carnival cruise food prices

Carnival cruise food: The ultimate guide to restaurants and dining on board

On a Carnival cruise, food is always one of the highlights. From Guy Fieri burgers to fancy steaks at Fahrenheit 555, you'll find endless options to satisfy your hunger in a highly enjoyable fashion. In fact, there's often more to eat and explore than you could possibly have time for in a single sailing.

If you're planning your next cruise and want to know which Carnival restaurants to expect on board, you've come to the right place. While certain dining venues remain a standard across all ships — like the much-loved Lido Deck buffet — the options keep expanding with every new ship launch. Plus, older ships are constantly being refurbished and updated with new restaurants. That's why we put together this comprehensive list of Carnival cruise restaurants and where you can find them.

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Consider this your ultimate guide to Carnival cruise food, with details about every restaurant in the fleet, as well as answers to the most commonly asked questions about dining on a Carnival cruise ship.

Carnival restaurants available fleetwide

Coffee bar or javablue cafe.

A la carte pricing; snacks

Black coffee and tea are free at the buffet and in the main dining room, but you'll want to come here for specialty coffee drinks like espresso or cold brew. You can also purchase milkshakes and baked goods when you need an extra pick-me-up (or grab free Danish pastries and croissants in the morning).

Dining room

Included; breakfast and dinner

The main dining room serves a sit-down breakfast and the nightly three-course dinner that's included in your cruise fare. Even better, Carnival's chief culinary officer, Emeril Lagasse, is now behind many of the dining room's new menu items. On Carnival, the main dining room comes with less pretense than on many other cruise lines. In fact, it's not uncommon for your servers to break out in song and dance by the end of the night.

Don't miss other special dining experiences like the complimentary Seaday Brunch menu or the family-friendly Dr. Seuss-themed breakfast for an additional fee ($10 to $15 per adult; $8 to $10 per child), which includes meet-and-greets with characters.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Lido Marketplace

Included; breakfast, lunch and dinner

Carnival's buffet on the Lido Deck has all the staple stations to keep you fed from morning until night. Try the deli counter, barbecue spot, pasta bar or Asian noodle station. Don't miss the always-essential salad bar or pizza station. Finish up with soft serve ice cream, frozen yogurt or an enormous cake slice and other goodies from the dessert station.

Included; snacks

No cruise experience is complete without on-demand soft serve. Open on the Lido Deck until midnight, the Swirls station serves up frozen yogurt and soft serve ice cream in the classic flavors of vanilla, chocolate and strawberry, or you can enjoy your own combo swirl. The best part is it's self-serve, so no one can judge you for how often you come back for another cone.

The Chef's Table

Fixed price; dinner

This exclusive multicourse dining experience hosted by the ship's master executive chef takes place in untraditional spaces like the galley or library to give you a behind-the-scenes VIP feel. (Some newer ships even have a dedicated Chef's Table dining room with a window into the galley.) You'll be part of a group of only 14 to 16 guests, and the evening kicks off with cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and a tour of the galley. The dinner menu itself changes based on what's in season or local to the port, but it always includes wine pairings and, of course, dessert.

24-hour room service

A la carte; all-day dining

When hunger calls at odd hours of the night or you're craving a meal from the comfort of your balcony, you can access 24-hour room service on your Carnival cruise ship. Just pick up your cabin's phone and place your order. While room service is generally only available for a cost, Carnival does offer free continental breakfast delivery to your room from 6 to 10 a.m.

Pizza delivery

Fixed price; all-day dining

You can order pizza on the Carnival Hub app to wherever you are on the ship, any time of day, for a delivery fee of $5 per pie. Pro tip: Take a picture of yourself showing where you're located on board to help the pizza delivery staff find you.

Pizzeria del Capitano or Pizza Pirate

Included; lunch and dinner

The all-day pizza station is going to be your go-to option when you get back from a day at port and the lunch buffet is already closed or when you're hungry after a late night of partying. Choose from five prepared pizza options, ranging from classics like margherita and pepperoni to other delicious Italian favorites like funghi and prosciutto. Order a slice or get a whole pie delivered through the Carnival Hub app.

Related: Which line has the best cruise pizza? I tasted slices from 7 brands

Popular Carnival dining options

Blueiguana cantina.

Included; breakfast and lunch

This casual poolside spot serves up Mexican favorites like tacos and burritos with fillings including chipotle chicken, roast pork and battered fish. Order your tacos or burrito to your liking, then head to the salsa bar to add all your favorite toppings. In the morning, you can order breakfast burritos or huevos rancheros as an alternative to the typical Lido buffet breakfast.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration , Conquest, Dream, Elation, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Legend, Liberty, Magic, Mardi Gras, Miracle, Panorama, Paradise, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor and Vista

Related: 7 secret Carnival cruise breakfast spots that let you skip the buffet crowds

Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Sushi Express

A la carte pricing; lunch and dinner

Carnival's sit-down sushi restaurant, Bonsai Sushi, serves sushi rolls and sashimi alongside soups, sakes and sweets. Select ships feature Bonsai Sushi Express, where you can order rolls to go.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Conquest, Dream, Elation, Freedom, Horizon, Jubilee, Luminosa, Legend, Mardi Gras , Miracle, Panorama, Paradise, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Sunrise, Sunshine , Venezia and Vista

Cucina Del Capitano

Cucina Del Capitano honors the cruise line's connection to Italy (many of Carnival's captains and chief engineers have either Italian heritage or maritime training in Italy, known for its long tradition of excellence in shipbuilding). This rustic restaurant serves made-to-order pasta and other Italian comfort food favorites like risotto and chicken Parmesan.

On Carnival Jubilee , Cucina Del Capitano is free for the whole sailing. On Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras, your first meal is included, with additional visits at a cost of $8 per person. The other ships with this venue currently charge a fixed price of $24 per adult.

On any of the ships, come to Cucina for a complimentary Captain's Pasta Bar at lunchtime. Just choose your pasta, sauce, meat and other mix-ins — buon appetito!

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Horizon, Jubilee, Magic, Mardi Gras, Panorama, Radiance, Sunrise, Sunshine and Vista

Guy's Burger Joint

Included; lunch

Carnival's poolside burger joint was dreamt up by Food Network star Guy Fieri to feel like the kind of roadside burger shack you'd see on one of his episodes of "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." Don't underestimate these simple smashburgers — they pack a ton of flavor.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Conquest, Dream, Elation, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Legend, Liberty, Magic, Mardi Gras, Miracle, Panorama, Paradise, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Splendor, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor, Venezia and Vista

Related: Which line has the best cruise burger? Here are TPG's top picks

Guy's Pig & Anchor

Included for lunch; a la carte pricing for dinner

Satisfy your barbecue cravings at sea at Guy's Pig & Anchor, which serves up a complimentary lunch of smoked meats like pork butt and andouille sausage, comfort food sides such as collard greens and macaroni and cheese, and a line of signature barbecue sauces. Select ships have a full-service Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse & Brewhouse that's also open for dinner with an a la carte menu, plus a brewery with an exclusive line of craft beers and live musical entertainment.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Dream, Horizon, Jubilee, Magic, Mardi Gras, Panorama, Radiance, Sunrise and Vista

RedFrog Pub

This Key West, Florida-inspired pub is the spot for a round of trivia or foosball, brews and tunes. You can also enjoy Caribbean bites like conch fritters and coconut shrimp with your laid-back island vibes. On Carnival Vista, sailors get a full RedFrog Pub & Brewery, which became North America's first brewery at sea when it opened.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Freedom, Legend, Magic, Miracle, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Splendor, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor and Vista

Seafood Shack

At this New England-style seafood shack, you can order everything from buckets of fried seafood to steamed shellfish by the pound. Don't forget about everyone's favorites, clam chowder and lobster rolls.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Conquest, Dream, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Liberty, Magic, Mardi Gras, Panorama, Radiance, Splendor, Sunrise, Valor, Venezia and Vista

The Steakhouse

When you feel like celebrating, Carnival's upscale steakhouse serves USDA Prime steak cuts alongside all of the classic steakhouse favorites, from starters like lobster bisque and shrimp cocktail to a selection of steak sauces and rich, comforting side dishes.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Conquest, Dream, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Legend, Liberty, Luminosa, Magic, Mardi Gras, Miracle, Panorama, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Splendor, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor, Venezia and Vista

Related: Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse on Carnival Cruise Line (with menu)

Carnival dining options exclusive to a few ships

Big chicken.

The crispy chicken sandwich is a food fad that isn't going away anytime soon, and Carnival's chief fun officer Shaquille O'Neal is the face behind this new chicken spot on the latest Carnival ships. Here, you can find everything chicken — chicken sandwiches, crispy chicken strips and fried chicken baskets (even chicken biscuits at breakfast!) — plus essential sides like potato salad and jalapeno slaw.

