Carnival Cruise 2025 Faster to the Fun Price
                   Carnival Cruise Line's Faster to the Fun program in 2025 has prices a little higher compared to 2024. Prices vary based on itinerary length and some ship classes have programs that cost more. The following are the prices/cost per cabin of purchasing Faster to the Fun: 

• 2-3 day length cruises: $79.95 per cabin
• 4-5 day length cruises: $109.95
• 6-8 day length cruises: $149.95 per cabin - On Excel class ships (Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee) the price will be $169.95
• 9+ day length cruises: $209.95

Please note: Prices are subject to change and may vary specific by cruise.

​Can guests with Faster to the Fun Go To Their Stateroom Upon Boarding?
                Staterooms are usually closed to guests when boarding begins. Guests with Faster to the Fun are allowed to drop their belongings by their stateroom, but cannot stay in their stateroom until the designated time that all guests can access staterooms. Stateroom stewards are usually working to clean and turn-around rooms so their process is disrupted when guests come to the stateroom early to stay.

​Should Platinum, Diamond, and Suite guests purchase Faster to the Fun? 
             If you are a VIFP Platinum & Diamond guest or a suite guest that has priority boarding benefits, you do not need to purchase Faster to the Fun for your stateroom. You should already have priority boarding that will be before Faster to the Fun guests. 
                       For embarkation day and check-in, guests with Faster to the Fun will follow posted signage at the cruise terminal to make sure they are going into the correct check-in lines and in the designated place for boarding. 

        Carnival Cruise Line has designated areas for smoking onboard and these designated areas will vary by ship. Where can I smoke on a Carnival Cruise ship? Can I smoke in the Carnival Cruise casino? These are both common questions that guests ask and are ones that I hope to address through this post. Please note, the smoking areas are subject to change at any time and while you are on your cruise you need to make sure you are smoking in a designated place when it is allowable. Further, there is no smoking onboard allowed when the ship is refueling. This means areas that normally allow smoking will not allow smoking during the refueling process. Smoking is never allowed in staterooms or on balconies. Further, Carnival does not allow smoking at the casino bar regardless of whether smoking is allowed while playing machines. Below are the designated smoking areas inside & outside for each Carnival ship: 
Last updated: 3/20/2025

Carnival Sunshine Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Sunshine Casino - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar. 
• Outside:  Designated areas on Deck 3 Port Side FWD & Deck 10 Starboard Side Mid-Ship ​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. ​

Carnival Sunrise Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Sunrise Casino - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar.
• Outside:  Designated areas on Deck 3 Starboard FWD & Deck 10 Starboard AFT​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 

Carnival Radiance Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Radiance Casino - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar.
• Outside:  Designated areas on Deck 3 Starboard FWD & Deck 10 Starboard AFT​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. ​

Carnival Spirit Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Louis XIV Casino - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar.
• Outside:  Designated areas on Deck 3 Starboard Side FWD, Deck 9 Starboard Side FWD, & Deck 10 Starboard Side FWD​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. ​
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 

Carnival Pride Smoking Areas

• Interior:  The Winner's Club Casino - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed).
• Outside:  Designated areas on Deck 3 Starboard Side FWD, Deck 9 Starboard Side FWD, & Deck 10 Starboard Side FWD​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 

Carnival Legend Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Club Merlin Casino - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar.
• Outside:  Designated areas on Deck 3 Starboard Side FWD, Deck 9 Starboard Side FWD, & Deck 10 Starboard Side FWD​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 

Carnival Miracle Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Mr. Lucky's Casino - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). 
• Outside:  Designated areas on Deck 3 Starboard Side FWD, Deck 9 Starboard Side FWD, & Deck 10 Starboard Side FWD​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 

Carnival Luminosa Smoking Areas
Carnival has the smoking area policies for the Carnival Luminosa divided into US cruises and Australia cruises. 
Australia Carnival Luminosa Cruises:

