On board tips
What, why and how do I...... ?
Welcome aboard! Consider this page your essential guide while sailing with Carnival. Here, you’ll find all the key information you need to navigate your cruise, from dining options and entertainment schedules to important onboard services and safety guidelines. Think of it as your digital compass to ensure a smooth and enjoyable voyage from start to finish! #CruiseTips #OnboardGuide #YourCruiseCompanion
Table of Contents
There are 5 different colored cards (or VIFP levels) that you can have.
Blue – Your first cruise
Red – 2 thru 24 cruise nights
Gold – 25 thru 74 cruise nights
Platinum – 75 – 199 cruise nights
Diamond – 200+ cruise nights
Green – Crew members
Unlock Your Carnival Adventure: Understanding Your Sail & Sign Card!
Your Sail & Sign card is your ultimate companion onboard your Carnival cruise! Think of it as your all-in-one key to unlocking your vacation. You’ll find these essential cards waiting for you in an official, tamper-evident envelope in the mailbox outside your cabin around 1:30 PM, once the staterooms are ready.
This handy card serves as your cabin key, your identification for getting on and off the ship at every port of call, and your method of payment for all onboard purchases, from drinks and souvenirs to specialty dining and spa treatments. To make spending seamless, you’ll link funds to your Sail & Sign account during your online check-in, with the convenient options of using a credit card or establishing a cash account once you’re onboard.
Get ready to tap, swipe, and sail through your Carnival adventure with this indispensable card! #CruiseCardExplained #CarnivalTips #TravelSmart
Showing Appreciation at Sea: Understanding Cruise Gratuities
When budgeting for your cruise vacation, it’s important to understand the role of gratuities. These additional charges are a way to recognize the hard work and dedication of the many crew members who contribute to making your onboard experience truly special. From your stateroom stewards who keep your cabin comfortable to the dining staff who serve your meals and the countless behind-the-scenes crew who ensure smooth sailing, these individuals work tirelessly to make your getaway memorable.
Cruise lines typically offer the convenience of either prepaying your gratuities before your voyage or having them automatically added to your onboard account to be settled at the end of your cruise. The gratuity amount varies depending on the length of your sailing and the type of cabin you’ve booked.
It’s worth noting that these gratuities are a significant portion of the crew’s compensation, directly supporting the people who are dedicated to your comfort and enjoyment. Choosing to remove these gratuities would unfortunately impact the individuals who work incredibly hard to enhance your vacation.
Additionally, don’t forget the often-unsung heroes at the cruise terminal – the porters who handle your luggage upon arrival. A standard tip of $1 per bag is a thoughtful way to acknowledge their assistance in making your embarkation smoother.
By understanding and respecting the system of gratuities, you’re contributing to a culture of appreciation and directly supporting the dedicated crew members who make your cruise so special.
#CruiseEtiquette #CrewAppreciation #TravelResponsibly
Dive Deeper: Making the Most of Your Cruise with Port Excursions
One of the most exciting aspects of a cruise vacation is the opportunity to explore diverse destinations through port excursions. These planned activities ashore offer a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture, history, and natural beauty of each port of call. Whether you have just a few hours or a full day in port, there’s an excursion to suit your interests and timeframe. From guided city tours showcasing iconic landmarks to enriching historical and cultural experiences, breathtaking nature and wildlife encounters, and delicious culinary tours tantalizing your taste buds, the options are endless. Port excursions truly unlock the potential of each destination, allowing you to go beyond the immediate port area and create lasting memories.
When it comes to booking your port adventures, you have two primary choices: booking directly through the cruise line or exploring independent options. While the cruise line offers convenience and the security of knowing they’ll wait for you if a tour runs late, venturing out on your own or through independent excursion brokers often comes with significant benefits. Typically, booking your own excursions is more cost-effective, allowing you to experience more for your money. You can often find smaller, more intimate tours with local experts, providing a more authentic and personalized experience. Furthermore, with independent options, you often have a wider variety of choices and the flexibility to tailor your day to your specific interests.
