying in touch throughout your journey. Provide them with essential details like port and excursion information, and check-in often. Don’t share any sensitive information with strangers and be vigilant about your surroundings! Whether you’re deciding which excursion to join or striking up a conversation with a fellow traveler, don’t forget to trust your instincts and intuition. Your inner compass is there to guide you, and staying in tune with it will allow you to sail on with confidence and peace of mind.

• Practice Doing Things by Yourself

Cruising alone doesn’t come naturally to all of us, and doing things with just yourself for company can feel a little strange at first. So… why not practice first? Before embarking on your cruise, get used to being by yourself, if you aren’t already an independent adventurer. Treat yourself to a solo spa day, go see a movie, take a cooking class or read in the park; these pre-cruise activities will prepare and empower you for an unforgettable solo trip on the high seas.

• Make Friends with the Carnival Crew

The friendly faces of Carnival’s staff aren’t just here to make sure you have a great time; they’re also your partners in fun, your guides to the best adventures, and honorary members of every vacation squad. Yes, even yours! Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the service desk attendant, or ask your bartender to show you their best dance move. With irresistible charm and insider tips you won’t find anywhere else, our staff is here to turn your journey into an unforgettable occasion.

• Sign Up for Shore Excursions

Shore excursions are the perfect way for a solo cruiser to explore a new destination, with none of the stress! Every Carnival destination features unique excursions that cater to every interest you could imagine. AKA, you can lean into the things you love, or explore something new! Cultural excursions can introduce you to the flavors, people, history and art of a region, letting you soak in all that delicious local flavor. 

If you want to get your adrenaline-pumping, adventure excursions are guaranteed to leave you with windswept hair and memories that’ll last a lifetime. Take a helicopter over glaciers in Alaska, zipline through the rainforest in Puerto Vallarta or take a jet ski adventure through the crystal blue waters of the Bahamas, all while meeting thrill seekers from around the world. 

•  Explore Group Activities Onboard

A Carnival cruise vacation is the perfect setting to try something new, and our onboard activities have something for every pace and taste! If you’re looking to be entertained, stop by The Punchliner Comedy Club , kick back poolside with Dive-In Movies , soak up the onstage drama with Playlist Productions or experience other fun-filled entertainment options. Ready to get active with your new favorite pastime? Check out Pickleball and square up against some other active cruisers, or bond over BBQ while you learn new cooking skills at the Carnival Kitchen .

Best Cruises for Solo Travelers

Like we said before: when you’re cruising solo, the only person you have to please is yourself. That means total freedom of choice! But let’s not get ahead of ourselves— we have to start at the beginning: choosing a destination. Traveling by yourself means the entire map is yours to explore, which is admittedly a lot of pressure. That being said, you know we’re here to help. 

You can’t go wrong by setting off on a Carnival cruise vacation in late March-April over Spring Break; whether you’re dreaming of lounging on pristine beaches or exploring faraway regions, Carnival has it all. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the pool, enjoy live music and shows, or try your luck at the casino, there’s never a dull moment on board.

We talked to our destination gurus, and they used their personal experiences and industry knowledge to suggest some of the top destinations and best cruises for solo travelers: 

• Alaska – For nature, adventure and wildlife enthusiasts, there’s no better destination than Alaska. A cruise here will provide more once-in-a-lifetime experiences than you can count, whether you enjoy them on your own or with a group. 
• Canada and New England – Looking for untouched landscapes, delicious seafood and endless scenic views? A Canada and New England itinerary may be just the cruise for you. Did someone say photo op ? This scenic and peaceful corner of the world is also known for being welcoming and safe— perfect for solo cruising.
• Caribbean and Bahamas – The Caribbean and Bahamas were made for cruising, and offer the quintessential solo cruiser experience. Even better, you can experience Carnival’s private destination islands, including Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays , to enjoy a number of fun activities with other Carnival cruisers! Celebration Key , coming in summer 2025, will have five distinct “portals,” including options for every type of solo traveler! Stay tuned for more info on this Carnival-exclusive destination.
• Mexico – Home to a friendly local scene and vibrant cultural experiences, Mexico is an ideal spot for solo cruisers to experience. With a number of itineraries available, you can decide whether you want to experience the Pacific charm of the west-coast Riviera or east-coast Caribbean and its island magic.  

One last question for you: why settle for an unremarkable spring break when you could have the solo adventure of a lifetime? Just think about it! After you’re done thinking, head over to our booking page (aka, where the magic happens).It’s solo cruise o’clock! Click here to buy your tickets.

Related articles

Plan for fun.

https://www.carnival.com/cruise-from.aspx

After 3 sailings on Carnival's Panorama, I'm convinced there's no better cruise at a cheaper price

• A friend and I recently sailed on Carnival Panorama, one of my favorite ships for its overall value.
• We each spent $437 for our own interior cabins, including food, on a 7-night sailing to Mexico.
• The Panorama is packed with free activities and is a good, cheap option for solo cruisers.

I've sailed on the Carnival Panorama three times, with my spouse and also with friends. I think it's the best cruise ship for anyone on a budget, or who wants their own cabin.

I'm a frequent cruiser and have stayed in a variety of cabin styles over the years, from mini-suites all the way to interior rooms on the lower decks. I've done so on many ships on cruise lines including Carnival, Holland America, Norwegian, and Princess.

But I keep going back to the Carnival Panorama . 

I've sailed on Panorama twice with my spouse, and we already have another sailing booked for later this year. Recently, I also traveled onboard with a friend, but opted to book my own solo cabin rather than share one. 

While sharing a room and splitting the cost with another traveler is often the best way to save money on a cruise, I knew that wasn't the case with the Panorama as the prices are low enough to afford on my own, and Carnival doesn't charge a single supplement fee like most cruise lines do. 

Here's why anyone looking to book a cruise on a budget or travel solo should only consider the Carnival Panorama.

I paid just $437 for my own interior cabin on a 7-night sailing to Mexico on the Carnival Panorama. That fare included accommodations, entertainment, meals, and basic drinks like water, juice, coffee, and tea.

Through my past cruises, I've come to find that the inside rooms offer just the right amount of space I need personally, while paying the lowest rate possible to meet my budget.

My friend and I each spent $304 before taxes on our own dedicated interior cabins. After taxes and port fees, the cruise rate was $437. We also prepaid gratuities for the week at a rate of $97.93.

Included in the fare was unlimited dining apart from specialty restaurants, all live entertainment, and activities like trivia, dance parties, waterslides, mini putt, and a ropes course. The rate did not include alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, or activities on port excursions. 

We also added on the cost of a 2-day spa pass for $40 per person on this sailing, as we wanted to have access to thermal sauna suites and a large spa tub. 

For this particular sailing, I booked my cabin seven weeks in advance, so it's quite possible to find great rates without too much advance planning.

Most importantly, I didn't have to pay a single supplement fee on Carnival.

Because my friend and I each wanted our own cabin, I was certain I'd have to pay extra for the solo supplement, which is standard on most cruise lines when someone chooses not to share a room.

This is because most cruise staterooms are meant to hold at least two people, and the single supplement helps the cruise line make up for lost revenue they could have made had there been a second person in the room, according to the LA Times .  

But I've never had to pay such a fee on Carnival. In fact, had we shared one cabin, according to my research on Carnival's website, we would have only saved about $50 each for the week. And since we both loved the idea of having our own dedicated private spaces as adult travelers, we each booked our own room.

We each had our own spacious interior cabin that came with plenty of storage to maximize the space.

Both me and my friend booked standard interior cabins on the Carnival Panorama and our cabins were identical.

Each cabin was 185 square feet and meant for one traveler with a single bed. I thought this actually made the room appear much larger as it didn't have two beds like I'm used to in cruise ship staterooms. I never felt cramped.

In addition to a comfy bed, my room had a desk and chair, full closet, and a small fridge. There was also plenty of storage in the closet and a separate shelving unit so I was able to make the most of my space by putting my belongings away.

I also had a full bathroom with shelves for toiletries and a large stack of towels.

My friend's cabin was on the second floor, while mine was on the third. We could have paid more to be in a prime location closer to the pool deck, but with the elevators close to us and the pool parties just a quick lift away, I'm glad I opted to save the money.

Even though I didn't feel cramped in my room, I didn't spend much time in it as I was more interested in having fun outside, exploring the ship, playing games, or dancing at a deck party.

I had all the space I needed in my room, but other than naps or bedtime, I rarely spent time there. There was too much going on with planned activities and ship amenities for me to stay in the room.

One of our favorite morning activities was attending free trivia tournaments. We ended up making new friends each time and my friend even led our team to victory and is now the proud owner of a "ship on a stick" trophy and whale-tale medal. 

There were more free activities offered than we could possibly do, from trivia to dance lessons, karaoke to mini putt.

Our ship also went to exciting ports that I'd expect to visit on a much pricier cruise.

Our cruise took place in late April and sailed to the Mexican Riviera, which is the route Panorama visits year-round from the Port of Long Beach, California. Our days would be filled with visits to sunny destinations including Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, and Cabo San Lucas. 

With this itinerary in mind, my friend and I thought $437 was an incredible deal for our individual cabins. I'm already plotting ahead to when I can do this sailing again as a solo traveler on my own.  

To stay on budget, we focused on the ship's free dining and drinks.

I was a big fan of the incredible variety of dining included with our base cruise fare. 

We had seven complimentary venues to choose from and we tried them all: Blue Iguana Cantina, the Lido Marketplace buffet, Pizzeria del Capitano, The Carnival Deli, The Captain's Pasta Bar, Guy Fieri's barbeque restaurant and his burger bar, and of course, the main dining room.

My near-daily favorite was Guy's Burger Joint. I especially loved being able to load my burger with as many or as little fixings as I pleased. 

We also frequented Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse, which costs extra for dinner but offers free lunch on sea days.

Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse is an upcharge specialty restaurant from Guy Fieri by night, but for lunch on sea days, they offer a selection of barbeque favorites for free. The menu includes beef brisket, pulled pork, sausage, beans, potato salad, and mac n' cheese. 

