Carnival Cruise Age Policy: Know Before You Go!

Carnival Cruise Age Policy: Know Before You Go!

Embarking on a Carnival Cruise is an exciting and unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages. However, it’s important to be aware of the age policy to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a romantic getaway, understanding the age restrictions and requirements will help you make the most of your cruise adventure.

To simplify the process, we have compiled a table outlining the key points of Carnival Cruise Age Policy: Know Before You Go!

It is crucial to note that these age policies may vary depending on the specific cruise itinerary, destination, and duration. To ensure a hassle-free vacation, it is highly recommended to review the detailed age policy information provided by Carnival Cruise Line on their official website (insert link to: https://www.carnival.com/help/faq/sail-apply#age-restrictions) or consult with their customer service representatives.

By familiarizing yourself with Carnival Cruise’s age policy, you can plan your vacation accordingly and avoid any inconveniences during the booking process or embarkation. So, whether you’re traveling with little ones, teenagers, or enjoying a solo adventure, knowing the age requirements will help you make the most of your Carnival Cruise experience.

What age does Carnival cruise consider a child?

Carnival Cruise considers children to be individuals who are under the age of 18. Children under the age of 2 are not required to pay the full fare but must be accompanied by an adult at all times. It is important for parents and guardians to be aware of the specific age policies and restrictions in order to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience for all. For more detailed information, please refer to Carnival Cruise’s official website: [source](https://www.carnival.com/help/1389).

How old do you have to be to go on a cruise without a parent?

Carnival Cruise Line has a comprehensive age policy in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests. For travelers looking to cruise without a parent or guardian, the minimum age requirement is 21 years old. However, guests who are at least 18 years old are allowed to travel without an adult on select cruises with specific guidelines. These guidelines include having a parent or guardian sign a consent form and having the ability to take responsibility for themselves during the cruise. It’s important to review Carnival’s Age Policy: Know Before You Go! to understand all the requirements and restrictions before planning your cruise adventure. For detailed information, please refer to Carnival Cruise Line’s official website: https://www.carnival.com/help-center/know-before-you-go/legal/guest-without-parental-guardian.

What ID does a minor need on Carnival cruise?

When it comes to minors traveling on a Carnival cruise, it’s important to be aware of the ID requirements. According to Carnival Cruise Age Policy: Know Before You Go!, all guests under the age of 18 must have a valid passport or an original birth certificate accompanied by a government-issued photo ID. It’s worth noting that children under the age of 16 who are sailing within the United States or its territories can also use a certified copy of their birth certificate. Ensuring that the required identification is in place will help facilitate a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience for young travelers. For further details, please visit Carnival Cruise Line’s official website: [carnival.com/agepolicy](https://www.carnival.com/help/age-policy).

Can you go on a cruise at 18 with a 21 year old?

Carnival Cruise Line has a comprehensive age policy that governs who can go on a cruise together. If you are 18 years old, you can definitely go on a cruise with a 21-year-old companion. Carnival Cruise Line allows guests who are 18 years or older to sail on their own without any adult supervision. However, there are certain restrictions when it comes to alcohol consumption and access to certain areas of the ship. Guests who are 18-20 years old are not permitted to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages while onboard. Additionally, access to certain venues and events may be restricted for guests in this age group. It is always advisable to review the Carnival Cruise Age Policy in detail before planning your trip to ensure a smooth sailing experience. For more information, please visit Carnival Cruise Line’s official website: [https://www.carnival.com/about-carnival/legal-notice/age-requirements.

Royal caribbean age policy

Royal Caribbean has a comprehensive age policy that ensures a safe and enjoyable cruise experience for all guests. The minimum age to sail on Royal Caribbean varies depending on the type of cruise and destination. For most sailings, the minimum age is 6 months old, while for transatlantic, transpacific, Hawaii, and select South American cruises, the minimum age is 12 months old. However, there are specific age restrictions for certain activities and facilities on board, such as the FlowRider surf simulator and the Solarium, which are limited to guests aged 13 and above. It’s important to review the age policy before booking your cruise to ensure that all members of your party meet the requirements for a seamless vacation. For more information, please visit the Royal Caribbean website: [https://www.royalcaribbean.com/faq/questions/what-is-the-minimum-age-to-sail-on-royal-caribbean](https://www.royalcaribbean.

In order to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience, it is important to be aware of the Carnival Cruise age policy before setting sail. This policy outlines the minimum age requirements for passengers, as well as any additional considerations for certain destinations or activities. By familiarizing yourself with these guidelines, you can avoid any unexpected surprises and make the most of your vacation.

Carnival Cruise Line has established age restrictions to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers on board. The minimum age to sail on most Carnival cruises is 6 months old. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, on transatlantic, Hawaii, and South America cruises, the minimum age is increased to 12 months. It is important to check the specific age requirements for your chosen itinerary before booking your cruise.

For children under the age of 16, Carnival requires that they are accompanied by a parent or guardian who is at least 21 years old. This policy ensures that young passengers have appropriate supervision throughout the duration of the cruise. For those aged 16 and 17, Carnival allows them to cruise without a parent or guardian but does require a parental consent form to be completed.

It is worth noting that Carnival also offers a variety of youth programs and facilities for children and teenagers. These programs are divided into different age groups, allowing kids and teens to engage in age-appropriate activities and make friends their own age. The Camp Ocean program, for example, caters to children aged 2 to 11, while the Circle “C” program is designed for 12 to 14-year-olds, and Club O2 is tailored for 15 to 17-year-olds. These programs provide a safe and entertaining environment for young cruise passengers to enjoy their vacation to the fullest.

When it comes to alcohol consumption, the minimum drinking age on Carnival cruises is 21 years old. Carnival strictly enforces this policy and requires guests to provide valid identification to prove their age. Failure to comply with this policy can result in denied service or even removal from the ship at the next port of call. It is important to note that this policy applies to all passengers, regardless of their age or whether they are traveling with a parent or guardian.

In addition to age restrictions, it is also important to consider any age-related requirements for specific destinations or activities. Some ports of call may have their own minimum age requirements for certain excursions or attractions. For example, certain water sports or adventure activities may have age restrictions for safety reasons. It is crucial to research and understand these requirements before booking any shore excursions to avoid disappointment.

To ensure you have the most up-to-date information on Carnival Cruise age policy, it is recommended to visit the official Carnival Cruise Line website. They provide detailed information on their age policy, including exceptions and additional considerations for specific cruises. Additionally, you can reach out to Carnival’s customer service or consult with your travel agent for any specific questions or concerns you may have.

By being aware of the Carnival Cruise age policy and understanding its implications, you can plan and enjoy your cruise vacation with confidence. Whether you are traveling with young children, teenagers, or as a group of adults, knowing the age requirements and guidelines will help you make informed decisions and ensure a memorable experience for everyone on board. So, before you embark on your next Carnival cruise adventure, take the time to familiarize yourself with the age policy and enjoy your well-deserved vacation!

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Carnival Sets Curfew For Kids Under 18 — But There’s One Exception

carnival cruise under 18

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Carnival Cruise Line has updated its policies for minors traveling aboard its ships, including a curfew for passengers 17 and younger.

The policy requires guests 17 and younger who are not accompanied by an adult at least 21 years old to be clear of public areas by 1 a.m. each night. The only exceptions are for those who are involved in Club 02 or Circle C, programs that allow their children to take part in supervised activities while their parents or guardians get some alone time. “Everyone has a better time when children are supervised, and this guideline is consistent with our commitment to safety,” a Carnival spokesperson told Travel+Leisure .

Updated Rules

It’s all part of updated rules regarding travel on Carnival Cruise Lines, which mandates passengers traveling on their own be at least 21 years old. Guests who try to get around the policy will be denied entry onto the ship without any compensation.

There are exceptions to the policy, however. Legally married couples under the age of 21 can travel, as can qualified military personnel ages 18 to 20. Proof of marriage or military service is required to get around the rule. Carnival also requires anyone under the age of 21 to travel with a relative or guardian who is at least 25 years old.

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Rules For Rooms

Accommodations for minors are all addressed in the updated company policy.

  • Guests must be 12 and older to stay in Havana staterooms and suites.
  • Guests 12 and younger can stay in a separate room from their guardians, but it must be directly across the hall or next door.
  • Guests 13 to 17 can be separated by no more than three staterooms.
  • Guests 18 to 20 have no restrictions on the location of their rooms.

Carnival also requires at least one chaperone or guardian for every eight minors.

