Taking a yoga class on a cruise ship was a whole new challenge, but I'd choose it over a regular studio in a heartbeat

  • I was on the Carnival Vista, Carnival Cruise Line's first ship to sail in the US since the pandemic started .
  • The activities on the ship were nearly identical to those on a pre-pandemic cruise, including fitness classes.
  • I joined two yoga classes where the shaky ship added an entirely new challenge to familiar poses.

I spent a week in July aboard the Carnival Vista learning what cruising is like post-vaccination.

yoga carnival cruise

Cruising is back, and on July 3, the Carnival Vista departed from Galveston, Texas, becoming the cruise line's first ship to set sail in the US in over 16 months .

I was aboard the 2,700-passenger ship to report on the experience for Insider.

From indulging in buffets to laughing at comedy shows, I explored the Carnival Vista and all it had to offer.

yoga carnival cruise

I spent the week discovering every change Carnival Cruise lines implemented on its first ship back and whether the experience could compare to pre-pandemic cruising.

I tried everything from Guy Fieri's barbecue buffet to sleeping in a windowless tiny cabin . I also included explored Carnival Vista's gym and fitness classes.

I was curious if fitness classes were different on a cruise ship. So on the sixth day of the cruise, I ventured to the ship's spa for a yoga class.

yoga carnival cruise

I navigated my way to deck 12, where the Cloud 9 Spa is located on the Carnival Vista. 

At the very back of the spa is the ship's gym, which offers 180-degree views of the ocean, and a small fitness class filled with spin bikes for cycling and a handful of yoga mats. 

I arrived for a "pathway to yoga" class , which was one of the paid fitness classes available to passengers and cost $17.25. 

Since I last took a yoga class in pre-pandemic New York City — where you're forced to arrive early in order to snag a spot — I showed up 15 minutes before the session started.

yoga carnival cruise

When I lived in Brooklyn, New York, I remember racing across my neighborhood to different yoga studios to get there 15 or 20 minutes before the class had started to grab the ideal spot for my yoga mat.

With 2,700 people on board the ship, I guessed it would be a similar scramble for spots. So I turned up 15 minutes before the class... but I soon realized I didn't need to.

I was shocked — and a bit relieved — that I was the only one joining the class.

yoga carnival cruise

The idea of being jam-packed in a gym with heaving strangers was a new fear unlocked during COVID. So for the last year, I've avoided in-person yoga classes and gyms at all costs.

But the Carnival Vista felt like a safer place to restart indoor fitness classes since the vast majority of people on the ship were vaccinated; Carnival Cruises has required its crew members to get the COVID vaccine, and 95% of guests on the ship were also vaccinated.

As I walked to the fitness studio, I mentally prepared to join a yoga class with strangers. But I was the only one who showed up. 

Yoga instructor McWilliam wasn't surprised that I was the only one in the class.

yoga carnival cruise

In the studio, I met one of the ship's two fitness instructors, McWilliam.

McWilliam said this was his second contract as a fitness instructor for cruise ships. So he's taught yoga, cycling, and pilates to hundreds of passengers and has learned the rhythm of cruise ships.

He said he wasn't a bit surprised that I was the only person joining his yoga class. Most people rush to the fitness classes the first few days of the cruise, but it peters out during the final days, he said. 

I was joining McWilliam's yoga class on day six of the eight-day cruise. Plus, it was after a long day in Cozumel, Mexico.

"People are tired from exploring, and they want to take the evening off," he told Insider.

So we started the class, and immediately the ship started rocking.

yoga carnival cruise

Coincidentally, I signed up for a yoga class the only day the ship was rocking.

For the five days on the cruise, it was smooth sailing. There had been little movement, and at moments, I entirely forgot I was on an enormous ship.

But just a few hours before my yoga class, the ship hit rougher waters and started moving back and forth. For McWilliam, it wasn't anything out of the norm.

"There were some rocky ships in Australia," he said. "So rocky that we had to cancel the class because it was too dangerous." 

People losing their balance could lead to injuries, so if the ship is moving too much, the class gets canceled. 

What we experienced was minor, so we continued through our movements.

The rocking added a new challenging element to the typical yoga class.

yoga carnival cruise

McWilliam instructed me through a basic yoga class. It was filled with lunging warrior poses, sun salutations, and some hip stretching. 

I had done the majority of the poses before, so I didn't expect the class to be too challenging. 

But the rocking ship added a completely unexpected dynamic to the class. 

I tipped over during a yogi squat and lost my balance during a warrior two pose where you're in a lunge with your arms extended. 

Fortunately, I was able to laugh over my lack of balance and continue through the poses unscathed. 

As we moved through poses, I felt calmer and my balance strengthened.

yoga carnival cruise

On the Carnival Cruise's HUB App, the yoga class is targeted at everyone "from the yoga newbies to the experienced yogi." 

And the description felt accurate. As someone who has taken their fair share of yoga classes, the class wasn't too challenging, but there were still opportunities to push yourself.

Plus, a rocking ship would challenge any experienced yogi.

As the 45-minute class came to a close, the rocking ship made it even harder to fight off sleep in the final savasana pose.

yoga carnival cruise

McWilliam ended the 45-minute class in savasana, which is the final resting pose where you lay on your back completely still.

After any yoga class, I can easily slip into sleep during the savasana pose. A rocking boat only tempted me more.

Compared to a pre-pandemic fitness class, I didn't notice any changes except that the instructor wore a mask.

yoga carnival cruise

The most obvious change I noticed was that McWilliam wore a face mask throughout the entire class.

When the class ended, I went to roll up the yoga mat and store it away, but McWilliam asked me to leave it out so he could sanitize it once I left. 

I'm not sure whether Carnival Cruise Lines sanitized mats prior to the pandemic, but this is a common practice for many yoga classes, so the request didn't faze me. 

For $17, the private yoga class felt like a steal.

yoga carnival cruise

In Brooklyn, I could easily spend $20 or $25 for a drop-in class at my local yoga studio. 

There, I would share the space with 20 other people. 

I felt like the $17.25 price tag was a fair price, and when I factored in that I received one-on-one instruction, it made the price feel like an even better deal. 

McWilliam said at most, the fitness room fits eight people, so no matter what, the classes are small. 

The price paired with the peacefulness of the class motivated me to wake up early the next morning and do it all again.

yoga carnival cruise

The following morning, I joined another yoga class led by McWilliam.

This time, one other passenger joined the class, and the three of us went through a yoga practice that involved using a hand towel as a yoga strap.

The towel helped us get deeper stretches and wake up our bodies for the final day at sea.

When I left the second class, I knew I'd miss the added challenge and peacefulness the rocking ship created. 

yoga carnival cruise

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Earlier Patti did a roundup of  10 cruise lines for fitness buffs . Below you'll find a more complete list of cruise lines' fitness offerings: Most lines now offer group classes such as yoga , Pilates , spinning , Aqua Tone , Tour de Cycle , TRX suspension training , tai chi and more.

Here's our roundup of fitness classes available on a cruise , with the types of activities and the cost. 

Take spinning to new heights: MSC Divina is the first ship to offer Aqua Cycling at sea.

In our series Wellness & Fitness

Cruise tips for slimmer sailings, 10 cruise lines for fitness buffs, cruise ship spas: what to expect & what they cost.

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12 reasons a cruise is a healthy vacation choice

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Unlock Your Zen at Carnival Cruise: Embark on a Blissful Yoga Journey

Unlock Your Zen at Carnival Cruise: Embark on a Blissful Yoga Journey

Home » Yoga » Unlock Your Zen at Carnival Cruise: Embark on a Blissful Yoga Journey

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The Benefits of Yoga on a Carnival Cruise

Carnival priority boarding: who gets first access find out now, embarkation day: a comprehensive guide to what happens, exploring the unforgettable experiences on adult only cruises, discover if serenity is free on carnival cruise | expert insights.

Are you looking to find inner peace and relaxation while enjoying a memorable vacation? Look no further than a Carnival Cruise, where you can unlock your zen and embark on a blissful yoga journey. Carnival Cruise offers a range of yoga classes and activities that cater to all levels of experience, allowing you to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul amidst the picturesque backdrop of the open sea.

Yoga is a practice that integrates physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to promote overall well-being. On a Carnival Cruise, you can reap the following benefits:

  • Stress Relief: Yoga helps to reduce stress levels, allowing you to unwind and let go of everyday worries.
  • Improved Flexibility: Regular yoga practice enhances flexibility and increases range of motion, which can be especially beneficial for those who spend long hours sitting or standing.
  • Enhanced Strength and Balance: Yoga poses engage various muscles, helping to build strength and improve balance.
  • Increased Mindfulness: Through focused breathing and meditation, yoga cultivates mindfulness, enabling you to live in the present moment and appreciate the beauty around you.

One of the concerns many Carnival Cruise passengers have is about priority boarding. Carnival offers priority boarding to certain groups, including:

  • Diamond and Platinum Members: Carnival’s loyalty program rewards frequent cruisers with benefits such as priority boarding.
  • VIFP Club Members: Carnival’s VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club offers different membership levels, each with its own set of perks, including priority boarding.
  • Faster to the Fun (FTTF) Package: For an additional fee, passengers can purchase the FTTF package, which includes priority boarding among other benefits.