• Interior: There is no smoking permitted in any interior areas of the Carnival Luminosa. 
• Outside:  Designated areas on Deck 10 AFT Port Side. 
• Guests are allowed to use cigarettes, including electronic cigarettes and personal vaporizers, cigars, and tobacco pipes in the outside smoking area. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 

US Departing Carnival Luminosa Cruises:

• ​Interior: The Luminosa Casino allows smoking when you are playing at a machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar.
• Outside: Designated areas on Deck 10 AFT Port Side. ​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. ​

Carnival Conquest Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Tahiti Casino on the Promenade Deck (Deck 5) - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar.
• Outside:  Deck 3 Starboard Side and Deck 10 Starboard Side (Mid-Ship & Aft) In Designated Areas​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. ​
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 

Carnival Glory Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Camel Club Casino on the Promenade Deck (Deck 5) - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar.
• Outside:  Deck 3 Starboard Side and Deck 10 Starboard Side In Designated Areas​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area.
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony.  
  ​​

Carnival Valor Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Shogun Club Casino on the Promenade Deck (Deck 5) - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar.
• Outside:  Deck 3 Starboard Side and Deck 10 Starboard Side In Designated Areas​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 

Carnival Liberty Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Czar's Palace Casino on the Promenade Deck (Deck 5) - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar.
• Outside:  Deck 3 Starboard Side and Deck 10 Starboard Side In Designated Areas​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 

Carnival Freedom Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Babylon Casino on the Promenade Deck (Deck 5) - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar.
• Outside:  Deck 3 Starboard Side and Deck 10 Starboard Side (Mid-Ship) In Designated Areas​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area on Deck 10 Starboard Mid-Ship. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. ​

Carnival Dream Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Jackpot Casino on the Promenade Deck (Deck 5) - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar.
• Outside:  Deck 5 Port Side Aft (Lanai) and Deck 11 Starboard Side Aft ​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. ​
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 

Carnival Magic Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Hat Trick Casino on the Promenade Deck (Deck 5) - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar.
• Outside:  Deck 5 Port Side Aft (Lanai) and Deck 11 Starboard Side Aft ​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking areas on Deck 5 Port Side AFT and Deck 11 Starboard Side AFT. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 

Carnival Breeze Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Winner's Luck Casino on the Promenade Deck (Deck 5) - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar.
• Outside:  Deck 5 Port Side Aft Outside The Nightclub and Deck 11 Starboard Side Aft ​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. ​

Carnival Vista Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Vista Casino on Deck 4 - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Per Carnival's website smoking is not allowed at the casino bar, but I believe the casino bar was removed in 2021.
• Outside:  Deck 5 Port & Starboard Side FWD on the Lanai and Deck 11 Fwd & Aft Starboard In Designated Areas​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area on Deck 5 Starboard Side Fwd and Deck 11 Starboard Side Aft
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 
  ​

Carnival Horizon Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Horizon Casino on Deck 4 - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Per Carnival's website smoking is not allowed at the casino bar, but I believe the casino bar was removed in 2021.
• Outside:  Deck 5 Port & Starboard Side FWD on the Lanai and Deck 11 Fwd & Aft Starboard In Designated Areas​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas.  However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area on Deck 5 Starboard Side Fwd and Deck 11 Starboard Side Aft
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 
  
  

Carnival Panorama Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Panorama Casino on Deck 4 - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Per Carnival's website smoking is not allowed at the casino bar, but I believe the casino bar was removed in 2021.
• Outside:  Deck 5 Port & Starboard Side FWD on the Lanai and Deck 11 Fwd & Aft Starboard In Designated Areas​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area. 
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. ​

Mardi Gras Smoking Areas

• Interior:  Mardi Gras Casino - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar. Please note, there is a designated non-smoking section of the casino. 
• Outside:  1) Designated Outdoor Bar Area of Bar Della Rosa On Deck 8 Starboard Mid-Ship  2) Designated Area of Deck 17 Starboard Aft ​
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior smoking areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area on Deck 17 Starboard AFT.
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 
  ​