For the evening specialty upcharge options, the Smokehouse charges a la carte, so a guest could spend anywhere between $10 for finger foods to closer to $30 for apps and an entrée.

Our free lunch selection was a great way to sample Fieri faves for free as we could select as much or as little as we wanted, all plated by the Smokehouse crew. 

We did splurge on one specialty restaurant, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, for surf and turf.

Panorama has a nice selection of specialty restaurants for an additional flat fee, like Bonsai Teppanyaki for $35 per person or classic Italian at Cucina del Capitano for $18 per person. 

While we focused on complimentary dining throughout our cruise, near the end of our trip, we decided to have a special night out at Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse. We indulged in surf and turf, an amazing wine selection, and unlimited appetizers and side dishes, and dessert. The steakhouse is $38 per person, and I think it's well worth the upcharge for the memorable food and service.

While I purchased drinks à la carte, my friend pre-purchased an unlimited drink package for $55 per day.

My friend pre-purchased Cheers! – the unlimited drink package – that was offered pre-boarding for $55 per day. That meant for the week she spent $385 to enjoy whatever drink she wanted day or night.

Since I drink more coffee than cocktails, I didn't get the package and instead paid a la carte. My favorite cocktail set me back $12, which wasn't too bad for a flavorful refreshment. For the week, I only purchased three alcoholic drinks, so I spent less than $50 for the occasional cocktail. 

I also spent nearly $100 on specialty lattes, americanos, frappes, and mochas at Java Blue Café. I could have spent zero if I relied solely on the free coffee in the buffet, though.

I also thought our spa passes were well worth the extra $40 to enjoy the thermal pool and saunas.

While we aimed to maximize our fun onboard the ship and ashore, at other times, we also looked for quieter moments where we could recharge.

I thought Carnival's Cloud 9 Spa was a great place for that and a 2-day pass cost just $40 for unlimited use of the thermal pool and various sauna facilities. 

Massages and spa treatments were also available and typically start at $105, but we found the saunas and hot tub to be what we needed for far cheaper. Plus, the pass allowed access day and night as many times as we wanted, so we would spa in the morning and in the evening after enjoying a day in port. 

In addition to the spa, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat was a chill area for adults away from all the action.

Outside of the spa, we also found an adults-only sundeck with quiet zones, hot tubs, daybeds, and cabanas that were free to use throughout the day. This was an unexpected treat when we wanted to enjoy a sunny day, but not get caught up in all the deck party action by the pool.

I was surprised that this space was free to enjoy, as cruise lines like Princess and Norwegian charge at least $20 for a few hours' usage for a similar space, in my experience. 

Other fun included activities include a sports deck with foosball, basketball, an outdoor workout zone, corn hole, mini golf, table tennis, and yoga stretch sessions.

My friend and I are admittedly not that sporty, but I loved seeing the variety of outdoor activities for groups to enjoy at no extra cost.

The basketball court seemed particularly popular in the afternoons, while families used the mini golf course day and night. 

I'm also always surprised that the ropes course and SkyRide, a suspended cycle ride, are free.

On past sailings, I've challenged myself to the free ropes course. It's intimidating at first but I think it becomes easier as you build confidence. Especially when I notice 10-year-olds passing me at a much faster pace. 

The ropes course has solid platforms to walk from one area to the next, navigating the path via different rope obstacles. Guests use the ropes to balance themselves while taking in sea views from the elevated course. It's open to all ages, and is free.

There's also no upcharge for SkyRide, a suspended cycle ride positioned high above the top deck for a workout with incredible ocean views. Guests pedal themselves around the track at whatever pace suits them. 

I'm always a bit amazed that this is a free activity aboard Panorama, as it seems like something that would have a separate fee, especially since guests can go on this ride as many times as they like.

The water slides and relaxing pools are my favorite way to spend a sea day on Panorama.

Each time I've sailed Carnival Panorama, the water slides end up being my favorite way to spend an afternoon. I think they're kid-friendly but have just enough thrill factor to keep adults running back up for another turn. I follow it with a dip in the pool, and it's pretty much my definition of a perfect day at sea. 

When I just want to swim in the pool, in my experience, the mid-ship pool deck can be busy with deck chairs claimed early in the morning. Yet there's usually plenty of space in the pool for me to enjoy my dip.

The smaller pool on the back deck is another go-to, since I find less people use this one because there are fewer deck chairs. That's fine by me, since I prefer to spend my pool time actually in the water. 

I always look forward to nightfall when many live music venues and entertainment come alive at no extra charge.

Each sailing, I look forward to the '80s deck party that has happened on every Carnival cruise I've taken. The DJ spins classic pop and rock, and just about everyone shows up in 80s fashion, so I always pack my cruise wardrobe accordingly.

Panorama also has many live music venues. Havana Bar is one of my favorites for Latin music and karaoke showdowns. 

Additionally, the ship's main stage usually offers three production shows with rock, blues, soul, and a few Broadway favorites. These performances are free and don't require seat reservations or tickets.

The Atrium Bar is also a good spot to catch featured performers, including rock violinists,  throughout the day and all evening.

Throughout our cruise, I enjoyed just about every venue Panorama has to offer, but I always find my way to Alchemy Bar in the late evenings. It's where I think the best cocktails are served, and it's a central hub for meeting other groups of newfound friends. 

For quieter evenings, I enjoy free Dive-In Movies on the big screen by the pool.

When I'm not catching a show or listening to music over a cocktail at sea, Dive-In Movies are my go-to for a quiet night. On the big screen above the pool, we caught new feature films under the stars. This offering doesn't require reserved seats or tickets and is yet another free activity.  

Carnival Cruises are all about having fun. I genuinely thought we experienced great service and a never-ending list of things to do. And I can't believe we got to do it all for such a low price.

All week long, my friend and I commented on how attentive and friendly the Panorama crew were. At every turn, there was a wave, a friendly hello, or a question if we needed anything. 

As a single traveler on a budget, I found the Panorama made it easy to maximize the good times. And even though Panorama always sails the same Mexican Riviera itinerary year-round, I never grow tired of this cruise. I already have another Panorama sailing booked for my spouse and I this year, and I can't wait to sail with a friend again — or by myself — on what has become my favorite budget-friendly cruise.  

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How to Choose the Best Cabin on a Carnival Cruise

Last Updated on September 4, 2023

Unlike a hotel that may have hundreds of seemingly identical rooms, cruise ships have many different types of cabins. With various layouts, views, sizes, and locations, the options are almost endless. Each cruise line has different accommodations available, so today we’ll look at the various cabins, or what they call staterooms, available on a Carnival cruise and how to find the one that’s best for you. 

What makes it tricky is that the term “best” here is entirely subjective; there is no one type of room that is “perfect” for everyone . Instead, it’s more important to understand your options and what you want on your ideal cruise vacation. Some people spend most of the day in their rooms relaxing, watching TV, reading, and napping. Other people are just there to get some shuteye and couldn’t care less about the accommodations. Before picking your room, think about how YOU vacation and what’s important to YOU.

Type of Room

The first and more significant decision you’ll have to make is what type of cabin you want. Carnival Cruise Line has several basic types depending on the ship. If you’re new to cruising, it’s important to note that cabins on cruise ships are going to feel very “cozy” compared to hotels. While Carnival has some of the most spacious rooms at sea, they still can feel a little cramped; especially when putting 3 or 4 people in a room.

Inside Cabin

Inside cabins are the basic and most affordable room you’ll find on a ship. On average, about 1/3 of the cabins on a Carnival cruise ship are inside cabins. They line the interior of the ship and have no windows. On average, Carnival interior rooms are about 185 sq ft (roughly the equivalent of a 13′ x 14′ room). When combined with the lack of windows, they can feel a bit claustrophobic.

Interior rooms typically have 2 twin beds which can convert into a king bed. Most don’t have a dedicated sitting area, although they do have a desk and chair. Some cabins also have the 3rd or 4th beds available, which pull down from the ceiling. These rooms solve all the basic needs; they have a comfortable bed, access to a private bathroom, and good A/C.

While balcony cabins are what people may typically envision when picturing a cruise, interior staterooms offer a great starting point for new cruisers due to their low cost. According to a poll by Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald , 69% of cruisers started their first cruise with an inside cabin.  

Benefits of an interior cabin 

• Cheapest option of room
• Completely dark and can be quieter

Drawbacks of an interior cabin

• Smaller size than other rooms
• No sitting area / couch
• No windows make it hard to realize what time of day it is

Oceanview Cabin

Oceanview cabins have a window that looks outside and make up about 20% of the ship. Because these cabins are usually on the lower decks, the view is sometimes obstructed with lifeboats or other equipment (the room’s description will clearly state if this is the case). While the windows in these rooms let in a fair amount of sun, they don’t typically open, so don’t expect to have a nice ocean breeze in your room. These rooms are usually around 220 sq ft on Carnival, so almost 20% larger than interior rooms. 

Benefits of an oceanview cabin 

• Cheaper than a balcony room
• Get a view of the ocean, although it may be obstructed
• No worry about small children getting out and playing on the balcony
• Larger size than interior rooms usually (about 20%)

Drawbacks of an oceanview cabin

• Usually can’t open the windows so no sea breeze
• Usually on lower levels away from other activities on a ship

Balcony Cabin

Balcony cabins make up about 43% of the rooms on a Carnival ship. These rooms usually go from the 3rd deck up to the top deck of the ship. On average, they’re about the same size as an interior room, 185 sq ft, but when you add the 75 sq ft of the balcony, it makes it feel much more spacious. The rooms have large glass doors and windows so that the natural light can pour in. On the balcony itself, most ships have 2 straight-back chairs and a small table. 

A subset of these are the Cove Balcony rooms which offer the cheapest balcony alternative usually. These cabins are on deck 2, just above the waterline, so they provide a unique perspective. The balconies are typically bigger, and they’re more secluded with large metal panels on the outside. It’s not great if you want to sun on your balcony, but some cruisers covet their shade and privacy. 

