Carnival Cruise vs Royal Caribbean
An Honest Comparison for First-Time Cruisers
Image by Royal Caribbean
Choosing the Right Cruise Line
Planning your first cruise can be an exhilarating experience filled with anticipation and a touch of uncertainty. The decision of which cruise line to choose can be a daunting task, especially when faced with the options presented by two industry giants: Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International. Each offers unique experiences, and your choice can greatly impact your vacation.
Take a moment to reflect on your personal preferences and what you are looking to gain from your cruise before making any decisions. Are you looking for non-stop entertainment, activities that are suitable for the whole family, or a laid-back and chill environment?
Each ship has its own unique set of amenities and itineraries, so it's crucial to do your research and compare various factors, such as prices, ports of call, and ship options, particularly for your desired region.
Reading reviews from other cruisers can provide valuable insights into what to expect onboard. However, keep in mind that each person's experience is unique; don't let a few unfavorable reviews deter you. They often reflect personal expectations rather than the cruise line's general level of quality.
This guide will help you navigate these choices, ensuring your first cruise is memorable and tailored to your tastes.
Fleet Overview
When it comes to fleet size, Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line are two of the biggest players in the cruise industry. Royal Caribbean boasts 29 ships in its fleet, while Carnival Cruise Line has 26. Both cruise lines offer a wide range of ship sizes and ages, ensuring there's something for every type of traveler.
Royal Caribbean's fleet includes some of the largest and most innovative ships at sea. The Oasis-class ships, like the Symphony of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas, are all over 1,180 feet (360 meters) long and can accommodate over 6,000 passengers and 2,200 staff. However, one of RCL's latest additions to their fleet, the Icon of the Seas, holds the title of the world's largest cruise liner. This new marvel of engineering is 1,1967 feet (365 meters) long, with 20 decks that can accommodate 7,600 passengers, and 2,350 crew members - staggering!
Carnival Cruise Line also has some mammoth cruise liners that go toe-to-toe with RCL. The Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Mardi Gras are their three largest cruise lines, with a capacity of over 6,600 guests and measuring 1,130 feet (344 meters) in length.
Image by Carnival
However, getting to experience these massive cruise lines and all their amenities does come at a cost. So depending on your budget, you may have to opt for the smaller cruise lines like Freedom of the Seas from RCL or Carnival Vista from Carnival Cruises. But if it's your first time going on a cruise, then the old saying goes, Go big or go home.
Our choice: Draw
Cruise Fares and Pricing
When it comes to pricing, Carnival Cruises are generally much cheaper. For example, this 7-night Western Caribbean package from RCL starts at $1,718 per person, whereas a similar 7-day Western Caribbean cruise from Carnival has a cruise fare of $1,239 per person.
However, the onboard experience justifies the price difference. Royal Caribbean ships are much more luxurious, with advanced amenities and activities aimed at providing a premium cruise experience. For instance, the Star of the Seas, which hosts the package mentioned above, has an AquaDome stunt area, Broadway on Ice, a FlowRider surf simulator, a Central Park open-air garden with over 20,000 plants and trees, and so much more.
Carnival aims to provide value for money, making it a popular choice for families and young budget-conscious travelers. Their fares often include a wide range of activities, dining options, and entertainment without the need for extra spending. Some of the many activities include Family Feud game shows, water parks, theatre shows, comedy clubs, nightclubs, and even art exhibitions.
Both cruise lines frequently provide incredible promotions and discounts that you can make the most of. By subscribing to their mailing lists, you can stay in the loop and be the first to know about these exclusive deals.
Our choice: Carnival Cruise Lines.
Demographics and Atmosphere
Carnival cruises are famously known as the "Fun Ships" and are celebrated for their lively, party-like atmosphere. The cruise line often attracts a younger crowd, including families with children, young adults, and groups of friends looking for a good time. The vibe on Carnival ships is energetic and casual, with a focus on entertainment and social activities. From deck parties and nightclubs to themed events, there's always something happening.
While still offering plenty of entertainment and activities, Royal Caribbean generally attracts a slightly older demographic. The atmosphere onboard tends to be more sophisticated, appealing to couples, families, and older adults looking for a balanced mix of excitement and relaxation.
Our choice: It really depends on your preference, but generally speaking, for young people, Carnival, and for old folk, Royal Caribbean.
Itineraries and Destinations
Royal Caribbean has an extensive collection of Caribbean, European, and Asian cruises. Their Caribbean itineraries include some popular destinations like Mexico, Belize, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas. Their Mediterranean cruises are also one of Royal Caribbean's standout offerings, which include shore excursions in iconic cities such as Rome, Athens, and Barcelona.
A highlight on some of Royal Caribbean's itineraries is a visit to their exclusive private island in the Bahamas called Coco Cay. This private island is a one-of-a-kind experience, with its waterparks, beach clubs, and an incredible array of water and adventure activities.
Carnival Cruise Line, while also offering a wide range of destinations, tends to focus more heavily on the Americas and Caribbean regions. They are particularly known for their visits to popular Caribbean destinations like the Bahamas, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. But also include less-visited hidden gems, such as Turks & Caicos, which Royal Caribbean doesn't offer.
Carnival also has its own private destination known as Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic. However, the experience is more laid-back and ideal for relaxing, and it is not as developed as Coco Cay.
Our choice: Royal Caribbean.
