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The Carnival Horizon: Complete Photo Tour of Carnival Cruise Line's Megaship

Carnival Cruise Line’s second Vista-class vessel Horizon debuted in April 2018. With this ship, Carnival tweaks its successful Vista formula by adding new restaurants and musical revues, plus a Dr. Seuss-themed splash park.

Although smaller than Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas —a 5,500-passenger behemoth that launched the same month—Horizon offers 13 entertainment venues, 12 places to eat, and several pools. The ship appeals to passengers who like the wide array of options available on megaships but don’t necessarily need a vessel big enough to be seen from outer space. 

  • 3,934 passengers at double occupancy (max. 4,977)
  • 1,967 total staterooms
  • 133,500 gross registered tons
  • Maiden voyage: April 2, 2018 from Barcelona, Spain
  • 1,055 feet long
  • 122 feet wide (158 feet wide on pool decks)
  • 15 guest decks
  • 27 feet draft
  • 18 knots cruising speed
  • Booking: 800/764-7419, www.carnival.com

Carnival Horizon atrium

Dreamscape, Horizon ’s funnel-shaped atrium centerpiece, rises 24 feet high and consists of more than 2,000 customizable LED tiles. Technicians program Dreamscape to project more than 100 artworks, including drawings made by youngsters at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Since 2010 Carnival has raised more than $13 million for that organization.

Dr. Seuss WaterWorks on the Carnival Horizon

At this themed splash park (replacing the signature water slides on other Carnival ships), kids get wet by zipping down Seuss-styled slides and standing under a 300-gallon bucket dump shaped like the Cat in the Hat’s chapeau. A slide named for that mischievous feline sends riders down 450 feet of twists and turns. Polka dots and special lights add to the fun of the 213-foot Thing 1 and Thing 2 slide. A kiddie wet zone entices tots with dripping faucets and water sprays. 

Carnival Horizon show

Video technology energizes Horizon ’s Playlist Productions shows. Technicians program LED screens as backdrops, creating fluid sets marked by special effects to complement shows. Horizon stages “Amor Cubano: A Caribbean Dance Romance,” which first appeared on Carnival Vista , as well as three new revues. “Soulbound” delivers rhythm and blues, “Celestial Strings” combines classical music with pop tunes, and “Vintage Pop” highlights jazz and the toe-tapping tunes of the 1920s and ‘30s.

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse Brewhouse on the Carnival Horizon

Pair baby back ribs, pulled pork, and cedar-smoked salmon with craft beers at Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse Brewhouse. The new concept eatery from Food Network personality Guy Fieri debuts on Horizon , which also features Guy’s Burger Joint (which we'll visit later). The Smokehouse Brewhouse opens at 5 p.m. with items priced á la carte. You can eat for free at the Pig & Anchor’s barbecue lunch buffet on embarkation day and sea days.   

Carnival Horizon's Bonsai Teppanyaki restaurant

At Bonsai Teppanyaki, watching the preparation of the meal is almost as enjoyable as eating it. Chefs juggle knives, toss shrimp, and flip eggs in the service of fun and fried rice. A first for Carnival, the restaurant is open for dinner every night and for lunch on sea days. Vegetarian options are available, too.

SkyRide on the Carnival Horizon

Bike 150 feet above the deck while savoring panoramic views of the deep blue sea on SkyRide, a thrill attraction that’s also on Vista . A harness tethers you to your bike, which is encased in a pod with open sides. The dual track system allows you to race the cyclist next to you or ignore your fellow rider and pedal at your own pace. Because of SkyRide’s popularity, lines can be long. Consider queuing up on port days when wait times may be shorter than on sea days. Riders must be at least 54 inches tall. 

SkyCourse on Carnival Horizon

SkyCourse tests your balance and ability to forget about heights as you make your way across cables, step onto spaced platforms, and walk on beams nearly 150 feet above the deck. Choose either the beginner or intermediate route. Both challenge you for a stretch of 230 feet. Participants must be at least 48 inches tall.  

Mini golf on the Carnival Horizon

Both the SkyRide and SkyCourse are part of the ship’s SportSquare complex, but not everything in this area is about high-in-the-sky thrills. You can also putt your way through nine holes of mini golf at SkyGreens, shoot hoops on a basketball court, and play foosball, ping pong, and pool.

Lido Deck pool on the Carnival Horizon

The Lido Deck’s pool is the locus of the action. You can listen to a live band, grab a taco from the adjacent BlueIguana Cantina, or load up on salads, sandwiches, and hot entrees from the nearby buffet. The pool’s apron-like shaded areas enable you to dip your toes in the water—a nice option for those aiming to avoid the sun. On sea days expect the pool to be packed, making swimming unlikely. Arrive early if you want to claim a chaise longue.

Simon Flash game show on Carnival Horizon

Get into the game by playing onstage versions of Hasbro classics such as Connect 4, Yahtzee, and Simon Flash. Compete with friends and family or have your posse cheer you on as you vie for prizes.

The adults-only Serenity area on Carnival Horizon

Serenity, Horizon ’s adults-only area, caters to those who like to sunbathe without the backbeat of bands or a chorus of cackling kids. The retreat comes with comfortable chaise longues, hot tubs, a bar, and Fresh Creations, a salad station that’s available on sea days. Because the complimentary oasis is popular, plan to arrive early to snag a spot. You must be at least 21 to enter.

Family cabin on Carnival Vista

Bunking in a nautically themed Family Harbor room provides access to a concierge and free meals at four premium restaurants for children ages 11 and younger when they dine with an adult. The only drawback to these rooms is their location on deck 2, beneath the kitchen and two main dining areas. Passengers staying in Family Harbor accommodations on sister-ship Vista  have complained of frequent noise—so choose your cabin carefully. Pictured: Family cabin on Carnival Vista

Breakfast in the Family Harbor Lounge on the Carnival Horizon

The big perk for staying in a Family Harbor room is exclusive access to the Family Harbor Lounge, a gathering spot serving complimentary breakfast, afternoon snacks, and, in the evening, milk and cookies.

Dr. Seuss breakfast on Carnival Horizon

Little kids will like the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast, which features special appearances by the Cat in the Hat along with Thing 1 and Thing 2. In addition to the titular meal, kids can try Truffula Tree pancakes, Fox in Socks steak and eggs, Horton’s cereal-crusted French Toast, and other Seuss-themed entrees. The meal costs a little extra but the selfies are free.

Carnival Horizon's Camp Ocean for kids

Camp Ocean, Carnival’s children’s program, provides supervised activities for ages 2 through 11. Penguins, ages 2 through 5, play ocean bingo, do arts and crafts, and listen to stories (FYI, counselors will change the diapers of 2-year-olds but not the nappies of those 3 years and older). Stingrays, ages 6 to 8, do arts and crafts, play sports, and enjoy game nights. Sharks, ages 9 to 11, challenge each other with video games, dance at a kids’ disco, decorate T-shirts, and play basketball and volleyball. Sharks may sign themselves in and out of the program if their parents give their consent. For cruisers ages 12 through 14, there’s a dedicated space called Circle “C”.

Club O2 for teens on Carnival Horizon

The Club O2 lounge provides a place to hang out for 15- to 17-year-olds. A buddy-like director eases the group into Nintendo Wii and Xbox 360 tournaments, declares scavenger hunt winners, gets the dancing going, and serves as DJ. Since teens sleep in, Club O2 opens in the afternoon and closes down after midnight.

Cloud 9 Spa on Carnival Horizon

The Cloud 9 Spa offers massages, facials, salt scrubs, seaweed wraps, acupuncture, and other soothing experiences (extra fees apply). Treatments come with access to a thermal suite outfitted with heated chaise longues, steam areas, and a bubbling saltwater pool. If you’re interested in spa services, book them as soon as possible because the most convenient time slots fill quickly.

Carnival Vista Spa cabin

A Cloud 9 Spa stateroom comes with complimentary spa entrance, free fitness classes, priority spa reservations, upgraded toiletries, and soothing décor in shades of sea green and cream. Pictured: a Spa cabin on the Carnival Vista

Seafood Shack on the Carnival Horizon

Seafood Shack serves steamed lobster, peel-and-eat shrimp, crab cake sliders, lobster rolls, oysters, fish-and-chips, and buckets of fried clam strips. Meals here cost extra; steamed lobster is priced by the pound.

Guy's Burger Joint on the Carnival Horizon

Inspired by America’s roadside diners, Guy Fieri’s second Horizon eatery (open for lunch only) serves five types of burgers, including a Pig Patty made out of bacon and a Chilius Maximus topped with cheese, an onion ring, Guy’s secret sauce, and chili. Add onions, sautéed mushrooms, chopped bacon, and other sauces from the toppings bar. All orders come with hand-cut fries, and, best of all, your burger is included in the price of the voyage.

Shopping on the Carnival Horizon

Horizon has the largest and most varied retail offerings in Carnival’s fleet. For the first time, passengers can purchase items by Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Breitling, and Hublot. The ship aims for “retailtainment,” adding beyond-browsing shopping experiences such as designing your own Swarovski crystal jewelry at Hip Fish and attending spirits tastings at Port Side Liquor & Tobacco.

Havana cabin on Carnival Vista

For those seeking poolside sunbathing and a place to soak that’s less crowded than the typically packed Lido deck pool, the Havana accommodations are a good choice. You can pick your price range, choosing an interior, ocean-view, balcony, or cabana suite. The latter features an outdoor patio with a chaise longue and a chair hammock. Because the suites’ patios open to a common deck area, guests in these cabins should feel comfortable with strangers strolling by. Also, only children ages 12 years or older are allowed to stay in Havana cabins. Pictured: Havana cabin on Carnival Vista

Havana pool on the Carnival Vista

Guests in Havana staterooms have the exclusive use of the Havana pool area until around 7 p.m. daily (times vary with the sailing), when the area opens to all passengers. Pictured: Havana pool on the Carnival Vista

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Carnival Horizon Interior Cabin Review With Photos (Stateroom #7238)

Are you thinking of booking an interior cabin on Carnival Horizon? Then you’ll want to know what to expect before you decide to purchase that room. Or if you’ve already booked, then you’ll want to know what to expect when you board.