Benefits of a balcony cabin 

• Same room size as interior rooms but the extra 75 sq ft for the balcony makes it feel larger
• Large windows and glass door makes you feel more connected to the ocean
• Have a place to “get away” for a quiet time if the ship seems crowded

Drawbacks of a balcony cabin

• Most expensive of the non-specialized cabins (40 – 60% more than interior cabins)
• Some parents don’t want their kids to be able to get on a balcony
• Can see the sun or hear the wind coming in sometimes if you’re a light sleeper

If you’re looking to be in the lap of luxury and elegance, Carnival has a range of suites available on their ships. They account for about 4% of the cabins on a ship and range from 260 sq ft up to 500 sq ft. Each suite can have different features depending on the ship; sometimes floor-to-ceiling windows, other times, a dedicated seating area and jacuzzi. Because there aren’t many of these types of rooms on a ship, they often sell out quickly. 

On top of the premium room, with pillow-top mattresses and bathrobes, guests who stay in suites also get some additional benefits. The biggest is priority check-in, embarkation, and debarkation. That means less time waiting on time and more time enjoying the cruise. Suite guests also get priority dinner reservations and main dining room time assignments. 

Benefits of suite cabin 

• Priority boarding and check-in is a nice benefit (worth about $100 per cruise)
• Much larger and more spacious rooms with upgraded amenities

Drawbacks of suite cabin

• Much more expensive than standard rooms
• Limited number of rooms means they book up fast
• While rooms are bigger, they don’t hold any more people than a standard room

Havana Cabins (specialty)

When Carnival introduced the Vista in 2015, they added a brand new section of rooms and a special exterior section called the Havana area. These premium rooms take advantage of the “Ship within a ship” philosophy, where certain guests have exclusive access to sections, basically their own private area. The Havana rooms are themed like an exclusive island resort, setting them apart from the rest of the ship. 

Guests staying in Havana sections have exclusive access to the Havana Pool area with prime placement on the back of the ship. The pool area has a beautiful infinity pool, two large hot tubs that overlook the ocean, upgraded loungers, and a dedicated outdoor bar. On sea days when the rest of the ship is jam-packed, you’ll be relaxing in style with plenty of room in the pool and loungers, and a nice refreshing drink only steps away. The rooms also conveniently connect to the interior Havana Bar, which is open to all guests. This bar becomes a favorite for many Havana guests for pre-dinner and late-night drinks. 

You can choose from a variety of rooms in the Havana section. The most unique is the “ocean view staterooms with patio cabana.” The description sounds like it would just have a window, but it’s closer to a balcony room in reality. The room has a large glass door that opens onto a private patio, complete with lounger furniture and a swing. It’s a peaceful place that is just yours. The downside is that these patios end in a walkway that goes around the Havana section of the ship, so you lose the privacy you may have in a traditional balcony room. The Havana section also has interior rooms, which are a great way to save some money since you basically have access to your own private outdoor area very close by anyway. 

On the Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee, the Havana area has been downsized considerably. The dedicated Havana deck area has a much smaller patio area with only a small pool on the side of the ship (rather than the large infinity pool off the back like the Vista-class ships). 

Available On : Celebration , Horizon , Jubilee , Mardi Gras , Panorama , and Vista

Benefits of a Havana cabin 

• Exclusive access to the Havana deck
• No children under age 12 are allowed

Drawbacks of Havana cabin

• Higher cost than standard rooms counterparts (20 – 30% higher on average)
• Harder to find private balconies, the patio cabana rooms have people walking by
• Because there are relatively few rooms, they sell out quickly

Family Harbor Cabin (specialty)

Carnival Cruise Line has never been shy about being a family cruise line, but they fully embraced this concept on their most recent ships. They created a new “Family Harbor” to make cruising more comfortable for families with children 11 and younger. 

Imagine you’re on a cruise with a 3 and 5-year-old who wake up nice and early and are starving for breakfast. You have to get them, and yourself dressed, walk down the corridor quietly, take the elevator to the Lido Buffet, walk through the massive buffets, get on line to get some food, find a table and then sit down only to have your kid take 2 bites of a banana, and they’re done. These rooms try to help with that problem. If you’re in a Family Harbor room, you have access to a dedicated lounge located steps away with keycard access that has easy-to-access breakfast in the morning, snacks during the day, and even a soft-serve machine. One kid trying to take a nap during the afternoon? You can take the other to the Family Lounge and play some games or watch TV. It adds a whole level of convenience for parents who are trying to enjoy their vacation. 

There are various rooms to choose from in the Family Harbor section, which can sleep up to 5 depending on the cabin. Most are similar to the rooms you’d find on the rest of the ships, except Family Habor rooms have a nautical décor on red, blues, whites. The Family Habor section houses some unique rooms, though, that are perfect for families. The Deluxe Ocean View has two bathrooms, one with a junior tub, which is a rarity on many cruise ships. If you need some extra space and privacy, consider upgrading to a Family Suite that adds more living space and has a privacy curtain that separates the main beds from the living area with sofa beds. 

Besides the Family Habor Lounge, you also get some additional perks for booking these rooms. You get one free Night Owls Evening babysitting for children 11 and under. Those kids can also eat free off the kids’ menu in many of the specialty restaurants like Fahrenheit 555, JiJi Asian Kitchen, and Cucina de Capitano. 

Benefits of a Family Harbor cabin 

• Exclusive access to family harbor lounge for breakfast, snacks, and games
• Kids eat free in most onboard specialty restaurants
• One free evening of Night Owls babysitting service
• Some options with flexible rooms

Drawbacks of Family Harbor cabin

• Higher cost than standard rooms counterparts (5 – 15% on average)
• On a lower deck, so it could be more of a hassle to get to Lido Deck and Buffet

Cloud 9 Spa Cabin (specialty)

If you’re a fan of spa treatments and relaxation, Carnival’s Cloud 9 Spa Cabins might be for you. The cabins are located near the spa and have a completely different look and feel with muted tones and a teal color palate. Inside the room, you’ll find upscale Elemis toiletries, spa-branded bathrobes, and slippers to enhance your stay.

It’s not just about looks and location though, Cloud 9 Spa Cabin guests get priority spa reservations, free fitness classes, unlimited access to the thermal suites spa, and exclusive discounts on treatments during port days. A clear benefit is unlimited access to the thermal suites, which have dry heat chambers, steam chambers, experience shows, and a whirlpool or Thalassotherapy pool depending on the ship. Other guests on the ship can access these facilities as well, but it’ll cost them $40 for a day pass or $139 for a 7-day pass. 

Available On : Celebration , Dream , Horizon , Jubilee , Magic , Mardi Gras , Panorama , Radiance , Splendor , Sunrise , Sunshine , and Vista

Benefits of a Cloud 9 Spa cabin 

• Premium products in the room
• Access to the spa, thermal suites
• Discount on spa treatments like massages and facials

Drawbacks of Cloud 9 Spa cabin

• Higher cost than standard rooms counterparts (10-15% on average)
• The spa can still become crowded with regular guests on sea days

Tips for Picking the Right Cabin

Connecting cabins.

For every category of rooms, there are connecting cabins available. These rooms have a door between them, so you can easily go between two cabins without going into the hallway. Since Carnival offers almost no cabins with multiple rooms, this is how families travel together by booking two adjoining rooms with connecting doors. 

If you’re not going to be using the connecting door, it’s best to avoid these cabins. The door between the rooms is a little less soundproof than the regular wall, so your room will likely be quieter if you don’t have an adjoining room. 

With up to 17 passenger decks and the length of almost 4 football fields, there are a ton of different locations you can pick for your cabin. Carnival will often price the rooms based on how “desirable” the location is. First, you’ll choose the front, middle, or back, and then the deck. The fee can range depending on how full the ship is and how high the demand is, but they can add an extra $0.50 to $9 per person/day. If you’re an able-bodied person who doesn’t mind walking, the actual deck and part of the ship don’t matter too much. These aren’t huge facilities like the hotels in Las Vegas that can take 20 minutes to walk across, even the furthest part of the ship isn’t too far. The stairs are easy to take up and down, and except for the Vista-class of ships ( read why ), elevators are easy to come by. Most of the action on a Carnival cruise ship takes place on their Lido Deck and their Promenade. That’s usually around deck 10 and 5, respectively, so no matter where you are, you’re going to have to be going up and down the ship at some point. 

Choosing a Room vs. Assigned by Carnival

If you’re not picky about your room, you can save money by letting Carnival assign your room. How much you’ll save depends on your ship and sailing, but it could be around 10%. They’ll wait until the date gets close and assign it to a room in that category. In the marketing copy, they say you’ll get a room in the category you book or higher, so they make it sound like you can pay for an Interior room, and you’ll get automatically upgraded to a balcony when the time comes. In reality, ships today are often entirely sold out, and the nicer rooms go to people who pay for them. It doesn’t hurt to save some money and let Carnival assign your room, but don’t think you’ll get this great upgrade if you do. I’ve done the assignment thing once before on a Royal Caribbean cruise; I booked an Ocean View Guaranteed Room and ended up getting a dinky porthole room, which I didn’t love, although it saved me $200 so it could have been worth it. 

How Do I Get an Upgrade on my Cabin?

To be blunt, you don’t. It’s not likely you’re going to be able to get a room upgrade. Land-based hotels typically operate at 40% to 60% occupancy, but cruise ships sail at nearly full capacity; they don’t often have extra rooms to upgrade you to even if they wanted to. Sometimes, as a sail date gets closer, they might contact you to see if you want to pay to upgrade your room; this way, the cheaper room is available to new bookers. Sometimes it’s a good deal, but sometimes it’s more than you ever paid upfront. Make sure you do the math before accepting any offer and if you have your heart set on a certain type of room, book it upfront.

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Related posts:

• Look Back on our Pre-shutdown Carnival Horizon Cruise
• First Pictures Onboard the Odyssey of the Seas

Randy Young

Randy Young is the founder and editor-in-chief at Cruise Spotlight. He has been in marketing for 19 years and has been cruising for just as long. Over the years, he's worked with products like TVs, copiers, light bulbs, and EV chargers, but cruising has always been his passion. There's nothing Randy likes more than the first couple of hours on a ship, exploring every nook and cranny and seeing how it's different from everything else out there. He's known for providing detailed and analytical coverage of cruising to help cruisers get a comprehensive picture of a ship's offerings.

