What to Do on a Carnival Cruise

By Karon Warren; Updated June 08, 2017

Making the most of your adventure on the high seas

What to Do on a Carnival Cruise

Branding itself as the line with the “Fun Ships,” Carnival Cruise Lines continues to up its “fun” factor with a variety of on-board activities geared toward travelers of all ages. So whether traveling as a couple, with best friends or with the entire family, cruisers will find more than enough to stay entertained all cruise long. Here are five activities available on most Carnival ships that everyone will enjoy.

1. Splash away at waterworks

Carnival continues to build on and improve its on-board water park, which features water slides, water sprayers and, of course, dumping buckets of all sizes. There are smaller slides for toddlers and bigger slides for older kids and adults. Yes, adults. No one is too old to enjoy this attraction.

Know before you go: Pack swimsuits in carry-on bags, so everyone can change after boarding and head straight to the water park.

2. Take the kids to camp

At Camp Ocean, kids ages 2 to 11 years old can take part in a variety of activities, such as arts and crafts, games, dance contests, watching movies and more, all in a controlled, supervised environment. Kids ages 12 to 14 can head to Circle “C,” where they can hang out, play games or watch movies under the watchful eye of counselors. For teens 15 to 17, Club O2 provides a place to hang out with friends, play video games, practice their karaoke and dance.

Know before you go: Log into your Carnival account, and register the kids for camp. Once on board, just check them in, and they’re ready to play.

3. Enjoy some pampering at the spa

At Cloud 9 Spa, relax in the thalassotherapy pool or thermal suite before or after (or both!) a massage or body treatment. Other spa services may include medi-spa treatments, acupuncture, men’s services, teen services, and a hair and beauty salon.

Know before you go: Book spa services before sailing by logging into your Carnival account. If planning to go on a sea day, book as soon as possible because these appointments go fast.

4. Savor a meal at the specialty restaurants

While Carnival offers a number of inclusive dining spots that are amazing (Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina and Fresh Creations, to name a few), its specialty restaurants are worthy of the additional fee required to dine there. Cucina del Capitano, JiJi Asian Kitchen, Bonsai Sushi and the Steakhouse are especially noteworthy. Not sure about spending the extra cash for these restaurants? Try JiJi Asian Kitchen and Cucina del Capitano for free during lunch for a limited menu.

Know before you go: For the best seating and times, make reservations at the specialty restaurants online through your Carnival account.

5. Find an adventure

When booking a cruise, travelers already know which ports they will visit; take it a step further and explore that port through one of the many excursions available through Carnival. From swimming with turtles or walking among stingrays to zip-lining through the trees or just relaxing on the beach, there are many opportunities to explore the ports and create new memories along the way.

Know before you go: After booking a cruise, log into your Carnival account to review, choose and book excursions online.

About the Author

Karon Warren