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Carnival Will Now Have a Curfew for Kids Under 18 — Here Are the Exceptions

carnival cruise under 18

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Carnival Cruise Line implemented a curfew for all kids and teens, requiring unaccompanied minors to be out of public areas after 1 a.m.

The new curfew policy will apply to minors 17 years old and younger, the cruise line confirmed to Travel + Leisure .

“Everyone has a better time when children are supervised, and this guideline is consistent with our commitment to safety,” a Carnival spokesperson told T+L.

The new policy will not apply to passengers who are accompanied by an adult in their traveling party who is 21 years old or older, or to young passengers who are involved in a Club O2 or Circle “C” teen activity. Club O2 is open to kids 15 to 17 years old, and Circle “C” is open to kids 12 to 14 years old.

In addition to the curfew, Carnival requires most guests who are under 21 to travel with a relative or guardian who is 25 years old or older.

Carnival does offer services for parents with smaller children, including a “Night Owls” program for children 6 months to 11 years old from 10:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. The service costs $7.50 per hour, per child.

Carnival also offers other amenities for families traveling with kids, including kid-friendly food and flexible bed configurations in staterooms, as well as onboard activities like water slides, mini golf, and even roller coasters .

Carnival isn’t alone in implementing a curfew for some guests. Norwegian Cruise Line, for example, has a 1 a.m. curfew for all teenage guests, according to the company .

“Teens must proceed to their staterooms unless they are accompanied by their parent/guardian,” Norwegian wrote in its policy. “All crew members are instructed to report inappropriate behavior to Ship Security.”

Others, like Disney Cruise Line , don’t have an official curfew policy in place. 

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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  • Carnival Cruise Age Policy: Everything You Need to Know

Carnival Cruise is one of the most popular cruise lines in the world, offering a wide range of exciting and luxurious vacation experiences for travelers of all ages. However, it is crucial to understand their age policy before planning your trip. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know about the Carnival Cruise age policy, ensuring you have a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Key Points to Know about Carnival Cruise Age Policy:

It is important to note that for safety and security reasons, Carnival Cruise requires all guests to carry valid identification documents, such as passports or birth certificates, to verify their age. Additionally, certain destinations and excursions may have specific age restrictions, so it is advisable to check with the cruise line and respective port authorities before planning any activities.

To ensure a hassle-free vacation, familiarize yourself with Carnival Cruise’s age policy and plan your activities accordingly. By understanding the age-specific offerings and requirements, you can make the most of your cruise experience and create lasting memories for yourself and your loved ones.

For more detailed information about Carnival Cruise age policy, visit the official Carnival Cruise website: [Carnival Cruise Age Policy](https://www.carnival.com/help/age-requirements.aspx).

What age is considered a child on Carnival cruise?

Children’s age policies on Carnival cruises are essential to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience for all guests. On Carnival cruises, a child is typically considered to be anyone aged 17 years old or younger. However, it is important to note that specific age requirements may vary depending on the type of cruise, destination, and activities involved. For detailed information about Carnival’s age policies, including restrictions and guidelines for children, kindly refer to the official Carnival Cruise Line website (https://www.carnival.com/about-carnival/legal-notice/age-requirements.aspx). By adhering to these age policies, Carnival Cruise Line aims to create an unforgettable vacation for guests of all ages.

Can an 18 year old have their own room on Carnival cruise?

On Carnival Cruise, guests must be at least 21 years old to have their own room unless they are accompanied by someone who is 25 years or older. However, guests who are 18 to 20 years old can still enjoy their own room if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. This policy ensures the safety and comfort of all guests on board. For more information on Carnival Cruise’s age policy, please visit their official website: www.carnival.com/about-carnival/legal-notice/age-requirements.aspx.

What documents does a child need to go on a Carnival cruise?

Children going on a Carnival cruise are required to have specific documents to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. The primary document needed is a valid passport or an acceptable proof of citizenship and identity, such as a certified birth certificate along with a government-issued photo ID. For children traveling with only one parent or legal guardian, additional documentation like a notarized letter of consent may be required. It is crucial to review the age policy and document requirements provided by Carnival Cruise Line to ensure compliance and avoid any last-minute complications. [Source: Carnival Cruise Age Policy: Everything You Need to Know](https://www.carnival.com/help/faq.aspx?

What are the age restrictions on Carnival?

Carnival Cruise Line has specific age restrictions in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all passengers. Infants must be at least six months old to travel on board, while pregnant women should not be more than 24 weeks along during the cruise. For unaccompanied guests, the minimum age varies depending on the itinerary, ranging from 18 to 21 years old. To participate in certain activities and access certain areas, guests must be at least 21 years old. It’s important to review the age policy before planning your Carnival cruise to guarantee a smooth and hassle-free experience. For further details, visit Carnival Cruise Line’s official website.

Carnival cruise age requirements for babies

Carnival Cruise Line has specific age requirements for babies on their ships. Infants as young as six months old are allowed to sail on most itineraries, while those under six months old are not permitted due to safety regulations. However, it’s important to note that for voyages longer than two days, such as transatlantic or Hawaii cruises, infants must be at least 12 months old at the time of embarkation. Additionally, Carnival requires all infants to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is at least 21 years old. For more detailed information on Carnival’s age policy for babies, please visit their official website: https://help.carnival.

In this comprehensive guide, we have delved into the Carnival Cruise age policy, covering everything you need to know before embarking on your dream vacation with Carnival Cruise Line. By understanding and adhering to the age restrictions and requirements, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey with Carnival Cruise Line.

One of the key aspects of the age policy is the minimum age requirement for sailing unaccompanied by an adult. As of August 1, 2021, the minimum age for sailing on most Carnival cruises is 21 years old. However, there are certain exceptions to this rule. For example, guests who are at least 18 years old can sail unaccompanied on select cruises if they are married or are traveling with a parent or legal guardian. It is important to consult the official Carnival Cruise Line website or contact the cruise line directly to confirm the age requirements for your specific cruise.

It is also worth noting that Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of programs and activities for children and teens, ensuring that guests of all ages have a memorable experience on board. The Camp Ocean program is designed for children aged 2 to 11, offering age-appropriate activities and supervised fun. For teenagers, Circle “C” and Club O2 provide a dedicated space for socializing, gaming, and engaging in age-appropriate activities.

Additionally, Carnival Cruise Line offers special pricing and discounts for children, making it a great option for families looking to enjoy a cruise vacation together. Children aged 12 and under can often sail at a reduced rate when sharing a cabin with two full-fare paying adults. This can make cruising with Carnival an affordable and family-friendly option.

To ensure a hassle-free experience, it is essential to be prepared and familiarize yourself with the documentation required for sailing with Carnival Cruise Line. All guests, regardless of age, must carry a valid passport or other approved travel documents. It is important to review the entry requirements of the countries you will be visiting during your cruise and ensure that you have the necessary documentation to comply with their regulations.

Furthermore, it is important to note that the age policy may vary depending on the specific cruise itinerary and destination. Some destinations may have different age restrictions, and it is crucial to check the specific requirements for your chosen cruise. It is always recommended to consult the official Carnival Cruise Line website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding age policies.

To further assist you in your research, we have included some trusted sources below that provide additional information on the Carnival Cruise age policy:

1. Carnival Cruise Line Official Website: [https://www.carnival.com/about-carnival/vacation-guarantee.aspx](https://www.carnival.com/about-carnival/vacation-guarantee.aspx) 2. Cruise Critic: [https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles.cfm?ID=2183](https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles.cfm?ID=2183) 3. Travel + Leisure: [https://www.travelandleisure.com/cruises/carnival-cruise-line/age-policy](https://www.travelandleisure.com/cruises/carnival-cruise-line/age-policy)

By referencing these sources, you can access additional details and stay up to date with any changes in the Carnival Cruise age policy.

In conclusion, understanding the Carnival Cruise age policy is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable vacation. By familiarizing yourself with the minimum age requirements, special programs for children and teens, and necessary documentation, you can ensure that your Carnival Cruise experience is everything you hoped for. Always consult the official Carnival Cruise Line website and trusted sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the age policy. Happy cruising!

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Carnival under 18 curfew

asalligo

By asalligo , September 1, 2022 in Carnival Cruise Lines

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Cool Cruiser

Is this new or has it just never been enforced? Someone has posted this on a facebook page as a new rule. I think I remember this being in place before Covid. I think it is just not enforced. 

Minor Guest Policy | Carnival Cruise Line

Youth Curfew Guests 17 years of age and under who are not accompanied by an adult in their traveling party, 21 years of age or older, must be clear of all public areas by 1:00am each evening unless involved in a Club 02 or Circle C teen activity.   