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The 13 best solo cruises for 2024 (no supplement fare).

Set sail for a solo adventure at sea.

The Best Solo Cruises

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Relax by the pool, attend shows, dine with new friends and more on your next solo cruise.

Whether you're embarking on your first cruise alone or you've been on solo cruises before, single travelers will find more options than ever when it comes to cruising solo. Many cruise lines offer single staterooms with the same amenities as other cabins, at a price similar to what you'd pay with double occupancy fares. You'll also find special promotions where the single supplement fee is reduced or waived, making it more affordable to reserve a spacious stateroom or luxurious suite with even more amenities – including personalized butler service, an added perk of booking with many luxury lines .

If you're ready for a maritime adventure, an extended vacation or simply a quick getaway from home, these top cruise lines offer some of the best options for solo travelers on waterways around the world.

Lines with solo accommodations and waived fees

Norwegian cruise line.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Launched in 2010, Norwegian Epic was the first cruise ship in the industry to feature studio accommodations for solo travelers. Norwegian Cruise Line offers this category on nine of the 19 ships in its fleet, including the newest ship, Norwegian Viva. These cabins, at an average size of 100 square feet, are designed and priced with the solo traveler in mind. They have no single supplements – and studio rooms on board Norwegian Bliss even boast virtual windows.

Guests of the studios get access to the private Studio Lounge. In this exclusive space, you can socialize with other solo travelers and enjoy complimentary refreshments. There are also singles meetups throughout the voyage and plenty of fun-filled onboard activities to mingle with like-minded cruisers. Solo travelers can check out all the fun for singles on Norwegian Viva this winter on a cruise to the Caribbean , or in spring 2024 as the ship sets sail for the Mediterranean .

Book a Norwegian Cruise Line voyage on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers interior and balcony solo cabins for single cruisers on its Meraviglia-class ships: the MSC Meraviglia, Bellissima, Grandiosa, Virtuosa and the newest vessel in the fleet, MSC Euribia. The second-newest ship, MSC World Europa, has 28 cabins – 10 Studio Interior and 18 Studio Ocean View staterooms – designed specifically for solo travelers. MSC World America, set to debut in 2025, will also feature the solo studio staterooms.

During voyages with MSC Cruises , single cruisers are invited to a complimentary, hosted cocktail party to mix and mingle with other solo travelers. The daily program is also an excellent source to discover additional activities, entertainment and opportunities to meet other cruisers. You'll have onboard special events like the themed 70s-inspired Flower Party and the White Party, where the ship is decked out in festive white decor and guests don their best white attire. In addition, there are various sports tournaments, or you can show off your culinary expertise during a MasterChef competition.

MSC's Caribbean and Bahamas cruises departing from Miami and New York City feature an overnight visit to Ocean Cay, the line's private island and marine reserve. While there, singles can participate in fun-filled evening activities like a Champagne Sunset Cruise or a glow paddleboarding excursion in the lagoon, then attend the lively Luna Libre Party and the lighthouse show.

Find an MSC Cruises itinerary on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

Three of Holland America Line's newest ships each offer 12 solo cabins to accommodate single travelers: the Pinnacle-class Nieuw Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Konigsdam. These ocean view staterooms range in size from 127 to 172 square feet and feature the same amenities as the double occupancy cabins but with a double bed. The cruise line's Single Staterooms are priced for one person. If a guest chooses to book a different stateroom, single supplements for double occupancy cabins are as much as 100% over the standard fare, depending on the voyage and the cabin category.

Long committed to solo travelers, the line offers many activities where guests can meet other singles such as wine tastings, cocktail mixers, exercise classes, daily quizzes, sports challenges and more. If you're a solo traveler and a member of AARP, Holland America is now the exclusive cruise benefit provider to AARP's members. Solo cruisers will have access to an AARP member-only onboard credit that ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the itinerary and stateroom category.

For itineraries, Holland America's Alaska cruises and cruisetours are perfect for solo travelers, offering many opportunities to connect with fellow cruisers. Another favorite for singles is the line's fall voyages sailing from Boston to Québec City or Montreal.

Explore Holland America Line deals on GoToSea.

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International features studio staterooms on select ships that range in size from 101 to 199 square feet. These solo accommodations include interior rooms, virtual balcony staterooms and a super studio ocean view stateroom with a balcony. The cabins do not carry the single supplement fee singles encounter when booking other types of staterooms, making them an attractive option when traveling alone.

Once on board the ship, solo cruisers will have countless options to engage and socialize with other travelers. When it comes to dining with Royal Caribbean , make a reservation at the Japanese restaurant Teppanyaki for an entertaining meal with new friends, or join fellow foodies for the intimate Chef's Table experience (the dining venues vary by ship). Singles can also participate in onboard activities like trivia contests, drink seminars, escape rooms, dance classes and pool parties.

If you need more thrills to stay busy and to meet people, Royal Caribbean's ships feature world-class shows and entertainment alongside adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions. If you're sailing in the Caribbean, there are plenty of opportunities to meet and chat with other passengers at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Luxury line Atlas Ocean Voyages offers single cruisers 183 square feet of beautifully appointed space in solo accommodations that come without single supplement fees. These ocean view staterooms feature a queen bed, a panoramic picture window, a private spa bathroom with a rain shower and body jets, a stocked minifridge replenished daily with personal favorites, and other luxurious amenities. Single guests can also book other stateroom or suite categories with single supplements starting at 50% of the double occupancy price.

The line's three intimate yacht-style cruise ships – World Navigator, World Traveller and the new World Voyager, whose inaugural season begins in Antarctica in November 2023 – are all-inclusive . Meals at all the dining venues, premium beverages and wines, gratuities, culturally immersive excursions, and more are included in the fare. With fewer than 200 guests on board, there's an atmosphere of conviviality on these ships – especially when exploring remote destinations with like-minded and adventurous travelers during expeditions in Antarctica and the Arctic.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

Celebrity Cruises

Tim Aylen | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises' new Edge-class ships offer some of the best options for solo cruisers. The line's two newest vessels, Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Ascent (set to debut in late 2023), each boast 32 single staterooms with an Infinite Veranda. In addition, Celebrity Apex has 24 solo cabins, and Celebrity Edge features 16 staterooms for individual guests. These one-person accommodations offer a minimum of 131 square feet of space and the same upscale amenities you'll find in other category staterooms on their ships. Solo guests can look for special promotions where the single supplement is waived on select Celebrity voyages throughout the year.

Once on board the vessel, check out the daily program for activities conducive to meeting others – like wine tastings, cocktail-making classes and more. You'll also enjoy thrilling top-notch entertainment around the ship in The Theatre, The Club and Eden. A few popular cruises for singles are the line's Caribbean and Mexico itineraries on Celebrity Beyond.

Book a Celebrity Cruise on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The hip vibe on board the adults-only Virgin Voyages ships is ideal for solo cruisers looking to meet other travelers. Its superyacht-style ships – Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady – offer 40 interior cabins ranging in size from 105 to 177 square feet. There are also six Sea View staterooms with portholes boasting between 130 to 190 square feet of space. These Insider and Sea View cabins are designed and priced for single travelers, with amenities like high-tech mood lighting and roomy rain showers. The line also runs promotions where solo cruisers can book double occupancy staterooms without paying a single supplement.

Activities and festival-like entertainment around the ships foster fast friendships. Diners will enjoy the interactive experience at Gunbae, the lively Korean barbecue venue. The "grog walk" is a fun pub stroll where solo sailors can join fellow mates while sipping and snacking their way through all the signature bars. For even more fun, check out the evening shipwide events such as the themed Scarlet Party, which features live music and immersive experiences. The line also hosts meetups for singles throughout each voyage.

Read: The Top Adults-Only Cruises

Avalon Waterways

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways' river and small-ship cruises traverse waterways around the world, including in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. The company waives the single supplement on a selection of staterooms, including its Panorama Suites, on select European and Asia departures. The company recommends booking early as the specially priced cabins do sell out. Solo travelers make up about 10% of the passengers on this river cruise line .

Avalon's fleet of Suite Ships operates in Europe and Southeast Asia and features cabins with a minimum of 172 square feet. About 80% of the staterooms are Panorama Suites, which have 200 feet of living space, beds with a view and the river cruise industry's only open-air balcony. With Avalon excursions, solo cruisers have opportunities to meet like-minded guests during immersive tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, yoga or fitness classes, biking or hiking trips, and more. Single guests can choose to dine at tables for just two people or ones that can accommodate up to eight passengers.

Read: Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Next Cruise

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AmaWaterways

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

Two single occupancy staterooms are available on four of AmaWaterways' river cruise ships: AmaDolce, AmaDante, AmaLyra and AmaCello. These accommodations do not have single supplement fees. Solo cruisers can also book staterooms with a 20% single supplement on select sailings in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that this pricing does not apply to certain stateroom categories and suites.)

With the friendly, small-ship atmosphere, solo cruisers will find it comfortable to socialize with other passengers and the crew. Onboard activities and immersive excursions also create opportunities for fostering friendships, especially among like-minded travelers. Excellent options for solo cruises include themed sailings centered around music and wine or the magical Christmas markets itineraries along the Danube, Rhone and Rhine rivers.

Explore AmaWaterways deals on GoToSea.

Lines with discounted supplement fares

Courtesy of Azamara

Azamara's special offers for solo travelers include reduced single supplements of 25% to 50% of the double occupancy rate on select sailings. The line's four midsized sister ships – carrying no more than 700 passengers – are mostly all-inclusive. Amenities included in the cruise fare include most meals; standard spirits, wines and beers; bottled water, soft drinks, and specialty teas and coffees; shuttle service in port; gratuities; and complimentary AzAmazing Evenings ashore or Destination Celebration experiences on the ship. Dining at the two specialty restaurants is an additional cost unless guests have accommodations in the Club World Owner's Suites, Club Ocean Suite or Club Continent Suite.

