Posts Tagged ‘Carnival’

The Top 3 Cruise Lines for Cruisin’ Kids

May 21st, 2012
by Amber.
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If you are like me, when I take the kiddos on a vacation I want to make sure they have a great time because honestly, then they won’t be bugging me (tee hee).

Although all of the cruise lines have fun and interactive children’s programs onboard, there are three that are going above and beyond and make my top 3 cruise lines for the kids.

  1. Well I am sure you guessed it, my first selection is Disney Cruise Line. There is really not much to say, Disney does everything well and their cruises are no different. I guess you just can’t go wrong with the character meet and greets, the Disney shows at night, and all the activities going on. Not only do they have a great kids area on their new ships, the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy, they have a water coaster! The pools are tons-o-fun and the deck parties are suitable for all ages. Here is a hint–they also have amazing Adult Only areas on the ship, so while the kids are having a blast in the kids program enjoy some kids-free time. It is a win-win for everyone!
  2. Royal Caribbean would be my next choice. On the new Oasis and Allure of the Seas they have so much to do you can’t possibly fit it all in. The surf simulating, zip lining, rock climbing wall, miniature golf, merry-go-round(yes on the cruise ship), and awesome aqua shows will make sure your kids will always be entertained. Also check out the “How to Train Your Dragon” ice show on the Allure of the Seas. The costumes are ridiculous (in a good way) and everyone can enjoy the show.
  3. Norwegian Cruise Line. On specific sailings on the Norwegian Jewel you can have a slimey time with Nickelodeon onboard. Your kids can mingle with SpongeBob, Dora, or several other characters. Be a part of slime time or if you are like me, just watch from a safe distance. Freestyle Dining is perfect for traveling with children and Nickelodeon to entertain, this is sure to make the whole family happy.

These are my top three choices when cruising with my boys. I hope you have as much fun as we do sailing the seas!

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What is a Cruise Line Private Island?

Apr 17th, 2012
by Michelle.
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So what exactly is a cruise line private island?

A private island is a section of an island in the Caribbean or Bahamas that is designated and operated by one particular cruise line.  It is not available to the public or local population. When you are at a private island you are the only ship in port.

The island will have plenty of beaches to bum on with chairs and loungers available to use for your entire visit, and they are free.  You don’t have to worry about heading back to the ship for lunch as there is usually a barbecue provided by the cruise line. Don’t forget to sip on your favorite umbrella drink either at your lounger or sitting at the beach bar! One thing you will NOT see on a private island is someone asking if you would like your hair braided or nice purse.

If you are like me and can’t sit still, there is plenty to do on the islands. You rent snorkeling equipment (or bring your own like I do). You can sign up to take a wild banana boat ride (you’ve got to try it…you will laugh so hard!).  Or rent a three-wheel aqua bike. If you like to sail, rent a boat or kayak.  Some islands have wave runners for those that like speed.

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Evening Entertainment Onboard Carnival Cruise Line: 9 Reasons You Can NOT Hit the Hay Early

Mar 22nd, 2012
by Michelle.
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Carnival Cruise Line does indeed provide the Fun Ships!  I don’t even know where to begin with the numerous activities to choose from onboard a Carnival cruise vacation.

  1. Once you have completed your dinner (yum), you can take a stroll up on deck to enjoy the view of the night sky over the darkened ocean. OR, you can enjoy those same stars while watching Hollywood stars on the big screen of Carnival’s Seaside Theater (outdoor–not available on all ships).
  2. If you don’t feel like keeping your feet still, get your groove on and dance it up at one of the many nightclubs. The energetic dance floors and great music will have you out dancing the night away to the ‘oldies’  and the latest in pop songs.
  3. Be sure to attend at least one of the planned dance parties. Whether it’s the Sail Away Party, Fun Hop, Captain’s Party or Late Night Deck Party they will all keep you laughing and having a great time.
  4. If you don’t like to dance, then just hang out while enjoying the music, atmosphere and your new friends.
  5. I love the piano bars onboard, and Carnival has some of the most entertaining piano players that I have had the pleasure of listening too.
  6. In the main show lounge, relax with your favorite cocktail while watching a spectacular Vegas-style performance with talented singers, dancers, extravagant costumes and awesome scenery.
  7. There are comedians and sometimes amazing magicians to make you laugh so hard you cry.
  8. Okay, so you might get tired of watching other people perform, why don’t you head to the karaoke lounge to give your best performance?  Carnival holds karaoke contests where the winner gets to perform live on the main stage.  So warm up those vocals and sing it like you meant it!
  9. Don’t forget to bring your change and lucky rabbit’s foot to hit the fast-paced action of Carnival’s lively casinos.