Carnival Celebration Smoking Areas

• Interior: Empress Casino - In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino. Please note, there is a designated non-smoking section of the casino. ​
• Outside: 1) Designated Outdoor Bar Area Of Bar 820 On Deck 8 Starboard Mid-Ship 2) Designated Area Of Deck 17 Starboard Aft 
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area on Deck 17 Starboard AFT.
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. 
  ​

Carnival Jubilee Smoking Areas

• Interior: Jubilee Casino -  In order to be allowed to smoke in the casino you must be playing at a designated machine or table during the casino's open hours (smoking is not allowed at any tables or games when the casino is closed). Smoking is not allowed at the casino. Please note, there is a designated non-smoking section of the casino. 
• Outside:  1) Designated Outdoor Bar Area Of Marina Bar (Deck 8 - Starboard Mid-Ship).  2) Designated Area of Deck 17 Starboard Aft 
• Cigarette smoking which includes electronic cigarettes & personal vaporizers is permitted in the interior and exterior areas. However, cigar and tobacco pipes is only permitted in the outside smoking area on Deck 17 Starboard AFT.
• You are not allowed to smoke in your stateroom or on a stateroom balcony. ​

Carnival Adventure Smoking Areas
To Be Added Soon

Carnival Encounter Smoking Areas
​To Be Added Soon

        Getting around your Carnival Cruise ship can be made easier if you have a copy of the ship's deck plan. For those that are not familiar, a deck plan is essentially a map of the ship that shows which lounges, attractions, or areas are on on each deck of the ship. 
             This first part of this post will give links to Carnival's online deck plans for each ship. This will allow you to look at your ship's deck plans pre-cruise. The second part of this post will share ways to use deck plans while on your cruise. 

Originally Published: 9/25/2020
Last Updated: 3/20/2025

Pre-Cruise: Viewing The Ship's Deck Plan
              Before your cruise I highly recommend taking a quick look at your ship's deck plan. Carnival's website has interactive deck plans available as well as a PDF copy of the deck plan that should be printable. The interactive deck plan is a helpful tool for pre-cruise research. Carnival has a feature built into the interactive deck plan where you can type your stateroom number and it will pull the stateroom up on the deck plan. 
                     The PDF deck plan is great because it is printable. If you are a first time cruiser or have never been on the particular ship before, I highly recommend printing out the PDF deck plan. 
                       Each of the links below will take you away from this website to Carnival's website. The  "PDF Deck Plan" links are directly to PDF documents that can be found on Carnival's website of the deck plan. All links will open in a new window. Your computer will need to have the ability to open a PDF document if you try to view one of the PDF deck plans. If a link has changed or is broken please let me know! 

Carnival Elation                      Interactive Deck Plan                PDF Deck Plan
​Carnival Paradise                   Interactive Deck Plan               PDF Deck Plan
Carnival Sunshine                  Interactive Deck Plan               PDF Deck Plan
Carnival Sunrise                     Interactive Deck Plan               PDF Deck Plan 
Carnival Radiance                  Interactive Deck Plan               PDF Deck Plan
Carnival Spirit                         Interactive Deck Plan                PDF Deck Plan 
Carnival Pride                         Interactive Deck Plan               PDF Deck Plan
Carnival Legend                     Interactive Deck Plan               PDF Deck Plan
Carnival Miracle                      Interactive Deck Plan               PDF Deck Plan 
Carnival Conquest                  Interactive Deck Plan               PDF Deck Plan
Carnival Glory                         Interactive Deck Plan               PDF Deck Plan
Carnival Valor                         Interactive Deck Plan               PDF Deck Plan 
Carnival Liberty                     Interactive Deck Plan                PDF Deck Plan 
Carnival Freedom                  Interactive Deck Plan               PDF Deck Plan 
Carnival Splendor                  Interactive Deck Plan               PDF Deck Plan 
Carnival Dream                      Interactive Deck Plan               PDF Deck Plan 
​Carnival Magic                      Interactive Deck Plan                PDF Deck Plan
Carnival Breeze                    Interactive Deck Plan                PDF Deck Plan
Carnival Vista                       Interactive Deck Plan                PDF Deck Plan 
Carnival Horizon                   Interactive Deck Plan                PDF Deck Plan 
Carnival Panorama               Interactive Deck Plan                PDF Deck Plan 
Mardi Gras                            Interactive Deck Plan                PDF Deck Plan 
Carnival Celebration             Interactive Deck Plan                PDF Deck Plan
Carnival Jubilee                    Interactive Deck Plan                PDF Deck Plan
Carnival Luminosa                No Interactive Deck Plan          PDF Deck Plan     
Carnival Venezia                   No Interactive Deck Plan          PDF Deck Plan
​Carnival Firenze                    No Interactive Deck Plan          PDF Deck Plan
Carnival Adventure                No Interactive Deck Plan          PDF Deck Plan
Carnival Encounter                No Interactive Deck Plan          PDF Deck Plan