Single guests on Azamara cruises will find events during the sailing and venues around the ship where you can mix and mingle with other solo travelers and chat with the friendly crew. Intimate and culturally immersive excursions also create opportunities to meet passengers with similar interests. Azamara Onward, the latest ship, boasts the new Atlas Bar, a great spot to meet other travelers.

For itineraries, Azamara's signature "Country-Intensive Voyages" are a favorite of solo cruisers, including the 10- or 11-night Greece Intensive Voyage. For an extended sailing, check out the festive 12-night Carnival in Rio Voyage, which features a stop in Rio de Janeiro during the city's famed Carnival.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Cunard Line

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line features dedicated solo staterooms on its three ships, priced at approximately 166% to 174% of the equivalent double occupancy cruise fare. Guests can choose between a spacious Britannia Inside or Britannia Oceanview cabin, or opt for a larger stateroom with a single supplement. For a little "me time" pampering while on board, solos will appreciate 24-hour room service, complimentary Penhaligon's toiletries and a chilled bottle of sparkling wine. Single guests will also be invited to get-togethers. You can either dine alone at venues around the ship such as the main dining room or choose to share a table with other passengers.

With an international mix of travelers, single cruisers will find many opportunities to meet and chat with others, especially during a Transatlantic Crossing. During the sailing, you'll find many enriching and relaxing activities that encourage socializing. According to Cunard , there's a sense of camaraderie and a passion around the voyage – and the unique travel experience of crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

Find a Cunard Line cruise on GoToSea.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Luxury line Silversea Cruises offers 25% single supplements on various voyages throughout the year, including expedition cruises to destinations like the Galápagos Islands , Antarctica and the Arctic, and Greenland. The line's all-inclusive fares include luxurious ocean view suites, gourmet dining, complimentary wines and spirits, gratuities, onboard enrichment and entertainment, shore excursions, and more. Solo travelers will even have personalized butler service to indulge their every whim.

The line's fleet of a dozen intimate ships, carrying no more than 728 guests, offers a clubby atmosphere perfect for meeting solo and like-minded travelers. Single guests will also have the opportunity to engage with other solo passengers during a welcome reception with Champagne at the beginning of each voyage. Popular itineraries for Silversea's single cruisers include its Transoceanic journeys, a bucket list trip for many cruisers .

Explore Silversea Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn has special offers throughout the year where solo cruisers can take advantage of reduced pricing equal to double occupancy fares or discounts on the single supplement starting at 25% above the double occupancy fares. These rates are available on select voyages, including expedition cruises. Frequent solo cruisers and members of the luxury line's Seabourn Club Diamond Elite will also find reduced single supplements on Diamond Elite Single Supplement Sailings. In addition, club members receive invitations to exclusive events, where they can meet and mingle with fellow cruisers. Solo passengers are also invited to sit with the ship's officers, crew and entertainers at dinner – and there are hosted get-togethers for single travelers.

Solo cruisers will enjoy beautifully designed oceanfront suites and all-inclusive amenities on board Seabourn 's intimate ships. These perks include world-class dining; complimentary premium wine and spirits; a spa and wellness program in partnership with Dr. Andrew Weil; included gratuities; and the line's enrichment series, Seabourn Conversations. Single cruisers looking for an extended holiday will enjoy longer voyages on the line's newest purpose-built expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit.

Compare Seabourn cruises on GoToSea.

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Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. She used extensive research and experience as a solo cruiser to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

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Cruise Lines With Single Cabins for Solo Travelers 2024

As more people choose to travel solo, cruise lines are stepping up their game to accommodate independent travelers.

Nowadays, a number of cruise with solo cabins or studios designed specifically for solo travelers, and some offer a range of choices, inside, oceanview, and even balcony options, albeit in relatively small numbers.

These cabins not only cater to the needs of solo travelers but also provide a more affordable way to explore the world without having to pay the single supplement.

Here we will be highlighting which cruise lines offer solo cabins or studios. 

Cruise Ships with Single Cabins

In the table below, we list all the individual cruise ships which offer single cruise cabins for solo travelers

Where known, we have included the number of single cabins on cruise ships as a guide to possible availability.

Check out which of the above cruise lines make our top picks for certain age ranges:

• Best Cruises for 20-something Singles (Under 30)

Cruise Lines with Single Cabins

Below we cover in more detail what each cruise line offers in the way of single cabins for solo travelers.

Ambassador Cruise Line

Ambassador cruise line is a British-owned single cruise ship, the MS Ambience which was launched in 2022 and offers a relatively high number of 89 single cabins as part of there stated commitment to single guests at a special single supplement rate.

With a capacity of 1400 passengers, the ship offers a range of Inside, Ocean view and a Super Plus with a single balcony rooms.

• Superior Inside Single on Consulate deck 10
• Standard Ocean View Single on Aloe deck 4
• Superior Ocean View Single on Consulate deck 10
• Premium Ocean View Single on Ambassador deck 11
• Super Plus Balcony Single on Consulate deck 10

These single cabins vary in terms of their location on the ship, as well as their level of amenities and features. The Superior Inside Single is an interior cabin, while the Standard and Superior Ocean View Singles offer a view of the ocean. The Premium Ocean View Single provides a higher level of luxury, and the Super Plus Balcony Single offers the added feature of a private balcony.

The minimum cabin size is 190 square feet.

Celebrity Cruises

In 2018 Celebrity launched its Infinite Veranda single rooms on Celebrity Edge.

They have since expanded their single cabin offerings on other ships with Celebrity Apex having 24 and Celebrity Silhoutete refitted with 4 single interior staterooms.

The staterooms measure 131 sq ft with an additional 45 square feet when the Infinite Veranda.

Larger cabins of 185 square feet are available on Celebrity Beyond.

You can find out more how Celebrity Cruises caters for solo travelers.

Costa Cruises

About half of the Costa cruise ship fleet offer cruises with single cabins

There are single cabins available as inside rooms or ocean view.

Room sizes range from 102 to 199 square feet.

Cunard Line

The prestigious and traditional cruise line Cunard offers solo cabins on all 3 of the ships in the fleet.

The Queen Mary 2, the world’s only true transatlantic ocean liner, offers 15 large single occupancy rooms between 178 and 183 square feet.

All 3 ships in the fleet offer both Britannia Single Inside Britannia Single Oceanview cabins, which are located centrally within each of the ships.

Cunard specifically offers complimentary coffee mornings and drinks receptions for solo travelers as well as the option of shared table dining if you’d like to meet other guests. As you can see here the Cunard staterooms are the epitome of luxury.

Fred. Olsen

There are at least 40+ available single cabins on each of the cruise ships in the Fred. Olsen fleet.

With a wide range of options available including:

• Single Interior Room
• Single Ocean View 
• Single Balcony Suite

Each room is at least 130 square feet, going up to 200 sq ft for the Balcony Suite.

Fred Olsen was Cruise Critics Editors Pick 2022 – Best for Solo Travelers .

You can more information n solo cruising with Fred. Olsen here.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line is a popular cruise line with older adults.

All single staterooms offer ocean views and measure 127 to 172 square feet.

With only 12 single occupancy rooms per ship, if you are booking a single persons cruise, you’d need to do so as far in advance as possible.

If you can’t get a solo cabin you might want to consider the “Singles Partner Program”, which partners guests of the same gender to share a stateroom.

Marella Cruises

Marella Cruises is a British cruise line with 4 ships in its fleet all of which offer inside and outside solo cabins.

Marella ships all have a cruise hosts who arrranges events for solo passengers which is a great opportunity to meet other single cruisers. You can find a review of the different solo cabin types on emmacruises first-hand Marellla singles cabins review .

MSC Cruises

The Swiss cruise line MSC Cruises offers single cabins on a number of its ships.

All are inside staterooms and measure approximately 130 square feet.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise lines is an award-winning cruise line for solo travelers.

They were one of the first main cruise lines to offer studio cabins to guests.

Currently offering studio cabins on 8 ships in the fleet and in higher numbers than most of the other cruise lines.

You can see and read more here about Norwegian singles cruises .

P & O Cruises

P&O Cruises is a British cruise line with 7 ships in the fleet, all of which have a range of single cabin options:

• Single Inside Cabin (Arcadia, Azura, Britannia, Iona, Ventura)
• Single Sea view (Aurora, Azura and Ventura)
• Single with balcony (Arcadia, Aurora, Britannia, Iona)

If you’re single and want to meet up with other singles, be sure to attend the solo traveler’s coffee mornings.

2 of the ships, Arcadia and Aurora are adult-only.

P&O Britannia has the highest number of single cabins at 27, with 15 having a balcony. All the solo cabins are located on the Lido deck, which is a high deck towards the front of the cruise ship might cause some passengers seasickness.

Royal Caribbean

Although Royal Caribbean does have solo cabins on approximately half its fleet 14 ships (in its fleet of 27), they are relatively very few in number in relation to the total number of cabins on the ships.

Royal Caribbean offer a range of different single cabins including:

• Studio Interior
• Studio Virtual Balcony
• Studio Ocean View
• Studio Ocean View Balcony
• Super Studio with Balcony

If you are thinking of traveling solo, be sure to check out the best Royal Caribbean cruises for singles .

Saga Cruises

Saga cruises is a British cruise line providing an elegant over 50’s adults-only cruise experience.

They have a relatively large number of single cabins of different grades including:

• Single with Balcony
• Suite with Balcony

Amongst the range are also Deluxe and Superior options.

You can see a range of what they offer here.

Virgin Voyages

The relatively new British cruise line Virgin Voyages cater to an adult-only expereince and offers over 40 singles cabins per ship in the fleet.

They offer a choice between an Insider or a Seaview single cabin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do carnival cruise ships have single cabins.

Carnival cruise ships do not offer any single cabins. All ships in the Carnival cruise fleet are 100% double occupancy.

As a solo traveler, you can book a double occupancy room, but you have to pay 100% single supplement fees.

While Carnival doesn’t particularly cater to solo travelers, it is a popular choice with some younger adults who are looking for a fun atmosphere. You can find out more in our best Carnival singles cruises .

