The Carnival Celebration, an Excel-class ship from Carnival Cruise Line, offers a holiday packed with fun and relaxation. Launched in 2022, this 183,521-ton vessel accommodates up to 5,374 passengers across 17 decks, featuring six themed zones inspired by celebration. Powered by liquefied natural gas, it blends eco-friendly technology with Carnival’s signature lively atmosphere. Here’s what visitors can expect from the guest experience, focusing on standout features in reception areas, dining, entertainment, accommodation, and hospitality.
Reception Areas: Welcoming and Engaging
The Grand Central Atrium, a three-deck hub, greets guests with floor-to-ceiling windows and dynamic LED screens showcasing digital art. Interactive kiosks simplify bookings for dining and activities, while staff provide prompt assistance. The Golden Jubilee, a bar and lounge celebrating Carnival’s 50-year history, offers vintage cocktails and live performances. With decor reflecting festive themes, the reception areas create an inviting atmosphere.
Dining: A Culinary Extravaganza
Twenty-two dining venues cater to diverse tastes. The Festive and Celebration dining rooms serve American classics like prime rib and seafood, with flexible seating options. Specialty restaurants include Rudi’s Seagrill for seafood with artistic “food face” presentations, Cucina del Capitano for family-style Italian dishes, and Big Chicken for Shaquille O’Neal-inspired fried chicken. The Lido Marketplace buffet offers a range of options, though peak times can see queues. Emeril’s Bistro 1396 provides Creole cuisine, and 24-hour pizza and ice cream stations ensure constant snacks. Twelve bars, including the RedFrog Tiki Bar and Havana Bar, serve tropical cocktails.
Entertainment: Thrilling and Diverse
The Center Stage Theater, spanning three decks, hosts Broadway-style Playlist Productions and comedy shows at the Punchliner Comedy Club. The BOLT roller coaster, a first-at-sea feature, offers an 800-foot track with sea views. Families enjoy the WaterWorks aquapark with waterslides and a splash zone, alongside Camp Ocean for ages 2–11 and Circle “C” for teens. The Carnival Kitchen offers hands-on cooking classes, while the Limelight Lounge features live music and karaoke. The adults-only Serenity Retreat provides a tranquil escape with hot tubs and daybeds. Some guests note limited show variety.
Accommodation: Comfort with Style
The ship’s 2,641 staterooms include 180 suites, 1,130 balconies, 320 oceanviews, and 1,011 interiors, with 44 wheelchair-accessible cabins. Cabins, averaging 185 square feet, feature twin beds, smart TVs, minibars, and USB ports. Havana Cabana suites offer private patios and exclusive pool access, while Cloud 9 Spa cabins include spa perks like ELEMIS toiletries and thermal suite access. Excel Presidential Suites, at 1,000 square feet, boast the fleet’s largest balconies with hot tubs. Some guests note compact interiors, but cleanliness is consistently praised.
Hospitality: Friendly and Attentive
The 1,735-strong crew maintains a 1:3.1 staff-to-guest ratio, delivering warm service. Digital kiosks and the Carnival HUB App assist with information on dining and activities, complementing the crew’s efforts. Cabin stewards and bar staff are known for their friendliness, catering to a diverse audience. Service remains consistent, though peak times can feel busy. Suite guests enjoy priority embarkation and complimentary laundry, enhancing the experience.
