carnival cruise ship christmas decorations

When Each Carnival Ship Will Be Decorated For Christmas 2023

by Prof. Cruise · November 1, 2023

Are you booked on a Carnival cruise near the holidays and wondering when your ship will be decorated for Christmas? Perhaps you’re sailing in late November or early December and hoping to get that perfect Christmas card photo while onboard?

Here’s when each Carnival ship will be decorated for Christmas in 2023:

BREEZE: Saturday, November 25, 2023

CELEBRATION: Sunday, November 26, 2023

CONQUEST: Friday, November 24, 2023

DREAM: Sunday, November 26, 2023

ELATION: Monday, November 27, 2023

FREEDOM: Monday, December 4, 2023

GLORY: Sunday, November 26, 2023

HORIZON: Saturday, November 25, 2023

JUBILEE: Wednesday, December 20, 2023

LEGEND: Sunday, December 3, 2023

LIBERTY: Monday, November 27, 2023

LUMINOSA: Sunday, December 3, 2023

MAGIC: Saturday, December 2, 2023

MARDI GRAS: Saturday, November 25, 2023

MIRACLE: Saturday, November 25, 2023

PARADISE: Saturday, December 2, 2023

PANORAMA: Sunday, November 26, 2023

PRIDE: Sunday, December 3, 2023

RADIANCE: Friday, November 24, 2023

SPIRIT: Saturday, November 25, 2023

SPLENDOR: Monday, December 4, 2023

SUNRISE: Monday, November 27, 2023

SUNSHINE: Monday, December 4, 2023

VALOR: Monday, November 27, 2023

VENEZIA: Thursday, November 30, 2023

VISTA: Sunday, November 26, 2023

And with that…

Class Dismissed!

Homework (10 points): Have you ever cruised near or over the Christmas holiday (we do it every year!)? Share your experience to the comments!

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[…] few days ago I posted the schedule for when each Carnival ship will be decorated for Christmas. Continuing our countdown to holiday cruise season, here are the special onboard activities that […]

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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CHRISTMAS FUN… AND SO MUCH MORE

Funtastic Christmas cruises also include all the fun of a typical Carnival cruise.

• You could eat three amazing meals a day — plus snacks and more — without paying extra! Great stuff too, from casual munching spots to sit-down dining room meals featuring great dishes designed by Emeril.
• Your ship may even have specialty restaurants like the steakhouse, Cucina del Capitano® with its family-style Italian, Guy Fieri’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse/Brewhouse featuring BBQs and brews, or a Creole bistro by Emeril Lagasse!
• Find our chefs showing off a little — from comfort food to exotic delicacies, get ready to discover new favorites, always fresh.
• We accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions and preferences, including an entire vegan dining room menu. Plus kids’ menus are ready to please even the pickiest little palates.
• Any hour of the day — all 24 of ‘em — is the best time to enjoy room service, plus soft-serve and pizza are available late into the night.

Entertainment

• Enjoy a high-energy stage show spectacular featuring singers, dancers and tunes you love.
• Move to the beat of live music performances, plus DJs spinning in locations around the ship.
• Show what you know — themed trivia’s going down, so start getting warmed up.
• If live-’n-lively music is your thing, hit the piano bar for fun sing-alongs.
• There’s something funny about our onboard comedy club, which features laugh-out-loud performances, some just for adults and some for everyone.
• Gather at the club, grab a drink and party till late, all to the beat of the latest tunes and classics.

Outdoor Activities

• Splash into pools, go for a swim… and don’t forget the poolside bars.
• Adults have their own place to relax away from all the action and the… well, kids: it’s Serenity Adult-Only Retreat™!
• There are plenty of ways to play — and what’s more, win — with outdoor sports activities like mini-golf.
• Pack your running shoes — there’s a jogging track with an ocean view and a breeze!

Kids & Teens

• Carnival cruises feature supervised youth activities all day long, clubs where they can hang out and make new friends.
• There are four separate youth programs: Camp Ocean ® for ages 2-11, Circle “C ® ” for 12-14 and Club O2 ® for 15-17… plus now there’s Turtles ® for the under-2s!
• Whatever kind of fun they're into — games, movies, music, karaoke and more — we've got it.
• Keep them in good hands while you enjoy evening entertainment, with available babysitting service. (For ages 11 and under.)

• Open the door and you’ll find soft, comfy linens, plus a full private bathroom with shower. Ahh, the comforts of home!
• You’ve got a stateroom attendant, ready to take care of your needs.
• Room service is always on the menu, 24 hours a day (and night!). Delivery is just a quick call away.
• Some rooms come with a view, some with balconies… and some even have a connecting door or extra half-bathroom!

Exotic Destinations

• For your Christmas cruise, choose from the tropical Caribbean islands, The Bahamas and its crystal-clear waters, or culture-packed Mexico.
• Wake up in a new port each morning — it’s like taking multiple vacations in one trip!
• Find great activities ashore like snorkeling, parasailing or swimming with dolphins.
• Taking it slow is always an option, too — think sunning on the beach, catamaran cruising or swaying hammocks in the shade.