Available on : Carnival Celebration, Jubilee, Mardi Gras and Radiance

Bonsai Teppanyaki

Fixed price; lunch and dinner

This Japanese hibachi-style restaurant is part meal and part performance, as your chef prepares your lunch or dinner at the griddle-top table in front of you. The meal begins with a selection of starters and continues with a grilled meat or seafood entree of your choice (think: teriyaki salmon, lobster tail with yuzu cream or filet mignon with truffle salt) paired with fried rice, stir-fried vegetables and a sweet bento box for dessert.

Available on : Carnival Celebration, Horizon, Jubilee, Mardi Gras, Panorama and Venezia

A modern Chinese-Mexican fusion concept, Chibang! is a specialty restaurant without the specialty prices. That's right, dining at Chibang! is free all sailing long for guests on Carnival Jubilee; on Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras, your first meal at Chibang is included and additional visits are only $8 per person. At lunchtime, you can order your own noodle bowl or burrito bowl (which makes it a great spot if your group has separate cravings), or at dinner, mix and match between cuisines and choose shareable plates for the table or order classic Mexican and Chinese mains.

Available on : Carnival Celebration, Jubilee and Mardi Gras

Emeril's Bistro

A la carte pricing; breakfast, lunch and dinner

At any of the three Emeril's Bistro restaurants at sea, you can get a taste of the world-famous New Orleans chef's take on Creole cuisine. We're talking Crescent City classics like fried oysters, barbecue shrimp, po'boys, muffuletta sandwiches and jambalaya. At breakfast, you'll even find shrimp and grits or bananas Foster crepes. Emeril's Bistro 1937 on Carnival Celebration also spotlights rotating international dishes daily in addition to these Nawlins favorites.

Related: 7 reasons you should treat yourself to a cruise ship specialty restaurant

Italian for "the voyage," this specialty restaurant on the Italian-themed Carnival Venezia ship takes guests on a trip with a menu of signature regional dishes from across Italy.

Available on : Carnival Venezia

JiJi Asian Kitchen

Explore both the exotic and the familiar at this modern Asian restaurant serving regional specialties while you're surrounded by Mongolian-inspired fabrics and Asian prayer rolls. May you enjoy good food and great fortune when you're here!

Available on : Carnival Horizon, Panorama, Sunshine and Vista

This lunch spot feels like a food cart from the Far East. It serves a rotating menu of bowls that span the gamut of Asian cuisines, from Korean bulgogi to Japanese ramen to Vietnamese pho.

Available on : Carnival Sunrise

Masala Tiger

You can't miss the aromas wafting from this Indian food station, where dishes like tandoori chicken and beef kebabs are cooked at over 1,000 degrees in a traditional clay oven.

Available on : Carnival Splendor

Rudi's Seagrill

Developed by Rudi Sodamin, the master chef for sister cruise line Holland America, this eatery celebrates the delicacies of the sea with elegant dishes like succulent shellfish starters, crab-stuffed lobster tail imperial and cioppino (a fisherman's stew).

Street Eats

An homage to casual food trucks and stalls, Street Eats is like a miniature open-air food market with three different stations serving street food favorites. Find bao buns and pot stickers at Steam Dream, kebabs and satay at Mad Sizzle and epic loaded fries at Time Fries.

Carnival cruise food: Frequently asked questions

How do seating times work in the main dining room?

Before sailing, you must choose your preferred dining format for the main dining room — either set dining times with assigned seating or a flexible option called Your Time Dining with open seating. If you prefer a preset dining time and a guaranteed table with the same server every night, you can choose early dining at 5:30 p.m. or late dining at 7:45 p.m.

With Your Time Dining, you can go to the main dining room anytime between 5:15 p.m. and 9 p.m. to be seated on a first-come, first-served basis. Just alert the dining room that you're coming on the Carnival Hub app so your table will be ready sooner. You can request a specific waiter, but more likely, you'll sit at a different table with a new waiter each evening. You might have to wait for a table at peak dinner times, but Carnival says the average wait time is usually less than 20 minutes, depending on your party size.

Either way, there's no need to make a reservation for the main dining room.

Do you need reservations for specialty dining restaurants?

Reservations are highly recommended for specialty restaurants, as these locations can book up in advance. You can make reservations online up to 48 hours before your cruise by visiting the "Manage My Booking/Cruise Manager" section of Carnival.com, at which time you'll also pay the cover charge for the restaurant.

Once you get on board, look for staff set up at booths to help you make specialty dining reservations. You can also call or visit the restaurant yourself to make a reservation, but seating times might be limited. Walk-ins are allowed but will get seated based on availability. If you don't make a reservation, be prepared for a wait or the possibility of being turned away if the restaurant is booked.

Can you enjoy unlimited food on your Carnival cruise?

It depends on where you eat! There are no limits on most of the included food options, and you can pretty much find free food on your cruise from the crack of dawn to late into the night. You can always eat as much as you want at the buffet in Lido Marketplace and other included food stations across the ship during their operating hours. In the main dining room, however, guests are limited to two free entrees (which, let's be honest, is still plenty!) before having to pay for additional entrees.

Is there a fee for room service?

Room service isn't free on Carnival anymore, except during breakfast. Instead, menu items are available to order a la carte. Complimentary continental breakfast can be delivered to your room between the hours of 6 and 10 a.m. For more details, check out our complete cruise ship room service guide .

Are kids menus available?

Most dining venues offer kids menus with plenty of safe options for picky eaters (think: chicken nuggets, macaroni and cheese, and spaghetti and meatballs). If you're dining at one of the specialty restaurants with a cover charge, there's a reduced fee for kids under 11.

Does Carnival still offer a Lobster Night?

Lobster is available for dinner nightly in the main dining room for a surcharge, but on cruise sailings of six nights or longer, Carnival offers one night per sailing (typically one of the formal nights) where a lobster tail is included as a complimentary entree option on the three-course menu. But don't expect to scarf down all the lobster you can eat. In line with Carnival's two-entree limit in the main dining room, guests now have to pay for any additional lobster past the first two entrees.

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The price of your cruise includes: 

• A well deserved vacation!
• Your stateroom, featuring the Carnival Home™ Bedding Collection... additional stateroom features include a flat-screen TV, in-stateroom safe, individual climate control, full bathroom and ample storage space.
• Spectacular production shows and entertainment, including hysterical comedians
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• Year round youth programs for kids 2-17 years of age
• A variety of dining options for breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and late night in the Main Dining Room and/or Lido Restaurant.
• A variety of dining options for breakfast, lunch and snacking at specialty food spots (featured on select ships), such as but not limited to: Guy's Burger Joint, Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Street Eats, Big Chicken, Mongolian Wok and Ol' Fashioned BBQ.
• Pizzeria (9:00am-4:00am)
• Soft serve ice cream and frozen yogurt
• The following beverages served in the Main Dining Room and 24/7 in the Lido Restaurant: non-bottled water, lemonade, iced tea, hot chocolate and non-specialty coffee and tea

The following services are not included in the cruise price:

• Dining in specialty restaurants and snacking at cafes and lounges (featured on select ships), such as but not limited to: The Steakhouse, Bonsai Sushi, Bonsai Teppanyaki, Ji Ji Asian Kitchen, Seafood Shack, Cucina del Capitano, Chibang!, Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse|Brewhouse, The Chef's Table, Emeril's Bistro, Rudi's Seagrill, Il Viaggio, Javablue Cafe, Promenade Cafe, Lido Coffee Bar, Ocean Plaza Cafe, Havana Bar (on Carnival Sunshine) and other lounges that may serve light bites.
• 'Steakhouse Selections' served in the Main Dining Room  
• "Pizza Anywhere" delivery
• Thing 1 and Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast
• 24-hour room service (charges apply; Continental breakfast is complimentary) 
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic bar beverages (excluding beverages served in the Main Dining Room and Lido Restaurant such as non-bottled water, lemonade, iced tea, select juices, hot chocolate and non-specialty coffee and tea) 
• Gift Shop purchases
• Purchases at Cherry on Top and Special Occasions (featured on select ships)
• IMAX® Theatre (featured on Carnival Horizon and Carnival Vista)
• Spa treatments, Salon services and select fitness classes  
• Gambling in the casino
• Playing Bingo and Deal or No Deal™
• Video Arcade games
• Sky Zone Trampoline Park at Sea (featured on Carnival Panorama)
• BOLT Ultimate Sea Coaster (featured on Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee and Mardi Gras)
• Loft 19 rental for guests not occupyng a Carnival Excel-level suite (featured on Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee and Mardi Gras)
• Art Auction Program (featured on select ships)
• Carnival Adventures Shore Excursions
• Internet access and 'chat' option on the HUB app 
• Use of your smartphone
• Ship-to-Shore telephone calls 
• Medical services
• Laundry services (valet or self-service)
• Service gratuities and tips

When purchasing your cruise vacation, the following are optional:  

• Ground transportation (transfers) to/and or from the airport to the cruise terminal
• Fly2Fun air transportation
• Hotel packages (on select itineraries)

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• For Your Eating Pleasure...
• 24 Hour Room Service
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• Specialty Restaurants - Dining Reservation Information

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Complete Guide to Carnival Specialty Restaurants (Costs, Food, and More)

If you’re heading on a Carnival cruise, you likely know that you should bring your appetite. From the moment you step on board until you leave on debarkation day, there is food available all over the ship.

