Choosing between Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line for your next voyage? Both offer thrilling experiences at sea. Each is unique, with exciting excursions and vibrant atmospheres. Whether you crave relaxation or adventure, these cruise lines deliver it all.
With so many options, it’s essential to delve into what each offers. Norwegian is famous for innovation, featuring chic amenities and unique dining. Carnival, however, shines with its party atmosphere and diverse entertainment. Join us as we navigate the ocean of choices to find which is your best fit.
Size of Ships
Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet varies, with ships accommodating between 1,900 to 4,200 passengers. These ships, although not the largest, offer a good balance of comfort and adventure. Innovative features like waterslides and go-kart tracks make for thrilling sea days.
On the other hand, Carnival’s newer ships can carry up to 6,631 passengers. They boast attractions like real roller coasters, marking their commitment to fun and excitement. Carnival’s Mardi Gras also pioneers eco-friendly cruising with LNG technology, reducing carbon emissions significantly.
Cabins and Suites
Both lines provide a range of cabin choices, but Norwegian’s The Haven offers a luxury escape within its ships. It features private pools and exclusive lounges.
Norwegian also caters to solo travelers with unique studio cabins, ideal for those seeking solitude without extra cost. Family-friendly cabins are also available near kids’ play areas.
Carnival’s spacious cabins lead the industry. Their family suites offer communal lounges, while sun lovers benefit from Havana Suites with private pools. Dive into luxury with Carnival’s ship-specific spa accommodations and family-friendly Harbor cabins.
Food and Drink
Carnival excels in culinary delights, offering both complimentary and premium dining experiences. Delight in Guy Fieri’s burgers or Emeril Lagasse’s New Orleans-inspired bistros for distinct flavors.
Free dining options abound on Carnival, with delicious burgers and pizzas available without extra charges. Bars like Alchemy Bar and Fortune Teller mix drinks elegantly, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Norwegian champions culinary variety with its Freestyle dining. However, many of these options incur additional costs. Guests enjoy food halls with diverse offerings, balancing added expenses with delicious meals.
Kids Activities
For families, both lines offer engaging children’s programming, allowing parents to savor some personal time. Carnival’s Camp Ocean caters to kids with marine themes, while Norwegian’s Splash Academy offers creative opportunities.
Carnival boasts Dr. Seuss themed events and babysitting for the youngest passengers. Norwegian offers teens a unique social club experience with Entourage, as well as a Circus School for younger kids.
Carnival is more accommodating to very young children with its expansive babysitting services, whereas Norwegian focuses on kids aged three and up.
Onboard Attractions
Norwegian and Carnival excel in onboard fun. Norwegian’s ships come equipped with slide-coasters and laser tag arenas, ideal for active adventurers.
Carnival attracts thrill-seekers with the sea’s first roller coaster, Bolt, and expansive water parks. These cruises are a paradise for outdoor fun enthusiasts, featuring sports courts and captivating entertainment.
Norwegian targets a diverse crowd, offering escape rooms, advanced amenities, and performance spaces. Carnival emphasizes high-energy fun with unique attractions like movie screenings and vibrant deck parties.
Entertainment
Entertainment is key on both lines. Norwegian excels with Broadway-style productions and themed parties. Carnival’s vibrant comedy clubs and Playlist Productions entertain guests of all ages.
For those seeking unique nightlife, Norwegian offers themed shows paired with drinks as part of the experience. These are, however, adult-only due to the nature of the performances.
Carnival entertains with comedic acts, live music, and music-themed shows. Each line brings a unique flair, ensuring a memorable cruise experience for everyone on board.
Who is on Board?
Carnival attracts a lively crowd with its budget-friendly and fun atmosphere, making it a go-to for families and party seekers from North America.
Carnival offers late-night deck parties, bustling casinos, and themed nights. Cruisers enjoy the casual vibe with an emphasis on fun.
Norwegian caters to those seeking relaxed luxury and freedom. Its ‘freestyle cruising’ appeals to singles, couples, and families alike.
Passengers enjoy personalized perks, like free drinks and specialty dining, making Norwegian appealing despite higher fares. Both lines cater mainly to North American travelers, fostering a familiar onboard environment.
Itineraries
Carnival focuses mainly on North America, with sailings in the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Alaska. It offers unique routes like Cabo San Lucas from Long Beach and Cozumel from New Orleans.
Australian waters and limited European cruises expand Carnival’s reach, while maintaining its core strength in local itineraries.
Norwegian delves into international waters, with strong North American presence. It excels in offering global itineraries, including the Mediterranean, Asia, and South America. Norwegian sets itself apart with year-round Hawaiian cruises.
Choosing between Norwegian and Carnival depends on your cruising style. If innovation and diverse itineraries excite you, Norwegian may be the way. For unforgettable onboard fun and budget-friendly options, Carnival promises a lively escape.