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Best Carnival cruise ships: Here’s which ship you should sail, based on your travel style

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Choosing a Carnival cruise ship is no simple task, especially if you’re new to cruising. As one of the largest cruise brands in the world, Carnival Cruise Line has more than two dozen vessels in its fleet, offering everything from megaship adventures to smaller-ship experiences. Many variables — price, embarkation dates, travel companions, ship size and amenities, and destination — can shape the way you make your choice.

So, what is the best Carnival cruise ship? Here are my picks for the top options in several categories.

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

Mardi Gras: Best Carnival cruise ship for families

The best Carnival cruise ship for kids is undoubtedly Mardi Gras . Not only is it one of Carnival’s newest vessels, but it’s also one of the largest, and it has tons of activities to keep families with children busy.

At the expansive kids club, daily programming includes scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, and video games. The club draws in young cruisers and gives them space to make friends and play with peers. Beyond the dedicated kids facilities, the ship has a massive arcade and many top-deck diversions. One of these is the Ultimate Playground — a space encompassing a ropes course, waterslides and Bolt, the first-ever roller coaster at sea . (Note that the arcade and Bolt cost extra.)

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families  

Mardi Gras is full of fantastic family-friendly dining, including the line’s Dr. Seuss-themed Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast (for a small fee). The ship also includes pizza, soft-serve ice cream, Shaq’s fried chicken and Guy Fieri burgers in its fares. Even the pickiest of eaters will be satisfied. Kids can order off special menus in the complimentary main dining rooms and join in their waiters’ rollicking dance performances just when they start to get antsy sitting still.

The ship also does a nice job of accommodating families of all sizes and budgets. Many of Mardi Gras’ standard cabins sleep at least four people, and the ship offers connecting cabins.

Its Family Harbor staterooms provide access to a special family lounge area with TVs, sitting areas and internet stations. Breakfast is offered there each morning, and snacks and drinks — including free soda — are provided throughout the day. So, you never have to go far when the kids need a snack. Cabins in the Family Harbor category feature a nautical theme, plenty of storage and space to sleep at least four people.

Mardi Gras’ new sister ship, Carnival Celebration, is also a fantastic option in this category, offering a nearly identical experience (with just a few changes in the names and themes of specific venues).

Carnival Horizon: Best ship for luxury lovers

Let’s be clear: Carnival is not a luxury cruise line, nor does it offer huge suites on most ships. The suites it has are smaller than most other brands’ high-end accommodations, and they do not include amenities like butler service.

With that in mind, one ship that offers slightly more exclusive options is Carnival Horizon — the second vessel in Carnival’s three-ship Vista class. It offers a top-deck, adults-only Serenity sun deck area; an extensive menu of spa treatments, salon services and fitness classes at the onboard Cloud 9 Spa; and a handful of upmarket cabin offerings.

If you’re into wellness, relaxation and self-care, check out the spa and fitness center’s manicures, pedicures, facials, massages, teeth whitening treatments, acupuncture, anti-wrinkle procedures, state-of-the-art cycling classes, thermal suite, hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms for a fee. For digs that include pampering, try a Cloud 9 Spa cabin to receive extras like complimentary thermal suite access and two free yoga or Pilates classes.

Related: The 8 best cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

If exclusive stateroom enclaves are what you seek, you’ll want to book one of the ship’s Havana Cabana cabins. They come in several varieties, from 185-square-foot insides to Havana Suites, which offer 260 square feet of interior space (with a dividing wall to separate sleeping and living areas), plus a 100-square-foot patio area with loungers and a hammock. All Havana Cabana cruisers get access to an exclusive lanai and pool deck. With a suite booking, you’ll also receive priority embarkation and disembarkation.

If a traditional suite is more your style, consider a Grand Suite, which includes priority embarkation, disembarkation and dining times, as well as access to the Havana pool area. Note, however, that Grand Suites run only 345 square feet with 85-square-foot balconies — disappointing when you consider some of Royal Caribbean’s largest rooms are nearly five times that size.

The only ships on which you’ll find larger accommodations are the line’s newest: Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee, all of which house Presidential Suites. Those accommodations offer 1,120 square feet of space with 600-square-foot balconies and separate living and sleeping areas. However, the ships — part of the line’s Excel Class — are so large and attract so many families that I’ve ruled them out as the most luxurious.

Carnival Conquest: Best ship for budget travelers

If you’re on a budget and simply looking for one of the cheapest Carnival cruise ships, a solid bet is Carnival Conquest. It offers Bahamas and Caribbean voyages of three to five nights. Think of it this way: The shorter the cruise , the less expensive it will be.

Plus, it sails from Miami, one of the world’s largest cruise hubs. More ships leaving from a specific port means more competition, which can drive prices lower.

Related: The 8 classes of Carnival ships, explained

Carnival Conquest is one of the line’s oldest ships, but it’s also a ton of fun. Because short sailings tend to attract a more lively crowd, passengers can expect lots of dancing, socializing and late nights at Henri’s Dance Club. During the day, passengers enjoy spending time around the pool and grabbing free burgers from Guy’s Burger Joint.

It’s also one of the few vessels left in the fleet that still features jaw-dropping interiors designed by renowned architect Joe Farcus, who made Carnival synonymous with quirky patterns, bright colors and neon lights.

At the time of publication, prices started from $47 per person, per night, for an inside cabin.

Carnival Sunrise: Best Carnival cruise ship for singles

Unfortunately, Carnival has been slow to adopt solo cabins, meaning that no ships in its fleet offer accommodations for one.

Because all staterooms are designed for double occupancy, it’s generally a rule that a person traveling alone must pay both fares. This means they would pay twice as much per person as two people sharing a room.

Related: The best cruise ships for solo travelers

In order to make the single supplement as affordable as possible, solo Carnival cruisers will want to balance finding an inexpensive vessel with choosing one that sails short itineraries. They’ll also probably want one that’s a bit livelier (read: not the oldest in the fleet).

A great contender for the title of best Carnival ship for singles is Carnival Sunrise. Formerly Carnival Triumph, the ship was completely gutted, overhauled and renamed in 2019. Although it originally debuted in 1999, it feels fresh and nearly new. It offers the line’s signature Serenity adults-only sun deck, RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and a slew of lounges, nightclubs and daily activities.

Combine that with short, affordable voyages from Miami, and you can sail to the Bahamas or Caribbean for four or five nights from as little as $104 per night if you’re solo. Short sailings also tend to draw a more fun-loving, social crowd. So, if your goal is to mingle and potentially meet other solo cruisers, you stand a good chance on Carnival Sunrise.

Carnival Pride: Best ship for retirees

Retired travelers have all the time in the world to take longer cruises, which generally allow them to visit more far-flung locales. Those trips can come with a substantial price tag, which is why, as a budget option, Carnival is such a great choice.

In particular, Carnival Pride’s voyages consist of nine- and 12-night itineraries to the Baltic, British Isles and Iceland on a regular cadence. Longer voyages mean more time to explore but also fewer children and less of a frat party vibe. (Take note if you’re thinking of bringing your grandkids.)

Related: The 7 best cruises for seniors who love to travel

Carnival Pride is one of the oldest ships sailing for Carnival. That actually works in its favor if you’re a retiree who enjoys smaller ships and vintage design — in this case, more artwork and decor by Farcus.

In addition to a comedy club and an onboard spa, the ship also offers an adults-only sun deck, several bars and lounges, and plenty of dining options and daily activities to stave off boredom on longer voyages.

Bottom line

So, which Carnival cruise ship is the best? It all depends on your specific preferences. Whether you’re searching for an inexpensive vacation, a family-friendly vessel or a ship that will take you on a longer voyage to Europe, there’s a Carnival cruise to fit your taste and budget.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Carnival to Cruisers: You Know We Can See You Naked, Right?

If you're naked on a cruise ship balcony, can anyone see you? Carnival Cruise Line weighs in.

By Jason Cochran

March 13, 2024

Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald is paid to take lots of Carnival cruises and spend his days responding to cruise nuts on Facebook . You'll see that as either the best job in the world or a living hell.

Heald is known for peppering his possibly infernal professional duties with amusingly frank discussions with his 572,000 followers about topics such as  smoking pot in cabins , elevator etiquette , and the best comedy club seating location for Karens.

On March 11, Heald broached a new subject altogether: cruising in the altogether.

Many cruise passengers among us—and we won't bother with a head count here, just take our word for it—have been known to step out of their cabins and onto their balconies while in the nude. The reasons for doing so begin with curating an even tan and descend from there, but rest assured it's a thing. Especially when ships are at sea and there's no land nearby, some cruisers figure there's no harm in getting a little sunshine in the nuddy.

Carnival's Heald has an important bulletin for those folks.

"If you're naked on your balcony drinking your morning coffee and enjoying your morning coffee and your neighbors can't see you, it's fine," Heald wrote. "But remember, the officers on the bridge can see it all."

In other words, if you've ever gone onto a cruise balcony in your birthday suit, you gave an unrequested gift to the people steering the ship. It's a chilling thought to go along with that chilly ocean breeze.

For a lot of reasons, including watching out for fires and passenger safety, the control room located atop all cruise ships is designed to obtain side views of the vessel through a variety of ways, including multiple security cameras.

Cruise ship bridges are usually built with what's called bridge wings , sections of the wheelhouse that jut out over the water expressly to give crews a better view of the ship's sides.

If you think your cabin is safe from officers' patrolling eyes because it's located directly below the bridge, you might be interested to know that many bridge wings also have clear floors that enable crew to peer at the balconies directly underneath.

Although it was thoughtful of Carnival to confirm the prevalence of balcony nudity, many cruise passengers won't be surprised. In fact, some have documented sightings of their own, such as this (mercifully) censored one on YouTube.

Heald also reminded would-be streakers that even if the watchful eyes of the crew don't deter nudity, there's always the chance that there will be a boat nearby.

"If you wake up [and] pull the curtains open from your Ocean View window, 100 plus people getting on the tender boat can see it all," warned Heald.

