New to sailing? Or maybe it’s been a few years since you’ve boarded a ship, due to the worldwide pandemic plaguing your travel plans. Deciding on a cruise line is more complicated than ever with so many options to choose from.
Travelers vary widely in what they expect from a cruise experience. There are those who celebrate, but on a budget. A family-friendly ship may be the criteria. Then again, rest and relaxation may be what floats your boat, so to speak.
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If you need a primer on what to expect during this new season, here are some contrasts and comparisons of the three biggest cruise lines in the industry, Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line. While these brands have other lines that fall under their parent companies, this overview focuses only on ships operating under these brands.
Some will suit your travel needs, some may not.
Carnival
With 25 ships, Carnival has long been known as the party boat. Maybe not the best reputation, unless you’re really looking for high seas parties. Over the years, Carnival has launched slogans such as “Choose the Fun” and, more recently, “The Fun Ones.” With Shaquille O’Neal’s official status as Chief Entertainment Officer, you might conclude that Carnival is all about having a good time.
John Maddox, Cruises & All-Inclusive Resort Specialist with Tropical Escapes, says, “Carnivals tend to lean more toward a ‘party’ crowd…it’s a more active cruise without as much attention to the luxury side.”
In this regard, you can book a short weekend cruise with the intention of partying all weekend, or choose a longer, more sophisticated itinerary on one of Carnival’s newest ships.
The consensus among travel advisors consulted is that Carnival is the most budget-conscious option. Jesse Morris, Owner of We Book Travel, LLC, an independent agency in the Avoya Travel Network, says, “Carnivals are often the lowest priced of the Big Three, but they offer significant value in certain areas.” .
Morris continues, “When it comes to cuisine, Carnival usually offers more inclusive options than the other two. Guy’s Burger Joint (best burger at sea in my opinion) is included at no extra cost.” He further explains that Royal Caribbean and Norwegian have similar restaurants, but at an additional fee.
Ships, such as the newly launched Mardi Gras, offer a more diverse collection of dining, entertainment and port options. The first roller coaster at sea, Bolt, is an experience you won’t find on other cruise lines. Due to the large size of the ship, one can join in the fun or escape to a quieter spot for a more relaxing experience.
A cost comparison researched on Carnival’s website shows a seven-day Caribbean cruise from Miami in December 2022 aboard Carnival Party from $519 per person for an inside cabin. Additionally, taxes, fees and port charges add up to $141.76 per person.
Royal Caribbean
Linda Farlow, Owner of Premium Escapes and Travels, says “the number one cruise line in demand is Royal Caribbean.”
When it comes to family travel, RCI’s private island, CocoCay, is a favorite with kids of all ages. Located 55 miles north of Nassau, this site offers an abundance of free facilities, including five food and beverage venues, and beautiful beaches with free chairs and umbrellas. For an additional fee, the island is home to a hot air balloon ride, water park, zip line and private overwater cabanas.
Linda says, “They [clients] also choose this cruise line for its entertainment, dining options and large open promenade area.”
With 26 ships at sea and more to launch in 2023, Royal Caribbean is proud that their Oasis Class ships have been announced as the largest cruise ships in the world. They include The Perfect Storm set of water slides with the Ultimate Abyss, “the world’s tallest water slide”. The 40m long Flowrider surf simulator is a family favourite, along with rock climbing walls and a splash park for the little ones.
In terms of entertainment, Morris says, “Royal has their AquaTheater (the most unique entertainment at sea, in my opinion) and Ice Skating.” The outdoor AquaTheater, located on the Oasis Class of ships, features the deepest pool at sea with 30-foot diving platforms. Shows include high dives, acrobatic stunts and light shows with the ocean as a backdrop.
With a full range of dining options, including Johnny Rockets, even picky teenagers will be more than satisfied with their tasty options. Both buffets and specialty restaurants offer quality family time around the table. If adults-only time is preferred, check out the Chef’s Table for multiple courses paired with the right wine.
A cost comparison researched on the Royal Caribbean website reveals a seven-day Caribbean cruise from Miami in December 2022 aboard Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas starting at $460 per person for an inside cabin. Additionally, taxes, fees and port charges are $140.59 per person.
Norwegian
Multigenerational travel is growing in popularity with active grandparents who want to travel, along with children and grandchildren, in search of adventure. Norway Cruise Lines’ 19 ships offer the perfect solution for onboard activities and destinations to please everyone.
Onboard entertainment is an area where NCL is growing. With Broadway shows like Kinky Boots, Six and Jersey Boys, cruisers are exposed to the full-scale shows they can expect to see in New York City. Morris states, “Norwegians are upping their game rapidly. I saw Jersey Boys on board a Norwegian ship and was blown away by the quality.”
The newly launched Prima will highlight “Summer: The Donna Summer Musical” for a blast from disco’s past.
While the adults are watching Broadway-caliber shows, kids can zoom down the Bliss Speedway on a two-level race track or take part in a laser tag battle under the stars. The Entourage Teen Club offers movies, dance parties and a chance to hang out without the adults allowed. Parents can relax at the Mandara Spa while checking out the snow room and a steam or soothing massage.
NCL’s Haven offers a sanctuary of luxury accommodations that can keep the older traveler out of touch with the younger crowd if they so choose. Located at the top of the ship, this most luxurious option is inaccessible to other travelers and includes its own restaurant, private concierge service and 24-hour personal butler. Described as a ship within a ship, this aspect of the cruise is unique to NCL when compared to Carnival and Royal Caribbean.
Morris commented, “Norwegian does a great job of ‘scaling’ with the customer as well, as they can upgrade their Haven experience without having to change ships in most cases.”
The cost comparison, which was researched on Norwegian’s website, shows that the seven-day Caribbean cruise from Miami in December 2022 aboard the Norwegian Bliss starts at $599 per person for an inside cabin. Additionally, taxes, fees and port charges add up to $208.94 per person.
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