Want to get a real taste of all a Carnival Cruise has to offer? You will receive a daily newsletter in your stateroom detailing the onboard activities being offered the next day. Get a sample of all of the excitement you have to choose from!

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originally posted 3/30/11

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Ports of Departure: Sail into History with the Port of Charleston

Mar 14th, 2012
by Amber.
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I think most residents of the southeast are thrilled that Carnival Cruise Line now has a ship, the Carnival Fantasy, that departs year-round from the Port of Charleston located in Historic Charleston, South Carolina.

Consistently ranked as one of the top 10 tourism destinations in the world by Conde Nast magazine, this is an amazing city to say the least and its location on the East Coast makes it convenient for many.

With a rich history of over 300 years, Charleston is a living museum.  Take in the cobblestone, sand and water, the architecture, the arts and culture, the dining, tours, entertainment, attractions, and the nation’s most comprehensive Visitor Center. And that is just a small sampling!

Here are some tips that will help you navigate the Port of Charleston.

Parking:

  • The terminal is within two miles of both Interstate 26 and U.S. Highway 17 and is easy to locate once in the city.
  • Parking at the pier is $15.00 per day. The parking area is only available to cruise passengers and is patrolled by the Port Police. They currently accept cash, traveler’s checks or personal checks.
  • The parking garage is located few short minutes from the cruise terminal. A shuttle is provided for your convenience and comfort.

Resources:

  1. Carnival Fantasy Embarkation and Debarkation Information
  2. Driving Directions to the Port of Charleston

Flying:

  • The airport is located approximately 20 minutes from the cruise terminal.
  • The average taxi fare will be $30.00 for two. If you have more than two people there are often shuttles that charge a flat rate of $12.00 per person and will drop you off right in front of your ship.

Hotels:

The Port of Charleston is a convenient, historic, unparallelled way to begin or end a cruise vacation!

 

Find your perfect cruise:

5-6 Night Carnival Fantasy Departures from Port of Charleston 2012

7 Night Carnival Fantasy Departures from Port of Charleston 2012

 

Photo Credit: Carnival Cruise Lines on Flickr

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DEAL ALERT: Get 'Cash Back' with Carnival Cruise Line's Winter-Warm Up Sale

Jan 26th, 2012
by Amber.
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The deals keep coming. It is an exciting time to book your 2012-2013 cruise, and Carnival Cruise Line is proving that again with an fantastic ‘cash-back’ promotion.

Oh yeah, that’s right. Cash. Back.

You’ll get the cash back in the form of an onboard credit. I love onboard credits, you can use them for whatever you want: a drink, a tee shirt, or maybe a spa treatment. Free money, money moneyyy…sounds good to me.

So here is the low-down on Carnival’s current Winter Warm-Up promotion.

You must reserve your cabin by January 28th. Yup, that is this Saturday. So no procrastination or you will lose out!

The offer is available on virtually all sailings departing from February 2, 2012 to December 31, 2012. You must request fare code OCB.

The onboard credit, or ‘cash-back’ amount is determined by the length of sailing.

It breaks down like this:

  • 3 & 4 day sailings receive $50.00 on board credit.
  • 5 & 6 day sailings receive $100.00 on board credit.
  • 7 day sailings receive $150.00 on board credit.
  • 8+ day sailings receive a $200.00 on board credit.

*Keep in mind onboard credits are per cabin and not per person.

To give you an idea of the sailings included there are several West Coast, East Coast, and Gulf Coast cruises available. So whether you want to sail out of Los Angeles, San Diego, Miami, Port Canaveral, New Orleans, Galveston, Tampa, San Juan, and more, there is a sailing perfect for you.

From a 3 night quick get away to an 8 night port intensive Southern Caribbean cruise, you are sure to enjoy your amazing vacation with some extra money in your pocket.

Have questions? Need help choosing an itinerary? Just give us a call at 800.243.1959 or email us: service@cruisenow.com. We are waiting to help you set up a vacation of a lifetime, with the best deal, of course!

Just remember you must reserve your cabin by THIS SATURDAY to take advantage of the FREE money. Happy Sailing with Savings!

Want to see what a Carnival Cruise has to offer? Join our own CEO, John Keen, as he hops onboard a Carnival cruise vacation!

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