Spend Christmas aboard… and you’re gonna have photos to share! Hashtag yours #CarnivalCruise and #Christmas to submit.

• Carnival Cruise Lines

Christmas Decorating Schedule

By Dwright826 , October 28, 2023 in Carnival Cruise Lines

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Does anyone know when they typically start decorating ships for an upcoming holiday? We'll be on the radiance Dec 4th to Dec 8th. 

If you have anything negative to say, please don't. Take it somewhere else.

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I would say the odds are good that the ship will be decorated by that cruise.

Last year, we returned on Thanksgiving Day, and we noticed them unpacking Christmas decorations as we debarked. 

We often cruise Thanksgiving week.... Ship is fully decorated when we disembark

lasvegascruising

It's pretty fun to cruise during the Christmas season.  Christmas sing Along's in the atrium, the grinch at the afternoon show on the last sea day, Santa visiting in the atrium and many cabin doors decorated with Christmas decor.  Last December we were on the Panorama and really enjoyed the evening that Santa was coming to the atrium and so many families and couples were dressed up for pictures by the huge Christmas tree with Santa.  It was such a joy to watch the happiness on the guests faces. The fun squad passed out jingle bell bracelets for all of us to shake and sing at the top of our lungs. I highly suggest to packing some type of Christmas clothing item.  Even if it is just Christmas socks with shorts!

Definitely. Christmas decorations and activities.

We cruised on the Spirit on December 3, 2022.  The ship was beautifully decorated and they added some touches throughout the week.  

8 hours ago, Saint Greg said: Definitely. Christmas decorations and activities.    

18 hours ago, lasvegascruising said: It's pretty fun to cruise during the Christmas season.  Christmas sing Along's in the atrium, the grinch at the afternoon show on the last sea day, Santa visiting in the atrium and many cabin doors decorated with Christmas decor.  Last December we were on the Panorama and really enjoyed the evening that Santa was coming to the atrium and so many families and couples were dressed up for pictures by the huge Christmas tree with Santa.  It was such a joy to watch the happiness on the guests faces. The fun squad passed out jingle bell bracelets for all of us to shake and sing at the top of our lungs. I highly suggest to packing some type of Christmas clothing item.  Even if it is just Christmas socks with shorts!

THATS AWESOME! We are quite excited now. This will be our first holiday cruise and can't wait to see what we have in store. 

hurricane0226

On 10/28/2023 at 11:25 PM, lasvegascruising said: It's pretty fun to cruise during the Christmas season.  Christmas sing Along's in the atrium, the grinch at the afternoon show on the last sea day, Santa visiting in the atrium and many cabin doors decorated with Christmas decor.  Last December we were on the Panorama and really enjoyed the evening that Santa was coming to the atrium and so many families and couples were dressed up for pictures by the huge Christmas tree with Santa.  It was such a joy to watch the happiness on the guests faces. The fun squad passed out jingle bell bracelets for all of us to shake and sing at the top of our lungs. I highly suggest to packing some type of Christmas clothing item.  Even if it is just Christmas socks with shorts!

Don't forget, ugly sweater .

CarnivalShips480

On 10/28/2023 at 5:08 PM, Dwright826 said: Does anyone know when they typically start decorating ships for an upcoming holiday? We'll be on the radiance Dec 4th to Dec 8th.      If you have anything negative to say, please don't. Take it somewhere else.

Last year the ships were decorated from November 25 to December 5 (which was a Monday). For what its worth Radiance was the first to be decorated. Anything could happen but it will most likely be decorated by your cruise on Dec 4

1st4our25th

Rollin Tide

Rats, the day we get off the Vista.

28 minutes ago, 1st4our25th said:  

Yaaaaaaaassss!

TravelBluebird

I’ll be on the Celebration for their first Christmas-decorated cruise! SO excited! Will be doing a LIVE for that cruise of course 😀

Honolulu Blue

Thanks.  This was announced by Brand Ambassador John Heald on his FB page.  I find it important to reveal the source of any information, especially on the Internet.

3 hours ago, Honolulu Blue said: Thanks.  This was announced by Brand Ambassador John Heald on his FB page.  I find it important to reveal the source of any information, especially on the Internet.

Yes, it was.

17 hours ago, Rollin Tide said: Rats, the day we get off the Vista.

Thanksgiving cruises have never had Christmas decorations displayed.

Just got this from my PVP! I know this was asked about recently so wanted to pass it along.   

2023 Holiday Decoration Schedule

Have you ever dreamed of celebrating Christmas at sea? You should — And it’s no wonder — every ship is decked out, bow-to-stern, with wreaths, lights, Christmas trees… and ooh, mistletoe!

•    November 24th: Carnival Conquest and Carnival Radiance

•    November 25th: Carnival Breeze, Carnival Horizon, Mardi Gras, Carnival Miracle and Carnival Spirit

•    November 26th: Carnival Celebration, Carnival Dream, Carnival Glory, Carnival Panorama and Carnival Vista

•    November 27th: Carnival Elation, Carnival Liberty, Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Valor

•    November 30th: Carnival Venezia

•    December 2nd:  Carnival Magic and Carnival Paradise

•    December 3rd:   Carnival Legend, Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Pride

•    December 4th:   Carnival Freedom, Carnival Splendor and Carnival Sunshine

Happy Holidays! 

