Carnival Cruise Line has long been the go-to for affordable, fun-filled getaways at sea. With 25+ ships sailing across the globe, choosing the best Carnival cruise ship for your next vacation can feel overwhelming. Some offer waterparks and roller coasters for families, while others promise romantic getaways or budget-friendly escapes. So how do you choose the right one?
This list highlights the best Carnival cruise ships for 2025 with one clear winner for best value-packed Bahamas cruise: Carnival Glory, especially when paired with an exclusive Orlando resort stay through Westgate Events.
1. Mardi Gras – Best for Families & Thrill-Seekers
BOLT: The first-ever roller coaster at sea — yes, a literal thrill ride on the top deck. You control the speed of your cart as you zoom around with ocean views.
Ultimate Playground: Home to BOLT, but also a full ropes course, a multi-deck WaterWorks waterpark with twisting slides, and a sports court with mini-golf, basketball, and more.
???? Dining Galore (No, Seriously)
You won’t go hungry. Mardi Gras is stacked with included and specialty dining:
Shaq’s Big Chicken – Fried chicken sandwiches and tenders done right. Open for breakfast too.
Guy’s Burger Joint – A Carnival staple, with extra toppings you won’t find on older ships.
BlueIguana Cantina – Burritos and tacos made to order.
Street Eats – A trio of food stalls offering daily rotating bites (bao buns, dumplings, satay skewers).
Chibang! – A hybrid Asian-Mexican sit-down spot. (Free!)
Cucina del Capitano – Italian comfort food classics.
Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse/Brewhouse – BBQ and Carnival’s own craft beers brewed onboard.
Emeril’s Bistro 1396 – Creole and Cajun dishes curated by Chef Emeril Lagasse (extra fee).
Plus: Bonsai Sushi, Bonsai Teppanyaki, Seafood Shack, and Java Blue Café
???? Entertainment & Nightlife
Grand Central Stage – Replaces the classic theater with a high-tech atrium performance space for big productions.
Center Stage Shows – Includes aerialists, live music, and interactive performances.
The Punchliner Comedy Club – Adult and family shows nightly.
Lido Deck parties, themed nights, live bands, and trivia games all over the ship.
Casino – One of Carnival’s largest, split into smoking and non-smoking sections.
Playlist Productions – Broadway-style shows, enhanced with LED walls and special effects.
????♀️ Pools & Chill Zones
Beach Pool (midship) and Tides Pool (aft) – Both with hot tubs, plenty of loungers, and pool bars.
Loft 19 – Exclusive sundeck with private cabanas (extra cost), quiet vibes, and premium service.
Serenity Adult-Only Retreat – 21+ area with loungers, daybeds, bar, and whirlpools.
???????????????? For Families
Family Harbor staterooms (with access to a private lounge)
Huge Camp Ocean kids’ club, Circle “C”, and Club O2 for teens
Dedicated Dr. Seuss-themed activities, story time, and parades
⚠️ Downsides?
It’s huge. With over 5,200 passengers, be ready for crowds — especially at peak times (sea days, embarkation lunch).
Dining reservations are a must. Lineups can build quickly for popular spots.
Elevators get sluggish at high-traffic times.
????️ Sailing From
Port Canaveral (Orlando) – Great for pairing with a Disney World or Universal Studios vacation before/after your cruise.
2. Carnival Breeze – Best All-Around Fun Ship
Carnival Breeze may be a slightly older ship (launched in 2012), but don’t let that fool you — she’s aged like a fine frozen margarita.
IMAX Theater and SkyZone Trampoline Park (Panorama)
The Havana Pool & Bar for adults
Concierge Family Harbor suites
They cater to multi-gen families and couples who want more modern amenities than what older ships offer. Slightly more expensive, but worth it for the upgrades.
4. Carnival Pride – Best for Retirees & Couples
Prefer a quieter cruise with elegant vibes? Carnival Pride delivers:
Renaissance-inspired interiors
Great space-to-passenger ratio
Fewer crowds, slower pace
Longer or unique itineraries (Panama Canal, Europe)
It’s not flashy, but it’s beloved—and offers a relaxed experience for adults.
5. Carnival Conquest & Sunrise – Best Budget Getaways
For short getaways and wallet-friendly options, these ships are perfect:
3-5 night sailings at great rates
Waterslides, Punchliner Comedy Club, and Guy’s Burgers
Fun 2.0 upgrades for dining and bars
Note: Older ships = fewer balconies and smaller cabins, but they still pack in Carnival’s signature fun.
6. Carnival Glory – Best Value Bahamas Cruise from Orlando
Carnival Glory may not be the newest ship, but it hits a sweet spot: family-friendly, spacious without being overwhelming, and full of classic Carnival fun.
Why Guests Love Glory:
WaterWorks waterpark with the Twister waterslide
Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, and 24/7 pizza
Punchliner Comedy Club, Dive-In Movies, and live stage shows
Camp Ocean and Dr. Seuss at Sea for the kids
Glory Itinerary Highlights:
Nassau, Bahamas – explore historic colonial streets or swim with dolphins
Celebration Key – Carnival’s brand-new private island
1 full day at sea – unwind onboard, from sun decks to spa
And when booked through Westgate Events, Carnival Glory becomes part of a one-of-a-kind vacation bundle…
It’s the perfect way to extend your vacation without extending your budget. Families enjoy time in Orlando before heading to the islands. Couples can relax at the spa and dine at the resort before boarding Glory. And with the resort + cruise bundled together, you get premium value—sometimes saving up to $450 vs. booking separately.