Embarkation day marks the beginning of your Carnival Cruise adventure. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what happens on embarkation day:

  • Check-In: Upon arrival at the cruise terminal, you’ll need to check in and present your travel documents.
  • Security and Immigration: Passengers go through security screening and immigration procedures before boarding the ship.
  • Welcome Aboard: Once on board, you’ll be greeted by the friendly staff and directed to your stateroom.
  • Muster Drill: All passengers are required to participate in the mandatory muster drill, which familiarizes everyone with the emergency procedures.
  • Exploring the Ship: After the muster drill, you’re free to explore the ship, enjoy the amenities, and get ready for an incredible journey.

For those seeking a more serene and adult-oriented experience, Carnival Cruise offers adult-only cruises. These cruises provide a tranquil atmosphere and exclusive activities for adults, allowing you to unwind and relax without any distractions.

Some of the unforgettable experiences on adult-only cruises include:

  • Adult-Only Pools and Hot Tubs: Enjoy a peaceful swim or soak in the adult-only pools and hot tubs, away from the hustle and bustle of family areas.
  • Spa and Wellness Facilities: Indulge in luxurious spa treatments, rejuvenating massages, and wellness classes designed to enhance your relaxation and well-being.
  • Adult-Only Dining Options: Delight in gourmet meals at the adult-only restaurants, where you can savor delectable cuisine in an intimate setting.

Serenity, Carnival Cruise’s exclusive adult-only retreat, offers a tranquil oasis for relaxation. While access to Serenity is generally free for all adult passengers, it’s important to note that certain services and amenities within Serenity may incur additional charges.

Expert insights suggest that while most features of Serenity are complimentary, some premium services such as spa treatments or private cabanas may require an additional fee. It’s recommended to check with Carnival Cruise directly or consult your travel agent for the most up-to-date information regarding Serenity access and any associated costs.

Embark on a Carnival Cruise and unlock your zen through a blissful yoga journey. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a combination of both, Carnival Cruise offers a diverse range of experiences to cater to every traveler’s preferences. So, pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and set sail on an unforgettable vacation.

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Do cruise ships have gyms? Here's how to stay fit on a cruise

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Do cruises have gyms? Even if you're not super into working out, it's a logical question when you consider how many other amenities are jam-packed onto modern vessels. The answer, of course, is yes, but that doesn't mean you have to spend your entire vacation working up a sweat in order to stay healthy.

Fitness fiends are often quick to decry cruises because of the all-you-can-eat buffets, inclusive beverage packages and proliferation of opportunities to be sedentary. All this can make for a great vacation, but if you're not careful, you could fall into some unhealthy patterns.

That doesn't mean you can't enjoy a few daiquiris and complimentary soft-serve ice cream, but whether you're on the ship for a few nights or months, staying active's important. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to keep yourself healthy while you're cruising, even if you never set foot in the gym.

Here's how you can stay fit on your next voyage while minimizing the time you spend exercising — unless, of course, you're really into fitness .

yoga carnival cruise

Get your exercise

Most cruise ships have fitness centers that are free to use. Although some of the biggest workout fanatics will spend time there daily, most people looking for a sweat session hit the gym on sea days. (Go at peak dining times if you'd like to avoid the crowds.)

You'll often find a wide range of cardio machines, including treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes and rowers, as well as weight training machines (cable machines and a leg press) and free weights. You might also find high-intensity interval training equipment like kettlebells and medicine balls, plus some yoga mats, bands and foam rollers for stretching out those muscles.

Many cruise ships also offer fitness classes. Royal Caribbean , for example, offers yoga, Pilates and spinning classes on their ships. Carnival Cruise Line offers the same, plus boot camp classes. On Norwegian Cruise Line , you can also take a spin class or a high-intensity boxing class. These are often available for an additional fee.

The exception to the extra-fee class rule is Virgin Voyages , a relative newcomer to the industry. The line's vessels offer all fitness classes at no charge , and the variety is both refreshing and fun. In addition to bungee classes, yoga and spin, passengers can choose from HIIT sessions, Muscle Beach-style workouts and even an '80s aerobics class where themed attire is highly encouraged and Shake Weights are the apparatus of choice.

Many small-ship and upscale cruise lines also include group fitness classes in their fares.

yoga carnival cruise

Prefer to stay outside and maximize the sunlight? Take to the top deck for a run.

Every Royal Caribbean ship except Empress of the Seas has a running track. On Carnival cruises, you'll find padded running tracks on nearly all of the vessels. If you're looking for something a bit less mundane, check out Celebrity Cruises ' Edge-class ships , which feature tracks that wind around the outer decks in a figure-eight that offers inclines and declines to keep things interesting. On Virgin's vessels, the track is alone on the top deck, making it easier to burn calories without worrying that you'll run into someone or trip over a deck chair.

Best of all, you don't need to work out to stay fit during a cruise. All you have to do is skip the elevator. The largest passenger cruise ship on Earth, Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas , has 18 decks: If you walk up and down the stairs every day, you'll be shocked how quickly you get in your steps during a cruise — even if you are on your way to the buffet.

Watch what you eat

yoga carnival cruise

You might think it's impossible to eat healthy on a cruise ship , but it's pretty easy.

First, the dreaded buffet isn't so bad. With ample salad bars, fresh soups and extensive fruit selections, the buffets offer plenty of options for selective travelers who wish to avoid the endless supply of French fries and mozzarella sticks. In the morning, breakfast buffets typically include a make-your-own omelet bar (request egg whites with vegetables and hold the cheese), hard-boiled eggs and more fruit.

When you're at home, it might be difficult to find fresh or healthy foods, and they are often more expensive than their processed counterparts. But at a cruise ship buffet, making the healthy choice costs nothing.

In sit-down restaurants, cruise lines increasingly have a handful of healthful dishes on the menu, even if they're not crowd-pleasers. Some vessels dedicate sections of restaurant menus to healthy fare. Cunard's Queen Mary 2 's Britannia restaurant, for example, offers spa cuisine items designed in partnership with Canyon Ranch.

yoga carnival cruise

Other lines are doubling down on the wellness movement by introducing health-focused a la carte restaurants. Grab a seat at Celebrity's complimentary Spa Cafe, now on most of the line's vessels. Cruisers can order grilled chicken breast with steamed vegetables; a low-sodium arugula salad with grapefruit segments; and poached fruits with herbs and spices.

On some Princess Cruises vessels, cruisers can now elbow up to an Ocean Terrace Bar turning out raw, fresh-squeezed fruit and vegetable juices (for an upcharge). Even budget line Carnival has a Mongolian Wok restaurant on several of its ships. Tip: Skip the noodles and stick with fresh vegetables and lean proteins.

Lines have stepped up their game in the last few years with regard to dietary restrictions. Not only can you find more vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free menu items, but you can also look for desserts marked as sugar-free if you're hoping to limit your intake of sweets.

Cruisers should also be mindful of those pesky liquid calories. We're talking about alcohol, juice and soda — or tropical cocktails containing all three. Stick with red wine or straight liquor mixed with club soda instead, or try a NorCal Margarita: tequila, club soda, lemon or lime, salt and ice.

It might be tempting to grab a slice of cake or a frozen cocktail when they're constantly available, but the key is to not go overboard. (See what I did there?)

Book active excursions

yoga carnival cruise

When the ship arrives at a port, you'll want to disembark, stretch your legs and explore — not spend a day in the gym. And that's good news because there are plenty of ways to get your steps on dry land.

Depending on where you're cruising, you might have the opportunity to go cycling, hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding or surfing. Take advantage of cruise ship shore excursions and find ways to be active while sightseeing. Even if you don't book a walking tour in a major city, try to make active choices when possible. For example, did you know the average person can burn between 250 and 300 calories in an hour of snorkeling?

River cruise lines are also diving into the fitness fray. AmaWaterways has dedicated wellness hosts who lead active excursions ashore, as well as fitness classes on board (resistance band stretches, cardio dance). Last year, wellness hosts were available on all but three AmaWaterways vessels. They lead groups of cruisers on excursions such as bike rides along the Regensburg countryside or guided hikes up the Philosopher's Path in Heidelberg.

Bottom line

Cruises can be a great way to kick back and relax or explore multiple destinations without having to unpack multiple times — but that doesn't mean you should completely toss away your fitness routine. Cruise lines have made it easy for passengers to hit the gym, take a fitness class or go for a run both on board and on dry land. So take advantage of the convenient exercise options, even for just a few minutes a day.

Have more cruise questions? TPG has answers:

  • Banned items: What not to pack for a cruise
  • Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
  • What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
  • What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
  • What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
  • What is the Jones Act, and how does it affect cruise ships?
  • What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
  • What's a cruise cabin guarantee, and will it save you money?
  • What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

Additional reporting by Ashley Kosciolek.

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Carnival Cruise Spa Prices

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What is the cost of Carnival Spa - look at the prices, Spa Carnival menu of all services and products, Beauty Salon services and shipboard Fitness prices.

Comparing Spa prices on Carnival cruises to the rates of any land-based facility is both irrelevant and wrong. If you choose one of the so many Carnival Fun Ships for your sea travel vacation, you choose a floating resort. The Carnival's "floating palaces" feature along with all their unique activities & amenities, also the Spa Carnival retreat - your perfect world of tranquility, beauty, rejuvenating relaxation and well-being at sea. Integrated with Cloud 9 Spa Carnival prices and our Carnival Cruise Lines prices information hub about what is the price of fun when you choose to travel with the cheapest cruise line in the world.

Carnival Cruise Spa - CruiseMapper

Carnival Spa products

The Spa Carnival services in the Health&Wellness centers on all Carnival ships are managed by Steiner Leisure Limited (STNR). Steiner is a leading company for spa services and products, established in 1934. As of February 2012, the Steiner spa company serves a total of 152 cruise ships of 19 of the world's most famous cruise line companies .