Numerous reputable excursion brokers exist online, offering a vast selection of tours in ports worldwide. Popular platforms like TripAdvisor and its subsidiary Viator, ShoreExcursioneer, and Island Marketing provide a marketplace to compare different excursions, read reviews from fellow travelers, and book your adventures in advance. When using these or any independent company, it’s crucial to read reviews carefully and compare prices between different operators to ensure you’re getting a reliable and valuable experience. With a little research, you can curate a collection of port excursions that perfectly match your interests and budget, enhancing your cruise vacation and creating unforgettable moments in each incredible destination. #BookYourExcursion #IndependentTravel #CruisePlanningTips
Your Onboard Problem Solvers: The Magic of Carnival's Guest Services
Need a question answered, a billing issue resolved, want to share a compliment about a fantastic crew member, or even voice a concern? Look no further than Guest Services on your Carnival cruise!
These incredibly helpful teams are often described as being able to handle virtually anything you might need during your voyage. Think of them as your onboard concierge, ready to assist with inquiries big and small, ensuring your cruise experience is smooth sailing. From clarifying daily schedules and assisting with lost items to resolving account discrepancies and relaying your positive feedback, Guest Services is your go-to resource.
Just be aware that the line can sometimes get quite long, particularly on embarkation day as everyone gets settled and the day before debarkation as guests finalize their accounts. Thankfully, Guest Services is open 24 hours a day, so you can visit at a less busy time if needed.
As a special perk, Diamond and Platinum VIFP Club members, as well as guests who purchased Faster to the Fun, often have access to a dedicated line, allowing them to bypass the general queue and receive assistance more quickly.
So, don’t hesitate to reach out to Guest Services – they’re there to make your cruise as enjoyable as possible! #OnboardAssistance #CruiseSupport #TravelMadeEasy
Clearing the Air: Understanding Smoking Policies on Your Cruise
For guests who smoke, it’s important to be aware of the specific policies in place on cruise ships to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone onboard.
Carnival Cruise Line, like most major cruise lines, has designated areas where smoking is permitted. These dedicated smoking areas are typically located in specific outdoor sections of the ship. It’s crucial to note that this policy extends to cigars and electronic cigarettes (vapes) as well, meaning they are only allowed in these designated zones. Additionally, for those who enjoy a flutter while at sea, smoking is often permitted within the casino, although this may be restricted to when actively playing and in designated areas within the casino itself.
It’s equally important to understand where smoking is strictly prohibited. Carnival enforces a no-smoking policy in all other areas of the ship, and this includes your private balcony. This rule is in place for the comfort and safety of all guests, as smoke can easily drift to neighboring cabins.
Furthermore, it’s vital to be aware that marijuana is strictly prohibited on Carnival cruise ships, regardless of any state or country laws where it may be legal. This is due to federal and international regulations that govern cruise ship operations.
Finally, for safety reasons, smoking is not allowed outdoors while the ship is refueling during embarkation or at any other time. Adhering to these guidelines ensures a pleasant and safe environment for all passengers and helps you avoid potential fines or other consequences. #CruisePolicy #SmokingAreas #TravelAware
Feast Your Way Through Paradise: The Delicious World of Cruise Ship Dining!
One of the absolute joys of a cruise vacation is the incredible array of delicious food available, and the best part? Almost all of it is included in your cruise fare! With the exception of specialty restaurants offering elevated dining experiences for an extra charge, you can truly eat to your heart’s content throughout your voyage.
This all-inclusive culinary adventure presents the perfect opportunity to be adventurous with your palate. Ever been curious about a dish but hesitant to commit to a potentially pricey plate at a land-based restaurant? On a cruise ship, there’s no risk! Feel free to order that intriguing appetizer, try a new entrée, or even indulge in multiple servings. Want two steaks? Go for it! Craving five different desserts? Nobody’s stopping you (except maybe the growing tightness of your favorite jeans!).