During Your Cruise:  How To View The Ship's Deck Plan Once On The Ship 

Option 1:   Carnival Hub App
                Carnival's Hub App is a useful tool for information onboard your cruise and once you have the app connected onboard you can view the ship's deck plan from the app. This app is free to download and is available for both Apple & Android phones. Once you are onboard the ship look for instructions on how to activate the app because most features of the app are not available until you are on the ship, in airplane mode, and connected to the ship's wi-fi network. 

Deck plans are a useful tool for finding your way around the ship. If you still cannot find something on the ship after looking at the deck plans, ask a crew member or at guest services! Most crew members know the ship's layout well and should be able to give you directions to what you are looking for.  Have a great cruise!

          Carnival Cruise ships have multiple bars onboard and some of the bars are themed. How much are drinks on a Carnival Cruise? These are the drink menus Carnival Cruise is starting 2025 with and answer the question of how much sodas, drinks, and other bar beverages cost on a Carnival Cruise. Please note, prices are subject to change at any time. I recommend looking at the drink options shown but do not focus on the price since it could easily change.  

​Last Updated: 3/20/2025

Accessing The Current Bar Menus Onboard Your Carnival Ship:
             Once you are onboard your Carnival ship, you can view the bar menu by using your phone to scan a QR code. If you do not have your phone with you, typically the bar staff have copies of the menu available to help you order. 

Currently I have shared the general bar menu, Texas Welcome Bar Menu, Red Frog Pub menu, Alchemy Bar menu, Serenity Adults Only Retreat Bar Menu, and Main Dining Room Wine Menu.

General Bar Menu 2025:
This bar menu the general bar menu on a Carnival Cruise ship. If you are not in a themed bar this will likely be the menu that comes up when you scan your QR code. This is also the menu typically shown in the main dining room on the bar QR code. Although this is the general bar menu, it does not include all of the choices available to guests. There are several drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) available to guests for order that aren't shown on the menu. 

Texas Welcome Bar Menu 2025:
The Texas Welcome Bar Menu is used before Carnival ships depart from Texas. Due to Texas state law, the drinks in Texas are taxed. Carnival limits what is available for serving until the ship reaches a certain mark offshore after sail-a-way. If you are planning on buying the Cheers alcohol program for sailing out of Texas, you will want to make sure to read the program description closely because the program typically does not take effect until Day 2. 

Red Frog Pub
The Red Frog Pub is on the Carnival Breeze, Carnival Freedom, Carnival Legend, Carnival Magic, Carnival Miracle, Carnival Pride, Carnival Radiance, Carnival Spirit, Carnival Splendor, Carnival Sunrise, Carnival Sunshine, and Carnival Valor. The menu below is from the Carnival Breeze. The Carnival Magic and Carnival Breeze typically have a food portion of the menu that may not be available on other ships. Other Carnival ships with the Red Frog Pub do not serve a food menu (though there may be snacks available for sale depending on the ship). ​

Main Dining Room Wine Menu
Carnival has a section of the main dining room menu which shows the wine available for purchase by the glass or bottle. These prices are as of March 2025 on the Carnival Miracle.