The general range of Carnival Spa prices is from US$25 up to around $300, but keep in mind that the onboard facilities you're using, besides their glamour, also have their huge cost to build. Everything on a vacation ship is much more expensive as a building cost than its analogs ashore. So indulge yourself by spoiling your body with some of the best Spa treatments at sea, using top-line luxury spa products provided by the leading British spa brand Elemis.

Spa Carnival menu prices of services and treatments

The Carnival Spa menu prices in the table below are available on the following Carnival ships: Conquest, Ecstasy, Elation, Fantasy, Fascination, Freedom, Glory, Imagination, Inspiration, Legend, Liberty, Miracle, Paradise, Pride, Sensation, Spirit, Triumph, Valor, and Victory. Tip: Spa services are at discounted prices while the ship is in port.

Carnival cruise ship Fitness prices

Note: The following pricing is for a course and inclusive of consultation with the fitness program.

  • "Personal Training" (60 min) - $103 $85 or course of 3 ($253 $209)
  • "Pilate's" (1 hr) $85
  • "Zone Diet" (nutritional consultation, 60 min) $103 $85
  • "Body Composition Analysis" (30 min) $43 $35.
  • participating in CLASSES for $14 $12 pp (Yoga, Pilates, Cycling).
  • Fitness package prices (the "Unlimited Class Pass") - on 3-4 day sailings ($49) and on 5-7 day sailings ($69).
  • "Chakra Balancing Capsule" - 25min ($45) and 50min ($60).
  • Excepting the classes, using the Fitness equipment is free of charge.

yoga carnival cruise

  • Cruise Tips / Cruising

Are Cruise Ship Fitness Classes Worth It?

by Prof. Cruise · Published January 11, 2023 · Updated January 11, 2023

Cruise ship in the background with a Prof. Cruise in the foreground holding weights with a curious look on her face and a speech bubble that reads: Are Cruise Ship Fitness Classes Worth It?  Additional text reads: I PUT THEM TO THE TEST!

What Kind of Idiot Exercises on a Cruise?

Well, the pasty white woman with the weird expression on her face meant to communicate curiosity pictured above, for one. Why? Because my average day onboard a cruise ship involves eating enough calories to sustain a male African elephant throughout a years-long famine. And I cruise for a living.

Let me be clear, I hate exercise as much as the average sofa spud – I just consider it part of my job. It’s unpleasant, but necessary if I want to stay alive long enough to scoot my kid off to college so I can permanently live at sea. #lifegoals

Other idiots may have different reasons for not shunning the gym on land, let alone on vacation, but that’s mine. Shrug .

Why Participate in Fitness Classes on a Cruise Ship?

To fight gym boredom (you know that idiom about being stuck on a treadmill?)? To share in a common misery? To meet a hot fitness instructor who lives on a cruise ship? All valid reasons! And all reasons that prompted me to purchase a fitness pass for the first time on my last cruise (a 16-day sailing to New Zealand onboard the Noordam).

A cruise ship fitness class signup sheet.

What Kinds of Fitness Classes are Offered on a Cruise Ship?

The most common classes are abs, stretch, cycle, yoga, pilates, boot camp, and body conditioning .

A cruise ship yoga class.

How Much Do Fitness Classes Cost on a Cruise Ship?

While cost will vary a bit depending on cruise line, I’ve found most cruise ship fitness classes cost around $20 per class, although some are free (like stretch and ab classes). There was one class (Total Body Conditioning) on my last cruise that was priced at $69, but that’s unusually high. You can save money on individual classes by purchasing a class pass or sometimes fitness classes will be included as part of a larger cruise package.

On my Noordam cruise there were three different class pass options , one for stretch/relaxation that included meditation, yoga, and pilates, one for cardio/strength that included cycle, boot camp, and body conditioning, and one that included all classes. I opted for the all-inclusive option and paid $148 + 18% service charge for 16 days . The other two class passes were priced at $99 + 18% service charge. Private training is not included with class passes (although it’s available for a fee on most cruises).

When are Fitness Classes Offered on a Cruise Ship?

That will vary depending on the ship and itinerary, but to give you an idea, here was the schedule from my last cruise.

A cruise ship fitness class schedule.

I apologize to my fellow American, math-challenged friends for requiring you to convert the times from a 24-hour clock to a 12-hour clock (my cruise departed from Australia where they use a 24-hour clock). I tried to use that as an excuse for why I was tired and not giving my full effort to the first class I took with a particularly strict Eastern European trainer named Martin (more on him later), but it didn’t fly.

Usually ab and stretch classes take place early in the morning or (less commonly) before dinner. And usually the other classes take place at 8am, 9am or in the early evening . I didn’t find some of the class times very convenient as they interfered with dining room hours (maybe that’s the point?) for breakfast and dinner and with morning shore excursions. I wish they’d offer classes in the late afternoon (in the 2-4pm timeframe).

How Long are Cruise Ship Fitness Classes?

On my sailing, ab, stretch, and meditation classes were 30 minutes. All other classes were 45 minutes. I’ve found that to be fairly typical across ships and lines.

Alas, the question you’ve suffered through my droning on and dumb jokes to finally have answered!

I’ve avoided taking any cruise ship fitness classes for years. YEARS! Mostly because I’m too cheap to pay for them. But also because I wondered if the quality would be as good as on land. But since I had a ton of onboard credit and gift cards to burn through and because this was such a long sailing and I worried I’d get bored with the standard cruise ship gym equipment, I went for it. And, ultimately, I’m glad I did. But, here’s what I learned…

Cruise ship fitness classes are a great place to make friends. We laughed together (try keeping your balance in a yoga class during 12 foot swells!), we cried together (thanks, MARTIN!), and we felt totally justified hitting the bar together.

Cruise ship fitness classes are of good quality. I didn’t say “great” quality because the same trainer who teaches yoga also teaches pilates, cycle, and boot camp. Whereas on land you may have a master yoga instructor who has been practicing and training for years, on a cruise ship you’re getting a jack-of-all-trades. For me, that made the most difference for yoga. We did the same basic flow for every class. No biggie, but something to keep in mind.

Cruise ship fitness classes are harder than I expected. Especially on a cruise ship where the medical center took up three decks due to the average age and condition of the passengers (Too blunt? I mean, I count myself among them.). While classes were a bit shorter than many I’ve taken on land (which tend to be a full hour), they were rigorous.

Which brings me to Martin, one of the two trainers onboard. He was hardcore, not particularly validating, and never entertained any excuses. Here’s a photo of him and my feet after I experienced a brief bout with death after one of his boot camp classes:

A male cruise ship trainer in the background with Prof. Cruise's feet on a mat in the foreground.

One day after participating in THREE consecutive classes with him in the SAME MORNING , I said, “I really earned my breakfast today!” to which he responded, “No, I didn’t see you at ab class. Next time four classes and you can get a hard boiled egg and some fruit for breakfast.” The f**k?!?

He also regularly made fun of the little attachable clip fan I used to keep cool during cycle classes, “why do you need fan? I only see a little sweat on the floor.” Seriously, they could have used my accumulated sweat to fill the main lido pool!

And one of his favorite phrases was “today will be easy day.” Then he’d proceed to have us simulate cycling up Mount Everest at a sprint for three straight weeks (okay, 45 minutes, but still).

In contrast to Martin was the second trainer, Casey, with her sweet smile, charming British accent, and calming, encouraging demeanor. Her favorite phrase was, “that’s it” which she’d say even if your triangle pose looked more like a shapeless pile of confused limbs.

I swear, every time I snuck a few (dozen) pastries and a mimosa from the lido just prior to class and prayed I’d get Casey so I could take it a bit easier, I got Martin. Every. Time.

But, in all seriousness, I really liked both trainers (even though they had very different styles) and the classes were challenging and, dare I say…fun?

Cruise ship fitness classes can be a great value if you don’t pay a la carte. You’re probably confused as to why I sometimes took multiple classes in the same day and may be seriously questioning my sanity and credibility at this point. But the reason I took so many classes is mainly because I wanted to get my money’s worth from my class pass! I’m generally lazy and lack motivation, yes. But I’m far cheaper! In fact, I’d estimate I took around 25 classes (not including the free ab and stretch classes) over 16 days. That averages out to around $7 per class. A great value compared to $20-$69 per class on an a la carte basis.

Would I Take Fitness Classes on a Cruise Ship Again?

On a shorter itinerary, say 6 days and under? No. I don’t find that necessary and will suffer through a few days on the treadmill/elliptical. But on a longer itinerary with classes offered at convenient times? Absolutely! You’ll have to try harder to kill me next time, Martin! And with that…

Class Dismissed!

Homework (10 point): Cycle up Mount Everest at a sprint! Just kidding. For a satirical take on cruise fitness, read my article: 15 Tips for Staying Fit on a Cruise Ship.

A cruise ship with a woman exercising on the top while balancing a plate of mashed potatoes and a plate of mac 'n cheese.  Text reads: TIPS FOR STAYING FIT ON A CRUISE SHIP.

And be sure to follow  Prof. Cruise  on social media:

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About Prof. Cruise

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Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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Why you’ll never get bored on a cruise

One of the most common questions new cruisers have is, “Will I be bored?” They worry that spending a week (or more) on the one ship will mean they’ll run out of things to do. But the jam-packed schedule and facilities on a Carnival ship will keep you entertained around the clock.