Just a friendly heads-up: the buffet area on the Lido deck can be quite bustling on embarkation day as everyone boards and seeks their first taste of cruise life, but don’t worry, it typically becomes much less crowded as the day goes on. And remember, for a more relaxed sit-down experience, the Main Dining Room offers breakfast EVERY day and a delightful lunch service (often a sea day brunch) on days when the ship is at sea.
So, come hungry, be bold, and savor every delicious bite your cruise has to offer!
#CruiseEats #FoodieAdventure #VacationDining
Guests cruising on the Excel Class ships are able to enjoy some of Carnivals specialty dining options for free at dinner. This includes Cucina del Capitano, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Chibang! These venues are alternative options to the main dining room.
Guests with Your Time Dining can eat dinner at the above mentioned restaurants any time during their nightly open hours.
Guests with traditional time dining (Early/Late) are allowed to eat at the above mentioned restaurants after 7:30pm
Carnival Food Venues
- Included (NO CHARGE)
- Beach Buns
- Big Chicken
- Blue Iguana Cantina
- Carnival Deli
- Chicken Shack
- Coastal Slice
- Fresh Creations
- Guy's Burger Joint
- Guy's Pig & Anchor BBQ
- Lido Marketplace
- Lucky Bowl
- Main Dining Room (MDR)
- Masala Tiger
- Miami Slice
- Mongolian Wok
- Pizza Pirate
- Pizzeria del Capitano
- Room service*
- Sea Day Brunch
- Street Eats
- Swirls Ice Cream
- Tandoor
- The Captains Pasta Bar
- Specialty (EXTRA CHARGE)
- Bonsai Sushi
- Bonsai Sushi Express
- Bonsai Teppenyaki
- Carnival Kitchen
- Coffee Bar
- Chibang!
- Cucina del Capitano
- Emeril's Bistro 1396/1397
- Fahrenheit 555
- Green Eggs & Ham Breakfast
- Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse & Brewhouse
- Java Blue Cafe
- Jiji Asian Kitchen
- Pizza Delivery
- Red Frog Pub
- Red Frog Pub & Brewery
- Room Service*
- Rudi's Seagrill
- Seafood Shack
- Steakhouse
- Steakhouse Selections in MDR
- Sushi at Sea
- The Chef's Table
- Thing 1 & Thing 2 Breakfast
*Select items from room service are free, and others have a charge. Reference menu for which items have a fee.
Navigating the Vertical World: Elevators and Stairs on Your Cruise Ship!
Getting around your cruise ship involves more than just walking the decks – you’ll also encounter elevators and stairs. While the elevators offer a convenient way to travel between floors, especially when tired or carrying items, don’t underestimate the value of the stairwells!
Considering the tempting array of delicious food available onboard (and the fact that it’s all-inclusive!), those stairs might just become your unexpected ally in keeping active during your vacation. Plus, taking the stairs can often be a quicker way to move between just a few decks, especially during peak elevator times.
When using the elevators, remember basic etiquette to ensure a smooth experience for everyone. Be mindful of crowding, allow others to exit before you enter, and if the elevator is full, kindly wait for the next one. Some of the newer and larger cruise ships even feature destination elevators. These intelligent systems aim to optimize elevator travel by grouping passengers going to the same or nearby decks. To use a destination elevator, you’ll typically find a touchscreen in the elevator lobby. Before entering, you’ll select your desired deck. You do this for EACH PERSON in your party The system will then direct you to a specific elevator car that will make the fewest stops to reach your destination efficiently. Pay attention to the assigned letter or number of the car displayed on the screen. .
Finally, a helpful tip to keep in mind: on embarkation day as new passengers are boarding with their luggage, and on debarkation day as everyone is departing with their bags, the elevators are often temporarily taken out of regular passenger service. This is to allow the crew to efficiently transport luggage to cabins and then off the ship. During these times, be prepared to use the stairs, so pack accordingly and wear comfortable shoes!
Knowing your options for vertical transportation will help you navigate your cruise ship like a pro.