Cabins and Accommodations
Cabin Categories
Royal Caribbean stands out for its extensive selection of cabin categories, particularly on its newest ships like the Oasis and Quantum classes. From economical interior rooms with virtual balconies to lavish multi-level loft suites, the variety is designed to suit every traveler.
Carnival Cruise Line does not have the same spectrum of cabin options as Royal Caribbean; however, they make up for it in cabin space. Their staterooms are among the largest in the industry, providing ample space for families and comfort-seeking cruisers. Even their entry-level rooms offer generous layouts, which can be particularly appealing if you prioritize space over luxury.
Suite Privileges
Both cruise lines offer suites that come with exclusive perks. Carnival’s suites grant passengers priority check-in, embarkation, and debarkation, making the entire boarding process smoother and more convenient. These perks can significantly enhance the overall experience, especially for those looking to maximize their time onboard.
Royal Caribbean takes the suite experience a step further with additional luxurious amenities. Guests in suites enjoy private balconies, which are standard, as well as access to dedicated areas like the suite lounge and exclusive sun decks. Moreover, Royal Caribbean suites often come with concierge service, offering personalized assistance for booking dining, excursions, and other onboard activities. This level of service ensures a more tailored and relaxing cruise experience, perfect for those seeking a bit of extra pampering.
Our Choice: Tough decision, but Carnival Cruise for standard cabins, and Royal Caribbean for suites.
Dining and Nightlife
Dining Choices
Carnival is well-known for its complimentary dining venues, offering guests a variety of delicious meals without additional charges. Some standout options include:
Guy’s Burger Joint: A fan favorite, offering gourmet burgers with a variety of toppings.
Blue Iguana Cantina: A go-to spot for fresh Mexican food, including tacos and burritos.
These free options provide substantial meals and are a highlight for many guests, particularly those who want to enjoy great food without extra costs.
While Royal Caribbean also offers complimentary dining, their free options often lean more towards snacks rather than full meals. However, the cruise line excels at its specialty dining offerings, which come with an additional fee. Some popular specialty restaurants include:
Chops Grille: A classic American steakhouse.
Izumi: A haven for sushi and Asian cuisine lovers.
These specialty dining venues provide an elevated culinary experience, though they require extra spending. For food enthusiasts willing to splurge, Royal Caribbean’s specialty restaurants are a highlight of the cruise.
Nightlife
Carnival is renowned for its lively and party-oriented nightlife. Picture deck parties under the stars, themed events, nightclubs, comedy clubs, casinos, live game shows -it’s a whole vibe designed for guests to get loose and have a good time.
In contrast, Royal Caribbean's nightlife tends to be more subdued and sophisticated. While there are still plenty of opportunities for dancing and entertainment, the overall vibe is less about the party and more about offering diverse experiences. Guests can enjoy Broadway-style shows, live music (which recently featured artists like Megan Trainer), elegant lounges, art auctions, and more. This variety makes Royal Caribbean a great choice for those seeking a more relaxed and refined evening experience.
Our choice: For a more all-inclusive dining and nightlife experience - Carnival Cruises.
Onboard Activities and Entertainment
While both cruise lines offer a seemingly endless list of onboard thrills and entertainment, Royal Caribbean ships are known for their diversity and innovation when it comes to entertainment options.
Some highlights onboard Royal Caribbean include:
Ice skating rinks.
Dance classes.
Laser tag.
Water & Adventure Parks.
Rock climbing walls.
Escape rooms.
FlowRider surf simulator.
Sports courts.
Game rooms & arcades.
Fencing & archery.
Game Shows.
Lots of pools!
While Carnival Cruise Line doesn't quite compete with Royal Caribbean ships in terms of variety, they still have some fun and unique activities like:
Sports courts.
Arcade.
Mini Golf.
Cooking classes.
Imax theaters.
Water parks.
Trampoline park.
And also lots of pools!
Our choice: While you will surely not run out of things to do on either cruise line, Royal Caribbean is a clear winner here.
Kids’ Programs and Family Activities
Both lines have well-established programs to keep your kids happy, so you can get some downtime to relax and do grown-up things. Carnival offers programs for all age groups, like Camp Ocean, Space Cruisers for children aged 2–11, and the O2 Club and Circle "C" for teens. The cruise also has a Dr. Seuss-inspired range of activities and events on board for kids.
Royal Caribbean offers a range of engaging programs for kids and teens through its Adventure Ocean youth program. This award-winning program is divided into age-specific groups, such as Aquanauts (3–5 years), Explorers (6–8 years), and Voyagers (9–12 years), each featuring educational and fun activities like science experiments, arts and crafts, and themed parties. Teens can enjoy exclusive spaces like the Living Room and Fuel Teen Club, offering a variety of games, sports, and social events. These programs ensure a memorable and fun-filled cruise experience for young passengers.
Our choice: Draw.
Final Thoughts
Both cruise lines offer different value propositions and cater to different target customers. Carnival Cruise Line caters to the younger generations by offering more party-oriented and budget-friendly experiences. Whereas Royal Caribbean positions itself as an innovative and premium cruise line pushing the limits when it comes to opulence and grandeur, which naturally come with an expensive price tag.
However, compared to other cruise lines, Carnival and Royal Caribbean are both highly reputable leaders in the cruise industry and will both offer an incredible and unforgettable 5-star experience as a first-time cruiser.