Carnival Horizon is Carnival’s newest ship, sailing on six and eight-day journeys from Miami. The ship is large — measuring more than 1,050 feet and carrying about 4,000 guests on a given trip. You can read our review of the entire ship here  or you can see our must-have tips here . Bottom line: If you are thinking about booking a trip on the Horizon, then you should have no worries and be excited about sailing.

That said, picking the right cabin can make a big difference in the enjoyment of your cruise. Even though most people spend a lot of time out and about on the ship and in port, your cabin is your home during your cruise. It’s where you can relax, rest, and regroup after a long day. You definitely want a cabin that will fit your needs and budget.

With that in mind, we recently stayed in stateroom #7238 aboard the Horizon. This interior cabin is classified as “4E”, one of the most common cabins on the ship. Below are our thoughts and impressions from staying in the cabin.

Carnival Horizon cabin door

Cabin Overview

Cabin #7238 is an interior stateroom on deck 7 of the Horizon. It is located forward on the ship, six cabins down from the forward elevators and stairs.

According to Carnival’s specifications on their website, the room measures 185 square feet. That number includes both bedroom and bathroom space. This cabin is also a connecting stateroom with a door that can be opened to effectively turn two rooms into one large suite.

In our case, we had two beds separated. You also have the option of pushing them together to form one king-sized bed.

Two beds in interior cabin

As you enter, you have closet and storage space on your left and the cabin bathroom on your right. Enter further into your room and you’ll see a small desk with mirror and pull-out stool on the left. To the right is a cabinet with refrigerator, with a TV mounted above.

pictures of carnival horizon cruise ship

As mentioned, Carnival says the interior cabin measures 185 square feet. What does that mean for you? Simply that the cabin is small. It was fine for two adults who spent most of their time out and about the ship and in port. However, we would not want to fit anymore people in the cabin. Even having a child in the room would be too tight of a squeeze.

View of interior cabin

While we expect interior cabins to be small, we were still a little surprised at how little room there was. Other interior cabins we’ve sailed in have a small sitting area with a couch. That was not the case in this stateroom.

There was still ample storage to keep suitcases and bag out of the way. Not only was there a closet with some drawers and shelves, but there was also plenty of room underneath the beds to put empty bags.

Cruise cabin closet

Features & Amenities

If you’ve sailed on a cruise before, then you know the regular amenities you can expect in the cabin. In this area, the Carnival Horizon didn’t disappoint. In fact, there were a few items that were unexpected and welcomed.

Starting before we even opened the door, the ship features RFID-style door locks. You simply tap your card to the reader and it will open. As you enter, you must put a card into a reader to turn on the lights. This helps to keep you from leaving the lights on when you aren’t in the room. However, it can be easy to walk out of the cabin and forget your keycard in the reader.

Cabin lock

There were a number of things you’d expect in the cabin, including a flat-screen TV with remote, in-room safe, a controllable thermostat, a mini-fridge, telephone, and a full-size closet for hanging clothes.

What stood out to us was that our room had two outlets and two spots for charging via USB. Considering many older ships just have one outlet for the entire cabin, this is a nice change given the amount of electronic devices we all travel with today.

Horizon cabin plugs

One other perk we liked was that pool/beach towels were already in the room for our use. Because of this we didn’t have to bother going to a towel station when we were ready to hit the pool.

pictures of carnival horizon cruise ship

The cabin bathroom was a traditional size as other ships we’ve sailed, which is to say it is small but manageable. It features a counter, shelves for toiletries, a commode and standing shower. There was also a makeup mirror that folded in and out to save space.

Carnival Horizon bathroom

There is no controllable vent in the bathroom, so if you need to have some white noise while you go, we suggest turning the shower on low. You can also use one of our tips and head to a public bathroom on the ship if you don’t want smells to linger in the cabin.

The shower is a handheld wand shower, which raises and lowers to match anyone’s height. There are also soap and shampoo dispensers in the shower if you don’t bring your own.

Shower

One area that surprised us was the bedding in our cabin. Most cruise ship beds feature mattresses that are rather thin and can feel lumpy from so many nights of use. Perhaps it was because the ship was new, but the mattresses felt thick and supportive, giving us a great night’s sleep. Pillows were also soft but firmed up under pressure.

What we liked most, however, were the comforters. Our room was set extremely cold at night but the comforter kept us warm — borderline hot — while we slept. If you’re worried about thin blankets, then you can put those fears aside.

Noise Level

Overall our room was perfectly comfortable, if a little small. The one major complaint we had was the amount of noise in the cabin.

First, we had a connecting stateroom. When guests in the other room were talking they could clearly be heard through the adjoining doors. Thankfully our neighbors weren’t party animals and didn’t spend much time in their room, so the noise wasn’t bad.

What was more disturbing was the late-night music that could be heard in the cabin. Our room sat above the Circle C teen club, which itself sits over the Liquid Lounge theater. During our cruise thumping bass could be clearly heard — as well as felt through the floor.

The good news is that the music ended at midnight, so it didn’t go on all night. The bad news is that if you are a light sleeper, the sound and vibration was more than enough to keep you from getting to sleep.

Overall Impression

Overall, the interior cabins on Carnival Horizon are clean and comfortable, albeit small.

If traveling with one other person, booking an interior cabin on Carnival Horizon is a great way to get on the ship for the least amount of money possible. While small, the cabins still offer plenty of space given that most people aren’t in their room most of the day. If you want to put three people in a cabin, upgrade to a larger room.

That said, we highly recommend looking at the deck plans to see what is above and below your cabin. In our specific case, the noise from other areas of the ship was easily heard in the cabin.

Have more questions about cabins on Carnival Horizon? Let us know in the comments below.

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Carnival Horizon Deck Plans & Reviews

pictures of carnival horizon cruise ship

Carnival Horizon

pictures of carnival horizon cruise ship

Activities & entertainment

  • Art Auction
  • Cloud 9 Spa Treatment Rooms *
  • Dance Classes
  • Deck Parties
  • Dr. Seuss WaterWorks
  • Evening Kids Programs *
  • Family Harbor Lounge
  • Fitness Center
  • Fitness Classes *
  • Green Eggs n Ham Breakfast *
  • Groove For St. Jude *
  • Ice Carving Demonstrations
  • Library Outside
  • Lip Sync Battle
  • Outdoor Playground
  • Photo Portraits *
  • Seuss-A-Palooza Parade & Storytime
  • Spa Parties *
  • SportSquare
  • The Clubhouse
  • The Salon *
  • Thermal Suites *
  • White Party
  • Wine Tasting *
  • Dr. Seuss Bookville
  • Comedy Shows
  • Horizon Casino *
  • IMAX Theatre *
  • Limelight Lounge
  • Liquid Lounge
  • Live Nightly Music
  • Outdoor Movies
  • Video Arcade *
  • Thrill Theater *
  • Carnival Seaside Theater
  • Carnival Multiplex *
  • Horizons Restaurant - American
  • Reflections Restaurant - American
  • Ji Ji Asian Kitchen - Asian *
  • Horizon Lobby and Bar - Atrium Bar *
  • Plaza Bar - Atrium Bar *
  • Cherry On Top - Candies *
  • Cherry On Top Outdoor Area - Candy *
  • Fat Jimmy's C-Side BBQ - Casual
  • Lido Marketplace - Casual
  • JavaBlue Café - Coffee & Pastries *
  • Havana Bar - Cuban-themed bar *
  • Guy's Burger Joint - Fast Food
  • Chef's Table - Gourmet *
  • Cucina del Capitano - italian *
  • Bonsai Sushi - Japanese *
  • Bonsai Sushi Outdoor Dining - Japanese *
  • Taste Bar - Light Bites
  • Alchemy Bar - Martini Bar *
  • BlueIguana Cantina - Mexican
  • Shake Spot - Milkshakes *
  • Piano Bar 88 - Piano Bar *
  • Pizzeria del Capitano - Pizza
  • BlueIguana Tequila Bar - Pool Bar *
  • RedFrog Rum Bar - Pool Bar *
  • Tides Bar - Pool Bar *
  • Serenity Bar - Quiet Bar *
  • Fresh Creations - Salad Bar
  • Seafood Shack - Seafood *
  • Sports Bar - Sports Bar *
  • Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse - Steakhouse *
  • Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse Outdoor Dining - Steakhouse *
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The Ultimate Guide to Carnival Horizon ®

By Carnival Cruise Line

What’s on your horizon? As you look ahead to your plans for the future, make sure you set aside some time for some truly motivational rewards. You and your family can achieve much more when you know an incredible prize is waiting at the finish line. You can’t argue with science!

You can open up a new chapter in your life by bringing the whole family along on a cruise ship that’s radically new – Carnival Horizon ® . If your family is in or near Miami, you are just a few boarding passes away from a Caribbean cruise vacation on a ship from the future. Take a peek into what’s just ahead on the edge of tomorrow.

carnival horizon sailing in across the caribbean sea

For Those Who Love Outdoor Fun:

Cruising used to be just about the destination, but that’s changed a lot in recent years. Now families look for cool activities and exciting adventures on board during the journey. Carnival Horizon ® takes this concept to the next level with original ways to enjoy sun and fun, like:

Dr. Seuss WaterWorks ™ – A tounge-twister themed waterpark with characters from your kid’s favorite author. They can slosh down the loopy drainpipe slide, try side-by-side racing or stand beneath the Cat in the Hat tipping hat that drenches them with fun.

SkyRide ® – Imagine a pedal-powered reclining ride that opens your eyes to incredible vistas high above the sparkling sea, with two lanes so you can share the experience Ride the next evolution of family cruising from high above the deck inside a safe and healthy workout pod.

Serenity, Adult Only Retreat ™ – Get away from it all while kids run wild on their own escapades. This is an onboard oasis where adults can lounge, work, meet new friends, or just lay back and relax in a place of peace, hammocks, cocktails and the silent sea.

Ropes Course  – This is where the thrill-seekers in your family can go all out in a safe and soft environment. Kids can strap into a safety harness and test their acrobatic skills on a course of narrow beams, tightropes, nets and daredevil fun.

boy happy to play on the dr. seuss waterworks onboard carnival horizon

For Those Who Love Indoor Fun:

Everyone loves different things, which is why Carnival Horizon ® is like a floating city full of fun things to do. Encourage your family to follow their dreams by checking out:

Lip Sync Battle ™ : Carnival – Don’t hide your singing voice. You belong in the spotlight, and you could come home with the Lip Sync Battle Belt!

