Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival: Which "Fun Ship" Is Right for You?
Picture two pool decks. On one, kids are lining up for a 6-story waterslide while a surf simulator roars nearby. On the other, a DJ is calling out a trivia question, everyone's laughing, and the smell of Guy's burgers drifts across the deck. The first is Royal Caribbean. The second is Carnival. Both are a blast, but they're very different vacations.
Quick answer: Choose Royal Caribbean if you want the biggest ships, the most attractions and Broadway-style shows. Choose Carnival if you want a relaxed, social vibe and the best value. Families with thrill-seeking kids usually lean Royal; budget-minded groups and first-timers often love Carnival.
At a glance
| Royal Caribbean | Carnival |
|---|---|---|
Vibe | Floating resort, high-energy, polished | Casual, social, party-friendly |
Newest ships | Icon class: Icon, Star and Legend of the Seas; Hero of the Seas in 2027 | Excel class: Mardi Gras, Celebration, Jubilee; Carnival Festivale in 2027 |
Signature fun | Waterparks, surf simulators, ice shows, AquaTheater | BOLT roller coaster, comedy clubs, deck parties |
Private destination | Perfect Day at CocoCay; Royal Beach Clubs | Celebration Key |
Daily gratuity | $18.50 per person | $17.00 per person |
Price level | Mid-range; newest ships cost more | Budget-friendly |
Why families fall for Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean builds ships that feel like small cities. Oasis-class ships have a real Central Park with trees and an outdoor boardwalk with a carousel. The Icon-class ships, the largest in the world, add the biggest waterpark at sea and neighborhoods designed just for young families.
Entertainment: Broadway-style musicals, ice-skating shows and high-diving AquaTheater performances.
Kids: Adventure Ocean is free for ages 3 to 17, with a nursery for little ones for a fee.
Beach day: Perfect Day at CocoCay is one of the most popular private islands in cruising.
Why groups and first-timers love Carnival
Carnival doesn't take itself too seriously, and that's the point. You'll find some of the best free food at sea, a comedy club that's packed every night, and a dress code that never asks you to pack a suit. The Excel-class ships even have BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea.
Free food favorites: Guy's Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina and Big Chicken are included.
Easy to reach: Carnival sails from more U.S. ports than almost anyone, including New Orleans and Galveston.
Value: Lower fares and lower gratuities make Carnival one of the most affordable ways to cruise.
My take as your travel advisor
I ask every client one question: "What would make you say 'that was worth it' on the drive home?" If the answer is "my kids never got bored," I point to Royal Caribbean. If it's "we laughed the whole time and didn't break the bank," Carnival usually wins. Ship age matters too. A new Carnival ship can beat an older Royal ship, and vice versa, so compare specific ships, not just brands.
Which should you book?
Choose Royal Caribbean if you want nonstop attractions, big production shows and a polished resort feel.
Choose Carnival if you want a laid-back, fun atmosphere, great included food and the lowest total cost.
Frequently asked questions
Is Royal Caribbean more expensive than Carnival? Usually, yes. Fares, gratuities and drink packages tend to cost more on Royal Caribbean, especially on Icon-class ships.
Which is better for teens? Royal Caribbean has more thrill attractions; Carnival's teen clubs and social scene are great for kids who want to make friends.
Which is better for a first cruise? Both are great. Carnival is a lower-risk, lower-cost first try; Royal Caribbean is a "wow" first cruise if your budget allows.
Still torn? I'm Glenn, a veteran-owned travel advisor with SIX18 Travel. I'll compare specific Royal Caribbean and Carnival ships for your dates and budget, at no extra cost. Get your free quote or call or text (618) 772-9206.
Glenn Sunnquist
Owner, SIX18 Travel LLC
Certified Travel Advisor
CLIA Member
Cruise & Resort Vacation Specialist
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