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  • 1 yr asalligo changed the title to Carnival under 18 curfew

rrraydon

Call me a prude but that’s late for kids to be out running around!

Lee Cruiser

3 minutes ago, rrraydon said: Call me a prude but that’s late for kids to be out running around!

Agreed.  Although I wouldn't know if they are out at 1 am or not, unless they come yelling down the hall by my room 😀

imacruiser99

Carnival is trying to "curtail" their reputation lately.  Folks cruising today think the entire ship has turned into a baby sitting service (I know 18 year old's do not need baby sitting), but parental control is still required.  I am just wondering if the same folks let their school age children wander the streets at night back home, or is this just because they are in a "confined" area, all is well.  

The concept of common courtesy to your neighbor seems have gone by the wayside no matter where you go today.

10,000+ Club

Seems like I recall a curfew when we took the kids several years ago.  But I'm kind of fuzzy, so not sure.  

4 hours ago, Lee Cruiser said: Agreed.  Although I wouldn't know if they are out at 1 am or not, unless they come yelling down the hall by my room 😀

Right?!?! I’m in bed by then. 😆  

Dang kids these days!

Where have I heard that before? Oh yea. I heard my grandparents say it. I heard my parents say it. As a parent, I probably said it. As a grandparent, I don't say it. I think todays kids are much better behaved, more mature, and more responsible than any of the previous generations.

How can they not be! Every move they make is recorded, on a camera, and/or posted on social media.

Maybe some of us prudes need to remember back when we were kids. I thank my lucky stars every day that social media wasn't around when I was a kid testing boundaries.

4 minutes ago, klfrodo said: Dang kids these days!   Where have I heard that before? Oh yea. I heard my grandparents say it. I heard my parents say it. As a parent, I probably said it. As a grandparent, I don't say it. I think todays kids are much better behaved, more mature, and more responsible than any of the previous generations. How can they not be! Every move they make is recorded, on a camera, and/or posted on social media.   Maybe some of us prudes need to remember back when we were kids. I thank my lucky stars every day that social media wasn't around when I was a kid testing boundaries.

Nope..1am is too late. That’s why we have the problems with the kids nowadays that we did not have in the previous generations. Making excuses for kids running around at 1am is another reason why we have the craziness with the kids of this generation.

27 minutes ago, rrraydon said: Nope..1am is too late. That’s why we have the problems with the kids nowadays that we did not have in the previous generations. Making excuses for kids running around at 1am is another reason why we have the craziness with the kids of this generation.

I’m sorry. Did I say anything about the curfew?

Project much?

lazydayz

Fairly sure it is new.  And I am so glad they did this! 

matymil

Should be earlier imo. Ive never been one of those people that has any issues with kids on board but what i saw on the Magic out of NYC completely changed my outlook. Seriously eff those kids

Haha

lennythenose

If it was a rule before I was never aware of it and my kids are now 23 and 19. I’m a big time rule follower so I think I would have known about it.

3 hours ago, klfrodo said: I’m sorry. Did I say anything about the curfew? Project much?

I think they just assumed you knew what was being discussed and you were talking about the same thing as everyone else.

pc_load_letter

8 hours ago, rrraydon said: Call me a prude but that’s late for kids to be out running around!

Yeah, needs to be 11pm or midnight at the latest.

5 hours ago, klfrodo said: I’m sorry. Did I say anything about the curfew? Project much?

No...but everyone else is...probably because the title of the thread is "Under 18 curfew". Read much?

6 hours ago, rrraydon said: Nope..1am is too late. That’s why we have the problems with the kids nowadays that we did not have in the previous generations. Making excuses for kids running around at 1am is another reason why we have the craziness with the kids of this generation.

We had kids spitting on people, damaging Carnival property, bullying other kids, stealing property, one kid went missing for two days in our group, another one got drugged and had to go to the medical center, i even saw a girl throw her lollipop at a security guard. As much as i agree with the curfew that's not going to do much. A group of kids bullied my friends 11 year old (who is also handicapped) by making fun of him, beating him up, videoing him and locking him in a bathroom. When security went to the parents they got the "my kids would never do that" routine. This is learned behavior and is a product of terrible parenting. A 1am curfew is not gonna stop bad parenting

ray98

1am isn't going to fix much.  Most of the bad behaviour I witnessed was 10:30 to midnight.

(I know 18 year old's do not need baby   sitting)

I know plenty of 18 yr old's that need more babysitting than 4 yr olds!!!  Nothing good ever happens after midnight, especially for teens...

I’m not sure how new this is, but did see it listed for my May & June Carnival cruises this year.

matt1

4 hours ago, matymil said: This is learned behavior and is a product of terrible parenting.

NAILED IT. 😎

pe4all

11 minutes ago, JT1962 said: I’m not sure how new this is, but did see it listed for my May & June Carnival cruises this year.

They definitely did not enforce this on our June Magic cruise.  Kids were out all hours - definitely until at least 2:30 a.m. running up and down our hallway.  The last day of the cruise they posted a security guard outside the teen club.

15 hours ago, asalligo said: Is this new or has it just never been enforced? Someone has posted this on a facebook page as a new rule. I think I remember this being in place before Covid. I think it is just not enforced.    Minor Guest Policy | Carnival Cruise Line   Youth Curfew Guests 17 years of age and under who are not accompanied by an adult in their traveling party, 21 years of age or older, must be clear of all public areas by 1:00am each evening unless involved in a Club 02 or Circle C teen activity.   
14 hours ago, imacruiser99 said: Carnival is trying to "curtail" their reputation lately.  Folks cruising today think the entire ship has turned into a baby sitting service (I know 18 year old's do not need baby sitting), but parental control is still required.  I am just wondering if the same folks let their school age children wander the streets at night back home, or is this just because they are in a "confined" area, all is well.     The concept of common courtesy to your neighbor seems have gone by the wayside no matter where you go today.

It is new and it is the new CEO

5 hours ago, matymil said: We had kids spitting on people, damaging Carnival property, bullying other kids, stealing property, one kid went missing for two days in our group, another one got drugged and had to go to the medical center, i even saw a girl throw her lollipop at a security guard. As much as i agree with the curfew that's not going to do much. A group of kids bullied my friends 11 year old (who is also handicapped) by making fun of him, beating him up, videoing him and locking him in a bathroom. When security went to the parents they got the "my kids would never do that" routine. This is learned behavior and is a product of terrible parenting. A 1am curfew is not gonna stop bad parenting

If there was video, how could it be denied?

53 minutes ago, pe4all said: They definitely did not enforce this on our June Magic cruise.  Kids were out all hours - definitely until at least 2:30 a.m. running up and down our hallway.  The last day of the cruise they posted a security guard outside the teen club.

It was not enforced on either of my cruises, but I did see it listed. With the crew shortages on both of my cruises, I doubt they had enough people to attempt to enforce curfew.

mz-s

Nobody is going to take these words seriously until people start getting kicked off the ship at the next stop. When you're stuck in Nassau and have to find your own way home because your kids are heathens or you got caught with drugs in your suitcase, word will spread quickly that the wild west is gone.

Thanks

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The 6 best cruise lines for young adults

Megan duBois

Travelers between the ages of 18 and 25 often get overlooked on cruises. They are too old for the teen clubs, even if they are still in high school at 18, but may be too young to drink at the onboard bars. Many cruise lines forget that 20-somethings still want to meet their onboard peers in group settings arranged by the cruise line — especially if they're traveling with older family members with different vacation interests.

The best cruise lines for young adults often have meetups that allow them to make friends quickly on the first night; have a cool, laid-back vibe in adults-only areas that they can finally access after graduating from the kids clubs; and have some sense of adventure built into the itinerary.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Young adult cruisers can find a party around every corner on Carnival Cruise Line or adventures off the ship with Royal Caribbean International. Even solo cruisers will find cabins on Norwegian Cruise Line that are designed just for them, with communal spaces ideal for making friends.

Here, we list the six best cruise lines for young adults ages 18 to 25. Plus, we outline a few key things you should know when picking a cruise line, especially if you are younger than 21 (or traveling with someone who is).

3 things young adult cruisers need to know

Booking restrictions.

Some cruise lines do have restrictions for travelers looking to book a sailing if they are younger than 21. For instance, Royal Caribbean sets the minimum age to sail unaccompanied by an adult on cruises from North America at 21. (You only need to be 18 years old to sail from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.)

