Carnival Cruise Lines is launching a cabin reclassification encompassing its entire fleet. Under the reclassification, cabins will be categorized based on locations on the ship—such as mid-ship, aft and forward—as well as proximity to key public areas. The fleet-wide reclassifications were completed in 2008. Carnival got off to a shaky start in 1972 then suddenly the Fun Ship concept took hold, and a whole new type of middle class passenger came cruising. The line grew fast, and with financial success, Carnival Corporation began buying up other fleets. Carnival Cruise Lines is now one of the leaders in the mass market cruising industry.

Fleet

The fleet numbers more than a score with the oldest units dating from the 1980s but most were built in the 1990s or since 2000. The majority of Carnival’s fleet has far fewer balconies and a jazzier décor than its immediate competitors.

Itineraries

Most of Carnival’s fleet is based in North America from Alaska in the north to the Caribbean and Mexico in the south but in the last few years, Carnival has branched out to the Mediterranean to give its loyal clients something very different as a destination. As with all the popular lines, Carnival cruises shorter than one week attract the youngest fun-loving crowds, while those seven-day and longer have a broader age range.

Dining and Decor

Some say that Carnival has the best food at the popular cruise level, and it excels in the extra tariff Supper Club.

Programs

On board activities for all ages are the line’s strength, not enrichment style programs.

Onboard Experience

Carnival as a cruise line has come a mighty long way from the old days when it was considered a bottom feeder operating ships whose reputations were seen as primarily suitable for party animals. That view was probably unfair from the start as Carnival ships began attracting an entirely new market for whom traditional cruising and its formality and older age crowd held no appeal. The “Fun Ship” spirit still permeates the often glitzy and sometimes head-scratching décor but the onboard standards in cabin accommodations, food and service have risen markedly. Carnival gets the largest percentage of first-time cruisers, and the line considers the land vacation its major competitor.

Competitors

While the bells and whistles may vary – sinuous waterslides, rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks and multiple dining options, Carnival is well in line with Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess and Royal Caribbean.