In other words, you will never go hungry.

But you might be overwhelmed by the amount of choices you have on the ship. In fact, Carnival Horizon — one of the line’s Vista-class of ships — has more than a dozen places to eat something on the ship. Carnival’s Mardi Gras has even more.

Many of those are free restaurants, like Guy’s Burger Joint , the buffet, and the main dining room. But Carnival has a number of specialty restaurants on each ship as well.

These specialty restaurants are for an additional charge, but are highly popular. They offer a place to sit and dine, often in a calmer and quieter atmosphere than the main dining room.

As well, specialty restaurants have different flavors and types of food. Whether you want Asian, BBQ, seafood, Italian, or a hearty steak you don’t have to hope the dining room or buffet is serving it. Simply pick the restaurant you want to eat there instead.

Specialty Restaurants on Carnival Ships

Note: Not every specialty restaurant listed here will be on every Carnival ship. Newer and recently remodeled ships will be more likely to have all the venues below…

Guy’s Pig & Anchor BBQ One of the most popular specialty restaurants on Carnival ships has to be Guy’s Pig & Anchor BBQ. A relaxed BBQ joint, it also brews its own beer. For lunch you can eat for free, but in the evenings they charge for meals. You can get most of your smoked meat favorites, including brisket, chicken, pulled pork and even ribs. Unlike some other paid restaurants, this one charges by the item. It’s about $8 for an entrée, $4 for an appetizer. A full rack of baby back ribs will set you back $12.

• Menu: BBQ; ribs, chicken, pork, sausage, salmon
• Cost: A la carte (~$8-12 for an entrée)

Cucina del Capitano Think of a classic Italian restaurant (complete with the red and white tablecloth) and you have a good idea of what to expect at Cucina del Capitano. The atmosphere is usually a little darker and more intimate, making it ideal for “date night.” During the day you can actually eat pasta here for no charge. In the evening it turns into a specialty Italian restaurant and serves a full menu. If it’s an Italian classic, you’ll find it on the menu. That includes everything from meatballs to spaghetti to chicken parm, along with some more unique dishes porcini rubbed beef short ribs.

• Menu: Italian; pastas, calamari, pork chops, veal, salads
• Cost: $15 per adult

Ji Ji Asian Kitchen Looking for your Asian food fix while at sea? This restaurant is it. It’s a classic high-end pan-Asian restaurant with the atmosphere you’d expect in an Asian theme, along with an open kitchen. On the menu you can get your favorites like slow-braised pork belly, pot stickers, Kung-Pao chicken, and sweet & sour shrimp. There are also a number of dishes with unique twists like Singapore chili shrimp. While most dishes have meat, vegetarians will also find a number of items to eat here.

• Menu: Pan-Asian; pot stickers, Asian chicken/shrimp dishes, spring rolls, noodles, etc.

Steakhouse Going by different names on different ships, places like Nouveau, Nick & Nora’s, and The Pinnacle all have one thing in common — they are the steakhouse on the ship. And if you’re wanting a meal that you’ll remember on your cruise (and the possibility that you will be too full to eat for the rest of the trip), then you’ll want to make a visit. It’s perhaps the most decadent menu across any restaurant. You’ll get hearty appetizers like shrimp cocktails or pork belly, followed by steak (including filet mignon), lobster, or lamb. Don’t forget the cheesecake for dessert.

• Menu: Steak; steaks, lobster, salads, crab cakes, potatoes, fish, lamb
• Cost: $38 per adult

• Menu: Seafood; shrimp, lobster, clam strips, fish
• Cost: A la carte

Bonsai Sushi A casual and relaxed sushi restaurant, Bonsai is a fun place to grab a bite of your favorite rolls. California rolls, spicy tuna, tempura rolls ($5-7 per roll), even bento boxes ($10) or noodle bowls ($7). They are all here. We also like that the location on at least some Carnival ships offers great people watching from your table. Sitting just off a main pathway on the ship, you can enjoy your sushi and watch the people go by. Want to sit outside? The restaurant on the Horizon offers some outdoor seating.

• Menu: Sushi
• Price: A la carte

Bonsai Teppanyaki While it’s not on many ships (just Carnival Horizon, Panorama, and Mardi Gras include it), Bonsai Teppanyaki makes a memorable meal. It’s hibachi-style where the chef performs a show for an entire table while also cooking a delicious meal. The fare is Asian-themed, including your choice of meat (or tofu) cooked up with fried rice and stir-fry.

• Menu: Asian; salmon, lobster, shrimp, chicken, steak, tofu, fried rice, vegetables
• Cost: $32 per person

The Chef’s Table If you consider yourself a foodie, then The Chef’s Table might be the ultimate experience for you. It’s the most exclusive dining on the ship — only about a dozen people can eat at a time. That’s because you get a personalized meal with one of the ship’s master chefs. Before you even eat there is a champagne reception and tour of the ship’s galley. From there, you’ll be cooked up a meal that varies based on what the chef and seasons dictate. For that reason there is no set menu… but you can be sure it will be tasty.

• Menu: Varies
• Cost: $75-95, depending on the ship

Emeril’s Bistro 1396 Making its debut on Carnival Mardi Gras, Emeril’s Bistro 1396 is celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse’s first restaurant on a cruise ship. It features tons of Cajun and creole favorites. That includes po-boys, gumbo, jambalaya, fried oysters, and more. Essentially, you can think of it as a trip to New Orleans onboard the ship. (The restaurant is located in the ship’s “French Quarter” section, after all.)

• Menu: New Orleans cuisine

Rudi’s Seagrill Another specialty restaurant making its debut on Carnival’s Mardi Gras, Rudi’s Seagrill is the work of Chef Rudi Sodamin. As you’d guess, it focuses on seafood in a fine-dining atmosphere that’s still approachable and not too stuffy. It’s open only for dinner and costs a decent amount, but offers a memorable place to have a meal. After all, many dishes are presented as a “face” that’s looking back at you. (Yes, really.)

• Menu: Seafood

Are Carnival’s Specialty Restaurants Worth It?

One of the biggest questions people ask is if the specialty restaurants are worth the extra cost. After all, if you’re already paying a lot of money to take a cruise — and many food items are already included — why bother paying extra for different meals?

If you are a frugal cruiser looking to save money, then you’ll likely think that the specialty options aren’t worth the extra money — especially if taking a shorter cruise. On a 3-5 day cruise, there are plenty of free options to eat, including pizza, tacos, burgers, the buffet, and the main dining room. These can keep you satisfied without spending extra.

If you like to let loose on your vacation or are taking a longer trip, then it’s our opinion that dining a couple of times at a specialty restaurant is well worth the money.

For one, they offer different flavors than you’ll find at other restaurants on the ship. When you’re tired of eating a lunch buffet, having the option to have some BBQ or Italian is great. Second, the quality and freshness of the food is the best on the ship. Finally, if you enjoy dining in a quieter atmosphere with fewer people, then specialty restaurants offer that sort of intimacy. They are never as crowded as you’ll find in the free locations.

What’s Included in My Meal?

If you order at an a la carte restaurant, you know exactly what you’ll get — whatever items you order and pay for. Other restaurants that have one set price and an open menu. In this case, you will get an appetizer, an entrée, and a dessert. If dining with another person, it’s a great opportunity to share items and try different things since you will each get your own starter, meal and dessert.

Drinks are not included. You have to pay for those just like if you were to visit the bar. Those with beverage packages can have them included for no extra free. If you don’t have a beverage package, then you’ll pay bar prices.

Do I Pay Gratuities at Specialty Restaurants?

As with all food and beverage services, you’ll pay gratuity for dining at specialty restaurants. The only question is if it is included in the headline price. Some restaurants such as the steakhouse include the tip amount in the price. Others, such as Bonsai Teppanyaki or a la carte restaurants you will be paying an additional 18% on top of the bill. Given that it’s customary to tip between 15-20% in a traditional restaurant, this figure isn’t out of line.

But you should know that while you are already being charged gratuity for dining at free restaurants (the charges automatically included at the of the cruise), you have to pay extra charges for dining at the specialty dining venues. It’s only a question of if it is already included or not.

What’s the Dress Code at Carnival’s Restaurants?

While it might seem that you need to get all fancied up to go to a specialty restaurant, that’s not always the case. Higher-end venues like the steakhouse or Chef’s Table follow the ship’s dress code for the evening. So if it’s formal night, you’ll want to dress up a bit.

Other restaurants, including Bonsai Sushi and Guy’s Pig & Anchor have “cruise casual” dress codes. That means you can dress down, but no swimsuits or tank tops are allows.

Should I Make Reservations?

If the specialty restaurant you want to eat at accepts reservations, then you should absolutely sign up as soon as you can. This gives you the most options for dining times. Note that some restaurants — such as Bonsai Sushi — don’t take reservations. You simply show up and get seated. If you don’t have a reservation at a restaurant, you can try to eat anyway. The staff will seat you if they have space.