For the kids

Kids taking a photograph with Dr. Seuss

For the grown-ups

One of the great things about spending time together on a family holiday is taking the opportunity to spend some time apart. On a Carnival cruise, the adults can head straight to the Adult-Only Serenity Retreat. As the name suggests, this lounge is a calm refuge from the buzz of the common areas and the perfect place to sunbake, read or chat with your partner over a few cocktails. If you’re looking for something a little more active, embrace your inner James Bond with a poker game in the casino, stretch out with a yoga class or indulge in a spa treatment*.

For the whole family

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For the improvers

You know the type (or maybe you are the type) – people who love to learn something new on holiday. If you don’t know your Rembrandt from your Renoir, one of the informative Art Seminars will take you through the basics and give you a greater appreciation for the art found around the ship. Keen to learn a new skill? Take one of the many dance classes offered and then strut your stuff in the nightclub. The ship’s expert chefs also host cooking demonstrations, where you can learn the secret to searing the perfect steak or making the fluffiest mashed potatoes.

For the relaxers

Get comfy. Cruise ships are also a great place to do absolutely nothing. Lie by the pool, soak in a hot tub, read in the library or let off steam in the sauna. The options for relaxation are almost endless!

Learn more about onboard entertainment here.

*Charges apply ^Available on Carnival Splendor

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Complete Guide to Sailing Carnival Cruise Line (What It’s Like)

Carnival Cruise Line is one of the largest brands in North America, sailing from ports all over the United States to destinations in the Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska, Canada, Mexico, and Hawaii. Put simply, if you want to take a cruise from a port near you, then there is a good chance that Carnival either sails from there or sails to there. (More recent ventures into Australia and Europe also give it global reach.)

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Millions of passengers every year set sail on Carnival ships, and nearly all of them have a great vacation that they will remember for a lifetime. In total, the cruise line’s roughly two dozen ships sail thousands of trips throughout the year.

As one of the most popular cruise line in North America by number of passengers and sailings, Carnival offers a wide appeal. Whether you are a couple looking for a romantic getaway… or a family seeking to spend a vacation together… of just friends hoping to let loose for a few days on a girls’ trip, the line has something you’ll enjoy.

Still, you might be wondering if Carnival is the right cruise line for you. Or maybe you simply have never sailed the line before and want more of an idea on what you can expect. No matter the reason, below we’ve covered everything you could ever want to know about taking a cruise on Carnival.

And if we haven’t covered something you want to know? Let us know in the comments below.

In This Article...

Overview of Carnival Cruise Lines

Based out of Doral, Florida (a suburb of Miami) Carnival is what is known as a “mass-market” cruise line. While some companies try to appeal to niche audiences, Carnival tries to appeal to everyone. That means you’ll find a wide range of things to do that are for people of all ages and interests.

If you want a cruise line that caters only to people just like you, this isn’t it. From food to entertainment to activities, expect a number of things that will appeal to you… but also some that may not interest you at all.

Of course, having wide appeal means you’ll find all sorts of passengers on the ships. Ages range from 1 to 100, with families well represented. You’ll find couples getting married… couples celebrating honeymoons… couple celebrating 50th anniversaries. You’ll find those celebrating birthdays. You’ll find passengers just looking for a vacation for the family. And you’ll find everything in between. During the summers you’ll see more families sailing while longer cruises during the school year tend to draw older passengers.

Carnival’s fleet ranges the gamut from older, smaller ships to brand-new megaships that can measure the length of a city block and have roughly 20 decks. Like most cruise lines, Carnival is trending toward larger ships, with the introduction of its Vista-class (Carnival Vista, Carnival Horizon, and Carnival Panorama) ships a few years ago and the arrival of its largest ships ever — Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee.

For more specific details on Carnival and what it’s like to sail, keep reading.

Atmosphere of a Carnival Cruise

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The cruise line’s famous motto is “The Fun Ships.” In other words, if you’re expecting a stuffy, luxury-focused liner with caviar and champagne, this isn’t it.

Instead, like most cruise lines in this corner of the market, the overall atmosphere is relaxed, warm, and fun. Hang out poolside on the first day and you’ll see the energetic staff leading line dances to help people let loose a little bit. Most restaurants are casual where you can get a bite to eat without having to worry how to pronounce half the menu.

In general you’ll find the staff friendly and warm, always ready to share a smile or laugh at a joke. If you’re thinking of a rigid “maître d” type that looks down his nose at you… or a bartender who acts like you’re an annoyance instead of a guest… you won’t find it on Carnival.

The ship décor also lends to the atmosphere on board. Some cruise lines aim to outfit their ships with luxurious and elegant décor. Carnival aims to make things nice, while also being warm and inviting. For example, instead of dark wood and shiny brass, interior spots on Carnival ships often look bright, often with lots of color.

Many spots include bright colors (even neon on some ships) that liven things up. Or select a Havana room on Carnival’s newer ships and you’ll be greeting by a waving senorita painted next to your cabin door.

Meanwhile, your fellow passengers further help to make the atmosphere relaxed. You’ll see that t-shirts and shorts are the dress of the day (except for formal night). And the mix of people and ages on the ship add some youthful energy to the crowd. Contests and events — especially those held poolside — are always fun and lively.

Luxury? No. But fun? Absolutely.

Price of Cruises

Perhaps no factor has been a bigger driver of Carnival’s growth as one of the most-sailed cruise lines in America than price. Put simply, no other cruise line offers as many sailings for as low a price as Carnival.

Whether looking for a quick 3-day getaway from Miami or a 7-day cruise from Galveston (and everything in between), it’s likely that Carnival will offer one of the lowest prices around. In fact, many times you can find cruises for less than $70 a day for the per-person price for an interior cabin. Trips under $120 per day, per person are just about everywhere. You can read more about the cost of a Carnival cruise here .

That’s not to say you can’t find deals on other lines. In general, however, Carnival comes in less expensive on many cruises. The best news for passengers is that those low prices apply not only to the cruise fare, but also once you board. 

Let’s take the drink package, for instance. Carnival offers the CHEERS! package , which provides up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day for one set price. Other cruise lines have similar deals, but Carnival’s package is one of the cheapest. The per-day price for CHEERS! is $64.95 (discounts are available if bought before you sail). Other cruise lines charge up to $109 per day for this sort of offer.

You’ll find the same sort of lower prices on everything from Internet to specialty dining. Bottom line, you can be confident if you’re looking for the best deal that any sailing from Carnival will offer lower prices both on your cruise fare and once on the ship.

Ports of Departure

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In the same way that Carnival has beat the market on cruise prices, it has also set the bar in ports of departure. In fact, the line sails from more departure points than any other competitor.

Carnival has worked hard to put a port of departure within driving distance of hundreds of millions of people. Underserved ports like Norfolk and Charleston put cruise ships near people who would otherwise have to travel much longer distances to go on a cruise.

Smaller cruise ports, such as Baltimore and Jacksonville typically have a single ship that sails. While this does give you an option if you live near these ports, the ships that sail are not the biggest and newest in the fleet. More recently the cruise line has added ships sailing from Australia and Europe, offering more departures.

If you’re interested in sailing on Carnival’s newest ships, then you’ll want to head to a major cruise port such as Miami, Port Canaveral, or Galveston. These larger ports give you more options. Not only are there more ships sailing, but they also offer more routes.

Here is a full list of ports where Carnival has service in the United States:

  • Jacksonville
  • Los Angeles
  • New Orleans
  • Port Canaveral
  • San Francisco

The following ports also have departures outside the United States:

  • Brisbane, Australia
  • Sydney, Australia

Note: Carnival has taken over sister ships from Costa and now offers cruises on those ships under the Carnival name. This includes Carnival Luminosa and Venezia.

Ports of Call and Itineraries

Outside of their own private island destinations (such as Carnival’s Princess Cays and Half Moon Cay), cruise lines largely sail to the same ports. So whether you pay more to sail a different cruise line, or go with Carnival, you’ll usually see the similar ports of call.

Carnival sails all around the Caribbean, Bahamas, as well as trips to Mexico and Alaska, among others.

Trips leaving Florida ports will usually go one of two ways — either east to the Bahamas (often with stops in Nassau, Freeport, or other nearby ports) or to the southwest, which takes passengers to the Caribbean and Yucatan. Popular ports of call here include Cozumel, Jamaica, and Grand Cayman.

Sailing from the Gulf Coast (Galveston, New Orleans, or Mobile)? If so, then most routes head to the Yucatan and southern Caribbean. Ports of call include Cozumel , Costa Maya , Progreso , Roatan, and Belize. In Roatan, the ship docks at Mahogany Bay , a Carnival-dedicated port area exclusive to the cruise line.

Alaskan cruises on Carnival will depart from Seattle, stopping in Canada as well as several ports in Alaska. Sailing from Los Angeles usually means shorter trips to the western Mexico ports such as Ensenada.

Don’t have much time to sail? In addition to classic 7-day journeys, Carnival is also a leader in shorter cruises. You can find many sailings aboard Carnival that are 3-5 days in length. This makes the cruise line perfect for those searching for an inexpensive getaway, without having to take too much time off of work.

Things to Do on Carnival

yoga carnival cruise

In recent years there has been an arms race of sorts among cruise lines pushing to have bigger and better things to do on the ship. In our opinion Carnival trails in this respect, especially what we consider the industry-leader in onboard activities, Royal Caribbean. But newer ships have made strides.

Let’s first discuss some of “built-in” activities you’d find on many ships — those things that are part of the ship’s actual structure and not part of the entertainment put on by the crew. The majority of these items are on or around the pool deck, but not all.

( See our article on things to do on a Carnival ship here .)

