Discover the best and worst Carnival Cruise ships Ranked in 2025. Find out which ships offer top experiences and which ones rank lower for amenities, dining, and entertainment.
Carnival Cruise Line has a ship for every kind of traveler. Some are packed with thrilling water slides and nonstop entertainment, while others focus on great food and ocean views. With 27 ships in the fleet, choosing the right one can be tricky. That’s why we’ve ranked them all, from the best to the ones that might not impress as much. This guide breaks down the Carnival cruise ship rating to help you pick the perfect ship for your next trip.
From the newest Carnival Jubilee to long-time favorites like Carnival Vista, every ship has something unique to offer. Some stand out for their exciting nightlife, while others shine with top-rated dining. But are the newest ships always the best? Not necessarily. That’s why we’ve put together this list of Carnival ships ranked best to worst based on real feedback from cruisers. No matter what you’re looking for, this ranking will help you find the right fit.
Picking the best Carnival cruise ship depends on what you like. Some ships pack in the thrills with huge waterparks and roller coasters, while others focus on great food and fun shows. Carnival ships ranked from best to worst often change based on new updates, ship size, and what people enjoy most. From the biggest and newest ships to the smaller classics, there's something for everyone. Here’s a look at Carnival cruise ships ranked to help you choose the right one.
Carnival's newest flagship, Carnival Jubilee is packed with fun, food, and entertainment, making it a top pick for families and cruisers looking for a lively experience. With features like the BOLT rollercoaster, water slides, and live shows, there’s something for everyone. Dining includes Guy’s Burger Joint, Big Chicken, and Emeril’s Bistro, offering tasty options at no extra cost. The ship ranks high among Carnival cruise ships for excitement, but it can get crowded on sea days. If you're checking out the best Carnival ships ranked, the Carnival Jubilee is worth a look.
The Carnival Panorama is a solid choice for travelers looking for a fun, budget-friendly cruise with great food, entertainment, and outdoor spaces. It features water slides, a ropes course, and the SkyRide, making it a great pick for families and thrill-seekers. Dining includes Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse, Vista Restaurant, and BlueIguana Cantina, offering plenty of variety. The friendly crew and spacious outdoor areas add to the experience. Panorama is a favorite for many travelers which is making her one of the best picks in Carnival cruise ship ratings.
The Carnival Breeze is a great choice for travelers who want fun, good food, and plenty of things to do without spending too much. The ship has a WaterWorks water park, SkyCourse ropes course, and an adults-only retreat, making it a hit with both families and couples. Guests love the live music, comedy shows, and tasty food options like Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina. It’s often ranked high on Carnival cruise ship ranked lists and is a top pick for those looking for a joyful vacation.
The Carnival Mardi Gras is one of the best-rated ships in the Carnival fleet, offering tons of fun with its special features. The BOLT roller coaster, the first of its kind at sea, is a huge hit with thrill-seekers. There are also fun-themed zones like the French Quarter, which offers a taste of New Orleans, and Summer Landing, featuring Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse. With diverse dining options, Emeril Lagasse's Bistro 1396, and plenty of entertainment, it’s easy to see why this ship is ranked high on Carnival cruise ships ranked lists.
The Carnival Celebration stands out as one of the best Carnival ships in the line, thanks to its incredible onboard features and fun atmosphere. Just like its sister ship Mardi Gras®, this ship offers six themed zones, each bringing unique experiences like Latitudes™ and Emeril’s Bistro 1397™. Guests can enjoy thrilling attractions like BOLT®, the onboard rollercoaster, and Family Feud™ Live, while also enjoying Seuss at Sea™. Powered by clean LNG fuel, this ship is a top choice for those seeking an amazing Carnival experience.
Carnival Horizon, launched on March 10, 2017, offers a perfect balance of fun, relaxation, and dining, making it one of the top-ranked Carnival cruise ships. This ship stands out with an IMAX® theater, an exciting onboard waterpark, and the SkyRide® experience. For great dining, Carnival Horizon features spots like Guy's Burger Joint™ and Seafood Shack™, while offering tons of entertainment, including Punchliner Comedy Club™ and Playlist Productions™. Choose the cruise if you're relaxing at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat™ or enjoying family activities.
The Carnival Radiance, once known as the Carnival Victory, is a Destiny-class cruise ship that stands out among Carnival cruise ships ranked for its family-friendly atmosphere and fun activities. After a $200 million refit in 2021, the ship now offers a water park, sports facilities, and a ropes course, all while maintaining a smaller and more intimate feel compared to other larger ships. With 15 dining options, year-round sailing, and great ratings from passengers, the Carnival Radiance remains one of the best Carnival ships for a short, exciting cruise experience.
The Carnival Spirit is a Spirit-class cruise ship that offers a perfect mix of fun and relaxation for everyone. Built in 2001, it's one of the best Carnival ships for its variety of activities. The ship has something for all ages, like a mini golf, a fitness center, and a water park with exciting slides. Dining options are diverse, with casual spots like Guy’s Burger Joint and more formal settings like Nouveau Steakhouse. Known for its lively entertainment, the Carnival Spirit earns great carnival cruise ship ratings and offers a memorable vacation.