Carnival Alchemy Bar Menu 2025
The Alchemy Bar allows Carnival Cruise ship guests to enjoy cocktail creations in a themed "pharmacy" environment. Carnival offers Lyre's non-alcoholic spirits at the Alchemy Bar too. Although a lot of guests on Carnival Cruises enjoy custom cocktails at the Alchemy Bar there are some menu items. Prices may vary by ship and this bar is not available on all ships. Below are 2025 Alchemy Bar on Carnival Cruise menus: 

Serenity Bar Menu
Some Carnival Cruise ships have bars on the Serenity Adults Only Retreat. This area of the ship is for guests 21+ years of age. 

Carnival Cruise 2024 Coffee Bar Menus
Please click here for my post on the Carnival Cruise 2024 coffee bar menus with prices!

​Have a great cruise!

Interested In More Carnival Cruise Food? 
​Please check out my Carnival Cruise Food Unofficial Guide by clicking here. 

         The Piano Bar on a Carnival Cruise ship is a popular place to be in the evenings & late into the night. This post will discuss a variety of topics related to the piano bar on a Carnival Cruise including general tips for watching performers in the piano bar, location of piano bars on Carnival ships, the piano bar entertainer schedule, and bar menu for the piano bar. 

When Is The Piano Bar Open Onboard?
             For the exact performance times you will want to check your Carnival Hub App once onboard the ship. Typically, the piano bar will be open for a couple of hours of general piano bar entertainment and then transition into an 18+ years old hours. On my past few cruises the piano bar has been open from 9pm until 11pm (no age restriction) and then 11pm until "late" is listed as 18+. The "late" piece gives the piano bar entertainer some discretion of when to wrap up, but typically will be sometime in the midnight to 1am hour when the show wraps up. It could also go a little later depending on the entertainer. 
             Depending on your cruise length & itinerary, there will likely not be a piano bar show every night of the cruise. Which nights the piano bar is open versus closed will vary. You will want to monitor your Carnival Hub App for the exact open & close times for your cruise. 

Tip:  Arrive Early If You Want A Good Seat For The Piano Bar Entertainment
                   Each Carnival ship's piano bar is configured a bit differently. Some seats have a better view than others given the nature of the setup. Also, most ships (not all though) have seats around the perimeter of the piano which tend to fill up quickly. If you want to get one of the best, up-close seats you will want to arrive early. On my recent Carnival Breeze cruise the piano bar was scheduled to start at 9pm and I saw people already waiting at 8:15pm. By the time the piano bar entertainer arrived and started performing at 9pm it was standing room only. 

Can you request music in the piano bar?
                 Yes, you can request music in the piano bar onboard your Carnival ship. Requesting music does not guarantee the piano bar entertainer will go through with singing/playing your request, but I have seen entertainers attempt to fulfill as many requests as possible. Look for a place where requests can be written, but the method of requesting could also vary by the entertainer onboard.

Can you tip the piano bar entertainer?
                   Yes, you are able to tip the piano bar entertainer. I have seen past piano bar entertainers leave a bowl or basket on the top of their piano for tips. Although tipping is subjective, if you request a song & the song gets sung it is good etiquette to leave a tip. If you are enjoying the entertainment, it is also highly encouraged to leave a tip. 

Does Carnival publish a schedule of piano bar entertainers? Who will be the piano bar entertainment on my Carnival ship?
                   The piano bar entertainers generally work contracts similar to other entertainment crew members, where they are on a given ship for weeks to months. Carnival does not officially publish a piano bar entertainment schedule. If you search online you will be able to find some schedules compiled of piano bar entertainers. 

Location of Piano Bars on Carnival Ships
Each Carnival Cruise Line ship has a piano bar onboard. The exact location of the piano bar will vary by ship.