Before booking with any cruise line, you'll want to check the minimum age requirement of the cruise line to be sure you or someone in your group meets the requirements.

Related: 10 mistakes to avoid when booking your cruise

Drinking age on cruises

On most sailings from the U.S., guests must be at least 21 years old to drink alcohol on the ship. One exception to this rule is Margaritaville at Sea , which allows guests who are 18 to drink once the ship is in international waters or on Grand Bahama Island.

If you're sailing from a country that allows legal drinking at 18, as many European countries do, check the drinking policy for those who are younger than 21 for that particular sailing or cruise line before booking. For example, Disney Cruise Line allows 18- to 20-year-olds to consume alcohol on closed-loop sailings departing from any European country. Parents or guardians just need to sign a consent form.

Be warned, though, that consuming or even buying alcohol for those younger than 21 is a serious offense that can lead to forced debarkation on sailings that say the age for drinking is 21 and older.

Cruise line alcohol policies

Cruise lines generally frown on bringing your own alcohol on board, limiting bottles and charging corkage fees. Check your specific cruise line's policies because they are all different.

For example, Disney Cruise Line allows those who are at least 21 to bring two bottles of wine or six beers onto the ship with them in a carry-on bag on embarkation day and again at each port of call. Carnival Cruise Line allows cruisers 21 and older to bring one bottle of unopened wine per person on board in their carry-on luggage on embarkation day only.

If you decide to try to sneak on more alcohol than allowed , security can confiscate and discard it. Most cruise lines will open bottles of water, mouthwash and other clear liquids to confirm it's not contraband alcohol.

Related: Can I bring alcohol on a cruise ship? A line-by-line guide

OK, enough of the rules and regulations. Here are our favorite cruise lines for young adults.

Best cruise line for a party: Carnival Cruise Line

carnival cruise under 18

Carnival Cruise Line is known for its lively atmosphere and party vibes. Sailings on Carnival are among the most affordable, which can benefit young adults looking for a fun vacation on a budget.

Along with fun fast-casual dining spots from celebrities like Guy Fieri and Shaquille O'Neal, Carnival's so-called "Fun Ships" have an abundance of shows, trivia challenges and outdoor activities that appeal to younger cruisers. On Carnival ships, those 18 and older can gamble in the onboard casino but cannot order drinks at the many themed bars unless they're at least 21 years old.

Carnival doesn't typically offer planned events for cruisers ages 18 to 25. Travelers looking to meet similarly aged travelers can connect with shipmates on Facebook groups dedicated to their sailing and arrange an unofficial meetup with other young adults on board. Active shore excursions, the fitness center and the hot tub on the adults-only sun deck are great places to look for peers during a cruise.

Related: A beginner's guide to picking a cruise line

Best cruise line for young adult meetups: Disney Cruise Line

carnival cruise under 18

Even though Disney Cruise Line is known as the family cruise line, young adults may be on board because they have younger siblings or their family enjoys visiting Disney parks. Cruisers who have aged out of Vibe, the teen club for 14- to 17-year-olds, will find their own "secret" onboard club known as the 1820 Society.

Cruisers ages 18 to 20 who want to participate in the planned activities can see all the available happenings on the Disney Cruise Line app once they're on the ship. Young adults should attend the first meetup, which is where introductions and icebreaker games happen. Throughout the cruise and even on Disney's private island, Castaway Cay, meetups and activities are scheduled for the age group.

Another plus for young adults is that Disney only requires guests to be 18 years old to sail unaccompanied. That means you and your friends don't need a parent chaperone for a weekend cruise filled with late-night dance parties in the District and brunch at the adults-only Palo restaurant .

Related: 5 reasons why Disney cruises aren't just for kids

Best cruise line for young foodies: Celebrity Cruises

carnival cruise under 18

Young adult cruisers who get excited about international cuisine and craft cocktails will enjoy Celebrity Cruises , especially its newest Edge-class ships. The line is a good choice for multigenerational trips, especially as its fares might be beyond a 20-something's budget.

Celebrity Edge, Apex, Beyond and the upcoming Ascent are filled with hip venues, such as Craft Social with its dozens of boutique beers and Eden with its innovative, nature-themed cocktails. If you want to feel the ocean breeze on your face while sipping a martini, head to the Rooftop Garden, where greenery, plush loungers and ocean views will keep you coming back throughout your cruise.

Dining at the many onboard restaurants is also a treat, with venues specializing in sushi, backyard barbecue, French bistro classics and handmade Italian pasta. If your budget doesn't allow for specialty dining, you won't get menu fatigue with four main dining rooms included in the fare. Each restaurant is themed around a different country's cuisine, including Greek, French, Italian and new American.

Related: 5 reasons you should splurge on a cruise ship specialty restaurant

Best cruise line for quick sailings: Royal Caribbean

carnival cruise under 18

Young adults may struggle to take time off from work or school to do a weeklong cruise. With Royal Caribbean , travelers in their late teens and 20s can take part in two- to five-night sailings from the U.S. or Europe that have affordable rates. Even better, some of the line's largest and attraction-laden ships sail these shorter itineraries, so you won't have a chance to be bored.

Cruises from Florida often go to Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay , which adds even more value to the cruise by adding a hassle-free beach day into the destination mix. On the island, lunch is free and you can use your shipboard beverage package to cover your drinks. Plus, the inviting pool and many beaches are great places to hang out and enjoy the water. You must pay extra to ride CocoCay's many waterslides, zip line or tethered hot air balloon.

On board the ships, young adults can meet others at the sports court for a pickup game of basketball or pickleball. The nightclubs and lounges are fun spots to dance and sing with new friends. The minimum age to sail without an older adult in the cabin for cruises departing from North America is 21.

Best cruise line for an adults-only atmosphere: Virgin Voyages

carnival cruise under 18

Young adults looking for a kid-free vacation should check out Virgin Voyages , an adults-only cruise line where the minimum age to book is 18. Gratuities, Wi-Fi and sassy group workouts are included in the fare. Each of the three (soon to be four) ships have many restaurants, such as Pink Agave for Mexican and Gunbae for Korean barbecue, all of which are fee-free.

At sea, guests ages 18 and older can enjoy an alcoholic beverage, but while docked in any U.S. port, the minimum drinking age on board is 21.

One of the most exciting moments of every Virgin Voyages sailing is Scarlet Night, when the entire ship is decked out in red thanks to added red lights and red crew outfits. Guests are encouraged to don their crimson best and attend a late-night dance party on the pool deck.

Adventurous passengers can get matching ink with their besties at the onboard tattoo shop or attend a risque show at night. This is definitely a cruise to take with your partner or peers, not your parents.

Related: An expert cruiser's first impressions of Scarlet Lady

Best cruise line for young adults traveling solo: Norwegian Cruise Line

carnival cruise under 18

Solo travelers are often overlooked and, frankly, outpriced on many cruises. With single supplement charges, solo cruisers pay the same total price for a room as two people sharing a cabin.

Norwegian Cruise Line changed the game with its Studio cabins. These 100-square-foot inside rooms are designed for one, so travelers won't be paying extra. Studio guests also get access to the Studio Lounge, a communal gathering space with big-screen TVs, drinks and snacks. Not all NCL ships offer solo cabins ; studios are available on multiple ships, including Norwegian Escape, Epic, Encore, the new Norwegian Prima and the upcoming Norwegian Viva.

On board, cruisers will find plenty of fast-casual and table-service dining options, including one of our favorite food halls at sea, Indulge Food Hall on Norwegian Prima and Viva. Active young adults will enjoy the go-kart tracks , virtual reality game rooms, waterslides and lively dance clubs found on many of Norwegian's newest ships. If you prefer to relax with a book and enjoy the ocean breeze, you can do that, too.

Bottom line

Whether on a family trip with younger siblings or older parents, a party cruise with friends or a relaxing escape with your significant other, young adults can find ships that speak their language. We recommend these six lines for 18- to 25-year-olds, but even on other ships, a good attitude and an adventurous spirit will go a long way toward making a trip you didn't choose extra fun. Young adults can find plenty that appeals to them on most cruises — with or without mom and dad.

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Drinking Age on a Cruise: Can You Drink Under 21?

The legal drinking age in the United States is 21 years old. There’s no getting around it. If you want to buy booze, you have to be of legal age or face some serious consequences.

But what about on the drinking age on a cruise? Do you still have to be 21? After all, we’ve all heard of “international waters” — a magical place just a few miles offshore where the normal rules don’t apply. Doesn’t that mean if you are under the legal drinking age, but not in the U.S., that you can live it up?