Cloud 9 Spa ™ – Restore your mind and body to peak condition for all the adventures that lie ahead. Body wraps, facials, massage and a giant Hydrotherapy whirlpool.

Casino – Live the life of a high roller without leaving your comfort zone. Games abound for every risk-taker, from card tournaments to table games to scratch-off instant winners.

The Punchliner Comedy Club – If laughter is the best medicine, this live performance venue counts as a doctor’s visit. Choose from family-friendly or adult-only comedy shows.

Playlist Productions ™ – Come out and see the show! Broadway-style musical productions bring your ultimate playlist to life.

playlist production’s latin nights play onboard carnival horizon

For Those in Search of Delicious Dining:

You can’t have fun on an empty stomach. Savor every bite at a choice collection of cruise dining options fit for a royal family. You can even split up and compare notes! You’ll step up your foodie game when you sit down for a culinary feast at:

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse – Get comfortable. You’re in for some Southern hospitality, BBQ style. Finger licking required.

Bonsai Teppanyaki – Japanese cuisine is so much more than sushi. Take a detour to the land of Samurai and Ninjas on your way to the Caribbean.

Cucina del Capitano ® – Mouthwatering Italian fare, just like countless Italian mamas used to make. Manga! You look thin!

JiJi Asian Kitchen ® – Good food and good fortune from all across the Far East, including Mongolian and Chinese dishes the kids will adore.

Guy’s Burger Joint – No frills, just faves, courtesy of celebrity chef Guy Fieri. Grab a seat for a rockin’ road trip to Flavortown.

BlueIguana Cantina ™ – Choose your own fresh ingredients for custom-built tacos, burritos and everything that makes Mexican a treat for the whole family.

bonsai teppanyaki chef cooking in front of guests onboard carnival horizon

For Those in Search of the Next Great Bar:

After the kids have had their fun, it’s time to treat yourself, too. Some of the best nightlife in the Caribbean is not found on any of the islands. It’s right here onboard your ship. Order up the next round at one of Carnival Horizon’s best evening bars and lounges, including:

Havana Bar – On your way cruising past Cuba, why not dance the mambo with a Cuba Libre? The next best thing to visiting Havana in the golden age.

RedFrog Rum Bar ™ – Get in the island spirit early with a poolside bar, umbrella drinks and new friends you haven’t met yet.

Alchemy Bar ™ – Refine yourself. Drop in at this vintage-themed cocktail “pharmacy” for unique elixirs and masterful remedies, with or without alcohol.

BlueIguana Tequila Bar ™ – The waters off the coast of Mexico are cool and inviting, like the margaritas and cervezas of this Mexican-themed hot spot.

bartender preparing drinks in the alchemy bar onboard carnival horizon

Even if your family has enjoyed a cruise from Miami before, they have certainly never experienced anything like this. Carnival Horizon brings the next generation of family cruising to a port near you. Follow the sun and bring the family. Book a cruise on Carnival Horizon in the year ahead.

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by  ship  and destination.

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What to expect.

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Carnival Horizon Decks and Cabins

  • 4 Mezzanine
  • 5 Promenade
  • 15 Serenity
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  • Small Interior
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  • Deluxe Oceanview
  • Cove Balcony
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  • Havana Cabana
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Carnival Horizon cruise ship weighs 134k tons and has 1965 staterooms for up to 4716 passengers served by 1450 crew . There are 14 passenger decks, 12 with cabins. You can expect a space ratio of 28 tons per passenger on this ship. On this page are the current deck plans for Carnival Horizon showing deck plan layouts, public venues and all types of cabins including pictures and videos.

Carnival Horizon ship profile picture

Carnival Horizon

Last Drydock: Jan 2022

LIVE SHIP TRACKING

STATEROOM CABINS COMPLETE LIST BELOW

GRAND SUITE

Grand Suite diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 7294

Sleeps up to: 4 10 Cabins Cabin: 345 sqft (32 m 2 ) Balcony: 85 sqft (8 m 2 )

Click for    

More Info [+/-]

Deck locations, stateroom cabin features, stateroom cabin perks, ocean suite.

Ocean Suite diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 7326

Sleeps up to: 4 46 Cabins Cabin: 275 sqft (26 m 2 ) Balcony: 65 sqft (6 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

 Accessible Info [+/-]

Important size information, more diagrams of this cabin type.

Suite diagram

HAVANA CABANA SUITE

Havana Cabana Suite diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 5234

Sleeps up to: 4 4 Cabins Cabin: 260 sqft (24 m 2 ) Balcony: 100 sqft (9 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

HAVANA CABANA

Havana Cabana diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 5210

Sleeps up to: 4 23 Cabins Cabin: 185 sqft (17 m 2 ) Balcony: 100 sqft (9 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

PREMIUM BALCONY

Premium Balcony diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 8466

Sleeps up to: 4 14 Cabins Cabin: 185 sqft (17 m 2 ) Balcony: 75 sqft (7 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Premium diagram

FAMILY HARBOR COVE SUITE

Family Harbor Cove Suite diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 2398, 2400

Sleeps up to: 5 16 Cabins Cabin: 275 sqft (26 m 2 ) Balcony: 65 sqft (6 m 2 )

FAMILY HARBOR BALCONY

Family Harbor Balcony diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 2488

Sleeps up to: 4 10 Cabins Cabin: 220 sqft (21 m 2 ) Balcony: 65 sqft (6 m 2 )

Harbor-Balcony diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 6210, 6230

Sleeps up to: 4 753 Cabins Cabin: 185 sqft (17 m 2 ) Balcony: 35 sqft (3 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Balcony diagram

COVE BALCONY

Cove Balcony diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 2272

Sleeps up to: 4 86 Cabins Cabin: 185 sqft (17 m 2 ) Balcony: 45 sqft (4 m 2 )

Cove diagram

DELUXE OCEANVIEW

Deluxe Oceanview diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 1254

Sleeps up to: 5 215 Cabins Cabin: 220 sqft (21 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Deluxe diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 1223, 3225

Sleeps up to: 4 39 Cabins Cabin: 220 sqft (21 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Oceanview diagram

INTERIOR WITH PICTURE WINDOW

Interior with Picture Window diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 6204

Sleeps up to: 4 23 Cabins Cabin: 170 sqft (16 m 2 )

Picture diagram

Floor Diagram Porthole cabin 1210

Sleeps up to: 4 6 Cabins Cabin: 170 sqft (16 m 2 )

Interior diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 1415

Sleeps up to: 4 700 Cabins Cabin: 185 sqft (17 m 2 )

Interior diagram

SMALL INTERIOR

Small Interior diagram

Floor Diagram Similar to cabin 1356

Sleeps up to: 4 20 Cabins Cabin: 160 sqft (15 m 2 )

Small diagram

Carnival Horizon Deck Page Menu

Click deck pictures to go to individual cruise deck plan pages where you can see all the public areas, venues and stateroom cabins categories for each deck.

Carnival Horizon Quick Stats

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Carnival Horizon Links

  • PDF of all the decks
  • PDF (choose your own decks)
  • Carnival Horizon DECK DRAG
  • Carnival Horizon Cabin Check

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Carnival Horizon Overview

Carnival Horizon , Carnival Cruise Line’s second Vista-class ship, is nothing short of enchanting! Guests can be sure of a memorable cruise worth a thousand words – with nearly as many options for fun and entertainment onboard! This 133,500 ton vessel has a capacity of 3,960 guests and 1,450 crew members. Accommodations will vary from Havana Staterooms and Suites to Family Harbor Staterooms, Cloud 9 Spa Staterooms and many other affordable options. The various dining options onboard Carnival Horizon are an endless array of mouth-watering delicacies presented in irresistible forms. Walk into Seafood Shack for rustic favorites like Crab Cake Sliders, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse for your choice of steak cuts, The Chef’s Table for an exclusive meal, and many more. Don’t forget to head over to the Sportsquare for Carnival Horizon’s most popular aerial attraction – the SkyRide. To learn all about the different amenities, dining options and onboard activities on Carnival Horizon – or to discuss her various itineraries – contact The Cruise Web today!

  • Passenger Capacity: 3,960 (double occupancy)
  • Year Built: 2018
  • Last Refurbished: 2022

Carnival Horizon - SkyRide

  • Sportsquare Featuring SkyRide The SkyRide is undeniably Carnival Cruise Line’s most famous open-air amusement ride to date. It’s a bit like riding a bike on an 800-foot-long track speeding up to 25 miles per hour – all while high above the deck and even higher above the sparkling blue sea. How’s that for biking?!? It’s an adrenaline pumping thrill you will never forget.  

Carnival Horizon - Havana Pool

  • Havana Staterooms and Suites Once onboard, this luxurious Latin-infused living space will quickly become your own private island with member-only access to the Havana bar and pool. Enjoy a relaxing day under colorful umbrellas at the whirlpool with a refreshing mojito or Cuban cocktail. All Havana staterooms feature unique décor that do all the talking while ushering you into the tropical islands of the Caribbean.  

Carnival Horizon - Guys Burger Joint

  • Onboard Restaurants Foodies rejoice! Carnival Horizon will feature more in dining than your belly will have room for. Check out Seafood Shack, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Bonsai Sushi, The Chef’s Table, Jiji Asian Kitchen, Cucina Del Capitano, BlueIguana Cantina, the famous Guy’s Burger Joint and more!  

Carnival Horizon: An Infographic

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Carnival Horizon Ship Infographic

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Carnival Horizon Cruise Destinations

Spanning 6 continents and countless countries ranging from Croatia to the Bahamas, Carnival Cruise Lines' list of destinations below is nothing short of inspiring. There's somewhere for the culinary enthusiast, the history buff, the beachside lounger and the rugged explorer. Destinations include, but are not limited to: the Bahamas, Northern Europe, Canada and New England, the Caribbean and the Mexican Riviera, just to name a few. You can follow the links to learn more about each particular destination.

Carnival Horizon Caribbean Cruise Destination

Cruise to the Caribbean for tropical weather and splendid beach-side excursions.

Carnival Horizon Departure Ports

Carnival has ships home ported in cities across the U.S. making sure you’re never more than a car ride away from embarking on an unforgettable vacation. You can find Carnival ships in Charleston, New York, Long Beach and New Orleans. Ready to sail, call The Cruise Web to start your trip today!