Specialty restaurants on Carnival seem to be hit or miss — not in terms of food, but in terms of popularity. Anecdotally, we’ve noticed that some seem to stay busy while others, have smaller crowds. You can use this to your advantage to find a place to eat without a wait. It also helps to go during off hours.

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

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Hi, Specialty dining restaurant names on the newest Carnival ship Celebration? Cost? How many days roughly does reservations for specialty dining open up before a cruise. Reservations for main dining?

You can find specific ship info for Celebration here:

https://www.carnival.com/cruise-food/?shipCode=CB&icid=icp_explr_shp_celebration_022322_lp_hyp_dining

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Royal caribbean vs. carnival: quick comparison chart.

Decide which line is best based on costs, food, onboard entertainment and other key factors.

Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line have quite a bit in common.

Trying to choose between Royal Caribbean and Carnival for your next cruise? Check out the comparison chart below, then read on for more details.

Winner: Royal Caribbean

When it comes to fleet size as well as the features available on cruise ships, Royal Caribbean has an edge over Carnival Cruise Line. That's because Royal Caribbean already has 28 ships in operation, including its incredible Oasis Class, Quantum Class and Quantum Ultra Class ships. Oasis Class vessels like Allure of the Seas , Symphony of the Seas , Wonder of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas are some of the largest in the world – and Royal Caribbean Group is constantly rolling out new, even bigger cruise ships with better amenities and new features. For example, the new Icon of the Seas (scheduled to debut in 2024) plans to have the largest water park at sea, the largest swimming pool at sea, and a range of over-the-top cabins and suites for families of all sizes.

Meanwhile, Carnival currently operates 25 different vessels with a few more on the way. Newer ships like Carnival Celebration and Carnival Venezia aren't as large and grand as Royal Caribbean ships, nor are the brand-new vessels the company is planning for late 2023 and 2024. For example, the new Carnival Jubilee that is set to begin sailing later in 2023 will have 15 passenger decks and capacity for up to 6,631 guests, compared to 18 guest decks and 7,600 passengers on Icon of the Seas.

Read: The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

SBW-Photo | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Comparing cabins across cruise lines as a whole isn't an easy feat, mostly because companies tend to offer larger suites and cabins with a better layout on their newer ships . You'll therefore likely have a nicer cabin on one of Carnival's newest vessels compared to an older ship from Royal Caribbean, and of course the opposite is also true. Cabin sizes and layouts also vary widely across the vessels of both brands, and that's true even for basic interior, ocean view and balcony cabins.

That said, Royal Caribbean still comes out ahead in this category, since the line boasts more square footage in some of the most basic cabins as well as more over-the-top luxury accommodations, especially for families.

As an example, most inside cabins on Allure of the Seas feature 172 square feet of space, whereas Carnival Celebration's inside cabins are slightly smaller at 158 square feet. Meanwhile, the largest suites on Celebration are the Carnival Excel Presidential Suite, with 1,120 square feet of space including the balcony, and the Carnival Excel Aft Suite, which has 861 square feet of interior and balcony space. Compare those options to the Sky Loft Suites on Allure of the Seas, which feature 1,132 square feet across the room and balcony, and the spacious two-bedroom AquaTheater Suites with 1,595 square feet including the balcony.

Book a cruise on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Winner: Tie

Food options vary widely across vessels within any cruise brand, and this is especially true with Royal Caribbean and Carnival. For example, older ships from both cruise lines offer fewer specialty dining options overall along with the main dining rooms and buffet options cruisers come to expect, whereas newer ships from both lines feature a lot more unique and innovative options.

When you view the cruise dining options from both lines, you'll quickly find that both Carnival and Royal Caribbean pull out all the stops when it comes to food. For example, Carnival ships include a range of eateries from large and expansive buffets to main dining rooms to unique offerings like Big Chicken, Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina. Meanwhile, specialty dining on Carnival vessels features options like teppanyaki, Emeril's Bistros at Sea and Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse.

Royal Caribbean ships feature convenient buffets and main dining room experiences, as well as included options like pizza kitchens, noodle bars and casual fast food. Specialty dining on Royal Caribbean ranges from the brand's Chef's Table experience to Johnny Rockets' burgers and shakes to innovative fine dining at Wonderland.

Drink packages

Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer drink packages that cruisers can purchase as part of their vacation to get a more all-inclusive feel . Then again, the value of these packages depends on how much you drink over the course of your trip. Also note that the cost of drink packages across all cruise lines can vary depending on the ship, itinerary, travel dates, length of trip and more.

Royal Caribbean comes out slightly ahead in this category because the line offers three tiers of drink packages for guests with different needs. Choose from the Classic Soda Package; the Refreshment Package, which includes soda along with coffees, juices and even milkshakes at Johnny Rockets; and the Deluxe Beverage Package, which adds in beer, cocktails and wine by the glass. Meanwhile, Carnival offers just two different drink packages: the Bottomless Bubbles package, which covers soft drinks and juice, and the Cheers! drink package, which adds in spirits and cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, specialty coffee, energy drinks and more.

Read: Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line

Onboard activities

Analyzing onboard activities across cruise lines isn't always easy – you really have to break down this category by ship for a true comparison. When you do that with Carnival and Royal Caribbean, you'll find that both lines offer fun activities for all ages, from onboard water parks to hosted games, casinos and more.

That said, Royal Caribbean does take things up a notch in this category, especially on the line's newer ships. Some Royal Caribbean vessels offer escape rooms, surf simulators, zip lines, game shows and over-the-top water parks with incredible slides for thrill-seekers. For example, Freedom of the Seas boasts huge onboard waterslides, glow-in-the-dark laser tag, mini-golf and more. Don't forget about Icon of the Seas with its massive water park and pool offerings in the works. Meanwhile, standout activities on Carnival ships include Family Feud Live, onboard water parks and the thrilling SkyRide.

Compare Royal Caribbean cruises on GoToSea .

Live entertainment

The quality of cruise ship entertainment varies widely based on the quality of the talent booked for individual ships. Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer their share of live music and entertainment, including performances by bands and singers, karaoke, and piano bars. Meanwhile, both lines also boast their own theaters on every vessel, which often feature Broadway-style shows, singing and dancing, comedy acts, and more.

Royal Caribbean comes out ahead in this category since its vessels feature award-winning musicals like "Hairspray," "Mamma Mia!" and "Cats." The open-air AquaTheater on Oasis Class ships also wows guests with incredible diving feats, stunts and aerial acrobatics. Some Royal Caribbean ships even have onboard ice skating performances and ice games.

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Kids programming

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Winner: Carnival

Both cruise lines have kids clubs that cater to younger guests of all ages, with each one offering supervised care so parents can drop the kids off for some alone time or a quiet dinner on the ship. However, Carnival stands out slightly in this category due to the six different clubs offered across the fleet for children and teens between 6 months and 17 years old. Carnival also offers supervised Night Owls services for kids 11 and younger, which lets parents get out and have some late-night fun for an extra charge.

Royal Caribbean offers four kids clubs for children ages six months to 12, along with a separate club for tweens and teens . Supervised child care is available for free during the day, and you can opt for paid care after hours as well.

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Adults-only offerings

Both cruise lines offer their share of adults-only spaces and things to do, from onboard casinos to luxurious spas to bars that offer cocktails and live entertainment at all hours of the day and night. Carnival and Royal Caribbean also offer adults-only areas on some of their ships.

On Carnival, for example, cruisers will find the Serenity Adults-Only Retreat for sailors 21 and older with extra space and comfortable chairs for relaxation, along with its own bar nearby. On many Royal Caribbean vessels, on the other hand, the onboard Solarium for ages 16-plus has its own pool and extra space to find peace and quiet.

Carnival's Serenity relaxation area is included for guests. While Royal Caribbean's Solarium is typically also included, on certain sailings there is restricted access by fare class.

Read: The Top Adults-Only Cruises

Shore excursions

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Shore excursions offered by cruise lines are largely operated by third-party companies and are often the same across brands. Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean boast a broad selection of excursions in destinations around the world, from snorkeling and scuba tours in the Caribbean to city tours, horseback riding, cooking classes and more.

Both cruise lines offer private and custom tours you can book through your ship as well.

Compare cruises on GoToSea .

Private island experiences

Royal Caribbean and Carnival each have their own private island in the Bahamas , which is included in most itineraries to this part of the world. These private islands provide a fun beach escape for families to enjoy, whether you want to relax in the sun or take part in some of the available activities.

Royal Caribbean's private island, called Perfect Day at CocoCay, is the more impressive option due to everything it includes: a heart-thumping water park, its own wave pool, a zip line, a hot air balloon experience and overwater bungalows you can book for the day, among other offerings. Meanwhile, Carnival's Half Moon Cay has a unique beached pirate ship to explore – but fewer amenities overall.

