While Carnival is the name associated with family fun, low impact cruises, it is also the parent company for both Princess cruises and Cunard cruises as well. So what kind of experience can you expect on these different facets of the Carnival fleets?
Cunard, before it was bought by Carnival, was a cruise company known for its refinement and luxury. Carnival has sought to maintain this image with the new, luxurious Cunard Queen Mary 2, to date the largest luxury cruise ship in the fleet. This branch of the Carnival lines is all about refinement, offering white-gloved afternoon teas, at sea gala balls to the ships private quartet, and elegant private lounges, a far cry from Carnival’s more family friendly, commercial image.
Princess Cruises are a bit less formal and considerably less expensive than a Cunard cruise. While still maintaining a high degree of customer service, these cruises introduce an element of affordability while encouraging their guests to relax and leave the world behind. The onboard activities are a bit more lighthearted and the ship includes more of a traditional nightlife scene.
Carnival Cruises, on the other hand, are designed for casual family fun and adventure. Children can often be seen running around the ship and onboard activities include such playful events as the hairy chest competition up on the pool deck. The focus is entirely different, but will still result in guests having an excellent time, depending on their individual tastes.
Any branch of the Carnival corporation values high service and the shore excursions on any ship are worth taking a look at. All are covered by adventure travel insurance, in case delays or company failures cause you to miss your tour, but you are still more than welcome to book individual tours in your ports of call.
The faces of Carnival are considerably different and can give you a widely different cruise. All are well worth exploring for a unique travel experience.