Carnival Horizon Miami, Florida Departure Port

In Miami, you’ll enjoy a small taste of the tropical weather many of you will experience during your cruise, and you’ll see why Miami is one of the most popular places to live in America.

Carnival Horizon Deck Plans

Spa, waterworks & sports, carnival horizon staterooms.

Carnival Horizon Balcony Stateroom

Balcony (HM)

"Balconissimo." In this 'balconiest' of Havana staterooms, you'll find classic old-time Cuban decor that's practically overflowing with flavor. And outside - oh, that balcony! - it wraps around for maximum coverage, and the most sea-breezed private lounging area. For a mid-day change of scenery, you'll also have exclusive daytime access to the Havana Pool area. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Carnival Horizon Balcony Stateroom

Balcony (BL)

Any balcony stateroom, or better, depending on availability.

Balcony (8A)

Balcony staterooms were designed for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, so look to a balcony if you're looking to cruise aboard Carnival Horizon. Any time you're in your room, you're just steps away from your own personal outdoor oasis, featuring the sort of sea view you can also feel.

Balcony (8B)

Balcony (8c), balcony (8d), balcony (8e), balcony (8f), balcony (8g).

Carnival Horizon Balcony Stateroom

Balcony (HI)

For a stateroom with that classic Havana decor larger balcony and a great view, just look back. A Havana Aft-View Extended Balcony puts you in the rear of the ship, prime location already for enjoying a view of the sea and the ship's wake as you sail along... but perhaps even more so thanks to the larger balcony. And let's not forget about all that Havana flavor - with exclusive daytime access to the Havana Pool area. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Carnival Horizon Balcony Stateroom

Balcony (FM)

If your group likes to sail closer to the waves - or just in a calm location at the aft of the ship - choose a Family Harbor Cove Balcony stateroom. You'll find your outpost a wave-watcher's paradise... and while we can't promise, you just might catch a living, swimming marine biology lesson from your railing! This stateroom features a unique nautical decor inspired by the craft of seafaring itself. The whole family will enjoy access to the Family Harbor Lounge and perks around the ship.

Carnival Horizon Balcony Stateroom

Balcony (7C)

Love the sea? Carnival Horizon Cove Balcony staterooms are the best way to see the sea - these rooms get you close to the waterline, and feature balconies that let you make the most of your location. Enjoy things from a whole new perspective: one amazing up-close view of the wake and sea foam as the ship cruises along.

Carnival Horizon Balcony Stateroom

Balcony (9B)

Step into a Premium Balcony stateroom aboard Carnival Horizon and it's easy to see exactly what you're getting: one seriously spacious stateroom. It's about more than just the room itself, you'll find... step onto your oversized balcony and you'll find that when there's a sea breeze in your hair, there's no limit to the relaxation you can have.

Carnival Horizon Balcony Stateroom

Balcony (HL)

There's more to a Havana Premium Balcony stateroom than just the extra outdoor space for staring out at the ocean. A view like this is entertaining, and this balcony is designed for sharing it. Invite someone special to come along and share the comfy interior as well, featuring classic Havana decor and exclusive daytime access to the Havana Pool area. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Balcony (FO)

This special room type features a unique nautical decor, full bathroom, generous amenities and exclusive perks that families love. "Aft-view" means that your room faces backwards - the best way to watch the flow of the ship's gentle wake as we sail along. Oh, and the balcony you'll enjoy it from is bigger than in a standard balcony room! You'll have great choices about how to spend your time: curling up to comfort indoors, stretching out outdoors... or enjoying the nearby Family Harbor Lounge!

Carnival Horizon Balcony Stateroom

Balcony (8P)

Whether you're warming up for your spa appointment or winding down after your treatment, there's no better place to do it than on your Cloud 9 Spa Balcony. Breathing is important - take the ocean breeze in, then let it out - you're already getting the hang of the whole spa thing!

Balcony (8S)

Balcony (8t).

Carnival Horizon Inside Stateroom

Inside (4A)

An Interior stateroom is the most affordable way to cruise, and Carnival Horizon's interiors are not just cozy, but are full of things you'd expect from any Carnival stateroom: a full private bathroom, Carnival Comfort Collection linens and just-a-call-away 24-hour room service.

Inside (4B)

Inside (4c), inside (4d), inside (4e), inside (4f), inside (4g), inside (4h), inside (4i).

Carnival Horizon Inside Stateroom

Inside (4J)

An Interior with Picture Window stateroom on Carnival Horizon gives you a view beyond your stateroom, out to the observation deck outside including a great sky view. (Note that the view will be partially obstructed.)

Inside (IS)

Any inside stateroom, or better, depending on availability.

Carnival Horizon Inside Stateroom

Inside (PT)

Carnival Horizon's Porthole staterooms give you the classic seafarer's view times two - a pair of round windows providing an affordable view of the ocean. If you tire of ocean-gazing, there's plenty more to do onboard, but 24-hour room service is one amenity you can enjoy as you continue to take in the view.

Carnival Horizon Inside Stateroom

Inside (HA)

For a stateroom with extra sabor - for not a lot of dinero - check out a Havana Interior stateroom. You'll find yours flavorfully decked out in Old Havana style... patterned after a place that certainly wasn't lacking any. And like we said, you'll find it for a great price. Aside from the good looks, this room includes exclusive daytime access to the Havana Pool area. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Carnival Horizon Inside Stateroom

Inside (FA)

To truly experience the cozy sanctuary that a harbor provides, check out a Family Harbor Interior stateroom. These rooms are not only an affordable way to keep the family close, but feature a unique nautical decor inspired by the craft of seafaring itself. And while you sail along, the whole family will enjoy exclusive access to the nearby Family Harbor Lounge, plus more great perks around the ship.

Carnival Horizon Inside Stateroom

Inside (4S)

We've taken the warm essence of our Cloud 9 Spas and infused it into spa staterooms on Carnival Horizon. Your room is the perfect place to do less, actually: just relax and take some you-time, anytime. All Cloud 9 Spa accommodations feature private spa access, special amenities and priority spa reservations.

Inside (4T)

Carnival Horizon Inside Stateroom

Inside (1A)

With an Interior stateroom you will get a full private bathroom, complimentary 24-hour room service plus linens you can feel at home in all of which make this a great spot for curling up after a long days fun.

Carnival Horizon Oceanview Stateroom

Oceanview (OV)

Any ocean view Stateroom, or better, depending on availability.

Oceanview (6A)

Catch a glimpse of what's going by from your Ocean View stateroom aboard Carnival Horizon, where you'll get views you won't find anywhere on land. Don't miss sunrise and sunset at sea - your comfy stateroom is the best way to experience these!

Oceanview (6B)

Carnival Horizon Oceanview Stateroom

Oceanview (FJ)

Let the whole family - especially the little ones - experience the wide-eyed wonder of a room with a view: a Family Harbor Deluxe Ocean View stateroom. Not only are the sky, the sea and the sights beautiful to behold from your window, but Family Harbor staterooms feature a unique nautical decor inspired by the craft of seafaring itself. The whole family will enjoy exclusive access to the nearby Family Harbor Lounge and more great perks around the ship.

Carnival Horizon Oceanview Stateroom

Oceanview (FE)

Let the whole family - especially the little ones - experience the wide-eyed wonder of sailing in a room with a view: a Family Harbor Ocean View stateroom. Not only will a vacation with a view like this help cultivate a lifelong love of the ocean, but Family Harbor staterooms feature a unique nautical decor inspired by the craft of seafaring itself. The whole family will enjoy exclusive access to the nearby Family Harbor Lounge, plus more great perks around the ship.

Oceanview (6L)

On Carnival Horizon, Deluxe Ocean View staterooms are a great choice for families who want to let the sun shine in as they sail. Rooms of this type feature great views, a full bathroom - plus a separate washroom - and while stateroom configurations vary, certain Deluxe Ocean View rooms have space to sleep up to five cruisers.

Oceanview (6M)

Carnival Horizon Oceanview Stateroom

Oceanview (6S)

The best way to enjoy the relaxing, invigorating Cloud 9 Spa while on a cruise is in a spa stateroom, and this one fits the bill, providing comfy accommodations and convenient, priority access to treatments and services at the Cloud 9 Spa. (Note that rooms of this type have obstructed views.)

Oceanview (6T)

Carnival Horizon Oceanview Stateroom

Oceanview (HE)

There are amenities by the handful in this Havana-flavored stateroom, but the one that'll excite you most of all is likely to be this: Havana Cabana staterooms come with an outdoor patio - complete with your own loungy deck chairs - right outside your room. They also feature Cuba-inspired decor, exclusive daytime access to Havana Pool area and loads of sunlight with floor-to-ceiling window, but like we said... your very own deck chairs! (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Carnival Horizon Suite Stateroom

A Carnival Horizon suite is the ultimate way to cruise. With more space for stretching out indoors, plus a large balcony for kicking back outdoors, try an Ocean Suite to experience private, luxurious relaxation. Ocean Suites also include VIP check-in, walk-in closet and bathroom with whirlpool.

Carnival Horizon Suite Stateroom

A Cloud 9 Spa Suite is the ultimate in both stateroom and spa accommodations. There's room for you and your things - with a large room and balcony - and a walk-in closet. The soothing in-room whirlpool tub will help you stay relaxed after your relaxing spa treatment. And like all suites, a Cloud 9 Spa Suite features VIP check-in, which lets you easily get right up to your amazing stateroom.

Carnival Horizon Suite Stateroom

A Grand Suite aboard Carnival Horizon features even more space than the standard suite - plenty of room in your room! This stateroom is loaded for an unparalleled experience: VIP check-in, a huge balcony, and even a convenient dressing area with vanity.

Carnival Horizon Suite Stateroom

Any suite, depending on availability.

As you step into a Junior Suite aboard Carnival Horizon, you can't help but feel that you're stepping into full-size luxury in a smaller package. Featuring a standard-size balcony, in a Carnival Horizon Junior Suite you'll find everything else there is to love about a suite, including VIP check-in, a walk-in closet... and even a whirlpool tub for relaxing.

Carnival Horizon Suite Stateroom

Family life is the sweet life, on land or at sea... especially when in a Family Harbor Suite. Your whole crew will enjoy the stretch-out space, huge balcony and other perks a suite offers, but a nautical decor specially-designed for Family Harbor staterooms. Kids and adults can make use of access to the nearby Family Harbor Lounge, plus other perks around the ship. In-room, there's a full bathroom... plus the convenience of a separate washroom.

