There Will Always be Another Carnival Cruise
Time is money!
Benjamin Franklin
Wise words from a founding father of the great U.S. of A.
Once you purchase a cruise, you want to make sure you’re using time wisely.
If not, it may cost you needless fatigue, boredom, or overall value.
I got some other great advice while researching my first Essence Festival trip.
I’ll never forget:
You won’t have time to do everything and that’s ok.
Free Advice
Wherever you are on the cruising journey…insert sigh here!
The good news is…there will always be another Carnival cruise!
Once you enter your cabin, you should find a personalized paper FunTimes.
There is an app version but the paper form is a more detailed daily itinerary.
I get excited every time I pick one up and browse through it. For the most part, they’re identical on every cruise (depending on length).
If you attempt to make it to every hourly event, you may need a vacation immediately following.
I always go back to the wise advice of pacing myself.
This guide is to help you manage your time and figure out which activities are hit or miss.
Popular Add-ons
I haven’t used either but Faster to the Fun and the Drink Package are popular add-ons for your cruise. The first covers everyone in the cabin starting at $40.
It allows you to ‘skip the lines’ for embarkation, disembarkation, and reservations. Since I’m usually traveling solo, I haven’t seen the benefit.
The drink package starts at $50 per day. If purchased, it automatically applies to each adult in the cabin. (No sharing)
Fun Times
If you’re a new cruiser and a visual learner, the app has a layout of the ship to get you familiar with your surroundings. Each elevator has a layout drawing.
Every ship is built similarly so once you get the layout of one, you should be “good to go” next time.
The Lido deck is where the DJ plays music (pool/hot tub side). Its where the main bars and food areas are.
The Safety Drill has greatly improved from the days of waiting outside in packed lines. Whether you like it or not, it is mandatory.
You will be alerted when to take your cabin key card to the assigned muster stations. It has the muster location on the front.
TIP: The sooner everyone is accounted for, the shorter it will be.
Freebies
The Spa Raffle is held on the first day. The spa crew sets up tables all over the ship with forms readily available.
TIP: You must be present at drawing to win! There may be other special promotions.
I haven’t won anything so far but I would suggest doing this before you pay for services. The spa is amazing! Don’t miss it either way! Update: I won on my 02/23 Valentine’s/Superbowl cruise on the Sunrise.
TIP: The gym is free of charge
I’ve had lots of fun particpating in Rock the Promenade.
You get to travel across the ship with the fun squad and may see locations you may not have found on your own. There’s singing and dancing involved.
The Welcome Aboard/Debarkation Show was a huge help on my first cruise. The crew gives do’s and don’ts to help make your cruise as smooth as possible!
I usually book all of my excursions in advance but there is a show where Carnival goes over their excursions in each port. It’s a great way to also earn free excursions through giveaways.
Self Care
I always advise making time to relax. Hit the jacuzzi in the adults-only Serenity area.
If there is a party, any party…it should be a good time.
TIP: Your Time Dining works for me because I like the flexibility of eating dinner at my choosing.
I always try to make it to the Captain’s Toast. It’s usually held on elegant night. Get there early for free champagne and a picture opp with the head man in charge.
The first night at the club is usually ladies’ night with free champagne. Even if you miss it, dancing is a great way to burn calories throughout your cruise.
You have to attend the following at least once: Military Appreciation Gathering, Hairy Chest Contest (Update; discontinued after COVID), Ice Carving, Karaoke, and Bingo.
One of these days, I will attend the Singles Mingling event and update that here!
Don’t forget to take all of the safety measures before, during, and after your Carnival cruise.
Check out my sample itinerary blog on how to book a seamless cruise, or click here for cruise ideas!
Remember, a great vacation is about quality not quantity!
You are not required to do everything on this list. These are activities I enjoy and I hope you give at least one a try!
TIP: While onboard, inquire about the discount for booking your next cruise.
Last but certainly not least…don’t miss the sail away party. Its the ultimate kick-off to fun!!!!
~Poof…Bee Gone
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