Well, not so fast. If you are under the legal drinking age on shore, there is some good news in that yes, you can drink on your cruise… but not necessarily on the ship.

Drinking Age on a Cruise Ship in North America

carnival cruise under 18

Ok, first things first. Most cruises won’t let you drink on the cruise ship if you aren’t 21 years old (assuming your cruise is departing and returning to the U.S.) . Here are the official policies of three major cruise lines as listed on their websites:

Royal Caribbean The minimum age to consume alcohol on Royal Caribbean International ships on sailings originating in North America is twenty-one (21).

Carnival Guests must be 21 years of age or older to be served alcohol onboard. Proper I.D with birth date is required.

Princess Cruises The age for drinking on Princess ships is 21 years old.

So if you are sailing one of these cruise lines, even with a parent on board, then you can’t drink while on the ship.

However, Norwegian Cruise Lines is more lax in their policy. If you are considered a “young adult” (meaning 18-20 years old) and you are sailing with a parent who signs a waiver, then you can drink wine and beer aboard the ship — but not cocktails.

Norwegian Cruise Lines Passengers must be 21 years of age or older to purchase or consume alcohol.

With the exception of Alaska and Hawaii itineraries, Norwegian Cruise Line permits young adults to purchase and personally consume wine and beer only while onboard and with the consent of an accompanying parent. Authorization will be given only when the accompanying parent completes the Young Adult Alcoholic Beverage Waiver form. This form can be obtained and completed at the Guest Services Desk upon embarkation of the vessel.

Drinking Age on Non-North America Sailings

Many countries have a drinking age that’s lower than the 21 years old seen in the United States. If you are sailing a cruise outside of North America, then the drinking age onboard is likely 18 years old . This usually includes sailings from Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia.

For example, Royal Caribbean makes the following adjustment for the onboard drinking age for many trips outside of North America:

  • The minimum age to consume alcohol on Royal Caribbean International ships on sailings from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand is eighteen (18).

Princess also specifies that the drinking age is 18 years old on its cruises in Australia, China, Europe, Singapore, and South America.

In short, if sailing from outside North America, then the drinking age is normally lower.

Drinking in a Port of Call

Once you are in a port and off the ship, the cruise line’s rules no longer apply to you. Instead, you are under the laws and regulations of that country. Therefore, if the country’s legal age limit is 18 to consume or buy alcohol, then that’s the rule that applies when ashore — not the cruise ship’s policy. Note that if you are on a cruise line’s private island, even if it is in a country with a lower drinking age, then the cruise line’s rules on drinking will apply.

For those under 21, you’ll be happy to know that the legal drinking age throughout the Caribbean is 18 years or under. In addition, a couple of countries have drinking limits of 16.

Drinking Age for Selected Countries

  • Antigua: 16 years old
  • Bahamas: 18 years old
  • Belize: 18 years old
  • Bermuda: 18 years old
  • British Virgin Islands: 18 years old
  • Cayman Islands: 18 years old
  • Haiti: 16 years old
  • Honduras: 18 years old
  • Jamaica: 18 years old
  • Mexico: 18 years old
  • Puerto Rico: 18 years old
  • US Virgin Islands: 18 years old

What if I Am Caught Drinking While Underage?

The rules are very clear about drinking on a cruise and in port. If you are under 21 and sailing from North America, you better wait until you arrive at a port before taking a sip. If you are under 18, then most ports and the cruise ship are off limits.

But what if you decide to sneak a drink anyway?

If you are on the cruise ship, there’s a chance that it could end your trip early. Carnival makes the following statement in its ticket contract:

Guests who attempt to purchase alcohol by using false identification or the Sail & Sign card of a Guest who is twenty-one or older will be deemed in violation of this policy. Any Guest twenty-one or older who attempts to or purchases alcohol for any Guest under twenty-one will also be deemed in violation of this policy. Guest agrees that Carnival has the right to disembark any Guest who violates this policy and as well as any adults traveling with minors who violate this policy or any other shipboard regulation .

While getting kicked off the ship may be a possibility, we find it unlikely. That’s not to suggest that you try and test your luck.

If you are caught drinking underage while in port, you are subject to the laws of that country. Depending on the country, that could mean serious legal issues at worst. At best, it could make you sweat getting back to the ship in time for departure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

carnival cruise under 18

Cruise Ship Traveller

Can You Drink On a Cruise at 18? (& What Cruise Lines Allow 2024)

If you are based in the U.S, where the drinking age on cruises is 21 years old, you may be wondering if it’s any different on a cruise ship.

Whether you are aged 18 to 20 or you are looking on behalf of a younger family member.

In some cases, the answer is very clear, however, as is often the case, there are also many variables and instances in which it may be acceptable to drink at 18.

Friends drinking cocktails

In fact, under the right circumstances, most cruise lines do allow 18-year-olds to drink alcohol, but it depends on what country you are from and where you are sailing.

Here we take a deeper look.

How Old Do You Have to be to Drink on a Cruise?

The drinking age for all cruise ships within US waters is 21.  Across the rest of the world, the drinking age varies from 18 to 21 years old, including in some US cruise lines, although parental permission may be required.

Can 18-Year-olds Drink on Cruises?

There are some circumstances where 18 years olds can drink alcohol.

The 3 main factors are:

  • Cruise line
  • Geographical departure of the ship
  • Parental consent

What Cruise Lines Allow Drinking at 18?

All US cruise ships in US waters adhere to the legal drinking age law of 21.   US waters are considered territorial waters extending 12 nautical miles from the baseline, the low waterline of the coast.

Can You Drink At 18 On A Cruise In International Waters?

Many cruise lines allow 18-year-olds to drink alcohol if they depart from international waters , even if it is a US cruise line.

These include:

  • Celebrity Cruises (parental permission)
  • Costa Cruises
  • Cunard Cruises
  • Disney cruises (parental permission)
  • Holland America
  • MSC Cruises
  • Norwegian Cruise Line (parental permission)
  • P&O Cruises 
  • Princess Cruises
  • Royal Caribbean
  • Virgin voyages

If you’re single, you might be interested in which of the above cruise lines are the best cruises for 18 to 20 somethings .

Young adults drinking in a bar

Carnival Cruise Drinking Age

Although well known as the party and fun cruise line, Carnival is one of the strictest regarding the drinking age .

The Carnival Cruise drink age is 21 years of age in both US Waters and when sailing in international waters There are no exceptions and no option for parental permission to be allowed to drink any younger.

Carnival clearly states:

“ Guests must be 21 years or older to be served alcohol on board. Proper I.D with birth date is required.” Carnival Cruise

You might also be interested in our best carnival singles cruises .

Young adults at cruise ship bar

Can You Drink At 18 On Royal Caribbean?

While in US waters, you have to be 21 or over to be able to drink alcohol on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship.  As well as applying to all ships originating from North America, it also applies to those originating from Dubai and the United Arab Emirates.

In specific International waters, you can drink alcohol from the age of 18 years and up from sailings originating in:

  • New Zealand
  • South America

For confirmation, see the Royal Caribbean legal drinking age policy here .

You might also be interested in our 7 ways to cheat the Royal Caribbean drinks package .

Bar Drinks

Can You Drink On Norwegian Cruise Line at 18?

In US waters, the minimum drinking age for alcohol is 21.  

However, guests from 18 can purchase and consume alcohol once the ship is at least 3 miles outside of US territorial waters.  Parental consent will be required, and a form will need to be signed.  This will give permission for the 18 to 20-year-olds to drink beer and wine only, no hard liquor.

Find full info under “Alcohol” in the NCL Guest Conduct Policy here .

Young woman drinking cocktail at sea

Can You Drink On a Disney Cruise at 18?

In US waters, the legal drinking age on a Disney cruise ship is 21.   Make sure you take a form of valid photo I.D as this will be required as proof of age.

In international waters, Disney cruise allows people to purchase and drink alcohol at 18 as long as they have their parent’s permission. 

Disney Cruise alcohol policy here .

Can You Drink On a Princess Cruise at 18?

Passengers disembarking from and sailing in US waters are not allowed to buy or consume alcohol until the age of 21. 

However, for some cruises around the rest of the words 18 year old can drink alcohol on a Princess cruise, with the exception being Japan, where the age is 20.

For cruises between Australia/New Zealand, China, Europe and Singapore ports, the drinking age will be 18 years old. For cruises between Japanese ports, the drinking age will be 20 years old. Princess Cruises

It is also worth noting that guests under 18 will have to leave the onboard Night Clubs by 11.00 pm.