Carnival Glory, launched in 2003, is one of the highly rated ships in the Carnival fleet. It offers a variety of activities that make it stand out in Carnival ships ranked by cruisers. With a full-service spa, mini-golf, and an adult-only Serenity Retreat, there’s something for everyone. For food, enjoy Guy’s Burger Joint or the upscale Nouveau Steakhouse. When night falls, there’s lively entertainment with bars, comedy shows, and a casino. It ranks as one of the best Carnival ships, offering a fantastic experience for all.
Carnival Legend, launched in 2003, is one of the standout ships in the Carnival fleet, earning a high ranking among Carnival ships. With features like a two-deck fitness center, mini-golf, and an adults-only Serenity Retreat, it appeals to all kinds of cruisers. Dining options like Guy’s Burger Joint and Nouveau Steakhouse make it a hit for foodies. Entertainment includes lively bars, comedy shows, and a casino. This ship has won multiple awards over the years for its service and guest satisfaction, regularly ranking among the best Carnival ships.
Carnival Pride, launched in 2001, stands out in Carnival’s fleet with its blend of fun and elegance. Known for its top-tier dining options like Bonsai Sushi™ and Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, this ship offers something for everyone. You can catch a movie at the Seaside Theater, cool off at WaterWorks™, or unwind at the Serenity pool. With vibrant nightlife at Beauties Dance Club and a variety of kid-friendly activities like Seuss at Sea™, it’s no wonder Carnival Pride is consistently ranked among the best Carnival ships.
Carnival Valor is one of the top Carnival ships ranked, offering activities for guests of all ages. Launched in 2004 and renovated in 2021, it remains a favorite for cruisers. With 2,980 passengers at single occupancy, the ship offers great service, thanks to its 1-to-3 staff-to-guest ratio. From the BlueIguana Tequila Bar to the Seuss at Sea program for kids, there’s something for everyone. With waterslides, dining spots like Guy’s Burger Joint, and stylish cabins, it’s easy to see why Carnival Valor ranks among the best Carnival ships.
Carnival Vista ranked as one of the best Carnival cruise ships, offers an amazing experience for passengers. This ship, which debuted in 2016, can accommodate up to 4,977 at double occupancy. It's known for its unique features like the SkyRide, an IMAX theater, and a Dr. Seuss-inspired library. With options like Family Harbor and Havana staterooms, guests can enjoy exclusive perks such as private bars, pools, and 24-hour lounge access. Carnival Vista’s dining variety, from the Lido buffet to specialty restaurants, makes it stand out among other carnival ships ranked best to worst.
Carnival Dream, ranked among the top Carnival cruise ships, offers a fun-filled experience with something for everyone. The Punchliner Comedy Club and nightly stage shows provide plenty of entertainment, while kids clubs cater to ages 2-17. The Cloud 9 Spa and adults-only Serenity Retreat are perfect for those wanting to relax. The ship also has a variety of dining options like Guy's Burger Joint and Bonsai Sushi. Though it carries 3,646 passengers, it's still considered one of the best carnival ships ranked for family fun and relaxation.
Carnival Miracle is a mid-sized ship that brings fun and comfort to travelers. It got a fresh look in 2020 with upgrades like Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, WaterWorks, and RedFrog Rum Bar. In 2022, it received minor updates to its design, keeping things modern. With space for 2,124 guests at single occupancy and 2,680 at double occupancy, plus 934 crew members, service stays a priority. Among Carnival ships ranked for cabin options, Miracle stands out with more ocean-view rooms, giving guests better scenery and natural light.
Carnival Liberty is packed with dining, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. The ship, which holds 2,974 guests at single occupancy and 3,756 at double occupancy, got a small update in 2021. It features Carnival’s Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades, including Guy’s Burger Joint, the BlueIguana Cantina, and a steakhouse. The ship’s entertainment lineup includes the Punchliner Comedy Club, live shows, and the SkyBox Sports Bar. Compared to other Carnival ships ranked best to worst, Liberty offers the best value and fun, with plenty of stateroom options, from budget-friendly to balcony cabins.
Carnival Conquest is a lively ship packed with dining, entertainment, and activities for all ages. It carries 2,980 guests at single occupancy and 3,756 with a crew of 1,150. Popular spots include Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, and two main dining rooms. Guests can catch live comedy at The Punchliner Comedy Club or grab a drink at the Alchemy Bar. Between the best and average, Conquest stands out for affordability and fun, making it a solid pick in any Carnival cruise line rating.
Carnival Magic is one of the most popular ships in the fleet, offering fun, food, and entertainment. Launched in 2011 and updated in 2021, it has freshened-up spaces like the casino, pools, and public areas. As the first Carnival ship with a ropes course, it still stands out with activities like mini golf, a water park, comedy shows, and a lively casino. Dining options range from casual bites to sit-down meals, and cabins suit different budgets. It's often ranked among the best Carnival ships for its amenities and value.