Heald wrote that a commenter he called "L" experienced just such an exposure recently on the Carnival Magic in Belize.

Heald's followers piped up with their own eyeball-scorching experiences of surprise nudity during cruise vacations. More than a few added that most cruise ship balconies are also visible to neighboring units through narrow gaps next to dividing screens. When you peer through those cracks, it's sometimes possible to see a reflection of your neighbors in window glass or in the glass on the balcony balustrade.

Though Carnival's warning seems to urge balcony-goers to cover up, lovebirds might find it interesting to note that rival Royal Caribbean  put out a press release  in 2012 touting a survey of cruise passengers that found that "24% cite their balcony as the place onboard where they would most like to be intimate." And Royal Caribbean didn't discourage that temptation in the slightest.

Come to think of it, neither did Carnival's Heald—he only pointed out that you could be seen in all your glory. 

So what if you don't mind that?

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'I just felt so helpless': Carnival Sunrise cruise ship faces flooding

A Carnival Cruise Line ship faced flooding on its way back to Miami over the weekend.

Carnival Sunrise was returning from a five-day Caribbean cruise at the time. Passenger Rachel Cox woke up to pounding on her cabin door around 2 a.m. on Saturday.

As she and her family got out of bed, they stepped into what she estimated was 2 to 4 inches of water. “We opened the door and people are yelling and screaming ‘Hey, we're taking on water. We're flooding,’ ” she told USA TODAY.

Cox, 38, was staying in an inside cabin on Deck 10 with her partner and son, and her mother and daughter stayed in the adjacent room.

After a man wearing what looked like a security uniform told them to go to their muster station, they gathered their belongings and scrambled down the stairs – in part because water was pooling around the elevator bank.

“We're literally running down the stairwells, and as we are, (on) every single floor water's just coming out of the ceilings, it’s coming up through the floor, we see water on the sides of the walls,” said the Arkansas-based nonprofit executive director.

The captain came to speak with Cox and other guests holed up in the ship’s Liquid Lounge. He informed them that the vessel had taken on water and that bad weather had changed their route, though Cox said the captain did not get specific. Cox and her family did not hear any other official updates from the line, but the crew distributed bottled water and a small number of blankets to passengers.

They stayed there until they got off the ship shortly after 8 a.m. Saturday (though Cox and her partner did go back upstairs briefly to retrieve their life jackets).

Story continues below.

“Carnival Sunrise encountered heavy rain while the ship was returning to Miami overnight Friday into Saturday,” Carnival spokesperson Matt Lupoli said in an emailed statement. “Some staterooms were taken out of service for Saturday's departure as our team completed clean up and replaced carpet. Those guests who were not able to sail were provided full refunds, a future cruise credit and received overnight accommodations if they needed them.”

Cox said the cruise line did not initially offer her a refund or other compensation, despite her belongings getting wet, including large suitcases the crew had stored ahead of disembarkation. She contacted Carnival when she got home and said she didn’t hear back until Wednesday morning, when a guest services representative asked to set up a call.

A couple of hours later, the cruise line also sent her a note signed by Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy, offering a 25% future cruise credit and inviting guests to submit documentation for review of damage to personal belongings.

“On behalf of the entire Carnival family, I am writing to express our sincerest apologies for the inconvenience you experienced as a result of the water intrusion incident that occurred the final night of the voyage,” Duffy said in the email, which Cox shared with USA TODAY. “We understand that being moved from your stateroom during those late hours must have been frustrating, and we deeply regret the disruption to your plans and comfort.”

Lupoli said in a separate statement that passengers "affected by the flooding incident on Carnival Sunrise were directed to the main lounge, not their muster stations, where our team worked to make them as comfortable as possible."

"The captain apologized for what occurred on board, a burst pipe due to a large amount of rainwater, and our Guest Care team has followed up as well, sending a letter and issuing a credit for those inconvenienced," he said. "We appreciate their understanding and support."

What is the best time to take a cruise?: We broke it down by region

Cox, who has been on over a dozen Carnival cruises, said the experience soured her on taking another – at least for now. “I had several pleasant experiences before this one, but at this moment in time, I can't imagine ever getting on another ship because I just felt so helpless.”

The news comes after Royal Caribbean International’s Serenade of the Seas, which is now operating the nine-month Ultimate World Cruise, also experienced flooding after rough weather off the coast of South America in January.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Royal Caribbean drink packages: Prices, inclusions and what to know before you buy

Royal Caribbean drink packages allow you to drink what you want, when you want without feeling like you are being nickeled and dimed. Isn't that most cruisers' dream? The all-inclusive, extra-fee beverage plans aren't necessarily for everyone, but they offer a nice way to enhance your cruise and take some of the stress out of in-the-moment vacation decisions.

Royal Caribbean ships offer a variety of packages, from a simple Water Package that keeps you and your crew hydrated during your cruise to a comprehensive plan that includes most alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. Other than the Water Package, which is priced based on the quantity you order, drink packages on Royal Caribbean are priced per person, per day.

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

The most common questions about Royal Caribbean's drink packages revolve around what each package includes, whether they are worth the price and when is the best time to buy your package. I've tried all of Royal Caribbean's drink packages. I've also cruised without a package. Here's what you need to know to decide if a beverage plan is right for you.

What's included in Royal Caribbean's drink packages?

Royal Caribbean offers a few different drink packages, and the inclusions vary based on your choice. All options include gratuities, and no Royal Caribbean drink package covers room service or minibar drinks. Also, unlimited alcoholic beverage packages may not be available while the ship sails in some locations, so package details may change based on the itinerary.

Related: Cruise drink packages: A line-by-line guide

Water Package

Royal Caribbean's Water Package is available in 12- and 24-packs of 1-liter bottles of Evian water. The bottles will be delivered to your cabin on embarkation day.

If you don't want to pay for a Water Package, you can find drinking water at complimentary drink stations in the buffet area and often in other locations on Royal Caribbean ships. Bring your own reusable bottle and fill it from these stations or straight from the faucet in your cabin. The water throughout the ships is not only drinkable but also better than what's available in many cities. You can also purchase bottles of water a la carte.

Why might you consider a Water Package? If you drink bottled water at home, you may prefer the taste. The package also allows you to have plenty of water on hand in your cabin or to take on excursions.

The downside is that 1-liter bottles are not the ideal size for lugging off the ship with you. You must either bring a reusable bottle or purchase single-serving bottles for port days. You can get these at bars or the gangway as you disembark in each port.

Classic Soft Drinks Package

Royal Caribbean's Soft Drinks Package is for the serious soda drinker. On select ships, the package comes with a souvenir Coca-Cola cup with a chip on the bottom to allow the holder to use the Freestyle soda dispensing machines throughout the ship. The "magic" cup gets you all the refills you want 24 hours a day, with your pick of sodas with add-in flavorings. (Orange Coke is my fave.) Coca-Cola Freestyle machines are available on 18 ships in the fleet.

You can also order a glass of soda at any restaurant or bar on board. Some venues only serve fountain sodas, but others have cans. One big bonus of the package is that sodas on Royal Caribbean's private island destinations ( Perfect Day at Coco Cay and Labadee ) are included. The only time you can't get a free soda with this package is with room service (because room service, other than continental breakfast, comes with a $7.95 service fee, no matter what you order) or from your cabin's minibar.

Related: 8 best drinks to order with a cruise ship beverage package (and 3 to avoid)

You can bring up to 12 cans of soda (or bottles up to 17 ounces) per person on board with you in your carry-on luggage when you board the ship. So, why would you want a Classic Soft Drinks Package?

It's a question of convenience. I've been known to take a couple of 16-ounce bottles of soda on board with me, but carrying on much more than that is a big hassle. With a Classic Soft Drinks Package, you can easily access your beverage of choice anywhere you are on board — including ordering sodas from roaming bar servers at the pool, in the casino or at events and shows — or on Royal Caribbean's private islands . You don't have to return to your room to grab a soda. It's also great for older kids and teens who might be roaming the ship with friends.

Refreshment Package

This is my favorite Royal Caribbean drink package. It includes still and sparkling water, sodas (with the included Freestyle magic cup), mocktails, premium coffees and teas (but not those from Starbucks stand-alone stores or kiosks) and freshly squeezed juices.

With this package, you can order almost anything nonalcoholic at bars and most restaurants on board. The Refreshment Package does not include shakes at Johnny Rockets, which are only included with the Deluxe Beverage Package.

Even the smoothies and protein shakes at Vitality Cafe and milkshakes at Johnny Rockets are included in this package, as is the sweet tea at Portside BBQ on Oasis of the Seas. Want a strawberry slushy? Order a virgin strawberry daiquiri. Want hot cocoa? Covered. How about a virgin mudslide? A bartender will happily blend up vanilla ice cream, coffee, hazelnut syrup and chocolate syrup into a perfect mocha shake.

As with the Classic Soft Drinks Package, you can order your nonalcoholic beverages, from sparkling water to fancy mocktails, from your pool lounger or blackjack table.

Plus, with the Refreshment Package, you've solved the problem of needing water to take off the ship with you for excursions and what to drink while on the private islands. It's all included in this package.

Deluxe Beverage Package

This package takes all that's available in the Refreshment Package (sodas, water, mocktails, premium coffee and tea, and fresh-squeezed juice) and adds cocktails, spirits and liquors, as well as beer by the bottle or can and wine by the glass.

There are some limits on brands available with the package, but the list includes imported, domestic and craft beer, an extensive wine list and commonly ordered spirit brands on drinks up to $14. Any bar server can tell you what's available on your cruise.

You also get a hefty 40% discount on bottles of wine up to $100 and a 20% discount on bottles over $100. It's handy for sharing a bottle with your travel partner at dinner.

As with the Classic Soft Drinks and Refreshment packages, you can use the Deluxe Beverage Package anywhere on board (except stand-alone Starbucks locations). Use it in restaurants, bars and any other venue where a bar server is present, as well as at either of Royal Caribbean's private island destinations. The Deluxe Beverage Package also includes milkshakes at Johnny Rockets.