FYI to all,

Three threads regarding the same topic have been merged.  Per the Cruise Critic software, all posts now appear in post date/time order on this newly merged thread. If you were not aware there were three threads,  please read back through this newly merged thread to make sure you have seen  ALL   of the posts so far.

How long do the keep the decoration up? I'll be cruising on the Horizon on January 6th, should I expect the Christmass / New Year's decoration to be taken down by then?

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Carnival’s Christmas Events & Activities [2022]

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• November 29, 2022

December is nearly upon us, and Carnival Cruise Line is gearing up for the Christmastime events that will be held across its entire fleet for the holiday season.

In a post on his Facebook page , brand ambassador John Heald shared a list of the Carnival Cruise Line Christmas themed activities and entertainment that passengers can expect for the coming month.

If you’re wondering when Christmas decorations will go up on each ship, check out Carnival’s Christmas decorating schedule here .

Atrium Celebrations

Tree lighting.

On embarkation evening, the grand Christmas tree in the atrium will be lit during a special ceremony complete with lights that are synchronized to Christmas music.

Ugly Sweater Contest

Guests can participate in an ugly sweater competition hosted by the cruise director. For sailings in Australia, since it’s their warm season this time of year, it will be a “holiday attire” competition instead of sweaters!

‘Tis The Season

Carnival ships will each host a Christmas caroling event, where passengers can sing along to holiday classics in their most festive outfits. (Santa might even make an appearance!)

Entertainment

Christmas show.

A special Carnival Cruise Line Christmas stage show will take place in the main theater, complete with singers, dancers, and a surprise guest flown in from the North Pole. Carnival describes the experience as evoking a “‘home-away-from-home’ atmosphere with its cozy set featuring comfy cushions and throws, a Christmas tree and of course, a visit from Santa.”

Holiday Movies

Christmas movies will be shown on ships that feature the Carnival Seaside Theater or in a lounge on ships without a big screen on the lido deck.

MORE: How to Drop Off Christmas Cards For Carnival Crew Members [2022]

Themed Activities

Holiday trivia.

Find out how much you know about the most wonderful time of the year with Carnival’s holiday trivia. The lineup includes Holiday Trivia, Holiday Radio, Holiday Movies and TV, and Guess That Song Christmas Music.

Christmas Bingo

Wear a holiday sweater and get an extra Bingo card for free with purchase.

Meet The Grinch

Throughout December, The Grinch will be making appearances around the ship.

Holiday Services

Christmas service.

Each ship will hold a special non-denominational Christmas service complete with warm stories, hymns, and prayer. The service will take place on December 24th or 25th.

Hanukkah Service

Starting December 18th, Carnival ships will hold a special Hanukkah service with traditional foods, songs, and prayer. It will take place each night of Hanukkah.

READ NEXT: Carnival Celebration Dining Guide: Which Restaurants Are Complimentary?

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Decorating Your Stateroom Door and Stateroom

We recognize some of our guests like to decorate their staterooms and we, too, love seeing your creative decorations. However, for safety reasons, we must ask that you abide by the following guidelines for decorating your stateroom door as well as the interior of your stateroom.

In the interest of guest and crew safety, the following stateroom decoration policies will be instituted and strictly enforced:

• Decorations may consist only of fire retardant materials. Please note that items sprayed with fire retardant spray are not acceptable
• Decorations may only be placed on the stateroom door and not the surrounding frame, walls or railings
• You may use magnets or Command Strips but no adhesives such as tape or glue.
• Over-the-door hanging organizers must hang inside the stateroom, must also be of fire retardant material and cannot damage the door
• No decorations of any kind are allowed on balconies
• No decorations or items may be placed over light fittings or fixtures. This may restrict the airflow and cause the item to ignite
• No string lights of any kind are allowed

For the safety of all guests and crew, any decorations not made of fire retardant material or deemed flammable, will be removed and no compensation will be provided. Stateroom decorations purchased via our Fun Shops online are made of fire retardant materials. For more information, please visit  www.carnival.com/funshops if you are interested in making a purchase. Where can I find flame retardant decorations? For your convenience, we offer flame retardant decorations on our website at www.carnival.com/funshops .  You can also check at your local party decorations stores or online but it is important to ensure the materials are truly flame retardant and to remember that items sprayed with fire retardant spray are not acceptable. This policy seems extreme. Carnival is taking away something I/my family really enjoy. Why is this necessary? These new requirements are being mandated by our operational safety experts.  Decorations not made of fire retardant material can pose a fire hazard.  We want all of our guests who enjoy decorating their doors and staterooms to be able to continue to do so but it is imperative that guest and crew safety be given top priority.  We very much appreciate your understanding and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.  What if a guest is upset because the sku/decorations received are a different design than what they purchased? We will offer a refund or CruiseCash for the purchase price as needed. Our Retail Assistant Managers will manage the refund process per our normal retail refund procedure.

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