Pools Of course, you can’t even talk about cruising without talking about sitting poolside with a drink in your hand. Carnival ships all have pools, with the newer ships offering multiple. Note that given the weight of the water (and the location of the pools high on top of the ship), the pools are not huge given the number of people on the ship. They are still more than adequate to take a dip. Poolside is without a doubt the most popular place to be on sunny days at sea.

Serenity Adults-Only Area Each Carnival ship also has a Serenity area for adults. This private outdoor spot is away from the crowds and no kids are allowed. Inside you’ll usually find whirlpools, a bar, and plenty of private seating. This includes clamshell-type loungers perfect for cuddling up with a spouse. If you simply want a relaxing spot without all the people (or kids), this is it.

Waterslides/Waterpark Ships will often have waterslides or even waterparks. No one would confuse these spots with massive land-based parks, but they are plenty for kids on a cruise. One thing to note is that for pools and waterparks your kids need to be potty-trained before they are allowed to use the area.

Bolt Roller Coaster If sailing the newest Carnival ships (Mardi Gras, Celebration, Jubilee), then by far the most attention-grabbing activity is the Bolt roller coaster . The only coaster at sea, the ride takes you up to about 40 miles per hour around the top deck of the ship. It’s a short ride, but the adrenaline will be pumping long after you finish.

SportSquare The Carnival SportsSquare is an outdoor area offering a number of activities that are all game related. From mini-golf to yard games (bean-bag toss, soccer billiards, ping pong) to a ropes course and the SkyRide, there is lots to do.

It’s definitely aimed towards kids and families, but people of all ages can enjoy themselves. For instance, the SkyRide is a sit-down bike ride that goes on a hanging track around the ship, offering stunning views of the ocean.

Casino Just like a pool, every cruise ship you sail is going to have a casino. It’s located on lower decks in the heart of the ship (so that it’s never far away when you are doing some shopping or eating).

Cruise ship casinos are similar to what you’d find on land, but not exactly the same. You’ll find all your favorite games, ranging from penny slots to roulette, blackjack, craps, and more. Often there are lessons for new players offered in the mornings. Limits are low (usually $5-10), making games approachable for all players. One thing to note is that the payouts for any cruise ship casino — not just Carnival — are usually low.

Cloud 9 Spa Each ship you sail on Carnival will have a spa, with all sorts of amenities and treatments for you to enjoy. Whether you want a massage… or acupuncture… or a manicure… or any other service, you’ll be covered. You can also buy a day pass to go enjoy the sauna, thermal beds, and more. While most activities on the ship are free, you will have to pay for any spa treatments you receive. Prices are higher than what you’ll usually find on land, but that’s the price you pay for treatment on the ship.

Fitness Center Not everyone goes onto a cruise to exercise, but for many it’s a routine they like to keep or it simply makes them feel a bit better burning off some of those buffet calories. You might picture a chain hotel “gym” when you sail, but cruise ship gyms are well-stocked and usually located in one of the best places on the ship.

Traditionally built with tons of windows looking out over the water, you can take in the gorgeous views as you run on the treadmill, do some aerobics, or get a workout on one of the many weight machines.

Camp Ocean

Camp Ocean Kids Area A favorite of both kids and parents, Camp Ocean is Carnival’s kids club on their ships. In effect, it’s a place where you can drop your kids off (free of charge!) and let them have a great time while Mom and Dad enjoy their vacation too. There are separate groups within Camp Ocean, depending on the age of your kiddo. This way kids are grouped with similar ages and activities can be better suited to their age level. If you’re a parent you should definitely take advantage of this free service to allow yourself some time to relax.

Arcade Video games may not be your thing… but if you have kids they will likely love the arcade. Similar to the ship’s casino, the arcade is just like you’d find on land, only smaller. There are shooting games, air hockey, skill cranes, and more. The arcades can sometimes be hard to find as they aren’t that big and can be tucked away. Check out your specific ship’s deck plan to see exactly where it is.

IMAX/Thrill Theater Only available on a couple of newer Carnival ships, most people won’t be sailing on a vessel that has an IMAX. Still, if you are on the Vista or Horizon then you can catch a flick at the only IMAX screens at sea. The costs are similar to what you’d pay on land and the theater shows new release movies. In addition, there is also the Thrill Theater, a theater with a platform of seats that moves with the action on the screen, along with other effects like wind blowing and water splashing.

Shopping If you want to spend some money, you’ll have no shortage of things to buy on the ship. There are stores for everything from duty-free alcohol and cigarettes to expensive watches and jewelry. You can shop for souvenirs, t-shirts, art, and more. Oh, and if you forget anything at home there will also be a small shop where you can get everything from a toothbrush to over-the-counter-medicines.

Nightclubs/Bars What would a cruise ship be without bars? Carnival doesn’t lack in this respect. No matter if you want a fun poolside bar (RedFrog Rum Bar) or a fancy high-end bar with craft cocktails (Alchemy Bar), you’ll be covered. In addition there are also a number of clubs for you to hang out in the evening while you enjoy your drink.

Entertainment Put On by Staff In addition to these things to do, there is also the entertainment put on by the cruise staff. This includes games and trivia during the day, contests (dancing, free-throw shooting, ping pong), production shows, game shows, movie screenings, and even late-night comedians.

For an idea of what you might expect, check out the lineup of activities from just one afternoon of a day at sea:

Schedule for afternoon on Carnival ship

Carnival Ships

All told, Carnival’s fleet of ships measures more than two dozen vessels and frankly, your vacation can vary widely with the ship that you sail.

Take the Carnival Elation. The ship was built in 1998. Coming in at about 70,000 gross tons, it is among Carnival’s oldest and smallest ships. While’s it’s been refurbished (don’t worry, you aren’t sleeping on the same bed as someone who sailed in the ’90s!), it’s still going to be smaller and not offer many of the amenities of the newer ships. 

Side of the Carnival Horizon in port in Nassau

Compare that to Carnival’s newer Vista-Class ships like the Carnival Horizon (shown above). These ships are about twice the size of the Carnival Elation… and have a lot more features. From way more restaurants to IMAX theaters to larger venues to spots like the Havana Bar, cabins, and pool area, the larger and newer ships have a lot more to offer.

And Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee — part of Carnival’s Excel class, came to the fleet starting in 2021. It takes things even bigger. These vessels reportedly cost $1 billion to build, comes in at 180,000 gross tons and can carry 6,500 passengers at full capacity. They even has the only roller-coaster ever put on a cruise ship, along with several new eateries not available on the rest of the fleet.

Personally, we like to stick with newer ships (those built around 2010 and later). To us, these ships simply offer “more” of everything to passengers.

Cabins & Accommodations

Across more than two dozen ships (each with hundreds or thousands of cabins), the cabin experience can vary widely. In most cases, however, Carnival offers a consistent experience across most of its fleet. That means while they may not be exact, the rooms are somewhat similar.

The first thing you’ll notice about most cabins is that they are small. After all, you are on a ship… no matter how large it might be. Most cabins are about 150-200 square feet. Two adults can share a room comfortably. With two adults and one kid, it’s a tighter fit, but still manageable. Any more than that, and we’d suggest getting two cabins.

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Interior The least expensive cabin option, interior cabins are perfect for folks who want to save some cash while setting sail. It’s also ideal if you are the sort of passenger who likely won’t spend a ton of time in your room. Interior cabins are exactly as they are named. Located on the inner part of the ship, they don’t have any windows or access to the outside. In short, it’s a place to keep your things, take a shower, and sleep, but not much else. If you’re interested in learning more about interior cabins, see our article here .

Oceanview A step above interior cabins are oceanview rooms. These staterooms on Carnival offer one advantage over interior cabins — they have a window that lets in natural light and lets you see out. They typically cost a little more, but it’s worth it for those who want to at least have a window in their room.

Balcony Think of your cabin, and you likely picture a balcony room. While the inside part of the cabin is usually not that much different in size than an oceanview cabin, the addition of the balcony makes the room feel much larger as there is an extra space for you to enjoy. In addition to a great place to relax, the balcony offers essentially another room in the cabin so that you don’t feel like you are cramped inside of four walls.

Suites & Special Cabins If you want luxury, more space, or simply want some exclusive access to facilities, then Carnival has you covered.

First, you can get a suite. Larger and coming with perks like VIP check-in, suites are ideal for those that need more space or simply want a more luxurious experience. 

In addition, Carnival has introduced a few new room options on some ships like — Havana rooms, Cloud 9 rooms, and the Family Harbor cabins. 

Havana rooms are located in their own special area and have a Cuban-theme different from the rest of the ship. While the theme of the rooms might pique your interest, it’s the exclusivity that many enjoy about the Havana cabins.

As a guest in one of these few rooms, you have access to an exclusive pool and bar; you wear a wristband to show that you’re a guest with access. This means you have your own oasis with only a handful of other guests, away from the crowds found on the rest of the ship.

Havana pool and hot tubs

Cloud 9 Spa rooms are for those who love the spa experience. The cabins include amenities like priority spa reservations, unlimited use of the spa’s thermal suites, special robes, treatment discounts, and more.  

Family Harbor cabins are similar to Havana room in that they also offer their own theme (classic nautical, complete with lots of signal flags) and their own exclusive space. In this case instead of a pool and a bar area, it’s the Family Harbor Lounge. This lounge is a dedicated space for families — featuring TV, video games, board games, as well as snacks and breakfast. If you want a spot where you’re family can play together, this is it.

Food & Restaurants

What would a cruise be without food? In that area, Carnival is no slouch. In fact, among the mass-market cruise lines, it offers the most variety of free dining options. While it also has specialty restaurants, Carnival still keeps many of the most popular restaurants free.