• Carnival Elation Piano Bar - Atlantic Deck (Deck 8) by Circle C Lounge & Across From Ship's Library
• Carnival Paradise Piano Bar - Atlantic Deck (Deck 8) by Circle C Lounge & Across From Ship's Library
• Carnival Sunshine Piano Bar - Mezzanine Deck (Deck 4) by library & Across From Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse
• Carnival Sunrise Piano Bar - Promenade Deck (Deck 5) by Red Frog Pub 
• Carnival Radiance Piano Bar - Promenade Deck (Deck 5) by Red Frog Pub
• Carnival Conquest Piano Bar - Promenade Deck (Deck 5) by Alchemy Bar & AFT Lounge
• Carnival Glory Piano Bar - Promenade Deck (Deck 5) by Alchemy Bar & AFT Lounge
• Carnival Valor Piano Bar - Promenade Deck (Deck 5) by Alchemy Bar & AFT Lounge
• Carnival Liberty Piano Bar  - Promenade Deck (Deck 5) by Alchemy Bar & AFT Lounge
• Carnival Freedom Piano Bar - Promenade Deck (Deck 5) by Alchemy Bar & AFT Lounge
• Carnival Spirit Piano Bar - Atlantic Deck (Deck 3) by The Warehouse Arcade
• Carnival Pride Piano Bar - Atlantic Deck (Deck 3) by The Warehouse Arcade​

Does the piano bar have a special bar menu?
                 There is a themed bar menu usually available by QR code while guests are in the piano bar. Bar service is normally offered by crew members walking around. The exact menu can vary and further choices are often not limited to what is on the themed menu. Click Here to view a copy of a piano bar menu posted by Carnival on their website (link will take you to Carnival's website).  

Please keep in mind the information contained within this post is subject to change.

         Carnival Cruise Line's brand ambassador, John Heald, clarified a rumor going around the internet that was trying to claim Carnival is bringing back the traditional muster station drill. 
         For those that did not cruise before Covid-19, the traditional muster station drill was a time where everyone on the ship went to their muster station at once, watched the lifejacket demonstration, and listened to PA announcements. Some muster stations were in lounges and others were under the lifeboats, depending on the Carnival ship. After Covid-19's shutdown the muster station drill was modified to a self-muster process where guests could complete after boarding at their own pace. This saved time for everyone onboard. 
               The latest rumor circulating on the internet is that Carnival is bringing back this old style drill which would mean everyone has to do the muster station drill at the same time. However, this rumor is mostly false. 
The Truth:   Carnival is having to bring back the traditional muster station drill, but it will be on select sailings. Carnival's brand ambassador, John Heald, clarified that the ships have to do this once every six months to comply with regulations. Guests on a cruise that will do the traditional muster station drill process will be notified by Carnival in advance. The good news for most guests sailing is that the self-muster process is staying for now and the affected cruises are limited!! 

        The Carnival Spirit's 2025 drydock recently ended and the ship is leaving drydock with new features, some refreshments to public areas, and maintenance throughout the ship. Carnival also made some in-stateroom modifications during the Carnival Spirit's dry-dock that will hopefully enhance the guest experience. This post will take a look at the work completed during the Carnival Spirit's 2025 drydock:

1. New Carnival Adventures Store
          Carnival added the Carnival Adventures store to the Carnival Spirit. This new store is located on Deck 3 (Atlantic) by the Pixels Photo Gallery. 

2. New Dreams Studio
              Carnival added a new Dreams Studio to the Carnival Spirit during the dry-dock. The Dreams Studio is located on Deck 3 (Atlantic) in the Pixels Photo Gallery on the opposite side of the ship from the new Carnival Adventures Store. 

3. Cloud 9 SPA and Upgraded Gym
                   Carnival used the dry-dock time to add a new Cloud 9 SPA and upgrade the onboard fitness center. It is not clear exactly what the scope of work on the spa and gym area was during this dry-dock. The entrance to the Cloud 9 SPA is located on Deck 9 (Lido) in the front elevator/stairwell area. Guests can access the Fitness Center by entering through the main SPA entrance. 