Note that both private islands have plenty of beach space for guests to spread out and relax, as well as restaurants and bars. You can also book excursions on both private islands, which include activities like snorkeling and water sports.

Read: The Top Cruise Line Private Islands

Comparing costs across cruise lines can be tricky since fares and available sales vary throughout the year, as well as based on the vessel booked, the cruise itinerary, the number and age of travelers, and more. To get an idea of who wins on price, we looked for two similar cruises on comparable ships from Carnival and Royal Caribbean, then priced out an option for a family of four with two children ages 8 and 10. For the purpose of this comparison, we used seven-night eastern Caribbean cruises on Carnival Celebration and Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, both of which began sailing in 2022.

The Carnival Celebration itinerary from Miami stops in Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico ; and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands . By comparison, the Wonder of the Seas sailing leaves from Port Canaveral, Florida, with stops in Philipsburg, St. Maarten ; San Juan; and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.

The chart below shows the total cost (including taxes and fees) for a family of four in January 2024 in both an ocean view and a typical balcony cabin across both cruise lines. Note that, for the purpose of this comparison, we selected the least expensive room option in each category.

Read: How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer who has covered cruises and other family travel for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 30 times across most of the major cruise lines and has ventured on itineraries around the world. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate this cruise line comparison.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans
• The Top Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers
• How to Find Last-Minute Cruise Deals
• The Top Kids Sail Free Cruises

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Carnival Mardi Gras Dining Guide to All 22 Restaurants

Cruise on Carnival’s Mardi Gras and ensure a party for your tastebuds. After all, you can’t name a ship after one of the world’s most famous festivals and not expect the food to be a celebration. 

Carnival Mardi Gras restaurant options gives you a choice of 22 (yes, 22!) places to dine, day and night.

Mardi Gras holds fast to Carnival favorites like Guy’s Burgers and Bonsai Sushi. The ship introduces new venues like Rudi’s Seagrill, a high-end seafood restaurant. 

Also new is the long-awaited Emeril’s Bistro 1396 , a Creole-inspired menu created by the legendary New Orleans chef himself, Emeril Lagasse.

The first-ever Chinese-Mexican restaurant on a cruise ship will excite your palate with Chibang!. Though it began as a free eatery, Carnival’s website now has a “$” next to the restaurant’s name. 

Carnival Mardi Gras Dining Options Overview

In This Post...

Known for its tremendous value offering, Carnival provides complimentary dining options aplenty. There’s a new chicken joint on Mardi Gras , created in partnership with none other than Fun Ambassador Shaquille O’Neal.

We were happy to learn that familiar venues like Guy’s Pig & Anchor and Cucino Del Capitano are also on board Mardi Gras . Looking to splurge a bit? There are still more places than ever, from immersive cooking classes at Carnival Kitchen to a night at the cruise line’s signature Steakhouse.

To keep your dining options — and your budget — sorted, we’ve rounded up every Mardi Gras restaurant , from the main dining room to 555 Steakhouse. 

Plus, we sort out whether or not the restaurant is included in the price of your cruise or has an additional fee.

As of now, in the ship’s inaugural season, the specialty dining fee has been discontinued at Guy’s Pig & Anchor, Cucina Del Capitano, and Chibang! If this should change, we’ll let you know.

Mardi Gras Complimentary Restaurants and Dining Options

• Palm Restaurant (Main Dining Room)
• Chibang! (at this time it’s free)
• Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse
• Cucina Del Capitano
• Big Chicken
• Street Eats
• BlueIguana Cantina
• Guy’s Burger Joint
• Lido Marketplace (Buffet)
• Pizzeria Del Capitano

Room Service

Specialty restaurants with a fee.

• Emeril’s Bistro 1396
• Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse
• Rudi’s Seagrill
• Bonsai Teppanyaki
• Bonsai Sushi
• Seafood Shack
• Carnival Kitchen
• JavaBlue Cafe
• Chef’s Table
• Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast
• Pizza Delivery

What Restaurant are Free on Carnival Mardi Gras?

Palm restaurant (main dining room).

Decks 6 and 7 are home to the main dining room on Mardi Gras , known as the Palm Restaurant. The elevated but never-stuffy atmosphere accompanies a multicourse dinner menu that updates daily, but keeps a few items, like chicken breast, on standby. Expect the specials du jour to reflect your port of call; for example, in Cozumel, you might enjoy steak tacos with tosdado de pollo, a pulled chicken appetizer. While you’re at sea, this is the location of the Seaday Brunch, a tempting combination of breakfast and lunch delights.

At dinner, mix and match apps, entrees, and desserts from a Chinese menu and a Mexican menu. For an additional fee, diners can enjoy a golden roasted duck for two, a Chinese specialty.

The Carnival site might still list Chibang! as an added-fee option, but for now it’s free.

GUY’S PIG & ANCHOR SMOKEHOUSE / BREWHOUSE

Head to Deck 8 for a sit-down feast from Guy Fieri paired with homebrewed beer or a drink from the surprising cocktail menu.  Dinner (typically for a fee on other ships in the fleet) features shareable starters like the Trash Can Nachos — tastier than they sound — or the brisket cooked for a quick 18 hours.

At lunch, step into the open air for Guy’s al fresco barbecue. Located just outside of Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse, the also-included lunch option features a variety of smoked meats.

Choose from beef and pork butt, as well as a stellar bunch of comforting sides, from mac ‘n’ cheese and potato salad to coleslaw and collard greens.

CUCINA DEL CAPITANO

It’s hard to go wrong with a night out at an Italian restaurant, especially when so many of the ship’s captains are Italian. This typically for-fee venue is included in the fare on Mardi Gras and located on Deck 8. The charming, rustic atmosphere and the authentic flavors are up to par, offering dishes like minestrone, risotto, and branzino. An emblem represents signature menu items chosen by the captains, including arancini or a polenta dessert cake.

BIG CHICKEN

Up on Deck 16 is the place to be if you love chicken — for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Yes, Shaq’s own poultry-focused restaurant serves amazing breakfast treats like chicken and a biscuit, and what’s even better is it’s served until 3 p.m.

Three tempting crispy chicken sandwiches, chicken strips, and a fried chicken basket make up the menu, along with fries and sides like a jalapeno slaw or potato salad. Choose from white or dark meat — grilled chicken can be provided upon request.

STREET EATS

Carnival’s homage to street food lives on Deck 16 of Mardi Gras , and the stalls come alive for lunchtime. You’ll have a hard time deciding between the bao buns of Steam Dream, the kebabs of Mad Sizzle, or the loaded cheesesteak fries from Time Fries. 

BLUEIGUANA CANTINA

Out by the pool on Deck 16 is the onboard Mexican cantina, with free burritos, tacos, and even huevos rancheros and arepas at breakfast.

Another killer find for the first meal of the day, BlueIguana features breakfast burritos brimming with scrambled eggs before it swings over to its lunch items featuring chicken, fish, or pork. Top it all off with something from the serious salsa bar.

GUY’S BURGER JOINT

This fan favorite moves one deck up, to Deck 17, but still serves its droolworthy burgers and handcut fries with signature seasoning. Get your patty “Straight Up” or collect all your calories at once with the “Pig Patty,” which includes a patty of crispy bacon in addition to the beef.

The sauces here are what make the experience complete, so don’t skip the condiments bar.

READ NEXT:  Here’s the Recipe to Make Your Own “Straight Up” Burger at Home

LIDO MARKETPLACE (Buffet) Carnival has been trying to shake up the idea of a cruise buffet for a few years, and the Lido Marketplace on Decks 16 and 17 is the result of that effort.

Specialty stations like a deli counter or pasta bar are scattered throughout the space, in addition to all the classic favorites, at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Swirls, the 24-hour fro-yo and ice cream machines, are also located here.

PIZZERIA DEL CAPITANO

There is a good chance you will find time to try a slice of pizza on Mardi Gras with its counter open 24 hours a day. On Deck 16 in the Lido, you will find your choice of pies from a simple margherita to quattro formaggi or four cheese.

Grab by the slice or try your luck ordering an entire pie to share — or not. It’s a busy spot, so expect a wait, especially around mealtimes. The Piazza Panini counter is located close by.

From 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Carnival still offers a free room service menu. Continental breakfast is included, but a hot entrée might incur an added fee.

While room service is offered 24 hours a day, be on the lookout for what’s included and what is extra, like firecracker shrimp for $6. However, the chocolate cake is blissfully free of charge.

Carnival Mardi Gras Specialty Restaurants 

Cut to the chase with our list of Mardi Gras Specialty Dining options. In other words, these restaurants cost extra.

EMERIL’S BISTRO 1396 (A la Carte Pricing)

What’s a French Quarter without Emeril? Tucked into Deck 6, the ship’s French Quarter area, is Emeril’s Bistro — the 1396 is a reference to Mardi Gras’ hull number in the shipyard. The partnership extends beyond a few plates and incorporates Chef Emeril’s signature Cajun flavors into breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Start your day with shrimp and grits or bananas foster crepes. Come back for a plethora of po-boy sandwiches at lunch. 