Dining Included with Your Cruise Fare You won’t go hungry on your cruise, even if you don’t want to shell out more for dining. Free options abound on the ship.

yoga carnival cruise

Guy’s Burger Joint By far the most popular free dining on the ship among passengers is Guy’s Burger Joint . In collaboration with celebrity chef Guy Fieri, Carnival offers this hamburger spot across the fleet. Burgers are freshly made, along with tons of topping options and seasoned fries. Simply line up (it’s by the pool) and get your lunch or early dinner. The only downside is that the restaurant is open only during the day.

BlueIguana Serving both breakfast and lunch, BlueIguana is in the same area as Guy’s Burger Joint — next to the pool. Here you can get free Mexican food favorites like tacos and burritos. Similar to Chipotle, you just let them know what you want in your tortilla. In the morning they also serve breakfast burritos.

Pizza del Capitano (or Pizza Pirate) Depending on the ship you sail, the pizza parlor onboard Carnival is either Pizza del Capitano or Pizza Pirate. In essence, they are the same place. And while you might not expect a joint called Pizza Pirate to serve up good pizza… it actually does. In fact, it’s some of our favorite pizza anywhere, even on land. The pies are baked fresh and come in only a few combinations: margherita, four cheese, and pepperoni. Best of all, it is free, 24 hours per day.

Buffet Many people want to know about the buffet on a Carnival cruise. To be sure, it’s the busiest place to eat during the cruise. You’ll no doubt eat many of your meals here. The buffet serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and while it’s not open around the clock, it is open during the normal mealtimes. The menu changes, but it’s typical buffet fare and quality.

Mornings will have everything from omelet stations to cereal to bacon and pancakes. Lunch and dinner will have a wide variety including a salad bar, burgers, entrees (often similar to what’s in the main dining room), and desserts.

We’ll be honest, the buffet quality isn’t the greatest to us. It’s a good idea to eat here occasionally and try your other options around the ship so you don’t get tired of what you’re eating.

Big Chicken Making its debut on Mardi Gras, Big Chicken already looks to be a favorite that could spread to other ships. It’s a chicken restaurant serving chicken sandwiches, chicken strips and baskets. They also offer breakfast, including chicken biscuits.

ChiBang! Another new addition to the Carnival fleet, if sailing on Mardi Gras, Celebration, or Jubilee, then you’ll see ChiBang! It’s free to eat and is a combination Asian food and Mexican food spot. Not fusion… it’s literally two different menus based on what you want to eat. So you can get Kung Pao chicken or have some nachos.

Main Dining Room Many of your meals in the evening will likely be in the main dining room. Here you’ll get table service and white tablecloths. The menu changes each night, but keeps classic dishes in rotation no matter when you visit. Your options here are fresher than you’ll find in the buffet. As well, you have a variety of options of what to eat.

Most nights the dress code is casual — wear pants and a shirt and you’ll be fine. No swimsuits or tank tops. On elegant night, you don’t have to wear a tux, but it’s ideal if you can dress it up a little bit.

Specialty Restaurants (Extra Cost) In addition to the free dining, there are also a number of specialty restaurants where you’ll pay extra to eat. This includes places like the steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi.

Specialty restaurants offer different fare — Asian, Italian, steak, BBQ, and more — allowing you to skip the main dining room or buffet during the evening. One nice perk is that some are open for lunch for free, while charging for dinner . Head over during lunch and you can get a free meal instead of having to pay. 

For a full run-down on all your options, including profiles and costs, we have everything about Carnival specialty restaurants here .

Gratuities on Carnival

Like nearly every cruise line, you’ll have to pay gratuities when you sail aboard Carnival. These days the charges hit your bill automatically. In fact, many people pay them when they pay for the cruise and well before they set foot on the ship.

Carnival’s gratuities run $16.00 per person, per day for most cabins. So on a five-day cruise, you’ll pay an extra $80.00 per person in addition to your cruise fare. The amount for suites is $18.00 per person. All passengers — except children under 2 years old — are charged these amounts.

For more on cruise line gratuities and how they work, see our article here . You can also use our gratuity calculator to see how much you’ll spend in total over the length of your trip.

Enjoying your cruise with a drink in your hand is a popular pastime. With bars all over the ship, it’s never a far walk to get a beverage. Meanwhile, selling alcohol is a big moneymaker for the cruise lines. Prices for beer can run $6-8. It can be $10-12 for a cocktail. Having several of these a day can add up.

If you’re worried about your tab, Carnival offers the CHEERS! drink package. This package provides your drinks for one flat rate. For $59.95 per person (plus gratuity), per day you can get pretty much anything to drink on the ship. That includes everything from alcoholic drinks to soda to water to milkshakes.

One caveat is that you can only get up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day (no limit on non-alcoholic). As well, it’s $5 more per day if you purchase once on the ship instead of ahead of time.

For more on everything about the CHEERS! package, you can read our complete profile here .

What Carnival Does Well

Pool deck and waterslide on a Carnival cruise ship

When it comes to an affordable and fun vacation, it’s hard to beat what Carnival has created. As one of the more budget-friendly cruise lines, it’s given the ability for people to travel the Caribbean and have a great time for sometimes less than $70 per day.

The atmosphere is warm and fun, with no pretentiousness. Food is decent to good (with lots of included options), and the staff is attentive to passenger needs. In short, it’s a solid all-around enjoyable vacation.

If you’re the sort of person who wants to stay at the Four Seasons and drink nothing but the finest champagne, then Carnival might not be the cruise line for you. But if you enjoy having a burger and drinking a fruity cocktail or a beer next to the pool, then you’ll have fun.

What Carnival Could Improve

So where could Carnival do better for passengers? Keeping in mind that Carnival offers a lot of value already at the low price point, we wouldn’t suggest more luxuries or a higher-end focus. That would be hard to accomplish and still offer a great value for a cruise.

Instead, we think one of the areas where the cruise line can improve in relation to competitors are the things to do on board. In our opinion, Royal Caribbean leads the industry and everyone else is playing catch-up.

When you’re spending an entire week on a cruise ship, it takes a lot of options to keep things entertaining. Having more activities keeps things fun. Already we’re seeing Carnival do exactly this with the recent launch of the world’s first roller coaster at sea on its Excel-class ships. Still, more things to do — both big and small — would be ideal across the fleet.

Have more questions about sailing aboard Carnival… or if it’s the right line for you? Ask in the comments below.

Related Articles:

  • 47 Best Carnival Cruise Line Tips & Tricks
  • Worth It? 15+ Questions & Answers About the Carnival CHEERS! Package
  • 38 Must-Do Things on a Carnival Cruise Ship

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  • Northern Europe & Baltic Sea

Moscow: question for those who have gone from St Petersburg

By Wayfairers , August 22, 2019 in Northern Europe & Baltic Sea

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I have read many of the threads that discuss whether or not Moscow is worth the expense and long day, especially when there are only 2 days in port.  I realize there are two strong opinions from people with one side saying it is worth it and the other side says stay in St Petersburg. We have decided to go Moscow on day 1 of our visit. 

So, those who have done the long trip to Moscow....did you go with the cruise ship or a private guide?   If a private guide, who and would you recommend them?  Did you take the train both ways or fly one direction?  

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dogs4fun

On 8/22/2019 at 9:28 AM, Wayfairers said: I have read many of the threads that discuss whether or not Moscow is worth the expense and long day, especially when there are only 2 days in port.  I realize there are two strong opinions from people with one side saying it is worth it and the other side says stay in St Petersburg. We have decided to go Moscow on day 1 of our visit.    So, those who have done the long trip to Moscow....did you go with the cruise ship or a private guide?   If a private guide, who and would you recommend them?  Did you take the train both ways or fly one direction?  

Been to Moscow several times. We have used the Sapsan both ways and have also flown both ways - never a combo of the train/plane. We enjoyed the Sapsan more than the flight. We have NOT travelled to Moscow when arriving by cruise ship so have no comment on your particular situation regarding a one day tour with only 2 days in St. Pete.  Good luck - hope the visit meets your expectations.

Thanks for the info.  Good to know you enjoyed the train more than the plane - I would expect we would too as flying is typically more hassle than taking the train.  

We decided to book the trip to Moscow with the cruise ship after learning that if we miss the train or plane we don’t get a refund in addition to missing Moscow.  And, I’ve had friends who’s ship missed the St Petersburg stop due to weather.

50+ Club

Moscow is a great city but I would rather spend all two days in St Petersburg. Some years ago we had almost a week there and still it doesn’t seem enough. We also had one day in Moscow and the journey arranged by the local travel agency was well organized and comfortable. In a view of time restrictions of the journey (we spent almost 8 hours on the train and just 6-7 hours in the city) one day in Moscow still felt a little rushed. Anyway, enjoy planning your trip and hope you have a great time in Russia!

Coral

Just make sure the day you are going to Moscow, it is not one of their holidays or even a day before a holiday.

Moscow is an amazing city but it is frustrating when Red Square is closed for parades, etc.... It is hard to determine when they close it but it is definitely closed for their holidays. When it is closed - you can only walk around the exterior of the square and look in.

Thanks!   I will check.  We are in Moscow May 16.  I know May 9 is a holiday. 

AngelDisney

I have 2 days in St. Petersburg and am thinking about this possibility. I think it’s hard to do this with 2 days. The first day will take longer time to go ashore because of the immigration process. The second day is not possible due to the early all abroad time. It seems that it’s only worth doing it if there are 3 days in St. Petersburg especially when a full day of touring in Moscow is preferred. 