Carnival Horizon Suite Stateroom

Here's your Spanish lesson for today: la habitación mejor. In "the best room" you'll find all the luxury of a suite, all decked out in Cuba-inspired decor. Outside your Havana Cabana Suite lies a private lounging area with your own deck chairs and hammock, plus exclusive daytime access to Havana Pool area... not to mention amenities like VIP check-in, a walk-in closet, and a bathroom with one luxurious rain shower. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Photo Gallery for Carnival Horizon Cruise Ship

Imagine the fun that’s waiting for you on a Carnival Cruise. The drinks, the games, the sights and the sun! Take a look at this photo gallery to help you envision your perfect vacation.

Carnival Horizon Resort Beach Rendering

Carnival Horizon Resort Beach Rendering

Carnival Horizon SkyRide

Carnival Horizon SkyRide

Carnival Horizon Camp Ocean Rendering

Carnival Horizon Camp Ocean Rendering

Carnival Horizon Aft Pool Rendering

Carnival Horizon Aft Pool Rendering

Carnival Horizon Aerial Shot

Carnival Horizon Aerial Shot

Carnival Horizon IMAX Theatre

Carnival Horizon IMAX Theatre

Carnival Horizon Liquid Lounge Rendering

Carnival Horizon Liquid Lounge Rendering

Carnival Horizon Resort Beach Rendering

Top 10 Carnival Horizon Cruises

  • Carnival Horizon 8-day Exotic Southern Caribbean Cruise Departing From Miami, Florida (Jun 2024 - Oct 2024)

Learn More About Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Horizon Accessibility Vendor Experience

Accessibility

Learn about Carnival Cruise Lines' handicap accessible cruises and accommodations for guests with special needs or disabilities - including special staterooms, accessible elevators, dietary accommodations and more.

Carnival Horizon Dining Vendor Experience

Savor dining aboard Carnival cruises, including Guy's Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, Cucina del Capitano, Bonsai Sushi, the Asian Kitchen, Main Dining Room, Steakhouse, Pizzeria, Coffee Bar, Seadogs, Shake Spot and more.

Carnival Horizon Entertainment Vendor Experience

Entertainment

Enjoy Carnival's onboard entertainment, including stage shows, Thrill Theater, game shows, comedy clubs, live music, DJs, seaside theater, karaoke and more.

Carnival Horizon Onboard Activities Vendor Experience

Onboard Activities

Take advantage of Carnival's onboard activities, including WaterWorks water slides, pools, sports courts, ropes course, mini-golf, video arcade, sports bars, casino, duty-free shopping, bars and lounges, art gallery and more.

Carnival Horizon Service & Awards Vendor Experience

Service & Awards

Learn how Carnival takes care of your every need with an extensive list of onboard services by attentive, cheerful staff. Plus, view Carnival Cruise Lines' awards.

Carnival Horizon Spa & Fitness Vendor Experience

Spa & Fitness

Relax at Carnival's Serenity Adult Retreat, Cloud 9 Spa, fitness center, jogging track, beauty salon, yoga or pilates courses. Carnivals treatments include massages, body wraps, facials, thermal suites and more.

Carnival Horizon Special Events Vendor Experience

Special Events

From weddings to parties, celebrate your special events at sea with Carnival Cruise Line.

Carnival Horizon Staterooms Vendor Experience

View Carnival's cruise ship staterooms, including suites, balconies, oceanviews and interior staterooms. Plus, Cloud 9 Balconies bring health and wellness to your room.

Carnival Horizon Youth Programs Vendor Experience

Youth Programs

Learn about cruising with children aboard Carnival. There's Camp Carnival for ages 2 - 11, Circle C for young teens and Club O2 for ages 15 - 17. Plus, Camp Carnival Night Owls will watch kids until 3 am.

Cruise Type

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Carnival Horizon cabins and suites

Carnival horizon staterooms review, floor plans, photos.

Carnival Horizon cabins and suites review at CruiseMapper provides detailed information on cruise accommodations , including floor plans, photos, room types and categories, cabin sizes, furniture details and included by Carnival Cruise Line en-suite amenities and services.

The Carnival Horizon cruise ship cabins page is conveniently interlinked with its deck plans showing deck layouts combined with a legend and review of all onboard venues.

Grand Suite

Layout (floor plan), ocean suite, havana cabana suite.

Special amenities offered in Carnival Havana Cabana cabins include:

  • convertible to King-size twin beds
  • bathrobes, premium lines, duvets, rain shower head
  • lounge furniture (sofabed, low table), patio furniture (2 chairs, 1 table)
  • convenient deck location (close to Havana Bar, Havana Pool, Havana Lounge)
  • daily (until 5 pm) exclusive access to Havana Pool and Lounge
  • reserved Lanai Deck area (1 hammock, 2 sunloungers)
  • Kids must be at least 12 years of age.
  • Note: 9 m2 (100 ft2) is actually the size of cabin's patio section.

Cove Balcony Family Harbor Suite

Premium vista balcony cabin, havana balcony cabin.

Special amenities offered in all Carnival Havana Cabana cabins include:

  • bathrobes, premium lines, duvets
  • lounge furniture (sofabed, low table), patio furniture (2 chairs, 1 table, 1 hammock)
  • daily (until 5 pm) exclusive access to Havana Lounge and Pool (reserved deckchairs)
  • reserved Lanai Deck area (2 sunloungers)

Balcony Cabin

Cove balcony family harbor cabin, deluxe oceanview family cabin, oceanview cabin, porthole cabin, walkway view interior cabin, interior cabin, small interior single cabin, cloud 9 spa staterooms, carnival horizon cabins review.

Carnival Horizon cruise ship has a total of 42 wheelchair-accessible cabins (for disabled passengers) and 104 "Cloud 9 Spa" cabins (28 Inside, 8 Oceanview, 62 Balcony, 6 Suite). The number of all cabin categories is 53.

Connecting rooms ("family cabins") are located on decks 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11. The list of connecting cabins grades includes: Balcony rooms (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8F, and 8G), Cove Balcony (7C, and FM-Family), Oceanview (6A, 6L, 6M, and FE-Family), Interior (4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4F, and FA-Family). Handicap staterooms (42 total) are in categories OS-Ocean Suite (1), Balcony (4), Oceanview (13) and Interior (24).

Follows the review of Carnival Horizon staterooms as amenities, furniture, and complimentary services:

Carnival Horizon Suites (Grand, Ocean, Havana Cabana, Family Harbor Cove, Cloud 9 Spa) have 2 twin beds (convertible to a King-size double bed, pillow menu), dressing area (walk-in closet, vanity table, chair), private bathroom (WC, shower, bathtub, bidet, double sinks, bathrobes), double sofabed, step-out terrace (with padded patio chairs and low tables). All balcony accommodations feature a private balcony with sliding glass doors (table, patio chairs, rail with clear glass panel).

All Carnival Cloud 9 Spa cabins have exclusive access to the Spa facilities on Panorama Deck 11. Their grades are Spa Suite (SS), Spa Balcony (8S, 8P, 8T), Spa Oceanview with obstructed views (6S, 6T) and the Spa Inside cabins (4S and 4T). Carnival Cloud 9 Spa rooms have the following complimentary amenities, services and perks (applicable for two guests per stateroom only): Thermal Suite and Spa Whirlpool (complimentary, unlimited access), 2 fitness classes (complimentary, Yoga or Pilates), 2 metabolism tests (complimentary), 1 Scrub Kit (complimentary, for the Thermal Suite), bathrobes, slippers, deluxe in-room bath amenities (by Elemis - shampoo, conditioner, sharp shower gel, vitamin-rich body lotion, 1 hand and 1 body soap disks), priority Spa reservations (must be made by 6 pm on embarkation day). Passengers booked in Cloud 9 Spa cabins also enjoy Spa treatment discounts while the ship is docked in ports of call - 20% off (1st), 30% off (2nd) and 40% off (3rd treatment).

Premium Vista Balcony cabins are located around the ship's aft corners and have same suite amenities (incl a wrap-around balcony). Extended Balcony cabins are in 2 grades - 8N and 8M (both with aft ship location). These staterooms have 50% larger balconies, 3 closets (in all grades balcony rooms), full bathroom (shower).

Oceanview cabins have a picture window and twin beds don't convert to king when both upper beds are in use. Some have a sofa and/or upper beds (Pullman) for 3rd/4th person. Spa Oceanview rooms are with obstructed views, and some are with upper bed (Pullman) for 4th person.

Inside cabins with windows have either Porthole Window (PT, on decks 1 and 2) or Picture Window (4J, on decks 6, 7, 9 and 10-Lido). Some Porthole cabins have a sofa bed for a 3rd person, some Picture Window rooms have a sofa and/or upper bed (Pullman) for 3rd/4th person. Small Inside cabins have bunk beds (upper/lower Pullman beds), living area (vanity, chair), bathroom (shower).

CCL Horizon ship's family cabins Family Harbor) are in categories FS-Suites, FM-Cove Balcony, FJ-Deluxe Oceanview, FE-Oceanview, FA-Interior. These staterooms for families are designed with larger living areas and bigger capacity (up to 5 passengers) via double sofabeds and additional bunk beds. Family Harbor staterooms are all located near the Family Harbor Lounge - an exclusive entertainment complex for families with 24-hour dining options, concierge service, board- and video games, movies. Children in all Family Harbor categories enjoy complimentary specialty dining (if accompanied by a paying adult) and one per cruise complimentary babysitting (at Night Owls/for up to 3 hours). At Family Harbor are offered self-serve Breakfast (6:30-9:30 am on port days/ 7:30-10:30 am on sea days) that includes deli meats, cereals, pastries, fresh fruits and juices, yogurt, coffee, tea, water. Self-serve afternoon snacks (3-5 pm) include pastries, sandwiches, cookies. Self-serve evening snacks (9-11 pm) include cookies with milk. Family Harbor also has 24-hour machines for ice cream and frozen yogurt.