And end the day with grilled oysters, jambalaya, and a lemon ice box pie. Beer and root beer is offered by Louisiana-based Abita Brewing. 

Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse ($38 per person)

Did you even take a cruise without a night out at the steakhouse? On Deck 7, Mardi Gras -goers will find the line’s upscale take on the standard steakhouse.

For a cover charge, Fahrenheit offers more than just choice cuts of beef for dinner. Indulge in jumbo shrimp cocktail, lobster bisque, grilled lamb chops, or the Dover sole.

Rudi’s Seagrill ($38 per person)

Carnival Corp. aficionados or anyone who has also sailed Holland America Line might be familiar with its executive chef and larger-than-life personality, Rudi Sodamin.

Chef Rudi makes his CCL debut on Deck 8 of Mardi Gras , bringing with him his elegant take on seafood.

The charge will likely be worth it once you try the crab-stuffed lobster tail or scallops au gratin. A specialty cocktail and wine menu round out this evening dining experience.

Bonsai Teppanyaki ($32 Per Person)

Teppanyaki, also known as hibachi, is a fun night out for the entire family, as your chef flips your food while it cooks in front of your eyes on the grill.

Reservations are highly recommended for this restaurant on Deck 8, where your choice of salmon, filet mignon, and even lobster tail or black cod, sizzle their way to your dinner plate. 

Bonsai Sushi (A la Carte Pricing)

We love Bonsai’s sushi option, on Deck 8, for its conveniently located bites in between mealtimes. Sure, you can spend an entire lunch or dinner here, but you can also pop in for $5 to $7 rolls, $1.50 pieces of sashimi, or a $2 green tea cupcake.

Japanese beer, sake, and other spirits are served here, as well. It’s one of our favorite Mardi Gras restaurants.

Seafood Shack (A la Carte Pricing)

Seafood actually abounds on Mardi Gras , but on Deck 16 there is entire shack dedicated to the crustaceans, served in a casual atmosphere with views of the ocean.

Grab a bucket of clam strips ($5), the fish and chips ($6), or a lobster roll — or lobster BLT option (both $12). Depending on availability, raw oysters, snow crab, and steamed lobster or peel-and-eat shrimp are available by the pound and at market price.

Carnival Kitchen (Prices Vary)

Would-be chefs 12 and older can head to Deck 6 for a range of classes, from pizza-making to the secret behind the sacred Carnival chocolate melting cake (prices depend on which class is selected).

On a weeklong sailing, about 16 classes might be on offer for groups of 18 or less. Each evening a special two-hour class is held, and participants can then sit down to enjoy the dinner that they prepared, like an authentic Indian spread.

We strongly recommend signing up early — and online. Despite the number of classes offered, they book faster than you can say “Bon appetit!”

Javablue Café (A la Carte Pricing)

If caffeine is fueling your cruise vacation, you will likely find yourself at this café on Deck 6. To complement your coffees and shakes, there are treats galore, from cookies and ice cream to its notorious blue velvet cake.

Chef’s Table ($95 per person)

If you are considered a foodie, do yourself a favor and invest in this multi-course sensory experience that takes dining options onboard to another echelon.

Held on Deck 5 aft, in a dedicated space on Mardi Gras , the Chef’s Table invites just 14 guests aged 12 and up for a VIP experience with onboard chefs creating and explaining a unique menu just for your group.

Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast ($6 Per Person)

Typically offered just once per sailing, Carnival’s Dr. Seuss partnership is at its yummiest with this special themed character breakfast.

Adults are outnumbered by kids, but everyone is welcome to enjoy this sugar-soaked brunch with Cat in the Hat live. Other guest appearances pepper this experience that’s as memorable as the Truffala Tree pancakes and of course, Kelly green eggs.

Pizza Delivery ($5 Per Pie)

Why bother climbing to Deck 16 when you can just get your pizza delivered to you anywhere on the ship? Using your Carnival Hub app, snap a shot of where you are onboard. For a small delivery fee, you could be chowing down on a pepperoni slice in the arcade.

Conclusion: Carnival Mardi Gras Dining

As your cruise draws to a close, you’ll probably realize that there wasn’t enough time to try even half of the Mardi Gras restaurants. The good news is that at least you’ve knocked a few of the free and specialty dining options off your list. 

Next time you sail onboard Mardi Gras , the remaining amount of your unvisited restaurants or eateries will have narrowed and within reach. Just as long as you don’t stop for any repeats!

RELATED ARTICLE:   Where to Dine and Drink Aboard Carnival Vista

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Carnival Cruise Line Raises Food Prices, Makes More F&B Changes

• November 3, 2022

Citing inflation, higher fuel prices and supply chain challenges, and in an effort to cut down on food waste, Carnival Cruise Line is making a number of food and beverage adjustments.

In a letter sent to booked guests, Carnival cited food supply chain challenges that have been further complicated by global politics and a “myriad of laws regarding how we should source products and how crops and animals are farmed and handled.”

Carnival said it had reached a point with its food costs where it must take modest but specific action.

• Steakhouse prices increased to $48 per person from $42.
• Prices are specialty dining restaurants on select ships will increase, with Carnival citing rising food costs.
• In the main dining room, free lobster will continue to be offered on cruises lasting six days or more, but will be moved to the second elegant evening.
• Free 24/7 ice cream is being trimmed back to set hours.
• Guests ordering a third entrée in the main dining room will see an additional $5 charge.

The company noted that for sailings departing through Dec. 31, specialty dining reservations paid in advance will be charged the current price, but reservations made onboard will be subject to new prices.

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Carnival Cruise Line 2024 Drink Menus and Pricing

Last Updated on April 17, 2024

In the past, embarking on a cruise meant encountering the same routine selection of beverages across all venues. Your options typically included classics like daiquiris, pina coladas, and, if the menu dared to be bold, perhaps a mojito. Today, the drink landscape has undergone a significant transformation. Cruise ship bars now boast a diverse array of choices, featuring craft beers, premium spirits, and meticulously concocted cocktails. It’s an entirely new experience.

Carnival Cruise Line, in particular, has taken this evolution to heart, revolutionizing its drink offerings with a tailored menu for almost every bar on their ships. This accomplishment is noteworthy, especially when considering that a single ship can host between 10 and 15 bars.

Carnival will be increasing drink menu prices in the first part of 2024. The new menus are already in place on the Carnival Jubilee and we expect other ships to follow in January and February.

See a new menu on your ship? Email it to us so we can share with everyone, [email protected]

Below you’ll find the bar menus found on the Carnival Cruise Line’s ships. Carnival has a pretty robust beverage program and usually has different drinks available at nearly every bar on a ship, so you’ll see a ton of drink options below. For drinks offered at multiple venues, the prices are consistent (i.e., a Coors Light and the Atrium Bar will cost the same as a Coors Light at the Pool Bar). When looking at the prices, remember to consider gratuities. Carnival automatically adds an 18% gratuity added to all beverage purchases.

Want to see just the menus for one ship?

See a ship’s drink menus: Breeze Celebration Conquest Dream Elation Firenze Freedom Glory Horizon Jubilee Liberty Luminosa Magic Mardi Gras Miracle Paradise Panorama Pride Radiance Splendor Spirit Sunrise Sunshine Valor Venezia Vista

Carnival Cruise Line Bar Menus

Alchemy bar drink menu, amari bar drink menu, atrium bar drink menu.

• Bar 820 Drink Menu

Bar Della Rosa

• Blue Iguana Tequila Bar
• Bonsai Sushi
• Brass Magnolia Bar Drink Menu

Carnevale Bar & Lounge Drink Menu

• Casino Bar Menu
• ChiBang Drink Menu
• Cucina Del Capitano Cocktail and Wine List
• Dr Inks PHD
• Emeril’s Bistro 1396
• Fahrenheit 555 / Steakhouse Wine List and Cocktail Menu
• Fortune Teller Bar Drink Menu

Frizzante Bar Drink Menu

• Golden Jubilee Bar Menu
• Golden Mermaid Bar Menu

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Brewhouse Drink Menu

Havana bar drink menu.

• Heroes Tribute Bar Menu
• Il Viaggio Drink Menu
• Java Blue Cafe Menu

Latitudes Bar Menu

Main dining room wine list.

• Night Club Cocktail Menu

Ocean Plaza Bar Drink Menu

Piano bar 88 drink menu, punchliner comedy club drink menu, redfrog pub.

• RedFrog Rum Bar

RedFrog Tiki Bar

Rudi’s seagrill drink menu, serenity bar, skybox sports bar, watering hole.

Carnival Drink Package Carnival has a drink package available called “Cheers.” It will cover most of the drinks you see below. You can read more about the program here: All You Need To Know About Carnival’s Cheers Package . Is the drink package worth it for you? Figure out how much you’d save (or overpay) with our Drink Package Calculator .

