The Carnival Firenze, a Vista-class ship from Carnival Cruise Line, offers a holiday blending Italian flair with fun-filled experiences. Originally launched as Costa Firenze in 2020 and rebranded in 2024, this 135,156-ton vessel accommodates up to 4,126 passengers across 13 decks. With a design inspired by Florence, it delivers modern amenities and a lively atmosphere for families, couples, and solo travellers.
The ship’s Italian theme, with areas like Piazza Duomo, creates a festive atmosphere. Families benefit from kids’ clubs, a family-friendly waterpark, and free dining for kids under 12 at select venues. Adults can relax at the 13,000-square-foot Cloud 9 Spa, featuring a sauna and salon, or enjoy cocktails at themed bars like the Carnevale Bar & Lounge. Four pools, four hot tubs, a sports court, and a jogging track cater to active guests. Crowded dining and entertainment venues may require planning during peak hours.
Reception Areas: Welcoming and Stylish
The Piazza Duomo Atrium, a three-story hub, greets guests with gold-topped marble columns, a blue-painted sky ceiling, and a lion statue holding a red fleur-de-lys shield. Interactive kiosks simplify bookings for dining and activities, while staff provide prompt assistance. The Moda Bar and Lounge, with live music and plush seating, offers a relaxed space for socialising. Italian-themed decor creates an inviting atmosphere.
Dining: A Culinary Feast
Fourteen dining venues cater to diverse tastes. The Michelangelo and Medici restaurants serve Italian classics like pasta and seafood, alongside international dishes with flexible seating. Specialty options include Il Viaggio for authentic Italian cuisine, Bonsai Teppanyaki for interactive Japanese meals, and Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse for premium cuts. The Lido Marketplace buffet offers a range of options, though peak times can see queues. La Strada Grill serves Italian street food like meatballs and sandwiches, while Tomodoro blends Mexican-Italian flavours. Il Mercato provides grab-and-go sandwiches, and 24-hour pizza at Pizzeria del Capitano ensures constant snacks. Twelve bars, including Frizzante for spritzes and Amari for craft cocktails, serve diverse drinks.
Entertainment: Lively and Engaging
The Teatro Rosso, a classic theatre, hosts nightly Playlist Productions with musicals and comedy. The Tuscan Lounge offers live music and a dance floor, while Piano Bar 88 features sing-along sessions. Families enjoy the WaterWorks aquapark with waterslides and a splash zone, alongside Camp Ocean for ages 2–11 and Circle “C” for teens. The SportSquare includes a ropes course, minigolf, and a jogging track, while the Carnival Seaside Theater screens Dive-In Movies poolside. Adults can relax at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat with hot tubs or try their luck at the casino. Some guests note limited show variety. Four pools and four hot tubs, including two at the Versilia Pool, enhance outdoor fun.
Accommodation: Comfort with Italian Touches
The ship’s 2,116 staterooms include 180 suites, 1,130 balconies, 320 oceanviews, and 466 interiors, with 34 wheelchair-accessible cabins. Cabins, averaging 185 square feet, feature twin beds, smart TVs, minibars, and USB ports. Terrazza staterooms, exclusive to guests 12 and older, offer access to the private Terrazza Moda deck with whirlpools and live music. Ocean Suites, at 360 square feet, include walk-in closets and whirlpool tubs. Balcony cabins feature floor-to-ceiling glass doors, while Terrazza Premium Balconies offer extra-wide verandas. Some guests note compact interiors, but cleanliness is consistently praised.
Hospitality: Friendly and Attentive
The 1,280-strong crew maintains a 1:3.2 staff-to-guest ratio, delivering warm service. The Carnival HUB App provides real-time information on dining and activities, complementing the crew’s efforts. Cabin stewards and bar staff are known for their friendliness, though some guests report occasional delays during peak times. The crew caters to a diverse audience, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere. Gratuities of $14.50–$16.50 per guest per day are regarded as mandatory. Terrazza and suite guests enjoy priority embarkation and exclusive perks like morning access to the Moda Lounge for breakfast.