All categories Havana staterooms (cabins and suites) are advertised as "private island resort" accommodations. All are located near the Havana complex (swimming pool, bar, club lounge). Havana Cabana Suites have a rain shower and a deluxe hammock on the terrace. Havana Cabana staterooms can be booked by families with children ages 12 or older. Cabin amenities include a step-out terrace (patio with 2 deckchairs, 1 low table), reserved Lanai sundeck area (with 2 padded sunloungers/in front of the patio), exclusive access to the Havana complex (including reserved deckchairs). Havana Cabana cabin types include Interior, Balcony, Premium Vista Balcony, Premium Balcony, Aft-View Extended Balcony, Suite.

All Carnival Horizon staterooms offer as standard/complimentary amenities a living area (vanity, seating), smart HDTV (infotainment system, Internet, on-demand-movies, bookings-reservations, Room Service ordering), direct-dial phone, electronic safe box and lifejackets (in the closet), hairdryer, en-suite bathroom (WC-toilet, shower, single sink-vanity, bathrobes, bathroom amenity basket/replenished upon request), custom-made beds (Carnival Comfort Bed System), beach towels, mini-bar/fridge, individual air-conditioning, complimentary 24-hour room service. Bibles (Gideon version) are provided upon request.

USB chargers (combined with power outlets) are located in the cabin's sitting area - right above the vanity desk (underneath its lighted mirror) and not near the beds. The available power plugs are three - two 120 V (3-prong, US standard) and one 220 V (European standard). USB outlets are 5 V (1000 mA). There is one power outlet in the bathroom (used only for electric razors). Guests are allowed to bring their own power strips, extension cords (without surge protectors), AC adapters and multi-plug boxes (powerboards with multiple electrical sockets).

The Carnival’s Sail & Sign card (cashless onboard credit account) doubles as stateroom key. The S&S credit program allows charges on purchases and tips/gratuities directly to a personal account throughout the Carnival cruise. The card has a designated owner and must be utilized for all money transactions on the ship as cash is accepted as a form of payment only at the casino. These cards are provided to all passengers (incl minors) immediately upon boarding the ship. Balance updates are provided at Guest Services desk (at any time). They can also be checked via the interactive TV in each stateroom.

The ship's interactive TV system allows passengers to purchase movies on demand, to order room service and to check the Sail & Sign account's status. The on-demand movie list has approx 25 films available for ordering at USD 5 per movie. Adult-content films cost USD 10 per movie.

Depending on satellite reception (Carnival Horizon location at sea), the complimentary in-cabin TV programming includes the following channels: ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, CNN (Domestic, International, Espanol), TCM (classic movies), cartoons (Boomerang, CN), TNT, TBS. There are 2 complimentary movie channels showing a film every 3 hours (both starting at 12 noon). One shows all-time favorites (PG -13 rated) and the other shows all-time family favorites (G / PG-rated). The following TV channels are Carnival-themed and also complimentary: Fun Finds TV, Cruise Director, Fun Aboard, Park West Art, Shore Tours, Ship Position, live cam views (webcams positioned forward and on lido deck), Audible Funtimes, Photo, Music. Sporting events (ESPN, ESPN 2) are shown only on big screens - at the ship's Sports Bar and Seaside Theatre (not in cabins/suites). All the TV's connection ports are intentionally disabled, which makes it impossible to connect it with personal devices (cameras, DVDs, USBs, iPods, gaming consoles, etc).

Bathroom amenities vary each time, so it's advisable you bring your own. Samples may include toothpaste, mouthwash, dental floss, body lotion, razor, antiacids. There is a wall-mounted dispenser in the shower stall (for liquid soap and shampoo). Electric power outlets are located in the desk/vanity area - one 110 V outlet (3-pronged, USA grounded) and one 220 V outlet (European standard). The bathroom's 2-pin plug can be used only for electric razors.

The new Carnival beds are Europe-manufactured exclusively for the company. The ensemble includes custom pillows (trademarked "New Generation Pillows", 100% cotton), duvet (100% hypoallergenic, ultra-fine, satin-striped), cover, deluxe sheets (high-quality cotton), pillowcases (ultra-fine, satin-striped), 8-inch / 20 cm spring mattresses (trademarked "Carnival Comfort"). Alternative (non-allergenic) bedding is also available. It includes 100% polyester blankets, sheets and pillowcases (60/40 cotton-polyester) and New Generation Pillows (100% cotton). Note: Trundle beds don't have Carnival Comfort mattresses.

Carnival-logoed Beach Towels are provided in each cruise accommodation for passengers to take ashore. Beach towels are also available for purchase (at $22). Bathrobes (2) are provided in all cruise suites and also in "Cloud 9 Spa" cabins/suites. Additional bathrobes are provided upon request. For all other cruise accommodations, bathrobes are provided (upon request) during the turndown service on the first evening. Bathrobes can be purchased at $49 (adult size) and $24 (children sizes /2-4 yo and 6-8 yo).

Life jackets are used in cases of emergency only (not at the ship pools). Lifejackets are located within passenger/crew cabins (in the closet). They are available in 3 sizes - adult, child, and infant.

Each of the cabins has a safe (located in the closet) with approx dimensions (inches/centimeters) - width (10/25), height (9/23) and depth (8/20). Cabin safes can be accessed by any magnetic strip card. It is advisable not to use a valid credit card (or driver's license), but an old expired card (or some rewards card) instead. Some safes are with a keypad (personal code). Safes can be opened also by the ship's security.

All cabin and suite mini-bars are stocked with premium liquors ($6-9,25), beer ($6,25), energy drinks ($5), soft soda/beverages ($2), bottled water ($3,75). In-cabin babysitting is not available (read more at Camp Ocean below). Cribs in cruise cabins are provided complimentary (upon request). In Main Dining Rooms are provided complimentary high chairs and booster seats.

Smoking in cabins/suites and on their balconies is prohibited. On Carnival Horizon, smoking allowed areas (cigarettes /incl electronic cigarettes) are the Casino (designated areas) and Vista Bar (deck 4 lobby bar). Smoking (incl of cigars and tobacco pipes) is allowed on designated outdoor areas on Deck 11 starboard (aft).

Funville@Sea is free of charge Intranet service providing information on onboard activities and events schedule, bar and restaurant menus, deck maps, Fun Times (newspaper), FunAshore (tour guides), Carnival cruise news, itinerary-related weather reports, onboard social network (tracking/messaging other passengers). The complimentary service is available via the Infotainment system (in all cabins) and also at the FunHub stations around the ship.

Current Carnival cruise ship gratuities (per day per person) are USD 12,95 (for standard cabin passengers) and USD 13,95 for suite passengers. The list of perks for all suites includes: priority embarkation/debarkation/tendering (all ports), priority main dining room reservations, complimentary bottled water in cabins, a complimentary bag of laundry (one per cruise), enhanced turndown service.

Since 2017, Carnival Cruise Line offers a new program allowing ship passengers to customize their steward service by choosing to have the cabin serviced in the morning, at night or both (twice a day). All guests can choose from a list of additional cabin amenities, among which are bathrobes, extra pillows, blankets, closet hangers. All guests can also specify how often the bed linens to be changed during the cruise. Your personal preferences can be selected from a services menu card left in each of the ship's staterooms. By default, if you make no selections on the card, your room service steward will service the accommodation twice daily.

Cruise Ship Room Service

In 2016, Carnival Cruise Lines rolled out fleetwide for-fee (chargeable) room service menu, which items can be ordered 24/7. The new menu still has free of charge items - hot and cold sandwiches, salads, desserts, beverages, Continental Breakfast selections. At extra cost (ranging between USD 1,50 and 6) are items that include shrimp, also sushi, pizza, quesadillas, cheesesteaks, chicken wings/tenders, fries. Bar drinks orders through room service are at regular bar menu prices (no extra fee added).

Complimentary room service menu

  • Continental Breakfast (upon request)
  • Sandwiches are served with potato salad, coleslaw, potato chips/pretzels, bread (white, whole wheat, rye, gluten-free). The list of sandwiches includes Tuna Salad, Roast Turkey, Ham & Cheese, Peanut Butter and Jelly, Bacon-Lettuce-Tomato, Grilled Cheese, Grilled Reuben (corned beef, Swiss cheese).
  • Salads - Garden, Caesar, Vegetable Platter (with dips)
  • Desserts - cheesecake, cookies, chocolate cake
  • Beverages - juices (tomato, orange, apple, grapefruit), tea (hot, iced), hot chocolate, milk, soft drinks (club soda, ginger ale, tonic water, coke, and sprite /also diet)
  • Beers - domestic (Budweiser, Bud Light, Miller Lite, Coors Light, Samuel Adams), imported (Heineken, Corona, Stella Artois), also available are beer buckets and wines by the bottle.

For-fee room service menu

The following items are available for ordering 24 hours but are at an additional charge.

  • Chicken Wings ($5) - choice of Honey BBQ, Teriyaki, Garlic Parmesan, Buffalo Sauce, Caribbean Jerk
  • Chicken Tenders ($5) - choice of sauce (BBQ or Honey Mustard)
  • Firecracker Shrimp ($6) - fried with chili ginger, served with fries
  • Chicken Quesadilla ($5)
  • Philly Cheesesteak ($5) - served with fries
  • Pan Pizza ($5) - handmade and baked-to-order (Cheese, Pepperoni, Ham, and Pineapple)
  • French Fries ($1,50), Sweet Potato Fries ($2), Banana Split ($4).

Continental Breakfast room service menu

The following items are available for ordering free of charge.

  • Cereals and Fruits - Banana, Melon, Frosted Flakes, Special K, Raisin Bran, Rice Krispies, Corn Flakes, Fruit Loops, Cheerios, Lucky Charms, Cinnamon Toast Crunch
  • Bakery - toasts (white, wheat, gluten-free), danish pastries, muffins, croissants, bagels
  • Yogurt - plain, strawberry, peach, raspberry
  • Drinks - juices (orange, apple, tomato, grapefruit), hot tea, milk (also skim and chocolate), fresh coffee (regular and decaf)
  • Half-and-half (milk-cream), butter, margarine, cream cheese, jelly (grape, diet, strawberry, guava), honey, orange marmalade.

Carnival Horizon cabin and suite plans are property of Carnival Cruise Line . All floor plans are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

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10 Photos From Carnival Horizon’s Miami Sail Away

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

  • July 6, 2021

On Sunday, July 4,  Carnival Horizon  became the first Carnival Cruise Line ship to set sail from Florida since the cruise industry shut down last year.