Alchemy Bar is Carnival’s signature high-end cocktail bar. It’s an excellent place for pre- or post-dinner drinks. Here, experienced bartenders whip up some delicious, hand-crafted cocktails. This bar is on almost every Carnival ship (except the Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze). Our favorite cocktails here are the  Cucumber Sunrise  and the  Chipotle Pineapple Martini

Menu is from Carnival Jubilee December 2023.

The Amari Bar is an elevated, Italian-themed cocktail bar currently only available on the Carnival Venezia . Amari Bar replaces the popular Alchemy Bar and but still features 5 of that bar’s more popular cocktails.

Menus are from Carnival Venezia February2023.

This bar is available on most Carnival cruise ships. While it has different names, this menu is typically found at the bar in the ship’s lobby or atrium. You can also find this menu in most of the dining rooms.

Bar 820 is the indoor/outdoor bar located on the Carnival Celebration (it replaces the Bar Della Rosa on Mardi Gras). They specialize in cocktails with a distinct Miami twist and are made with Miami-sourced ingredients.

Bar Della Rosa can be found exclusively on the Carnival Mardi Gras . It’s an inside/outside bar with Italian-themed cocktails.

Blue Iguana Tequila Bar Menu

The Blue Iguana Tequila Bar is a pool-side bar located by the Lido Pool on almost every Carnival ship except for the Mardi Gras, Celebration, Jubilee, Firenze, and Venezia.

Bonsai Sushi Cocktail Menu

Bonsai Sushi is the place to go if you’re looking for fresh sushi on a Carnival cruise. While you’re there, have one of these specialty cocktails. Unfortunately, cocktails are unavailable on Ecstasy, Elation, Freedom, and Miracle as they have a Bonsai Sushi Express, not a dedicated restaurant.

Menu is from the Carnival Radiance January 2024.

Brass Magnolia Bar Menu

Brass Magnolia is a New Orleans-themed themed bar located in the French Quarter Zone on the Carnival Mardi Gras .

Carnevale Bar & Lounge replaces the Havana Bar found on the Vista-class ships. It’s inspired by the Carnevale di Venezia, an annual festival held in Venice. Guests will find live music and fine Italian wines and cocktails. It’s currently only available on the Carnival Venezia .

Casino Bar Drink Menu

The Casino Bar can currently be found on most Carnival ships except for the Horizon, Vista, and Panorama where they were removed ( learn more here ).

ChiBang Wine List and Cocktail Menu

ChiBang is an included specialty restaurant on the Carnival Mardi Gras , Carnival Celebra tion and Carnival Jubilee . It serves Chinese and Mexican dishes, so you’ll see some interesting cocktail choices here.

Menu is from Carnival Celebration February 2024.

Cucina del Capitano Cocktail and Wine List

Cucina del Capitano is Carnival’s signature Italian specialty restaurant. It’s available on many ships across the fleet ( see here for full list ).

Menu is from Carnival Jubilee February 2024.

Dr Ink’s PH D

This cleverly named bar serves unique underwater concoctions. You can find it in the Currents zone only on the Carnival Jubilee.

Emeril’s Bistro 1396 Drink Menu

Emerils Bistro 1396 is a quick-service restaurant located in the French Quarter of the Carnival Mardi Gras .

Fahrenheit 555 Wine List and Cocktail Menu

The steakhouse is a staple on almost every Carnival cruise ship. On the newer ships, it’s called Fahrenheit 555 . On older ships, it may have a different name, like “David’s Steakhouse,” but the drink menus are similar.

Menu is from the Carnival Radiance February 2024.

Golden Jubilee Bar

The Golden Jubilee is a new bar that pays tribute to Carnival’s 50 years of sailing. It’s available exclusively on Carnival Celebration in the 820 Biscayne zone.

Golden Mermaid Bar

The Golden Mermaid is a new bar which features cocktails inspired by precious gemstones and metals are made with edible glitter, as well as drinks presented in pretty glassware and adorned with graceful garnishes for an elevated experience. It’s available exclusively on Carnival Jubilee in the Currents zone. It is located where the Brass Magnolia bar is on the Mardi Gras and Golden Jubilee on the Celebration.

Fortune Teller Bar

The Fortune Teller Bar is beautifully themed with some truly unique and out-of-this-world cocktails. It’s available exclusively on the  Carnival Mardi Gras  in the French Quarter zone.

Frizzante is a new bar that specializes in bubble drinks and beverages on the Carnival Venezia . It’s located outside the new specialty restaurant and around the corner from the Gondola Lounge (Ocean Plaza on Vista-class ships). It offers bubbles, spritzes, and draft beers. Throughout the day, it also offer specialty coffees and biscotti. 

This bar may be confusing because Carnival uses odd naming for their venues. While many ships have “Guy’s Pig & Anchor BBQ,” few have the actual Smokehouse and Brewhouse, which has cocktails. The Smokehouse/Brewhouse is a sit-down restaurant with a large bar serving some great cocktails. They even have a brewery right inside this bar where they make their own beer! You can find it on the  Carnival Celebration ,  Carnival Horizon , Carnival Jubilee ,  Carnival Mardi Gras , and  Carnival Panorama .

If you’re a beer fan, I highly recommend the Brewery Tour for $30 a person. You can read more about the Carnival Pig & Anchor Brewery Tour here .

The Havana Bar is a Cuban-themed bar located on  Carnival Celebration ,  Carnival Horizon ,  Carnival Jubilee ,  Carnival Mardi Gras ,  Ca r nival Panorama , and  Carnival Vista . The inside of the bar is home to lively music most evenings. This bar also has an exterior section, but it’s only accessible to guests staying in the Havana area.   

Menu is from the Carnival Mardi Gras February 2024.

Heroes Tribute Bar Drink Menu

The Heroes Tribute Bar and Lounge is a new venue from Carnival that honors the men and women that have served our country. You’ll find this menu on the Carnival Freedom , Carnival Firenze , Carnival Panorama , Carnival Pride , Carnival Radiance , and Carnival Venezia where the Heroes Tribute Bar replaces the SkyBox Sports Bar.

There is also a Heroes Lounge on the Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee but they don’t have a dedicated bar; you use the bar from Guy’s Pig and Anchor Smokehouse (above).

Il Viaggio is a new “elevated” dining experience currently only available on the Carnival Venezia .

Java Blue Drink Menu

JavaBlue Cafe is the premier coffee place that’s on board about half of the Carnival ships. Ships that don’t currently have JavaBlue still have a stand-alone coffee shop under a different name but prices and beverage selection will vary. On Excel-class ships (Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee), Java Blue Cafe also offers sandwiches and snacks throughout the day.

Menu seen on the Carnival Jubilee February 2024.

The Latitudes Bar is dedicated to cocktails found around the world. It’s found exclusively on the Carnival Celebration in The Gateway zone.

This menu is the wine list you’ll find in most of the main dining rooms across the Carnival fleet. If you prefer a cocktail, you can usually use the  Atrium Bar Menu .

Marina Bar Menu

Marina Bar is in the Shores Zone on the Carnival Jubilee. It has both indoor and outdoor seating.

Nightclub Cocktail Menu

Not all Carnival ships have a dedicated nightclub anymore. On some of the newer ships, the nightclub takes place in the multi-purpose Liquid Lounge or Limelight Lounge. You’ll usually find this menu out during the nightclub/dancing portion of the evening, after 10 pm.

Ocean Plaza is located on the main promenade and is a great place to grab a drink before an activity happening in Ocean Plaza or if you’d like to grab a drink and sit outside on the Lanai. This bar is on the  Carnival Breeze ,  Carnival Dream ,  Carnival Horizon ,  Carnival Magic ,  Carnival Panorama , and  Carnival Vista .

Every Carnival ship has a piano bar that’s hopping every night. While it might not always be named Piano Bar 88, it will have a similar drink menu to the one below.

If you’re going to a Comedy Show on a Carnival ship, you have some specialty cocktails to choose from. Some ships have a dedicated “Punchliner Comedy Club” venue. On the other ones, the comedy club will take place in the Limelight Lounge or another venue with “Lounge” in its name.

The RedFrog Pub is the Caribbean-themed indoor bar that’s located on the lower level of many Carnival ships. It’s different than the RedFrog Rum Bar which is found in the Lido Pool Deck Area. You can find it on the Breeze , Freedom , Legend , Magic , Miracle , Pride , Radiance , Splendor , Spirit , Sunshine , Sunrise , and Valor .

Menus from the Carnival Pride November 2023.

RedFrog Rum Bar Menu

You can find the RedFrog Rum Bar next to the Lido Pool on almost every Carnival ship (except the Venezia and Firenze). It is different from the RedFrog Pub, which is usually an inside bar on the Promenade level of the ship.

On the Mardi Gras, Celebration and Jubilee, it’s been upgraded to a two-story pool-side venue called the RedFrog Tiki bar with a slightly different menu (see below).

Menu is from the Carnival Liberty February 2024.

The RedFrog Tiki Bar is a supersized version of the RedFrog Rum Bar that’s on most other Carnival ships. You can find this two-story venue on the  Carnival Mardi Gras , Carnival Celebration , and Carnival Jubilee .