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1 hour ago, AngelDisney said: I have 2 days in St. Petersburg and am thinking about this possibility. I think it’s hard to do this with 2 days. The first day will take longer time to go ashore because of the immigration process. The second day is not possible due to the early all abroad time. It seems that it’s only worth doing it if there are 3 days in St. Petersburg especially when a full day of touring in Moscow is preferred. 

For 2 days - spend the time in St. Petersburg. There is so much to see there. Save this for a 2nd trip.

When we were in St. Petersburg we were also very interested in visiting Moscow. We were already in Russia why not visit as much places as we could, right? We used Anastasia Travel for our St. Petersburg tour and also asked them to include Moscow. They were very helpful and were very much willing to arrange a day trip to Moscow for us but they suggested we just stay in St. Petersburg since we only had 2 days. They were kind enough to explain that we would just waste time and money if me push through with the Moscow trip. We would spend more time on the train instead of using the time to explore and enjoy the sights. They were actually correct and we ended up enjoying a wonderful 2-day tour in St. Petersburg. I guess we'll have to go back to see Moscow and make sure to stay longer! 

angie7911922

angie7911922

When we went to St Petersburg we had the same dilemma. We decided not to go to Moscow and didn’t regret it one bit. There is so much to see! If you spend the 2 days in St Petersburg you can go and see Peterhof Palace on one of the days. We were on a Princess cruise and like flowslow, we booked our private tours with Katharina from Anastasia Travel.   This way we used our time to the fullest to see as much as possible at our pace with a personal guide. (We are not fond of the big group tours from the cruise lines).

9 hours ago, angie7911922 said: When we went to St Petersburg we had the same dilemma. We decided not to go to Moscow and didn’t regret it one bit. There is so much to see! If you spend the 2 days in St Petersburg you can go and see Peterhof Palace on one of the days. We were on a Princess cruise and like flowslow, we booked our private tours with Katharina from Anastasia Travel.   This way we used our time to the fullest to see as much as possible at our pace with a personal guide. (We are not fond of the big group tours from the cruise lines).

We have two days and decided only staying in SPB for both days. We are thinking of forming a private tour with other cruisers on another forum as the CC roll call for that cruise is so quiet. We are looking into Anastasia Travel as well. Very excited to go!

On 9/1/2019 at 8:09 PM, AngelDisney said: We have two days and decided only staying in SPB for both days. We are thinking of forming a private tour with other cruisers on another forum as the CC roll call for that cruise is so quiet. We are looking into Anastasia Travel as well. Very excited to go!

Great idea to form a small group!! Have a fantastic time and I am sure you wont regret that decision!! 

luvtravel88

luvtravel88

I'm not sure about customs when coming in on a cruise ship. We were told that if we wanted to leave the ship, we would have to be on a tour, either a ships tour or private tour. I know we had to show our tour tickets at customs to be allowed to go further. We chose Alla tours and they were fantastic. We were docked in St. Petersburg for 3 days and we did go to Moscow on the Capsan train on the 2nd day. It was a VERY long day. We had to meet our group at 6:00am and were on the train at 7:00am. We arrived back at to our cabin at 1:30am the next day. It was a wonderful day and we're so glad we went but if we were in St. Petersburg for only 2 days, I probably wouldn't spend a day in Moscow. It is a 4 hour train ride each way, and if you need to be back to the ship to depart, it may not leave you much time in Moscow. The 8 hours we spent there, wasn't nearly enough. Traffic is horrible and we ended up getting off our bus and taking the subway to Red Square. Those 8 hours allowed us a tour of Red Square, which was phenomenal as well as a quick walk through GUM department store and a ride on the subway with several stops to see the mosaics, sculptures and chandeliers that are in the corridors of the subway stops.

But.....there is so much to see in St. Petersburg , the 2 days we spent there, were a whirl.

Whatever you decide to do, be sure you're in line to get off the ship before the ship arrives in port. We were in line an hour early and there were still about 20 people ahead of us. We found that the cruise ship allowed their tour groups to get off the ship first, so when we got to customs, the lines were outrageous. It took us about an hour in line and we were late starting our tour. I had organized the tour with Alla and had advertised it on our cruise forum here at Cruise Critic. There were 12 of us and we met up on the ship each morning and went through customs together so we all met the tour bus at the same time. That was very helpful!

The lines the first day were the worst and days 2 and 3 went much more quickly. Also, everyone was getting off the ship at the same time on Day 1, but tours met and left at different times on Days 2 and 3.

16 minutes ago, luvtravel88 said: . Whatever you decide to do, be sure you're in line to get off the ship before the ship arrives in port. We were in line an hour early and there were still about 20 people ahead of us. We found that the cruise ship allowed their tour groups to get off the ship first, so when we got to customs, the lines were outrageous. It took us about an hour in line and we were late starting our tour. ! The lines the first day were the worst and days 2 and 3 went much more quickly. Also, everyone was getting off the ship at the same time on Day 1, but tours met and left at different times on Days 2 and 3.

This is one of the reasons that we decided to use the cruise ship to go to Moscow our first day in St Petersburg. 

25 minutes ago, Wayfairers said: This is one of the reasons that we decided to use the cruise ship to go to Moscow our first day in St Petersburg. 

I believe that the ship tours to Moscow go via air, right?

Yes, as others have noted, there is MUCH to see in Saint Petersburg and in spending a week there one will barely scratch the surface - the same is true for Moscow.

It sounds like you want to get a "taste" of both cities - don't allow anyone to "throw water" on your plans as you best know what you want to do. You can always return for an extended visit.  😉

4 hours ago, dogs4fun said: I believe that the ship tours to Moscow go via air, right? Yes, as others have noted, there is MUCH to see in Saint Petersburg and in spending a week there one will barely scratch the surface - the same is true for Moscow. It sounds like you want to get a "taste" of both cities - don't allow anyone to "throw water" on your plans as you best know what you want to do. You can always return for an extended visit.  😉

No, our ship tour is going by train there and back unless I misread something.  You are right...we just want a taste of both cities.  In fact, that is what we get from all cruise port stops - just a taste.  We are never there long enough to the see the area completely.

2 hours ago, Wayfairers said: No, our ship tour is going by train there and back unless I misread something.  

Interesting - I thought that the ship tours flew to Moscow when in port for only 2 days. Hope you will post upon return and let us know how it went.

16 hours ago, dogs4fun said: Interesting - I thought that the ship tours flew to Moscow when in port for only 2 days. Hope you will post upon return and let us know how it went.

Double checked and it says we go to Moscow on the high speed train.   Come back the same way.   From all I’ve read it takes a little longer (ship to Moscow sites) to fly than to take the train.  

napoxoguk

I've been thinking about that - and I might be wrong, but it seems to me an SPB-Moscow combo over a 3-day cruise is one of the few remaining cases where obtaining a full-fledged Russian visa actually makes sense (especially for families/groups and especially if one is willing to do some DIY trip planning). 

Just to make sure, though - for those staying on the ship, is there some kind of curfew, or are you able to come and go as you please?

4 minutes ago, napoxoguk said: I've been thinking about that - and I might be wrong, but it seems to me an SPB-Moscow combo over a 3-day cruise is one of the few remaining cases where obtaining a full-fledged Russian visa actually makes sense (especially for families/groups and especially if one is willing to do some DIY trip planning).    Just to make sure, though - for those staying on the ship, is there some kind of curfew, or are you able to come and go as you please?  

If you have a Russian visa there is no curfew - you may come and go as you wish. In fact, if you so choose, you can spend the entire time in the city (staying at a hotel in either Moscow or St. Petersburg) rather than returning to your ship each evening - but ONLY if you have a visa.

6 minutes ago, dogs4fun said: If you have a Russian visa there is no curfew - you may come and go as you wish. In fact, if you so choose, you can spend the entire time in the city (staying at a hotel in either Moscow or St. Petersburg) rather than returning to your ship each evening - but ONLY if you have a visa.

That is what my research shows too.  A quick google search showed the tourist visas for US citizens are $160.  I’m willing to pay for a tour rather than get the visa.  We’ve gotten most of the visas that are a pain to get and I’m tired of doing that. 

2 minutes ago, Wayfairers said: I’m willing to pay for a tour rather than get the visa

I understand. Ru visa process can be expensive and time consuming, especially if you live far away from one of the visa centers.

I'm just trying to come up with a reasonably conservative number - what can one realistically expect to pay for a mad 1-day Moscow dash if they go DIY.

For a regular SPB-only itinerary, visa doesn't seem to make sense - not only price-wise, but also from the standpoint of convenience - all the local operators have their itineraries down to a science.

With Moscow, though, it's not so clear-cut.

I found that most of the tour operators will give you a tour but no guarantee that you make it to Moscow because you will miss the train if debarkation is too slow.  I found one tour that offers a 2 day tour with a flight to Moscow day 1 and train back and St Petersburg day 2.   Seriously considered them.   I briefly thought about getting a visa and spending the night in Moscow but never priced everything out. If you look into that I would love to see what you find. Probably not for us though because I want to see some of both cities.  

2 hours ago, napoxoguk said: I understand. Ru visa process can be expensive and time consuming, especially if you live far away from one of the visa centers. I'm just trying to come up with a reasonably conservative number - what can one realistically expect to pay for a mad 1-day Moscow dash if they go DIY.