#CruiseShipTips #ElevatorEtiquette #StayActiveOnVacation
Staying Connected (Smartly!) at Sea: Navigating Cell Phone Use on Your Cruise!
Ah, the bliss of the open ocean! While you’re escaping the everyday, staying connected with loved ones or handling urgent matters might still be on your mind. However, it’s crucial to understand how cell phone usage works while on a cruise ship to avoid a shocking bill upon your return.
Unlike on land, there are no cell towers dotting the vast expanse of the sea. This means that any attempt to use your cellular service while sailing will connect through the ship’s onboard satellite system, often referred to as Cellular at Sea. This satellite connection comes at a premium, and without the right precautions, it can lead to surprisingly expensive charges from your mobile carrier.
Before you even leave port, it’s wise to consider your connectivity needs and plan accordingly. Some mobile carriers do offer cruise-specific packages that provide a certain amount of talk, text, and data while at sea for a set fee. It’s definitely worth checking with your provider before your cruise to see if they have any such options available and if they align with your anticipated usage. However, these packages can still be costly and often have limitations.
The most recommended strategy for managing cell phone costs while cruising is to keep your phone in airplane mode for the majority of your time at sea. This will prevent your phone from automatically connecting to the Cellular at Sea network and incurring those hefty charges.
When you arrive in port, you can then safely turn off airplane mode and utilize the local cellular networks. Many mobile carriers offer international plans that provide more affordable rates for talk, text, and data usage in specific countries. Activating an international plan before your cruise and primarily using your phone while in port is a much more budget-friendly approach to staying connected.
Remember, those seemingly innocent notifications and background app updates can quickly eat through data and lead to a surprisingly large bill when roaming via satellite. So, enjoy the digital detox at sea, embrace the ship’s Wi-Fi options (if you choose to purchase a package), and save your cellular usage for when you’re exploring those exciting ports of call!
#CruisePhoneTips #InternationalRoaming #AvoidBillShock
Your Daily Dose of Fun: Decoding the Carnival Fun Times!
Navigating your Carnival cruise and making the most of every exciting moment is made easy with a vital piece of information: The Fun Times!
Think of this as your daily roadmap to all the incredible happenings onboard your “Fun Ship.” Whether you’re looking to catch a live music performance, participate in a hilarious game show, find the perfect spot for happy hour, or plan your evening entertainment, The Fun Times has you covered. It’s your comprehensive guide to everything happening from sunrise to well past sunset.
Inside this daily schedule, you’ll find a detailed listing of all the activities planned for the day, ensuring you never miss out on the fun. From poolside games and dance classes to trivia contests and arts and crafts, there’s something for everyone. The Fun Times also clearly outlines the operating hours for all the ship’s venues, including restaurants, bars, shops, the spa, and the casino.
Planning your day is a breeze when you know exactly when your favorite spots are open. Crucially, it provides show times for the spectacular production shows in the main theater, the side-splitting comedy acts, and any other live performances happening around the ship.
Beyond the onboard excitement, The Fun Times also contains important port information for the day’s destination. This includes the ship’s arrival and departure times, local currency details, and even emergency contact information for the port of call, providing a valuable resource should you need it while ashore.
While a paper copy of The Fun Times is often delivered to your cabin each evening, the best and most up-to-date way to access this essential information is through the Carnival Hub app. This handy app puts the entire daily schedule right at your fingertips, allowing you to easily browse activities, set reminders, and even “heart” events you’re interested in. However, if you prefer a tangible version, you can always request a paper copy from Guest Services or at various information desks around the ship.
Whether digital or paper, The Fun Times is your key to unlocking all the fun and making the most of your Carnival cruise adventure!
#CruiseSchedule #CarnivalApp #OnboardInfo
Shop 'Til You Drop (Anchor!): Exploring the Fun Shops on Carnival!
Get ready for some fantastic retail therapy right onboard your Carnival cruise! The Fun Shops offer a delightful array of goods, catering to all your needs and desires while at sea.