Menus from Carnival Jubilee December 2023

Rococo Bar Menu

The Rococo Bar is the poolside bar on the Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze. It takes the place of Red Frog Rum Bar on most other Carnival ships.

Menu is from the Carnival Venezia February 2024.

Rudi’s Seagrill is a high-end seafood restaurant found on Carnival Mardi Gras , Carnival Celebration , and Carnival Jubilee . They also have a dedicated cocktail menu so you can pair a special drink with your entree.

Menu is from Carnival Celebration February 2024

The Serenity Area is the adults-only (21+) area that’s found on every Carnival ship ( you can learn more about it here ). This area is also home to this bar which serves some special cocktails that are great to sip while enjoying some peace and quiet.

About half of the Carnival fleet has a SkyBox sports bar where you can watch the game on the big screen and sample one of these cocktails. You can find the SkyBox Sports Bar on the Conquest, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Liberty, Miracle, Pride, Spirit, Radiance, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor, and Vista.

Tides Bar Menu

The Tides Bar is the outdoor bar on the aft, or back, of the ship. It may have a different name on some ships, but it’ll be the same menu.

The Watering Hole Bar is located in the Summer Landing Zone on the Carnival Mardi Gras , Carnival Celebration , and Carnival Jubilee .

Don’t want to pay for each individual drink?

For those who don’t want to pay a ‘la carte for drinks, Carnival has an unlimited drink package, called Cheers. Try our Drink Package Calculator to see if it’s worth it financially for you.

CruiseSpotlight is an Amazon Associate. We may earn a commission when you click links to retailers and purchase goods.

Related posts:

• Carnival Increasing Drink Prices for 2024
• What is Carnival’s “Behind the Fun” Like?

Randy Young

Randy Young is the founder and editor-in-chief at Cruise Spotlight. He has been in marketing for 19 years and has been cruising for just as long. Over the years, he's worked with products like TVs, copiers, light bulbs, and EV chargers, but cruising has always been his passion. There's nothing Randy likes more than the first couple of hours on a ship, exploring every nook and cranny and seeing how it's different from everything else out there. He's known for providing detailed and analytical coverage of cruising to help cruisers get a comprehensive picture of a ship's offerings.

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Drink Packages

About drink packages.

Enjoy ice-cold refreshments during meals, during shows, during, well... anytime you want with Bottomless Bubbles. This unlimited soda program lets you indulge in all-you-can-drink Pepsi sodas and juice for the full length of your cruise. Sweet! Bottomless Bubbles is available for purchase at the Lobby, Casino and Pool Bars. Restrictions apply.

Restrictions:

• Non-transferable and may not be shared. Guests or family members who would like to enjoy soft drinks through this program must purchase their own sticker.
• One beverage serving, per sticker, will be served at a time.
• Soft drink is served by the glass (16 ounces); juice is served by the glass (10 ounces).
• Cannot be used through room service or the Interactive TV system, where applicable, or the minibar, where applicable.
• Program is only applicable for onboard purchases.
• Bottomless Bubbles is inclusive of VAT, if and as applicable on European cruises.
• If the program is purchased prior to the cruise, it is refundable up to 10:00pm ET, the evening prior to the cruise departure. Otherwise, Bottomless Bubbles is non-refundable 

Starting at $6.95 / Child Per Day $9.50 / Adult Per Day

Please collect your wine package coupons at Cherry on Top for redemption at Main Bars, Specialty Dining Restaurants or any of our Dining Rooms.

Enjoy great discounts on wine packages when you purchase wines offered through our exclusive 'Cruise the Vineyards' wine program. Wines from around the world are featured in two packages to satisfy both the wine novice and the more adventurous wine consumer. 'Cruise the Vineyards' wine packages allow you to enjoy your favorite wine at a discounted price or to explore new wines from the wide assortment of wines offered in these packages.

• Packages feature wines from Argentina, Armenia, California, Chile, France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, and Washington.  
• An 18% service charge will be added to your beverage charge. 
• Unconsumed wine will not be refunded but you may take home unopened bottles.

Wine selections include:

Sparkling, Maison Castel, ‘Brut Cuvée’, France-  Pinot Grigio, GIFFT, Monterey County, California- Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Helena, Central Valley, Chile- Chardonnay, Santa Helena, Central Valley, Chile- Riesling, Leonard Kreusch, Rhein, Germany- Chenin Blanc, Baron Herzog, California- Rosé, Hampton Water, France- Rosé, Shofer, ‘Areni Rosé’, Vayots Dzor, Armenia- White Zinfandel, Canyon Road, California (Sweet)- Pinot Noir, Canyon Road, California- Merlot, Santa Helena, Central Valley, Chile- Cabernet, Santa Helena, Central Valley, Chile

All wines are subject to availability and exact offering may vary slightly by ship.

Sparkling, Domaine Ste. Michelle, ‘Brut’, Columbia Valley, Washington- Sparkling Rosé, Domaine Ste Michelle, ‘Brut Rosé’, Columbia Valley, Washington- Pinot Grigio, Santa Margherita, Alto Adige, Italy- Moscato, Stemmari, Terre Siciliane, Italy- Sauvignon Blanc, McBride Sisters, Marlborough, New Zealand- Sauvignon Blanc, Kendall-Jackson, ‘Vintner’s Reserve’, California- Sauvignon Blanc, Spy Valley, Marlborough, New Zealand- Chardonnay, McBride Sisters, Central Coast, California- Chardonnay, La Crema, Monterey County, California- Cave de Lugny, Macon-Lugny, ‘Les Charmes’, Burgundy, France- Riesling, Albrecht, ‘Tradition’, Alsace, France- Rosé, Gerard Bertrand, ‘Côte des Roses’, Languedoc, France- Pinot Noir, Castle Rock, California Cuvée, California- Pinot Noir, Kendall-Jackson, ‘Vintner’s Reserve’, California- Zinfandel, Cline, Lodi, California- Merlot, Columbia Crest, Columbia Valley, Washington- Merlot, Josh Cellars, California- Cabernet Sauvignon, Duckhorn, ‘Decoy’, Sonoma County, California- Cabernet Sauvignon, Franciscan Estate, Monterey, California-  Cabernet Sauvignon, Josh Cellars, California-  Haghtanak, Voskevaz Karasi, Ararat, Armenia- Chianti Classico Riserva, D’Aquino, Tuscany, Italy- Malbec, Catena, Mendoza, Argentina- Shiraz, Peter Lehmann, ‘Portrait’, Barossa Valley, Australia

Enjoy the ease of paying one flat price for your spirited beverages over the entire length of your cruise.  Now, that’s something to cheer about! Save up to 10% by purchasing before you sail. 

Cut-off for pre-purchase is 11:59 PM the day before embarkation and 9:00pm EST through call center. Additional restrictions apply, see below.

RESTRICTIONS:

• Must be 21 years or older to purchase and agree not to give to minors
• Each adult assigned to the same stateroom must purchase the program
• Only one drink at a time may be ordered. No sharing is permitted
• Applicable state and local taxes will be charged to the guest folio when this program is used within US waters
• Program allows for up to 15 alcoholic drinks, per 24-hour period (6:00am - 6:00am).
• Once you have consumed your 15 drinks, you cannot purchase any additional alcoholic beverages. 
• Carnival reserves the right to refuse service for any reason
• Program is non-refundable

CHEERS! INCLUDES:

• All spirits (including cocktails), as well as beer and wine by the glass with a $20.00 or lower menu price 
• Sodas, Zero-Proof frozen cocktails, energy drinks, specialty coffee, hot tea, 500ml bottled water and other non-alcoholic bottled beverages
• Packaged water in the Dining Room and Specialty Restaurants
• 25% discount off the menu price for any spirit or wine by the glass above $20.00
• 25% discount off the menu price for wine and champagne by the bottle
• 25% discount off beverage seminars and classes

CHEERS! EXCLUDES:

• Beverages promoted and sold in souvenir glasses
• Bottles of liquor
• Beverages offered at gangway
• Beverages offered through room service, mini bars and/or in-stateroom beverage programs
• Sharing cocktails, floaters, pitchers, tubes and buckets
• Beverages offered at private parties and/or events
• All other beverage-related programs including merchandise, cigars and cigarettes

TEXAS, NORFOLK AND NEW YORK

Cheers package begins on Day 2 for ships sailing from Texas, Norfolk and New York - activation will occur at 6:00am on the second day of the cruise.

Applicable state and local taxes will be charged to the guest folio when this program is used within US waters. The tax is based on the state's tax structure and the cost of the individual drink purchased (not the daily program rate). For example: if the drink price is $5 and the tax is 10%, the guest's Sail & Sign card will be charged $0.50 for tax. This applies to all US ports (embarkation home ports and ports-of-call). Cheers Package is inclusive of VAT, if and as applicable on European cruises. Package is non-transferable and non-refundable after 10:00pm ET the evening before departure. Please note that an 18% service charge will be added to all drink package purchases.

Starting at $59.95 / Person per Day