This is an example of just one difference between choosing a Princess vs Carnival cruise .

Can You Drink On a Celebrity Cruise at 18?

Guests on Celebrity cruises are expected to adhere to the minimum drinking age of 21 in US waters.

Although if guests embark from a country outside the US where the drinking age is lower than 21, they will be allowed to drink onboard if parents or legal guardians sign a waiver giving their consent.

3 young women on cruise vacation drinking alcohol from bottles

Can 18 Year Olds Drink on Cruises in Mexico?

If you embark from a US port, you would have to adhere to the minimum drinking age of 21 while on a cruise ship in Mexican waters.

However, if you leave the cruise ship and visit a port in Mexico where the legal drinking age is 18 you can purchase alcohol while off the ship.

Crystal Cruises Beer and Wine Only

Outside of Us territorial waters, 18 to 20-year-olds can buy and consume beer and wine only   They will not be able to drink hard liquor until they are 21.

Can You Drink Alcohol if you Turn 18 on a Cruise?

If you have an 18th birthday while on a cruise and 18-year-olds are allowed to drink alcohol, you would also be able to buy and consume alcoholic beverages while onboard.  In some instances, depending on your cruise line, your age is verified upon boarding.  Therefore you may need to visit Guest Services with evidence of ID to prove your new age so they can update your details so you can get served.

Can You Drink on a Caribbean Cruise at 18?

If you cruise ship sales from a North American port, the minimum drinking age is 21.  If your cruise ship embarks from a port outside the US, the drinking age depends on the cruise line and, in some cases, whether parental consent is given to drink at 18.

Alcoholic drink with lime on a bar

Can 18-year-Olds Visit Bars and Nightclubs on a Cruise?

Most cruise lines will allow 18-year-olds to hang out in bars and nightclubs with friends and family or even by themselves.  

They will, however, have to abide by the cruise lines drinking age rules. This will often mean that although they can hang out at bars, they can’t drink alcohol until they are 21

Related Posts:

  • Can You Bring Your Own Alcohol on a Cruise
  • Can You Bring Wine on a Cruise
  • Cruises for 18-Year-Olds (With or Without Parents)
  • Drinking Age In International Waters (for each Cruise Line)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drink underage on a cruise .

Whether you are 18 to 20  years of age, if you are deemed underage by the cruise line rules, you will not be able to purchase any alcohol. Staff will not serve underage or anyone else attempting to purchase drinks on behalf of minors.

Anyone caught buying alcohol for minors could get into trouble if caught and, depending on the circumstances, possibly be kicked off the ship. 

Can an 18-year-old Drink on Cruises With Dinner?

Most cruise line drinking rules apply to meals in the same way they do at bars and nightclubs.  This means if a person aged between 18 to 20 is deemed underage for drinking, they will not be able to order or consume wine or any other alcohol at meal times.

One exception is the British cruise line P&O Cruises which allows 16 and 17-year-olds to drink alcohol with a meal.

Can 18-Year-olds Drink Alcohol in the Cabin?

If 18-year-olds are deemed underage, they should not be by drinking in their cabins.   However, it is not unheard of for teens to smuggle or sneak alcohol to their cabins.  This is likely to go unnoticed unless the teens in question overindulge and get caught outside the cabin inebriated.

Can You Drink At 18 On a Cruise With Parental Consent

Outside of US waters, some cruise lines allow parents or legal guardians to sign a waiver giving consent for their 18 to 20-year-old to drink alcohol on board.

Parental consent in international waters is required on:

  • Celebrity Cruises 
  • Disney cruises
  • Norwegian Cruise Line

Can You Drink on a Cruise at 17?

The only main cruise line which offers drinking to 17 years olds is P&O cruises which allow alcohol with a meal to anyone over 16 years of age.

In US waters, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to drink alcohol.  Departures from international waters may allow drinking from the age of 18.  

Related Posts

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What Happens if Caught Sneaking Alcohol on a Cruise?

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What do Cruise Ships do with Food Waste?

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Carnival Rides on Record Cruise Demand to Lift Annual Profit Forecast

Reuters

FILE PHOTO: The Carnival cruise ship Sunrise is seen docked at Miami Port, in Miami, Florida, U.S., June 18, 2022. Picture taken with a drone. REUTERS/Marco Bello/File Photo

By Granth Vanaik and Doyinsola Oladipo

(Reuters) - Carnival Corp raised its annual profit forecast on Wednesday, anticipating a record year of bookings as the company benefits from a rise in people seeking cruise vacations for the first time.

Cruise operators are recording all-time high booking rates as more travelers switch to cheaper sea-borne experiences over expensive land-based alternatives such as booking hotels or flights, providing them more room to raise prices.

U.S.-listed shares of the company were flat in volatile trading. They have risen about 94% in the last 12 months.

"The first quarter has been fantastic across the board," CEO Josh Weinstein said on a post-earnings call. "We delivered record bookings and record customer deposits again this quarter, a great start to the year."

The company's first-quarter revenue jumped 22% to $5.41 billion, roughly in line with analysts' expectations.

Bookings for the rest of 2024 remain the best year on record with total customer deposits reaching $7 billion in the first quarter, the company said. New-to-cruise customers surged more than 30% year-over-year, Carnival said.

Adjusted cruise costs, excluding fuel in constant currency, were up 7.3% in the first quarter from a year earlier, but 2% lower than the company's forecast.

"Unlike prior quarters that were revenue-driven beats, it was cost line items that drove the first-quarter beat," Truist Securities analyst Patrick Scholes said in a note.

However, cost improvements of more than $250 million are being offset by the $130 million hit from re-routing ships in the Red Sea region, higher fuel prices, and currency exchange rates, CFO David Bernstein said.

The cruise operator raised the expected impact of the Red Sea disruptions to $0.09 per share from the $0.07 to $0.08 it had estimated in January.

Carnival also estimated an impact of up to $10 million on full-year adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income following Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse on Tuesday.

The cruise operator now expects full-year adjusted profit per share of 98 cents, compared with its prior forecast of 93 cents. Analysts on average were expecting a profit of $1 per share, according to LSEG data.

Carnival posted an adjusted net loss per share of 14 cents, compared to analysts' expectations of 18 cents.

(Reporting by Granth Vanaik in Bengaluru and Doyinsola Oladipo in New York; Editing by Sriraj Kalluvila)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Tags: United States , Middle East , United Kingdom , Europe

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Carnival Freedom cancellations: Cruise ship fire disrupts youth group's spring break plans; how you can help

Fire on carnival freedom leads to other cruise cancelations.

The cruises scheduled for March 25 and 29 have been canceled.

PORT CANAVERAL, Fla. - Scary moments were caught on camera when passengers witnessed the Carnival Freedom cruise ship catch fire . It’s the second time this has happened on this specific ship in two years.

Video shows flames and smoke coming from the ship's port side exhaust funnel on Saturday, March 23. The ship was 20 miles off the Bahamas coast at the time. 

The cruise line has canceled their next two trips out of Port Canaveral, leaving thousands of people, like Lisa Maus, stranded.

"Where do you go?" Maus said. "It is spring break in Florida!"

Maus and her husband flew 1,700 miles from Indiana. They are now crashing with friends in Satellite Beach while they come up with another plan. 

Fire breaks out on Carnival Freedom cruise ship near the Bahamas on March 23. (Photo Credit: Lance Schwenker)

"2,800 and some people have flown in or driven in or whatever, and we’re all displaced! What to do? I’m dumbfounded," Maus said. 

FOX 35 News spoke to Ja’dynn Fluellen, one of ten kids on a youth trip now stuck in Central Florida.

PREVIOUS STORIES: 

  • Carnival Freedom Fire: Part of cruise ship catches fire while docked at Grand Turk
  • Passengers of Carnival Freedom cruise ship return to Port Canaveral after fire extended their stay

"It’s kind of like devastating and mind-blowing because we looked forward to doing this and having memories to look back on," Fluellen said.

Chaperone, Selina Hall, said they drove 10 hours from Tennessee. Right now, the group of 14 is staying at an Airbnb in Cocoa.

"We only had the one night," Hall said. "So, we’re still unsure about what we’re going to do for the rest of the week."

The nonprofit organization, called H.O.P.E, fundraised for one year for this cruise, said H.O.P.E founder Stella Robinette.

"Most of these kids, 95% of them, are low-income youth that don’t have this opportunity and for this to be snatched away from them, that’s hard," Robinette said. "All of the money that they have raised has basically went to Carnival. So, there’s not much money for them to do anything right now. When we looked at tickets at different places here, we can’t afford to pay for 14 people."