Forget those mainland malls – here, you can find everything from essential snacks and comfortable clothing to coveted designer items like Louis Vuitton and Coach bags.
For the beauty enthusiasts, you’ll discover familiar favorites from Sephora and the alluring collections of Victoria’s Secret. And if sparkle catches your eye, be sure to browse the selections from Kate Spade and Swarovski, perfect for finding a special souvenir or treating yourself to something beautiful.
Looking for the perfect gift or a little something to remember your voyage? The Fun Shops have you covered with a wide variety of jewelry, clothes, watches, and perfume. You can find everything from Carnival-branded merchandise to tax-free deals on popular brands.
And for those with a sweet tooth (or anyone looking for a fun treat), a visit to Cherry on Top is a must! This colorful candy store is a haven of sugary delights, offering everything from classic candies to novelty treats and even some fun apparel and gifts.
So, whether you’re searching for a forgotten essential, a dazzling piece of jewelry, a stylish new outfit, or simply a bag of your favorite gummies, the Fun Shops on your Carnival cruise are ready to welcome you aboard for a unique shopping experience!
#CruiseShoppingSpree #FunShopsFinds #RetailAtSea
Smile! Capturing Your Cruise Memories with Carnival's Pixels!
Want to make sure those unforgettable moments from your Carnival cruise last a lifetime? Look no further than Pixels, Carnival’s onboard photography service!
Pixels makes it easy for guests to capture all the fun and excitement of their vacation through professional photographs. Whether you’re looking for a classic portrait or candid shots of your adventures, the talented Pixels photographers are there to help you preserve those precious memories.
Throughout your cruise, you’ll find various opportunities to have your picture taken. Pixels sets up professional backdrops in different locations around the ship, offering a chance for posed family photos, couples’ portraits, and individual shots. Their friendly photographers are skilled at making everyone feel comfortable and capturing your best smiles.
Beyond the posed portraits, Pixels photographers also roam the ship, capturing candid moments during onboard activities, special events, and even at dinner. These spontaneous shots often capture the genuine joy and laughter of your cruise experience.
Additionally, in each port of call, you might find Pixels photographers capturing port-specific photos with local scenery, offering a unique souvenir of your time ashore.
On most Carnival ships, viewing and purchasing your photos has never been easier thanks to the Carnival Hub app. Within the app, you’ll typically find a dedicated Pixels section where you can browse through all the photos taken of you and your travel party throughout the cruise. This convenient feature allows you to review your memories at your leisure and select the ones you want to purchase. You can buy individual prints or often opt for digital packages to share with friends and family online.
Just a friendly reminder: be sure to download any digital photos you purchase through the app before you debark the ship! Once your cruise ends, access to your photos on the app will likely expire, and those precious memories might be lost.
Pixels offers a fantastic way to bring your cruise adventures home with you, ensuring you have beautiful keepsakes to cherish for years to come. #CruiseMemories #OnboardPhotography #CarnivalHubApp
Fresh Threads, Smooth Sailing: Your Guide to Laundry on Carnival!
Packing light for your cruise but dreading the thought of a suitcase full of dirty laundry? Carnival Cruise Line offers convenient options to keep your wardrobe fresh throughout your vacation!
For those who prefer a hands-off approach, Carnival provides a valet laundry service. You’ll find laundry bags in your cabin; simply fill the bag with your dirty clothes, complete the provided form, and your stateroom attendant will take care of it for you. The cost for this service is typically around $15 per bag, offering a flat rate to wash and fold as much as you can fit.
As a fantastic perk for loyal cruisers, Diamond and Platinum VIFP Club members often receive this laundry bag service for free, so be sure to check your loyalty benefits!
For the more budget-conscious or those who prefer to handle their own laundry, many Carnival ships feature self-service launderettes. These convenient facilities are usually located on various stateroom decks and are equipped with washing machines, dryers, and ironing boards. The cost for using the self-service machines is typically $3.50 per load to wash and $3.50 per load to dry. You can usually pay using your Sail & Sign card, and detergent is often available for purchase in the launderette. These launderettes are a great way to wash a few essential items or freshen up your clothes mid-cruise.