I have visited Russia multiple times. I received my latest 3 year visa in May and here are the associated costs:

Single/Double/Multiple entry visa, consular fee = $198

Visa Center Processing fee = $50

Total = $248   (this is your total if you apply in person at one of the 4 consulates located in the USA - since I don't live near a Russian consulate, I must use the more costly mail option)

SO ... here is what I actually paid:

Multiple entry visa, consular fee = $198

Visa Center Processing fee by mail = $120

Return shipping/handling fee = $35

Total = $353

Totally worth the fee as I spend multiple weeks in Russia yearly and prefer DIY - personally, I would not consider a visa if it was a one time visit via cruise.

So, for DIY, added to the visa expense, one must add the cost of the sapsan train (or flight), Moscow transportation (metro is great), food & associated entrance fees to the Kremlin (and whatever else one has the time/desire to visit).

FYI: There is a HOHO in both Moscow & St. Petersburg.

Okay, I think the diy budget might be something like ₽20,000 (about $300) per person. This includes:

Train tickets: ₽9000 (5+4); Kremlin+armory: 1700 (1000+700)

Boat ride:600

Meals: 3000 (1500 per casual meal)

Contingencies (Uber ride if needed, etc): 2500. 

It's based on a number of assumptions, so real-life mileage will vary - please let me know if you identify some glaring omissions or errors.

Assumptions:

Done on day 2 of three.

Good weather (lots of outside/walking time)

Earliest Sapsan to Moscow, overnight double decker from Moscow (no hotel stays)

Train tickets purchased at least 30 days in advance, economy for Sapsan and economy plus for the double decker (includes a bottle of water and a piece of gingerbread).

All group members are adults

Done on a day when the Kremlin, Red Sq, and other Moscow attractions are actually open.

Boat ride via watertrams-radisson.ru (the cheapest option with English audio guide)

Sample itinerary:

leave SPB on Sapsan 743a (5:30am), sleep on the train.

Arrive Moscow 9am

DIY Metro tour until 11am

Kremlin excursion (cathedral Sq, DIY) 11:30

Armory excursion (audioguide) 12:30 

Quick lunch (at GUM stolovaya or fast food chains at Manezhnaya sq) : 2 to 3pm.

Walk to Zaryadye boat pier via Alexander's garden, Red Sq, Zaryadye. Boats leave every 30 minutes. Route: Zaryadye- Gorky Park - luzhniki- Ukraina - turnaround - sparrow hills - Gorky Park. Time on board: 2 hrs. 

Gorky Park/muzeon (5:30 to 7:30). 

Head back (metro) towards red sq for evening walk/dinner (tverskaya-kamergersky-b.dmitrovka-metropol-nikolskaya area)

Need to be back at the train station by 10:30 to catch the 006aa train departing at 10:50. 

Back to SPB at 6:47 am.

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  1. What It's Really Like to Do Yoga on a Shaky Cruise Ship

    yoga carnival cruise

  2. Unlock Your Zen at Carnival Cruise: Embark on a Blissful Yoga Journey

    yoga carnival cruise

  3. Fitness classes on cruise ships

    yoga carnival cruise

  4. 7 ways to keep fit on your next cruise

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  5. Fitness Center on Carnival Horizon Cruise Ship

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  6. Carnival Legend Prepares for Alaska Cruises

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COMMENTS

  1. Fitness Classes

    If that's the case — or you're just looking to shake things up with a little extra fun or challenge in your workout — check out Carnival's selection of onboard fitness classes. Whether it's yoga, pilates, indoor cycling or boot camp, there's a fitness class that'll get you the workout you need, and the instruction you need to do ...

  2. What It's Really Like to Do Yoga on a Shaky Cruise Ship

    On the Carnival Cruise's HUB App, the yoga class is targeted at everyone "from the yoga newbies to the experienced yogi." And the description felt accurate. As someone who has taken their fair ...

  3. Fitness Center

    Fitness Center. We have some bad news for you — your ship has a gym. In other words, there's no excuse for leaving your fitness routine back on land.

  4. Fitness Program

    Find out how to stay fit and healthy on your cruise with Carnival's fitness program. Choose from various classes, packages, bundles and services to suit your needs and preferences.

  5. Fitness classes on cruise ships

    Carnival Cruise Line: None. Yoga, Pilates & spinning cost $12 each. Celebrity Cruises: Two free Zumba classes per cruise, basic strength training, fitness & health workshops. Yoga, spinning, Pilates cost $11. Varying onboard & port class fees for personal training, Pilates, weight loss, etc., $49-$112. Costa Cruises: Basic classes.

  6. Carnival fitness classes since the restart

    On the Carnival website I see an option for 3 classes for $39 or unlimited for $99 (8 day cruise or longer and mine's an 8 day). At home I do yoga online almost every day and I go to spin (cycling) in-person once or twice a week. I go to other classes here and there if my work schedule permits, but it usually doesn't.

  7. Unlock Your Zen at Carnival Cruise: Embark on a Blissful Yoga Journey

    The Benefits of Yoga on a Carnival Cruise. Yoga is a practice that integrates physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to promote overall well-being. On a Carnival Cruise, you can reap the following benefits: Stress Relief: Yoga helps to reduce stress levels, allowing you to unwind and let go of everyday worries.

  8. How much does it cost to use the spa and the gym on cruise ships?

    Find out how much it costs to use the spa and gym on different cruise lines. Some lines offer free access to saunas, steam rooms, and basic classes, while others charge for thermal suites, personal training, and specialized classes.

  9. Do cruise ships have gyms? Here's how to stay fit on a cruise

    Many cruise ships also offer fitness classes. Royal Caribbean, for example, offers yoga, Pilates and spinning classes on their ships. Carnival Cruise Line offers the same, plus boot camp classes. On Norwegian Cruise Line, you can also take a spin class or a high-intensity boxing class. These are often available for an additional fee.

  10. How much do cruise ship fitness classes cost?

    Carnival Cruise Lines: None. Yoga, Pilates, and spinning cost $10 each. Celebrity Cruises: Zumba® and basic strength training. Spinning, personal training, gravity reformer, Pilates, and yoga cost $12-$20 each. Costa Cruises: Basic classes. Yoga, Pilates, and spinning cost $16 each. An hourlong personal training session costs $110.

  11. Carnival Cruise Spa Prices, Menu

    Find out the cost of Carnival Spa services and products on various ships, from facials and massages to body wraps and acupuncture. Compare the prices with land-based facilities and enjoy the Spa Carnival retreat at sea.

  12. Unlimited Class Pass (5 to 7 days)

    Achieve~ Maintain or Exceed your fitness goals this cruise by signing up for unlimited access to fitness classes including Yoga~ Pilates and Indoor Cycling.~~*Check with spa reception for specific classes included.~*Available on 5-7 day cruises.~*Passes are valid per voyage only.

  13. Are Cruise Ship Fitness Classes Worth It?

    Cruise ship fitness classes are of good quality. I didn't say "great" quality because the same trainer who teaches yoga also teaches pilates, cycle, and boot camp. Whereas on land you may have a master yoga instructor who has been practicing and training for years, on a cruise ship you're getting a jack-of-all-trades.

  14. Cruise Tips for Non-Stop Fun and Entertainment with Carnival

    On a Carnival cruise, the adults can head straight to the Adult-Only Serenity Retreat. As the name suggests, this lounge is a calm refuge from the buzz of the common areas and the perfect place to sunbake, read or chat with your partner over a few cocktails. ... stretch out with a yoga class or indulge in a spa treatment*.

  15. Complete Guide to Sailing Carnival Cruise Line (What It's Like)

    Carnival Cruise Line is one of the largest brands in North America, sailing from ports all over the United States to destinations in the Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska, Canada, Mexico, and Hawaii. Put simply, if you want to take a cruise from a port near you, then there is a good chance that Carnival either sails from there or sails to there. (More recent ventures into Australia and Europe also ...

  16. Yoga on Horizon?

    Carnival Cruise Lines ; Yoga on Horizon? Yoga on Horizon? By chicchic325, August 18, 2022 in Carnival Cruise Lines. Share More sharing options... Followers 2. Recommended Posts. chicchic325. Posted August 18, 2022. chicchic325. Members; 174 January 21, 2011; TX #1 Share;

  17. Select Class Pass X3

    Kickstart or continue your fitness routine this cruise by signing up for any 3 fitness classes including Yoga~ Pilates and Indoor Cycling.~~*Check with spa rece. SELECT OPTIONS FOR THIS ITEM. ... Internet Plans Drink Packages Pixels Photo Packages Spa and Salon Shore Excursions Cruise Cash Gifts and Stateroom Decor. In Room Food and Beverages ...

  18. Unlimited Class Pass (8 days or more)

    Achieve~ Maintain or Exceed your fitness goals this cruise by signing up for unlimited access to fitness classes including Yoga~ Pilates and Indoor Cycling.~~*Check with spa reception for specific classes included.~*Available on cruises of 8 days or more~ and classed must be booked for 10 consecutive days.~*Passes are valid per voyage only.

  19. From the bar: Moscow Mule

    Is this available on Carnival ships? I discovered the non-alcoholic version on my last cruise (not Carnival) and am hoping it can be replicated when we sail the Panorama. Link to comment Share on other sites. More sharing options... jdoc2007. Posted November 20, 2019. jdoc2007. Members; 125 August 30, 2007 #2

  20. Best of Moscow by high speed train

    Sure would appreciate someone who has taken Best of Moscow by high speed train from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day. Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also wha...

  21. Moscow: question for those who have gone from St Petersburg

    I have read many of the threads that discuss whether or not Moscow is worth the expense and long day, especially when there are only 2 days in port. I realize there are two strong opinions from people with one side saying it is worth it and the other side says stay in St Petersburg. We have decid...