We are onboard for the six-night cruise, which is calling at Amber Cove, Dominican Republic and spending two days at Half Moon Cay — the company’s private island in the Bahamas.

If you know Doug, you know he loves sail away on any cruise, but this one was even more special and certainly one to remember! Not only was it special to be on Carnival’s first cruise from Florida, but the ship had a surprise escort out to sea — none other than the cruise line’s newest and largest vessel to-date, Mardi Gras. 

Here are ten photos from Sunday’s memorable  Carnival Horizon  sail away from PortMiami.

mardi gras PortMiami florida carnival

It feels difficult to believe that after so long of anticipating and learning new details about Carnival’s newest ship, she’s now here in Florida and getting ready for her own debut at the end of the month.

Below, you can see the curve bump-out and the massive glass wall on Mardi Gras , which is where the atrium is.

carnival cruise mardi gras

Crew on  Mardi Gras  waving to the passengers on  Carnival Horizon  and wishing them Bon Voyage!

carnival cruise mardi gras crew waving

In the photo below, you can see  Mardi Gras’  BOLT roller coaster, the pool at the aft, and get a good feel for the sheer size of the vessel.

carnival cruise PortMiami mardi gras aft

Disney Wonder  and  Oasis of the Seas  were also in port on Sunday. It almost felt like cruising was back to normal seeing multiple ships moving around.

disney wonder multiple ships PortMiami florida

READ MORE:  Carnival Cruise Line Resumes Voyages From Miami

Mardi Gras  is turned around — let the conveyance out of PortMiami begin!

carnival cruise mardi gras port miami

Couldn’t really ask for a better escort!

carnival horizon looking at mardi gras PortMiami

Passing by  Oasis of the Seas,  which is one of Royal Caribbean’s largest cruise ships. As you can see, Royal’s largest is still  much  bigger than Carnival’s largest!

mardi gras and oasis of the seas PortMiami multiple ships

The best feeling, especially now: heading out to sea on a cruise ship — finally!

carnival horizon sail away PortMiami

We made it! Let the fun begin! Thanks for the escort,  Mardi Gras.

mardi gras as seen from carnival horizon PortMiami

READ NEXT:  Amber Cove Welcomes First Carnival Ship Since Industry Shutdown

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Best Carnival cruise ships: Here’s which ship you should sail, based on your travel style

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Choosing a Carnival cruise ship is no simple task, especially if you’re new to cruising. As one of the largest cruise brands in the world, Carnival Cruise Line has more than two dozen vessels in its fleet, offering everything from megaship adventures to smaller-ship experiences. Many variables — price, embarkation dates, travel companions, ship size and amenities, and destination — can shape the way you make your choice.

So, what is the best Carnival cruise ship? Here are my picks for the top options in several categories.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

Mardi Gras: Best Carnival cruise ship for families

The best Carnival cruise ship for kids is undoubtedly Mardi Gras . Not only is it one of Carnival’s newest vessels, but it’s also one of the largest, and it has tons of activities to keep families with children busy.

At the expansive kids club, daily programming includes scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, and video games. The club draws in young cruisers and gives them space to make friends and play with peers. Beyond the dedicated kids facilities, the ship has a massive arcade and many top-deck diversions. One of these is the Ultimate Playground — a space encompassing a ropes course, waterslides and Bolt, the first-ever roller coaster at sea . (Note that the arcade and Bolt cost extra.)

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families  

Mardi Gras is full of fantastic family-friendly dining, including the line’s Dr. Seuss-themed Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast (for a small fee). The ship also includes pizza, soft-serve ice cream, Shaq’s fried chicken and Guy Fieri burgers in its fares. Even the pickiest of eaters will be satisfied. Kids can order off special menus in the complimentary main dining rooms and join in their waiters’ rollicking dance performances just when they start to get antsy sitting still.

The ship also does a nice job of accommodating families of all sizes and budgets. Many of Mardi Gras’ standard cabins sleep at least four people, and the ship offers connecting cabins.

Its Family Harbor staterooms provide access to a special family lounge area with TVs, sitting areas and internet stations. Breakfast is offered there each morning, and snacks and drinks — including free soda — are provided throughout the day. So, you never have to go far when the kids need a snack. Cabins in the Family Harbor category feature a nautical theme, plenty of storage and space to sleep at least four people.

Mardi Gras’ new sister ship, Carnival Celebration, is also a fantastic option in this category, offering a nearly identical experience (with just a few changes in the names and themes of specific venues).

Carnival Horizon: Best ship for luxury lovers

Let’s be clear: Carnival is not a luxury cruise line, nor does it offer huge suites on most ships. The suites it has are smaller than most other brands’ high-end accommodations, and they do not include amenities like butler service.

With that in mind, one ship that offers slightly more exclusive options is Carnival Horizon — the second vessel in Carnival’s three-ship Vista class. It offers a top-deck, adults-only Serenity sun deck area; an extensive menu of spa treatments, salon services and fitness classes at the onboard Cloud 9 Spa; and a handful of upmarket cabin offerings.

If you’re into wellness, relaxation and self-care, check out the spa and fitness center’s manicures, pedicures, facials, massages, teeth whitening treatments, acupuncture, anti-wrinkle procedures, state-of-the-art cycling classes, thermal suite, hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms for a fee. For digs that include pampering, try a Cloud 9 Spa cabin to receive extras like complimentary thermal suite access and two free yoga or Pilates classes.

Related: The 8 best cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

If exclusive stateroom enclaves are what you seek, you’ll want to book one of the ship’s Havana Cabana cabins. They come in several varieties, from 185-square-foot insides to Havana Suites, which offer 260 square feet of interior space (with a dividing wall to separate sleeping and living areas), plus a 100-square-foot patio area with loungers and a hammock. All Havana Cabana cruisers get access to an exclusive lanai and pool deck. With a suite booking, you’ll also receive priority embarkation and disembarkation.

If a traditional suite is more your style, consider a Grand Suite, which includes priority embarkation, disembarkation and dining times, as well as access to the Havana pool area. Note, however, that Grand Suites run only 345 square feet with 85-square-foot balconies — disappointing when you consider some of Royal Caribbean’s largest rooms are nearly five times that size.

The only ships on which you’ll find larger accommodations are the line’s newest: Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee, all of which house Presidential Suites. Those accommodations offer 1,120 square feet of space with 600-square-foot balconies and separate living and sleeping areas. However, the ships — part of the line’s Excel Class — are so large and attract so many families that I’ve ruled them out as the most luxurious.

Carnival Conquest: Best ship for budget travelers

If you’re on a budget and simply looking for one of the cheapest Carnival cruise ships, a solid bet is Carnival Conquest. It offers Bahamas and Caribbean voyages of three to five nights. Think of it this way: The shorter the cruise , the less expensive it will be.

Plus, it sails from Miami, one of the world’s largest cruise hubs. More ships leaving from a specific port means more competition, which can drive prices lower.

Related: The 8 classes of Carnival ships, explained

Carnival Conquest is one of the line’s oldest ships, but it’s also a ton of fun. Because short sailings tend to attract a more lively crowd, passengers can expect lots of dancing, socializing and late nights at Henri’s Dance Club. During the day, passengers enjoy spending time around the pool and grabbing free burgers from Guy’s Burger Joint.

It’s also one of the few vessels left in the fleet that still features jaw-dropping interiors designed by renowned architect Joe Farcus, who made Carnival synonymous with quirky patterns, bright colors and neon lights.

At the time of publication, prices started from $47 per person, per night, for an inside cabin.

Carnival Sunrise: Best Carnival cruise ship for singles

Unfortunately, Carnival has been slow to adopt solo cabins, meaning that no ships in its fleet offer accommodations for one.

Because all staterooms are designed for double occupancy, it’s generally a rule that a person traveling alone must pay both fares. This means they would pay twice as much per person as two people sharing a room.

Related: The best cruise ships for solo travelers

In order to make the single supplement as affordable as possible, solo Carnival cruisers will want to balance finding an inexpensive vessel with choosing one that sails short itineraries. They’ll also probably want one that’s a bit livelier (read: not the oldest in the fleet).

A great contender for the title of best Carnival ship for singles is Carnival Sunrise. Formerly Carnival Triumph, the ship was completely gutted, overhauled and renamed in 2019. Although it originally debuted in 1999, it feels fresh and nearly new. It offers the line’s signature Serenity adults-only sun deck, RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and a slew of lounges, nightclubs and daily activities.

Combine that with short, affordable voyages from Miami, and you can sail to the Bahamas or Caribbean for four or five nights from as little as $104 per night if you’re solo. Short sailings also tend to draw a more fun-loving, social crowd. So, if your goal is to mingle and potentially meet other solo cruisers, you stand a good chance on Carnival Sunrise.

Carnival Pride: Best ship for retirees

Retired travelers have all the time in the world to take longer cruises, which generally allow them to visit more far-flung locales. Those trips can come with a substantial price tag, which is why, as a budget option, Carnival is such a great choice.

In particular, Carnival Pride’s voyages consist of nine- and 12-night itineraries to the Baltic, British Isles and Iceland on a regular cadence. Longer voyages mean more time to explore but also fewer children and less of a frat party vibe. (Take note if you’re thinking of bringing your grandkids.)

Related: The 7 best cruises for seniors who love to travel

Carnival Pride is one of the oldest ships sailing for Carnival. That actually works in its favor if you’re a retiree who enjoys smaller ships and vintage design — in this case, more artwork and decor by Farcus.

In addition to a comedy club and an onboard spa, the ship also offers an adults-only sun deck, several bars and lounges, and plenty of dining options and daily activities to stave off boredom on longer voyages.