4. New Mini Golf Course and Basketball Court
                    Carnival refreshed the Carnival Spirit's mini golf course and basketball court during the Carnival Spirit's dry-dock. The mini golf course and basketball court are located in the same place as the old mini golf course on Deck 11 (Sports). 

5. New Night Club
                      The Carnival Spirit's nightclub prior to dry-dock was located on both Decks 1 and 2. During the dry-dock the nightclub's lower level was converted into the Chef's Table location and additional staterooms space. The nightclub is now only located on Deck 2 and is completely renovated to utilize the space. 

6. Dedicated Chef's Table Space
                   As mentioned above, when Carnival removed the Deck 1 level of the nightclub a space for the Chef's Table was added on Deck 1. The Chef's Table is a culinary dining event guests can make a reservation to enjoy a dinner hosted by the Master Executive Chef and culinary team onboard. 

Stateroom Upgrades:
               During the Carnival Spirit's dry-dock work was also done in the staterooms. New bedside cabinets were installed with lamps that have one 110v outlet and 2 USB ports (USB A/USB C). Carnival also added a sofa bed light with 2 USB ports (USB A/USB C). 

​Additionally, during the Carnival Spirit's 2025 dry-dock Carnival performed general maintenance around the ship. This typically includes refreshment of carpeting in public areas (where needed) and work that is typically harder to perform while guests are onboard. ​

      Cruising from Galveston Texas during Mardi Gras can be fun, but also make things a bit more crowded around Galveston. Cruisers might be able to make Mardi Gras celebrations & events part of their pre or post cruise vacation and can enjoy some time in Galveston. This post will discuss some tips & information cruisers from Galveston should keep in mind when cruising from Galveston during the Mardi Gras celebrations or when planning on attending events as part of their pre and post cruise vacation!

​Cruising From Galveston During Mardi Gras Tips
1. Research Road Closures
​Before heading towards the cruise terminals, make sure you are aware of any road closures. The City of Galveston will usually post planned road closures online. Click Here to view the City of Galveston's page for upcoming closures (link will take you to the City of Galveston's website). The road closures related to Mardi Gras will likely be posted closer to the start of the celebration. 
I also recommend the morning of your cruise checking Google Maps' traffic feature, Waze, or any other traffic map of your choice to check for traffic conditions, any unexpected delays, or road closures. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get to the cruise terminal and get parked as traffic is typically heavy around the cruise terminals even during non-event times. Also pack your patience as there may be higher than normal traffic due to ongoing events!

2. Reserve Your Hotel Or Lodging In Advance To Make Sure You Can Get What You Want
If you are cruising during the Mardi Gras celebration and are in need of hotel/lodging in Galveston pre or post cruise, you will want to research your options and book before heading to the island. Available rooms may be more limited than normal or your desired hotel could be sold out if you wait. If you cannot find a hotel room of your choice or at a price within your budget, you may want to consider staying off Galveston island and maybe look at options along I-45. 

​3. Weather
February is the time of the year where Galveston may have warm days and then cooler days. Make sure you pay attention to the weather forecast for your cruise to make sure you pack accordingly for the temperatures and weather. This tip isn't just applicable to cruising during February, but I thought I would go ahead and add here!

4. Cruise Parking
Cruise parking should not be too impacted by the Mardi Gras celebrations. However, since there may be road closures you will want to research a route to your parking lot and give yourself extra time to get there. If you have questions about getting in or out of your cruise parking lot, I recommend contacting the parking lot you have booked with. 
If you want some general Galveston cruise parking information please click here for my post on Galveston Cruise parking discounts. I also have some parking guides on my main Galveston page that can be accessed by clicking here. 

Planning To Attend Any Celebrations or Events Pre Or Post Cruise? 
There are all sorts of events taking place during Galveston's Mardi Gras event. From parades to live music to even a 5K there is a variety of things to do or see as part of Galveston's Mardi Gras celebration. 