However, it’s important to note that self-service launderettes are not available on the newer Excel class ships (Mardi Gras, Celebration, Jubilee) or the Carnival Venezia. On these ships, the valet laundry service is your primary option for getting your clothes cleaned.
So, whether you choose the convenience of the valet service or the self-service option (where available), Carnival has you covered to ensure you have fresh clothes throughout your amazing cruise!
#LaundryService #CruiseHacks #PackLightTravelSmart
Celebrate in Style: Making Special Occasions Magical on Carnival!
Cruising is already a fantastic getaway, but when you’re celebrating a special occasion onboard a Carnival ship, the cruise line goes the extra mile to make you feel truly celebrated! Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or any other milestone, Carnival offers a variety of services and thoughtful touches to elevate your experience and create unforgettable memories.
From the moment you mention your special day, the crew aims to add that extra sparkle to your vacation.
Imagine celebrating your birthday with a delicious cake delivered to your table in the main dining room, complete with the crew serenading you with a lively “Happy Birthday”! Or perhaps you’d prefer a romantic surprise in your cabin, like decadent chocolate-covered strawberries and a bottle of chilled wine awaiting your arrival. Carnival makes it easy to arrange these special touches, often through their website before your cruise or even once you’re onboard.
You can pre-order whole cakes in various flavors and sizes to be delivered to your stateroom or enjoyed during dinner.
To add a festive flair to your cabin, consider ordering stateroom decorations like colorful banners proclaiming “Happy Birthday” or “Happy Anniversary,” instantly setting a celebratory mood. These small touches can make a big difference in making your special day feel extra special.
Don’t hesitate to inquire with your stateroom attendant or Guest Services about other possibilities. They are often happy to assist with making arrangements to help you celebrate.
Carnival understands that these moments are precious, and their dedicated team is ready to help you mark them in style.
So, whether you’re planning a surprise for a loved one or want to ensure your own special occasion is extra memorable, let Carnival know! They’ll provide those little touches that transform your cruise into an even more cherished and celebrated experience. #CelebrateOnboard #CarnivalSurprises #MakingMemories
Stay Connected at Sea: Your Guide to Internet on Carnival Cruises!
Want to share those stunning ocean views or stay in touch with loved ones back home while cruising with Carnival? You’re in luck! Carnival offers various internet packages to suit your connectivity needs.
It’s important to note that because you’re sailing far from land, traditional cell towers aren’t an option. Instead, internet access is facilitated through the ship’s satellite system.
Carnival provides several Wi-Fi plans for purchase, and the cost is per device. These plans vary in price and the level of access they offer. You’ll find options ranging from basic social media access to packages that support email, web browsing, and even streaming. While specific pricing can vary by cruise length and destination, you can expect to see daily rates for single-device plans starting around $18-$25 USD, with options for multi-device packages also available for pre-purchase at a potential discount. It’s always best to check the exact pricing and available packages for your specific sailing in your cruise manager or on Carnival’s website before you board.
The good news for cruisers is that Carnival has significantly upgraded its internet capabilities fleet-wide by implementing Starlink technology. This advanced satellite internet service, powered by SpaceX, provides much faster and more reliable internet speeds than traditional cruise ship Wi-Fi. With Starlink, you can generally expect a smoother online experience, making it easier to browse the web, check emails, and even stream content where the chosen package allows.
Purchasing your Wi-Fi package is convenient and can be done through your Cruise Manager on the Carnival website or via the Carnival Hub app once you’re onboard.
While staying connected is easier than ever, remember that satellite internet can still have occasional fluctuations in speed and connectivity depending on the ship’s location and weather conditions.
So, explore the available options, choose the plan that best fits your needs, and enjoy the faster internet speeds powered by Starlink on your Carnival adventure! #CruiseWiFiTips #CarnivalHubApp #FastCruiseInternet