According to Carnival, all customers will receive a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit. Maus said she was told refunds could take up to three weeks.

Robinette said H.O.P.E is now fundraising again, to try and stay in Central Florida for the week and give the children the spring break they deserve. To contribute to their efforts, you can visit: www.hopetricities.com .

Carnival released the following statement:

"Carnival Freedom experienced a fire in the port side of the exhaust funnel on Saturday. Our onboard team acted quickly to contain and put out the fire. While we continue to investigate multiple eyewitness reports of a lightning strike, our technical team completed a thorough assessment during the ship’s visit to Freeport today. Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral. The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs. We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation. We are providing all guests on both cancelled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support."

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Cruiseline Operator Carnival Stock Slides - Here's Why

Zinger key points.

  • Carnival's Q1 Adjusted EPS of $(0.14) beat the consensus.
  • The company held $2.2 billion in cash and equivalents.

Carnival Corp  CCL CUK reported first-quarter FY24 sales growth of 22% year-on-year to $5.406 billion, slightly missing the  analyst consensus estimate of $5.427 billion .

Passenger Cruise Day (PCD) increased 16.3% Y/Y to 23.5 million. Occupancy for the quarter was 102%. Available lower berth days (ALBD) were 23 million.

Total customer deposits reached a first-quarter record of $7.0 billion, surpassing the previous first-quarter record by $1.3 billion.

Gross margin expanded to 790 basis points to 20.1%. Selling and administrative expenses rose 14.2% to $813 million.

The operating income for the quarter was $276 million versus a loss of $(172) million last year. The operating margin was 5.1%.

The company held $2.2 billion in cash and equivalents as of Feb. 29, 2024.

Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter jumped to $871 million. Net yield per ALBD increased 18%.

Adjusted EPS loss for the quarter of $(0.14)  beat the consensus of $(0.18).

Carnival CEO Josh Weinstein commented, “This has been a fantastic start to the year. We delivered another strong quarter that outperformed guidance on every measure, while concluding a monumental wave season that achieved all-time high booking volumes at considerably higher prices.”

Outlook : Carnival sees FY24 adjusted EBITDA of $5.63 billion (prior outlook $5.6 billion); Net yields in constant currency to grow about 9.5% (prior view up 8.5%).

Adjusted EPS of ~$0.98 (prior view ~$0.93) versus an estimate of $1.00.

For the second quarter, Carnival sees an adjusted EBITDA of about $1.05 billion; Net yields in constant currency to grow 10.5%.

The ompany sees second-quarter Adjusted EPS of $(0.03), matching the analyst estimate.

Carnival sees $2.3 billion in capital expenditure for the remainder of 2024.

Given the timing of yesterday’s event in Baltimore and the temporary change in homeport, the company’s guidance does not include the current estimated impact of up to $10 million on both adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income for the full year 2024.

Price Action : CCL shares are trading lower by 1.97% at $16.69 on the last check Wednesday.

Image: Ed Junkins from Pixabay

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Behind the scenes: How this Carnival cruise ship galley serves thousands of meals a night

carnival cruise under 18

"Behind the Scenes” is a five-part series focusing on the inner workings of the travel industry and how those impact the consumer’s final product. If you'd like to contribute to our future reporting and share your experience as a source, you can click here to fill out this quick form .

On any given night, Pacific Restaurant on Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ship is a hub of activity. On multiple evenings during a recent sailing, guests lined up at the entrance to one of the main dining rooms on Carnival Jubilee , which gave way to a two-deck space with ornate, twinkling light fixtures and soaring white columns.

But a windowless room several decks below is where the real action happens.

The ship’s main galley, lined with metallic counters, stoves and ceiling panels, cranks out 15,000 dishes per night on average. The kitchen – one of 18 galleys overall – supplies multiple meals, but dinner is its busiest time.

“It's not a small operation by any means, especially on this class of ship,” Vivek Menon, the ship’s Food and Beverage Director told USA TODAY on board. Here’s how they do it.

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How does a cruise ship galley work?

Lots of planning happens before meals ever hit guests’ plates. Food orders are placed around two weeks in advance and loaded onto the vessel on turnaround days, said Menon, whose food and beverage team includes just under 900 members (Jubilee can accommodate more than 6,000 guests).

The ship's galley staff cooks roughly 5,000 pounds of whole chicken, grills around 5,000 pounds of strip steak and bakes approximately 600 loaves of bread every week.

One morning in late February, fish was thawing in a walk-in refrigerator the size of a small bedroom on deck 3, two decks below the galley. According to a label on its exterior, a nearby freezer housed ice cream, while another room was filled with boxes of cruise essentials like Grey Goose Vodka and Crown Royal whiskey.

Chefs then place orders with the vessel’s storeroom team two days before they need the ingredients. “Pre-prep” – such as trimming and marinating chicken breasts – takes place a day beforehand, with more prep following on the day of service, though the time required varies.

Those chicken breasts, for example, might be prepped an hour prior to service. By contrast, “Prime rib cooks for six hours,” Menon said. “A short rib braises for 12 hours, so obviously that has a huge lead time. So, it depends on the dish.”

Then it’s showtime. The galley provides food for an average of 4,000 people a night between Pacific Restaurant and the ship’s other dining room, Atlantic Restaurant.

Orders start trickling in at around 5:45 p.m., but the crew is ready. Chefs are given a head count at the beginning of the evening, at peak time and near the end of dinner.

For example, Menon said, “If we’re cooking 1,000 fish for early dining, 1,000 filets, the counts are spread out in such a way that in the first 15 minutes, the cook is running around 200 ahead of count, because these counts are very quickly going to catch up,” Menon said.

As orders slow down, they narrow the gap and reduce output accordingly. “At the end of dinner service, you have very little left,” Menon said. “By the time it's nine 9, 9:15, we’re already down one or two, four or five pieces, depending on the volume we're setting up.” Guest flow differs each evening, however.

At the beginning of a cruise, the crew starts logging how much of a given item is used on that sailing – down to details like how guests want their steak cooked – which allows them to prepare more or less as needed.

Does food go to waste?

Tracking guest preferences is about more than just providing good service. The line has paid close attention to what goes uneaten as part of efforts to reduce food waste. “We looked at what the guests don't like, what's coming back on the plate,” Menon said. Then they can make changes.

Carnival also introduced QR-code menus in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has made it easier to tweak menus (though they have printed ones as well). Other measures, such as adding a charge for once-included room service in 2022, have helped the line move closer to those aims, too.

“Before (when) you walked down a corridor, every second cabin, you're going to see a plate outside with some things half-eaten because it was complimentary,” Menon said.

The line generated nearly 2.5 pounds of food waste per person around five years ago. Now that number is about 1.5 pounds. (Read more about how cruise lines have been working to reduce food waste here .)

What is Carnival’s Chef’s Table?

If guests want to peek behind the culinary curtain, they can see the galley for themselves. Carnival’s Chef’s Table experience features a tour and a multi-course dinner for between 12 and 16 people, according to the line’s website .

The sleek dining room that hosts the dinner on Jubilee was tucked deep inside the galley space, giving passengers up-close views of the kitchen. The menus – which can’t be found elsewhere on board – vary from ship to ship but have included items like knotted parmesan herb brioche, black-garlic cannelloni, a “lamb trilogy” (roasted, broiled and confit) and more.

When is the best time to take a cruise? We broke it down by region.

The experience is available on all Carnival ships and ranges from $90-$150 per person, depending on the vessel and the menu. Passengers can make reservations online after booking their cruise.

The reporter on this story received access to this sailing from Carnival. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.

What behind-the-scenes aspect of travel would you like to know more about?

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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IMAGES

  1. CCL-Carnival is the first cruise line to sail 100M passengers

    carnival cruise under 18

  2. Best Carnival Cruises for Kids

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  3. Current Position and Itinerary for the Carnival Sunrise

    carnival cruise under 18

  4. Carnival Cruise Ships By Age, Size,Passengers (2023)

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  5. Carnival Cruise Line to resume voyages Aug. 1 including Port Canaveral

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  6. Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Splendor: See inside the cruise ship

    carnival cruise under 18

VIDEO

  1. Carnival Cruise New 2023 Dinner Menu Review: Night 1

  2. Carnival Cruise to Bahamas 🇧🇸#carnivalcruiseship #bahamascruise #caribbeancruise

COMMENTS

  1. Minor Guest Policy

    Guests 12 and under may not be assigned to a balcony stateroom without a relative or guardian (25 years of age or older) traveling in the balcony stateroom with them. Guests 13 - 17 years of age Can be separated by up to 3 staterooms from a relative or guardian (25 years of age or older). Guests 18 - 20 years of age

  2. Age Restrictions On Board

    Minor children 16 years of age and older may debark the ship in port without a parent or guardian. If the parent or guardian wishes to raise this age limit, they must contact the onboard Security department. Minor children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult (18 years or older) within the same travel group in order to debark ...