This package comes with a few caveats. If one person in a cabin buys this package, everyone of legal drinking age in the cabin must buy the same package, according to cruise line policy. If someone in your room does not drink alcohol, don't worry. I've encountered many people who have called customer service and downgraded one or more non-drinking adults to a Refreshment Package.

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The package also does not include drinks that come with souvenir glasses, but you can order the same drink in a regular glass.

If your vacation plans include alcoholic beverages, buying this package is a nice way to pay your cruise bar tab in advance rather than deal with the shock of a high bill at the end of the cruise.

Cafe Select Coffee Card

This option is ideal for cruisers who prefer a little fancier caffeine fix than what a simple cup of coffee provides. This card entitles you to any 15 specialty espresso-based coffees throughout your cruise. (This package excludes beverages from Starbucks stores or cafes.) One shot of espresso equals one card punch. If you order a specialty coffee that includes two shots of espresso, you will pay for that one drink with two punches.

Unlike Royal Caribbean's other drink packages, the Cafe Select Coffee Card is not restricted to one person, and anyone in your cabin can use it.

What do Royal Caribbean drink packages cost?

The cruise line uses dynamic pricing on beverage packages the same way it does on cruise fares. That means you won't know the prices for each package before you book a cruise. Demand, destination and promotions play a big part in the pricing, especially for the Deluxe Beverage Package, causing them to fluctuate slightly.

Here's what you can expect a Royal Caribbean drink package to cost:

• Water Package : 12 bottles for $39; 24 bottles for $69
• Classic Soft Drinks Package : $12.99 per person, per day
• Refreshment Package : $29 per person, per day
• Deluxe Beverage Package : $56 to $105 per person, per day (depending on your ship and trip)
• Cafe Select Coffee Card : $31 per card

The prices listed above do not include an automatic 18% gratuity (which is also applied to the coffee card). You'll want to factor that amount into your travel budget if you decide to purchase a package.

You will notice that the Deluxe Beverage Package price range listed above is a bit wider than what is posted on Royal Caribbean's site. Posted price ranges include the disclaimer that prices on individual sailings may vary. We used a realistic range of prices from Royal Caribbean guests who have booked cruises and paid for drink packages in the past 12 months.

The best time to buy Royal Caribbean drink packages

You can purchase a beverage package as soon as you book your cruise, but should you? A lot depends on how soon your ship will depart. If you're sailing within a few months, go ahead and get any packages you plan to buy — unless Black Friday happens before you sail. Black Friday deals on drink packages are generally the lowest you'll find all year.

The package that varies most in price is the Deluxe Beverage Package. Its price is higher during peak travel times and on cruises with stops at private islands. Buying this package ahead of time is always cheaper than purchasing it once you're on board.

Royal Caribbean does advertise price drops and deals for pre-cruise purchases. If you're waiting and hoping for a deal, frequent cruisers report that you should look at the actual price per person, per day, not at the percentage off or BOGO deals, to determine if the package price is where you want it.

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Is a Royal Caribbean drink package worth it?

Now that you know your choices and why you might want each package, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of whether these packages are worth purchasing.

The 1-liter bottles in the Water Package cost roughly the same as a 12-ounce bottle from a bar. That makes this package a deal, but only if you prefer bottled water over taps or dispensers. It's also convenient to have the water delivered to your cabin, eliminating the need to bring a case of bottles on board or search for a bottle when you want water on the ship.

When ordering an individual soda on the ship, your charge will be what you'd expect to pay at a land-based restaurant, plus an 18% gratuity added automatically. When you ask a bar server for a soda on the ship, you'll be charged just over $4 per soda with the tip, regardless of whether it comes in a can or from a fountain.

As the starting point for the Classic Soft Drinks Package is just over $15 per person, per day with the gratuity, you'll need to count on drinking a minimum of four sodas a day for it to be a good value.

If you prefer nonalcoholic beverages, you can expect to pay around $7 for mocktails and protein shakes, $5 for lattes at non-Starbucks locations and close to $9 for smoothies. These prices are before the automatic 18% gratuity.

Here's what your daily consumption might look like on the Refreshment Package: You could start with a morning latte ($6 after you add gratuity), grab water for your excursion ($3.84), enjoy a soda at lunch ($4), sip a couple of mocktails during the afternoon ($8.25 each), have another soda with dinner ($4) and enjoy another mocktail for the show or in the casino ($8.25).

That puts you at over $40 for the day, making the Refreshment Package a deal at $34 (with tip) per person, per day. Drink much less than that, and this Royal Caribbean drink package won't be worth it. The Refreshment Package price varies only slightly between sailings.

For alcoholic drinks, prices vary a lot based on your order. Beer and hard cider average $7 to $9. Wine by the glass is $9 to $25. Cocktails are $10 to $14, except for the drink of the day, which is $8. These prices do not include the 18% gratuity.

When deciding if Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package is worth it, be sure to factor in nonalcoholic drinks you are likely to have, not just those with alcohol. How many premium coffees do you drink each day, including one with your dessert at dinner? How many bottles of water and sodas?

The value of those often adds up to $25 or more per day. That leaves you with somewhere between $30 and $80 per day to spend on alcoholic drinks to break even.

If you're lucky and can purchase your package at the lowest possible price, almost anyone who drinks a combination of nonalcoholic drinks and a couple of cocktails daily would break even. But if your purchase price is somewhere in the middle of the price range (where most people land), you would need to consume a minimum of $55 per day beyond the average nonalcoholic beverages to break even. That equals six beers, or four or five glasses of wine or cocktails.

Related: Are cruise drink packages worth the price? What to know before you buy

For fans of specialty coffees, this package could save you money. Based on the price of a single espresso shot latte (about $6 after you add gratuity), you would only get five coffees for roughly the same cost as the coffee card. Since you get 15 single espresso shot beverages with the coffee card, you get more than double the number of coffees for the same price.

Whichever package you choose, your value may also depend on your itinerary and activities. On a Caribbean cruise that includes a sea day or two and a stop at CocoCay, you'll likely drink more — simply because you're relaxing more than touring, and the hot temperatures will make you thirsty.

But what about a port-intensive cruise in Europe where you are off the ship for long hours and likely to be sampling local beverages? In that case, the ship's beverage package might not come through for you.

Combined packages

If you mainly drink specialty coffees and sodas, one way to save a little money on your beverages is to combine the Cafe Select Coffee Card with the Classic Soda Package.

For example, you would need to purchase the Refreshment Package to get both sodas and premium coffees and teas, which is $29 per person, per day. The cost for the Cafe Select Coffee Card with the Classic Soda Package would run you $12.99 per day, plus a one-time cost of $31 for the card. So, for a five-night cruise, the Refreshment Package would cost you $145 per person; the combined Cafe Select Coffee Card and Classic Soda would cost $95.95 per person. You could spend even less if you're traveling with a partner and want to share one coffee card and each get your own soda package.

Additional factors

Before you decide if a Royal Caribbean drink package is worth it, there are two more things to consider: your Crown & Anchor loyalty status and your Casino Royale player status .

If you are a Diamond C&A member, your SeaPass card will be loaded with four free drinks per day. Diamond Plus members get five drinks, and Pinnacle members get six. Those can be water, specialty coffee or tea (other than from Starbucks and Desserted), sodas from bar servers, beer, wine or cocktails up to $14 (except at Bionic Bar).

As for casino perks, if your status is Prime or higher, you can drink free from the casino bar anytime it is open.

Those free perks could make the difference in which package you choose, if any. For example, a Diamond member might use her free drink allotment on cocktails and wine and save money with a Refreshment or Soda Package for her other daily drinks. Or, perhaps, the free drinks are enough that it's cheaper to buy a few nonalcoholic beverages a la carte.

Diamond Plus members also have a discount of 30% on Deluxe Beverage Packages when purchased on board. That's rarely a good deal unless you simply forget to buy in advance, as pre-purchase in the cruise planner or app is almost always at least 30% lower than the onboard price.

Bottom line: Is a drink package on Royal Caribbean right for you?

Now that you have all the facts, there are several ways to look at Royal Caribbean's drink packages to determine if you should get one.

First, consider every kind of drink you will likely pay for on board. Are you happy with beverages that are included in the cruise fare? Those include tap water, drip coffee, tea, milk, lemonade and juice from a dispenser at breakfast. Or, will your vacation only be complete with morning lattes, smoothies, fruity drinks by the pool and wine with dinner?

For some people, it's easy. If you're likely to drink four or five cocktails most days, plus specialty coffee, waters for excursions, soda and a glass of wine at dinner, your total, if purchased individually, would easily exceed $80 per day. Unless your sailing has a higher-than-average price for the package, go for it.

However, if you typically only drink a couple of glasses of wine at dinner, you aren't likely to break even — at least, not on the Deluxe Beverage Package. In that case, skip the package that includes alcohol and do the math on the Refreshment Package.

If you drink soda, the difference in price between the Classic Soft Drinks Package and the Refreshment Package is $16. Almost any combination of two other drinks — lattes, mocktails, smoothies or bottled water — makes the Refreshment Package a deal for you. If you can live without the extras, stick with the soda-only package.

If none of those looks like a bargain, pay as you go. Some people set a daily drink budget and check themselves (or their kids) against their folio in the Royal Caribbean app or on the interactive TV in their cabin. I've even met people who bring cash along to pay their drink balance daily at guest services to stay on track.

The other side of the equation is to factor the price of the drink package into the total vacation cost to make the cruise more of an all-inclusive vacation experience. Think about it like you would an all-inclusive land-based resort. When you vacation at one of those, you not only wouldn't know the price of the drinks you consume, but you also would not care.

If you're more interested in a stress-free vacation where you don't have to agonize about the cost of every drink you consume than you are in paying the least amount of money possible for your vacation, a Royal Caribbean drink package is totally worth it.

The bottom line is that drink packages on Royal Caribbean expand your choices. You can use packages to make your cruise as all-inclusive as you'd like (and maybe save some money in the process), or you can opt to cruise and drink in pay-as-you-go mode. Either way, you'll find plenty of fun cocktails and mocktails, as well as your favorite wine and beer, to enhance your vacation at sea.

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