Carnival Sunshine, which first set sail in 2013, was the first ship in the fleet to get the "Fun Ship 2.0" upgrades. It packs a lot into its size, with popular spots like Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, RedFrog Pub, and the Skybox Sports Bar. The ship carries around 3,758 guests at full capacity, plus 920 crew members. With a major update in 2018, it remains a solid choice among Carnival ships ranked lists. Many travelers compare it when looking for the best cruise for value and fun.
Carnival Freedom is a popular choice among Carnival cruise ships, thanks to its mix of family-friendly fun and adult-only spaces. After a big upgrade in 2019, it now has a WaterWorks park with a 203-foot-long slide, a Bonsai Sushi Express, and a rebranded deli. Food choices range from Guy’s Burger Joint to the BlueIguana Cantina, plus two main dining rooms and a steakhouse. With a passenger-to-crew ratio of about 3 to 1, service is known to be solid. Many travelers rank this ship positively due to the fun activities onboard.
Carnival Elation is one of the oldest ships in the Carnival fleet, first setting sail in 1998 and receiving a refresh in 2023. This ship can hold 2,697 at double occupancy. It offers a variety of rooms including Interior, Ocean View, Balcony, and Suite, all equipped with flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service. Despite being older, passengers find the ship well-maintained and clean. The ship features lots of entertainment, from the WaterWorks water park to the Punchliner Comedy Club. Carnival Elation is still the best choice for cruisers.
Carnival Paradise, launched in 1998 and last updated in 2018, offers a fun and relaxing cruise experience for everyone. With a variety of dining options, like BlueIguana Cantina and Guy’s Burger Joint, guests can enjoy tasty meals throughout the trip. For fun, the ship features Carnival’s WaterWorks water park, a comedy club, and stage shows. Families will love the youth clubs for kids, while adults can unwind at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. Carnival Paradise ranks as one of the best Carnival cruise ships for its service and entertainment options.
Carnival Splendor is packed with fun options for all kinds of travelers. The El Morocco Lounge hosts a variety of shows, while the Royal Flush Casino and the Cool Jazz Club offer plenty of entertainment. For water lovers, Carnival WaterWorks™ and the thrilling Green Lightning slide promise excitement. The ship also features pools with retractable roofs, making every day a pool day. For those seeking relaxation, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat™ and Cloud 9 Spa™ are perfect spots to unwind. Carnival Splendor is still in people's choice Carnival ship.
Carnival Firenze, which joined the Carnival Cruise Line in 2024, offers a special Italian style and Carnival's "Fun" spirit. With 4,126 passengers and 1,425 crew members, the ship features great dining options like Il Viaggio, which serves regional Italian dishes, and Guy’s Burger Joint for classic American favorites. There’s also Amari, offering expertly crafted cocktails. The ship's Terrazza staterooms give guests exclusive access to a deck with whirlpools and a bar. With all its exciting amenities, it's quickly becoming one of the favorite Carnival ships.
Carnival Sunrise offers a lively cruise experience with lots of entertainment, dining options, and activities for all ages. It’s a great choice for families and groups who enjoy fun-filled vacations. With comedy shows, live music, and thrilling slides, there’s never a dull moment. However, some areas show their age, and the ship can get crowded, especially during peak times. If you don’t mind the hustle and bustle, Carnival Sunrise can be a great option, but it may not suit those looking for a quieter experience. It’s ranked among the more energetic ships in the Carnival fleet.
Carnival Venezia, launched in 2023, is a newer addition to the Carnival fleet and boasts a stylish Italian-themed design. While passengers appreciated the spacious layout, beautiful decor, and variety of dining options, some found the size and layout challenging to navigate, especially during peak times. The friendly staff received praise, but some guests felt the blend of Italian and American cruising styles didn’t quite match the typical Carnival experience. As a result, Carnival Venezia ranks lower compared to other ships in the Carnival fleet.
Carnival Luminosa, which joined the Carnival fleet in 2022 after being refurbished, is a mix of the Spirit and Vista classes. Originally built for Costa Cruises, this ship features Italian-inspired decor and offers a range of dining and entertainment options. While some guests enjoy its spacious rooms and attentive staff, the ship’s age and occasional maintenance issues have led to mixed reviews. The food quality also varies, with some passengers rating it lower than expected. As a result, Carnival Luminosa ranks lower among the best Carnival ships.
Choosing the right Carnival ship depends on what you're looking for. If you're unsure where to start, you can check out some of the best carnival ships ranked. Ships like Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Panorama, and Carnival Breeze are well-loved by many guests for their mix of fun activities, good dining, and spacious rooms. These carnival ships ranked high for families and groups looking for a cruise with a little bit of everything, making them great choices for an enjoyable trip.
Your perfect Carnival ship will also depend on what kind of experience you want. For families with kids, ships offering water parks or kids' zones are ideal. If you prefer a ship with exciting nightlife and social events, there are options for that too. By looking at carnival cruise ship rating reviews, you can find ships that suit your needs, whether you're after more relaxation, fun activities, or both.
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