Bottom line

So, which Carnival cruise ship is the best? It all depends on your specific preferences. Whether you’re searching for an inexpensive vacation, a family-friendly vessel or a ship that will take you on a longer voyage to Europe, there’s a Carnival cruise to fit your taste and budget.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

  • The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
  • 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
  • 15 ways cruisers waste money
  • The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
  • What to pack for your first cruise

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Best Carnival cruise ships: Here’s which ship you should sail, based on your travel style

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Carnival Horizon Deck Plans & Reviews

pictures of carnival horizon cruise ship

Carnival Horizon

pictures of carnival horizon cruise ship

Activities & entertainment

  • Art Auction
  • Cloud 9 Spa Treatment Rooms *
  • Dance Classes
  • Deck Parties
  • Dr. Seuss WaterWorks
  • Evening Kids Programs *
  • Family Harbor Lounge
  • Fitness Center
  • Fitness Classes *
  • Green Eggs n Ham Breakfast *
  • Groove For St. Jude *
  • Ice Carving Demonstrations
  • Library Outside
  • Lip Sync Battle
  • Outdoor Playground
  • Photo Portraits *
  • Seuss-A-Palooza Parade & Storytime
  • Spa Parties *
  • SportSquare
  • The Clubhouse
  • The Salon *
  • Thermal Suites *
  • White Party
  • Wine Tasting *
  • Dr. Seuss Bookville
  • Comedy Shows
  • Horizon Casino *
  • IMAX Theatre *
  • Limelight Lounge
  • Liquid Lounge
  • Live Nightly Music
  • Outdoor Movies
  • Video Arcade *
  • Thrill Theater *
  • Carnival Seaside Theater
  • Carnival Multiplex *
  • Horizons Restaurant - American
  • Reflections Restaurant - American
  • Ji Ji Asian Kitchen - Asian *
  • Horizon Lobby and Bar - Atrium Bar *
  • Plaza Bar - Atrium Bar *
  • Cherry On Top - Candies *
  • Cherry On Top Outdoor Area - Candy *
  • Fat Jimmy's C-Side BBQ - Casual
  • Lido Marketplace - Casual
  • JavaBlue Café - Coffee & Pastries *
  • Havana Bar - Cuban-themed bar *
  • Guy's Burger Joint - Fast Food
  • Chef's Table - Gourmet *
  • Cucina del Capitano - italian *
  • Bonsai Sushi - Japanese *
  • Bonsai Sushi Outdoor Dining - Japanese *
  • Taste Bar - Light Bites
  • Alchemy Bar - Martini Bar *
  • BlueIguana Cantina - Mexican
  • Shake Spot - Milkshakes *
  • Piano Bar 88 - Piano Bar *
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The Virginian-Pilot

News | Baltimore-bound cruise passengers arrive in…

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News | Baltimore-bound cruise passengers arrive in Norfolk

The Carnival Legend docked at the Half Moone Cruise Center in Norfolk early Sunday morning, March 31,2024. At 6:30AM passengers began to leave the ship and board waiting buses for a trip back to Baltimore. Bill Tiernan/ For The Virginian-Pilot

NORFOLK — It is safe to say that most of the Carnival Legend cruise passengers did not think their vacation would end this way.

The sun had not yet risen as the cruise ship — which departed Baltimore’s port several days ago — docked at 4 a.m. Sunday at the Half Moon Cruise and Celebration Center. Downtown was quiet, many still asleep or attending a sunrise Easter service, as an impressive fleet of charter buses circled the cruise center. By 6:45 a.m., the ship’s passengers were working on their next phase of travel. For many, that meant a four-hour bus ride back to Baltimore.

Ships typically return to the port from which they leave, but when disaster struck midway through the cruise, staff had to work fast to find a port available to receive vacationers. The solution: Norfolk.

During the trip, officials closed the Port of Baltimore to all incoming and outgoing ship traffic after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning when it was struck by a container ship. The bridge carrying Interstate 695 collapsed in moments, sending several vehicles into the Patapsco River.

Last week, Carnival Cruise Line announced the ship will operate out of Norfolk, and Royal Caribbean’s Vision of the Seas will do the same. Each ship can carry more than 2,000 people.

Lines of sun-kissed cruise-goers towing suitcases began to form as the sun crested over the horizon, many donning Carnival-themed attire and fresh sunburns.

A member of the Intercruises support staff, left, helps a passenger with her bags as she leaves the Carnival Legend cruise ship and heads to a waiting bus for a trip back to Baltimore early Sunday morning, March 31,2024. The Carnival Legend arrived at the Half Moone Cruise Center early Sunday morning. Bill Tiernan/ For The Virginian-Pilot

The weather Sunday morning in the Mermaid City was likely much different than conditions they were enjoying in the Bahamas just days ago. Cab drivers parked alongside buses, waiting on customers, and some spoke to each other about how Sunday was likely to be a money-maker as cruise passengers opted to rent cars or fly back to Baltimore instead of braving the bus ride.

Sandy Crow, of Manassas, and her sister Kathy Grant, stood outside Nauticus, waiting for Crow’s husband to pick them up. Crow said she heard about the bridge collapse from another passenger.

“What a tragedy,” she said.

Crow said she has been to Norfolk before, highlighting the Norfolk Mac and Cheese Festival, and the two had been celebrating a sisters’ trip together over the past week. After finding out about their future arrival in Norfolk, Crow said driving home was the preferred option.

“The captain and the whole crew was so good communicating with us. Within a day, we knew we where were going to be. It was all handled beautifully,” Crow said. “It’s about three hours (to Manassas). It’s better than taking a bus for four or five hours, and then it would be another two hours. My husband just said, ‘I’ll just drive down there.'”

As cruise ships reroute to Nauticus, the Port of Virginia is ready to receive diverted cargo traffic from the Port of Baltimore. The collapsed bridge blocks the only channel in and out of the port on the Patapsco River.  The port will be unable to receive shipping traffic until the channel is cleared , and stands to lose an estimated $15 million per day in economic activity.

Passengers with their luggage leave the Carnival Legend cruise ship and head to a waiting bus for a trip back to Baltimore early Sunday morning, March 31,2024. The Carnival Legend arrived at the Half Moone Cruise Center early Sunday morning. Bill Tiernan/ For The Virginian-Pilot

Some passengers who spoke to The Virginian-Pilot said they heard the news of the tragedy from the captain, and the crew handled it the best they could. Despite the tragedy, many said the trip was still a good one although it is ending differently than they had originally planned.

For other passengers, the trip does not even end in Baltimore. Jackie Plum and her family took their Spring Break trip out of Baltimore, but they are actually from Michigan.

“When they announced that the the bridge collapsed, I think the cruise ship handled it really well. They made it as stress free as possible,” she said. “We kind of changed our plans at the last minute because so (the reroute) is adding, like, an extra four hours to our drive. Now, we have to go four hours back to Baltimore and then eight hours to Michigan. We were trying to get off the ship as fast as we can, and at the last minute, we decided to rent a car at the airport.”

For the foreseeable future, Norfolk will be welcoming more passengers, including a Royal Caribbean cruise later this week on April 4.

“You know what? Stuff happens,” Crow said. “The only thing I’m upset about is people lost their lives.”

Eliza Noe, [email protected]

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What happens when your cruise ship leaves you behind?

Entertainment managers on cruise ships love to have their little joke. “Don’t worry if you are late back to the port,” they tell passengers on their first day on board. “You’ll get great pictures of us waving as we sail away.”

This became a reality for one Norwegian Cruise Line voyage last month when eight passengers, who missed their boarding time by an hour after a private tour, were left behind on the African islands of São Tomé and Príncipe.

Missing a cruise departure is no laughing matter. Your belongings are left on board and catching up with the ship can be expensive.

Cruise ship itineraries are planned at least two years before their sail date. They specify the time the ship arrives and leaves port. Passengers going ashore are asked to be back on board half an hour before the departure to make sure they don’t miss the boat.

It doesn’t always go to plan. Cruise lines rarely discuss things that go  wrong , but the latest story is not unique  – there are instances every month where passengers miss their ship. They might have forgotten to note of the all-aboard time, got stuck in traffic or caught out by a cancelled train.

Why the ship won’t wait

Cruise line bosses refute absolutely the suspicion that captains always depart at the appointed time, even if it means leaving people behind, to encourage passengers to buy cruise-organised excursions that carry no risk of this.

Instead, they say, it is down to avoiding penalty fees. Dockers and pilots (a local captain who joins the bridge when ships enter and exit ports) are paid to be ready at the appointed hour to guide the ship out. If there is a delay, it costs money.

That sounds reasonable until you hear the cruise director, in the same breath as joking about the missing the ship, say the captain will wait if the line’s tours are not back for the all-aboard time.

No wonder cynics – usually the British, according to one cruise line executive – believe they are being scared into buying the ship’s own tours. These are pretty expensive compared with going it alone. A walking tour in Rome with Princess Cruises, for instance, will set you back $130/£103 per person while the train costs about £14 one-way.

While the British are the least trusting, they are also the most cautious and usually back on time, the exec said.

David Selby, the former boss of Thomson Cruises (now Marella Cruises), said captains would make a decision on whether to wait depending on the number of people missing, the distance to the next port and the weather.

If the ship had to go faster to get to the next port, it would use more fuel and thus be expensive. If the following day was at sea, they might decide to wait a while.

“We try to do right by everyone but we have to protect the itinerary and deliver the holiday our guests booked,” Selby said.

Your ship has sailed

One had to feel sorry for the American on a train coming back to Carnival Vista in Livorno after a day in Florence with his family. They all got out in Livorno where he realised he had forgotten his baseball cap and got back on the train, only for the doors to shut.

The family returned to the ship, he had to get a room for the night and rejoin them in Civitavecchia , the port for Rome, which was the next stop. It was probably the world’s most expensive baseball cap.

Missing your ship in Europe is a hassle but it is fairly easy to get to the next port and with luck it’ll be in the EU. Miss your ship in South America, Asia, Australia or the Caribbean and things start to look really bad.

Chances are you’ll have to get to another country to rejoin the ship, which means jumping through endless bureaucratic hoops because your passport is on board. It’ll be very expensive and to cap it all it’ll likely mean missing a couple of days of the cruise.

The ships’ port agents are responsible for helping sort out onward travel but at the passengers’ own expense. Just occasionally, though, people take matters into their own hands.

In 2016, 65-year-old Susan Brown missed her ship in Funchal and jumped into the Atlantic to swim after it. Luckily she was rescued by a local fisherman.

Far more classily, a woman who missed her Fred Olsen ship in Gibraltar was taken by pilot boat to rejoin the vessel and clambered aboard clutching her bag of just-purchased La Senza underwear much to the amusement of other passengers.

Missing the ship might not be a joke for those who miss the boat, but at least it gives the passengers on board a good laugh.

This story was first published in March 2023 and has been revised and updated.

Find more expert advice with our guide to 22 key cruise holiday questions answered – from seasickness to saving money.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.

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