1. Research The Events & Activities
If you are planning to attend or participate in any of the Mardi Gras celebration activities before or after your cruise, I recommend you research the events that will be taking place while you are in Galveston. There is typically a price to enter the Mardi Gras Entertainment District in Galveston so you will want to research how much things will cost and add this into your cruise vacation budget. I recommend the Mardi Gras Galveston website for information on events and tickets. You can access this site by clicking here. This link will take you away from RyG's Cruise Guide. 

2. Local Parking
There should be some parking nearby the Mardi Gras Entertainment District that you can pay for. There typically is not free parking. If you are attending any of the events you should make sure you research where you can park. Some street parking will be available at meters (where allowed) and accessible to cars. There are some parking lots available where you can pay cash for parking. Depending on the lot you may be required to pay in cash so definitely research your options in advance to make sure you carry an appropriate amount of cash.  Make sure you park in an appropriate place and pay to avoid getting a fine or your vehicle towed.

3. Ridesharing
Ridesharing (Uber, Lyft, etc.) is one option to consider if you are parking at your hotel and want to have someone else drive you to a Mardi Gras event. Please keep in mind, if you are using ridesharing to get from your hotel to the events (or vice versa) you may encounter surge pricing depending on demand. Exact policies and pricing will vary depending on the ride sharing service. 

4. Check For Mardi Gras Packages
A few hotels may offer Mardi Gras packages where you can get a Mardi Gras ticket with your hotel purchase. The participating hotels each have different packages available. Booking a package might save you money depending on what your entertainment and lodging plans are. 
Tip: To determine if a package is right for you, I recommend determining how much each item of the package would cost ala carte and then comparing the price to the package deal. Also, make sure you understand what any packages you purchase include and whether there are any rules/stipulations associated with anything you are purchasing. 

5. Weather
Make sure you are prepared for whatever the weather & temperatures may bring!

In Summary: Do your research in advance and have a plan put together for before & after your cruise!

       If you are going on a Carnival Cruise during March Madness and want to watch the basketball games you should be in luck. This post will take a look at what Carnival says about showing the March Madness games on their cruise ships. This post discusses some of the information Carnival has posted for the 2025 March Madness. 

Will the March Madness basketball games be shown on Carnival Cruise ships? 
            Yes, according to Carnival's website the March Madness games will be shown in select locations. Carnival's website was updated for 2025 to indicate that guests should check the location of game(s) on the Carnival Hub App. Locations could include bars, lounges, or the Seaside Theater depending on the other programming being offered at the time of the games. 
Not every game may be shown onboard so be prepared for the chance that you may not get to watch your favorite team. 

If I am cruising during March Madness how can I find out where the games will be shown? 
                There are multiple ways for you to find out where the March Madness games will be shown while you are on the ship. The Carnival Hub App may have the game time & location listed. You can also check with Guest Services for the information.

Besides showing the March Madness basketball games, does Carnival do anything else?
                   Carnival's website says that they will have a March Madness Trivia activity. The time & location of this activity will be posted in the Carnival Hub App and on the What's Happening newsletter if this event is being held during your cruise. Carnival also encourages guests to wear their favorite team's attire. 

Will I be able to watch March Madness basketball games in my Carnival ship stateroom?
                     It depends on the TV station the games are being shown on and if Carnival carries that stateroom in the guest rooms. Your best bet to watch the game will be in the designated bar or lounge. It may get crowded so you may want to consider arriving early to make sure you get a good seat .

Are March Madness games going to be shown on Carnival ships out of Australia? 
                         Unfortunately, I have not been able to get confirmation that this will take place on cruises out of Australia. The March Madness celebration information is only listed on the Carnival Cruise USA website. 

Just A Note About Watching Games Onboard:
                       While Carnival's website states that the games are planned to be shown, if there is a satellite connection issue or problem getting a particular TV station the game may not be able to show. There is always a risk something changes or goes wrong. If this happens, I am sorry for the disappointment you will feel if something goes wrong, but hopefully you still can enjoy the cruise. 

To read Carnival's holiday list posted on their website with accompanying information please click here (link will take you away to Carnival's website). Please note, any of this information is subject to change at any time and the games or events listed may be modified or not take place on all cruises.