  3. Traveling with Infants and Toddlers

    Cruise fares are per person which includes children and infants. When traveling with two full fare guests, additional guests in the same stateroom pay a discounted cruise fare. Children less than 2 years of age are not required to extend gratuities. Infants must be at least 6 months of age at the time of embarkation in order to sail. Children ...

  4. Age Policies

    Youth Curfew Guests 17 years of age and under who are not accompanied by an adult in their traveling party, 21 years of age or older, must be clear of all public areas by 1:00am. ... Date Updated: 04/18/2023

  5. Youth and Family

    Youth Curfew Guests 17 years of age and under who are not accompanied by an adult in their traveling party, 21 years of age or older, must be clear of all public areas by 1:00am. ... Date Updated: 04/18/2023; Circle "C" (Young Teens 12-14 Years) The best place to be for Teens, ages 12 to 14. Meet new friends, play sports, play video games ...

  6. Carnival's Youth Program

    Carnival's Youth Programs are year-round, fleet wide programs that provide daily fun filled and age appropriate activities for children and teenagers between the ages of 6 months to 17 years. In addition, there is supervised 'free play' and Night Owls ™ services for those children 11 years and under. All youth must be registered to ...

  7. Carnival Cruise Age Policy: Know Before You Go!

    Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. However, Carnival Cruise Line offers supervised youth programs for children aged 2-17, allowing parents to enjoy some adult time while their kids have a blast with age-appropriate activities and entertainment. Young Adults

  8. Your Guide to Major Cruise Line Age Policies

    Minimum age to cruise with Carnival: ... guests must be 21 years of age or older on U.S.-based sailings and 18 on other cruises. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at the ...

  9. CONSENT FORM FOR MINORS TRAVELLING WITH A ...

    Unforseen matters may occur during a cruise which requires us to obtain specific consents from the responsible adult travelling with your child ("the Guardian"). When you allow your child to travel with someone other than their parent or legal guardian, you authorise the Guardian to

  10. Carnival Sets Curfew For Kids Under 18

    Guests 13 to 17 can be separated by no more than three staterooms. Guests 18 to 20 have no restrictions on the location of their rooms. Carnival also requires at least one chaperone or guardian for every eight minors. Carnival Cruise Line has updated its policies, including its curfew for minors. Read more to learn about these new rules and ...

  11. Carnival Will Now Have a Curfew for Kids Under 18

    Angel Garcia/Getty Images. Carnival Cruise Line implemented a curfew for all kids and teens, requiring unaccompanied minors to be out of public areas after 1 a.m. The new curfew policy will apply ...

  12. Carnival Cruise Age Policy: Everything You Need to Know

    On Carnival Cruise, guests must be at least 21 years old to have their own room unless they are accompanied by someone who is 25 years or older. However, guests who are 18 to 20 years old can still enjoy their own room if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. This policy ensures the safety and comfort of all guests on board.

  13. Teen Programs (12-17 years old)

    Circle "C" (Young Teens 12-14 Years) The best place to be for Teens, ages 12 to 14. Meet new friends, play sports, play video games, watch movies and more! You can also enjoy the exclusive Circle "C"® lounge where you can Cruise, Chill...Date Updated: 12/22/2023.

  14. Minimum Age to Sail and Cruise Alone

    Carnival Cruise Line. Image. ... Moreover, nobody under 18 can attend late-night R-rated comedy performances. When the ship is docked in port, those who are 16 and older can disembark. Parents can increase this age by visiting Guest Services. If, however, they want to go alone on a Carnival excursion, they must be 18. ...

  15. Carnival under 18 curfew

    Minor Guest Policy | Carnival Cruise Line. Youth Curfew. Guests 17 years of age and under who are not accompanied by an adult in their traveling party, 21 years of age or older, must be clear of all public areas by 1:00am each evening unless involved in a Club 02 or Circle C teen activity.

  16. Best cruise lines for young adults

    Young adult cruisers can find a party around every corner on Carnival Cruise Line or adventures off the ship with Royal Caribbean International. ... For example, Disney Cruise Line allows 18- to 20-year-olds to consume alcohol on closed-loop sailings departing from any European country. Parents or guardians just need to sign a consent form.

  17. Cruise Activities for 18 to 20 Year Olds: What to Expect

    Yes. The rules vary by cruise line, but most allow 18-year-olds to hang out at bars or nightclubs on their own, or with family and friends who are also 18+. But do note that the drinking age on ...

  18. Carnival curfew for guests under 18 : r/Cruise

    Everywhere minors under 18 are mentioned it requires accompaniment by an adult over 18. Literally states "Guests under the age of 18 should be accompanied by an adult in all public areas of the ship" "Guests under the age of 18 must vacate the dance club by 10:00pm". I mean these things already exist.

  19. Cruises for 18-Year-olds (With or Without Parents) 2024

    Carnival Cruise Activities For 18-Year-Olds. Carnival Cruise brands itself as the "fun ship," and that includes fun for 18 to 20-year-olds. Carnival cruises are full of activities, examples including: ... you will have to be 21 years of age to go on the cruise alone. If you are under 21 you will often have to travel with a parent of ...

  20. Cruise Search: Find Your Perfect Carnival Cruise

    Book your Carnival cruise online using our convenient cruise search. Find a cruise based on date range, home port, destination & duration. Get started!

  21. Drinking Age on a Cruise: Can You Drink Under 21?

    Proper I.D with birth date is required. Princess Cruises. The age for drinking on Princess ships is 21 years old. So if you are sailing one of these cruise lines, even with a parent on board, then you can't drink while on the ship. However, Norwegian Cruise Lines is more lax in their policy. If you are considered a "young adult" (meaning ...

  22. Cruises

    SEE THE PICKS Vacation ideas just for you! Take the experts advice when choosing your next cruise destination. Carnival cruise deals and cruise packages to the most popular destinations. Find great deals and specials on Caribbean, The Bahamas, Alaska, and Mexico cruises.

  23. Can You Drink On a Cruise at 18? (& What Cruise Lines Allow 2024)

    For cruises between Australia/New Zealand, China, Europe and Singapore ports, the drinking age will be 18 years old. For cruises between Japanese ports, the drinking age will be 20 years old. Princess Cruises. It is also worth noting that guests under 18 will have to leave the onboard Night Clubs by 11.00 pm.

  24. Carnival Rides on Record Cruise Demand to Lift Annual Profit Forecast

    The cruise operator now expects adjusted profit per share of 98 cents in 2024, compared with its prior forecast of 93 cents. Analysts on average were expecting a profit of $1 per share, according ...

  25. Carnival Freedom cancellations: Cruise ship fire disrupts youth group's

    A group with the nonprofit organization called H.O.P.E. traveled 10 hours to Central Florida to take a group of 10 kids on a Carnival cruise for spring break, but those plans were canceled after ...

  26. Cruiseline Operator Carnival Stock Slides

    Carnival's Q1 Adjusted EPS of $(0.14) beat the consensus. The company held $2.2 billion in cash and equivalents. Passenger Cruise Day (PCD) increased 16.3% Y/Y to 23.5 million. Occupancy for the ...

  27. Behind the scenes: How this Carnival cruise ship galley serves

    The ship's galley staff cooks roughly 5,000 pounds of whole chicken, grills around 5,000 pounds of strip steak and bakes approximately 600 loaves of bread every week. One morning in late February ...

  28. Baltimore Port: What impact will bridge collapse have on shipping?

    It is also a cruise terminal, with Norwegian , opens new tab, Carnival , opens new tab and Royal Caribbean , opens new tab ... 18 PM UTC · Updated ago. Legal category Disney, ...

  29. Earnings To Watch: Carnival (CCL) Reports Q1 Results Tomorrow

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  30. Carnival Corporation & plc (CCL) Q1 2024 Earnings Call Transcript

    Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) Q1 2024 Earnings Conference Call March 27, 2024 10:00 AM ETCompany Participants. Beth Roberts - Senior Vice President, Investor Relations Josh Weinstein ...